After three decades of handling Florida workers’ compensation injuries in Orlando from both the insurance side and injured workers side, there are only a few Florida lawyers as qualified to handle the arbitration of your claim disputes as well as a board-certified workers compensation attorney. Charles H. Leo. He brings his 30 years of experience and talent at resolving complex litigation matters to the table as a neutral. Charles Leo has personally handled 100’s of Merit hearings and thousands of cases. With a proven track record and millions recovered, call the Law Offices of Charles H. Leo today to learn more about our arbitration services.
Florida Statute, Chapter 440.1926-Alternate dispute resolution; claim arbitration
Arbitrator orders under Florida Statute, chapter 440.1926 are given the same powers, force, and effect of Judges of Compensation claims once jurisdiction is conferred. An arbitrator can rule on benefits, stipulations and fee motions or hearings, depending on what the parties want handled by binding arbitration. Many times, parties would rather have a jointly picked arbitrator as opposed to the assigned JCC, depending on the issues that need to be resolved.
What is the Florida Arbitration Process for Workers’ Compensation Claims?
Workers’ compensation is a state-regulated program that provides medical benefits and wage replacement to employees who have been injured on the job. When a Florida employee files a workers’ compensation claim, the parties may voluntarily agree to go through arbitration.
The Law Offices of Charles H. Leo, P.A. is proud to offer our services as an arbitrator for workers’ compensation claims. Charles Leo has extensive experience handling a variety of workers compensation matters, having worked for both insurance companies and injured workers. We believe in providing a fair and expedient resolution process for everyone involved — call now to schedule a consultation and learn more.
When is arbitration beneficial?
This process is often much faster than going through the courts and can provide a fair resolution in a timely manner, with a hand chosen neutral agreed upon by both parties.
What is the difference between a mediator and an arbitrator?
A mediator is a neutral third party who listens to both sides of the dispute. This person reviews evidence such as witness statements, medical records, and other documents that are relevant to the workers’ compensation case, then attempts to find a resolution that works for both parties without making a formal decision. Mediators do not necessarily have the authority to impose a binding decision.
An arbitrator, on the other hand, is not a mediator. They have the authority to make a final and binding decision on the case. Arbitrators review the evidence and hear testimony from both sides of the dispute, then sign off on a settlement with authority provided by the Florida Statute. This decision can be enforced in court if one of the parties fails to comply.
Is arbitration similar to a court trial?
An arbitration hearing is similar to a court trial, but it is less formal and does not follow the same set of rules that are used in a courtroom. Arbitration allows employers and employees to come to an agreement much faster than a conventional trial and provides a neutral environment where each side can present their arguments without bias from a judge or jury. The decision of the arbitrator is technically binding and enforceable in a court of law.
In Florida, arbitration hearings should comply with Title XXIII of the Workers’ Compensation Law, as seen below:
440.1926 Alternate dispute resolution; claim arbitration.—Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the employer, carrier, and employee may mutually agree to seek consent from a judge of compensation claims to enter into binding claim arbitration in lieu of any other remedy provided for in this chapter to resolve all issues in dispute regarding an injury. Arbitrations agreed to pursuant to this section shall be governed by chapter 682, the Revised Florida Arbitration Code, except that, notwithstanding any provision in chapter 682, the term “court” shall mean a judge of compensation claims. An arbitration award in accordance with this section is enforceable in the same manner and with the same powers as any final compensation order.
History.—s. 23, ch. 2003-412; s. 38, ch. 2013-232
What is the timeline for the arbitration process?
The timeline for the arbitration process depends on several factors, such as the complexity of the case and how quickly all parties agree to a settlement. An experienced mediator can help expedite the process by ensuring that all relevant evidence is presented and that both parties are heard in a timely manner. Typically, the arbitration process may take anywhere from one month to several months. Once the arbitrator has made their decision, it is binding and enforceable in a court of law.
Is it worth going to arbitration?
Sometimes going to arbitration is the best option when pursuing a workers’ compensation claim. Arbitration is a quicker and more efficient way to resolve disputes, which means employees receive compensation sooner rather than later. It also allows for a private resolution of the issue instead of going through the lengthy process of a court trial.
Why choose Charles Leo as an arbitrator?
The Florida arbitration process can be complicated, so it is important to have an experienced attorney on your side. At The Law Offices of Charles H. Leo, P.A., we understand the complexities of workers’ compensation law and are prepared to handle each case with the utmost care.
Charles Leo is a Board Certified workers’ compensation Attorney in Orlando, FL. This designation requires the attorney to demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in this particular field. In this case, Charles Leo has been board certified in workers’ compensation law since 1998.
Only Board Certified Lawyers are permitted to promote themselves as experts in workers’ compensation — making our Charles Leo of the most qualified workers compensation attorneys in the state to handle your case.
Contact an experienced arbitrator
The process of arbitration can be a sound solution conclude a workers’ compensation case. At the Law Offices of Charles H. Leo, P.A., we are here to provide the skilled legal representation you need. Our goal is to ensure that all parties involved receive a fair outcome and that each case is handled in an effective and efficient manner. Contact us today for a consultation in Orlando, FL and let our trained staff help you reach the resolution you’re looking for.
