Labor Commission Hearings: Closing Arguments
At the end of the hearing, both sides present closing arguments. Closing arguments summarize the case, and outline the legal arguments for the Judge. Since the injured worker has the burden to prove his case, closing arguments should include a review of each fact presented that proves the issues in dispute. Although closing arguments are important, they should be short and to the point.
The Judge will not make a decision at the hearing. She will "close the record" which means that no new evidence can be submitted. The Judge will then issue a written decision which is called the Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law and Order. If the case involves a dispute between doctors on a medical issue, the Judge will issue an Interim Order which outlines the facts of the case and sends the matter to a Medical Panel.
Orders from the court take 90 days. However, starting in the Fall of 2013 the Labor Commission is changing their schedule so that decisions can be issued within 30 days.
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