WCAB's Virtual Move Might Cut Costs, but In-Person Hearings Still Needed, Stakeholders Say

A California Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board proposal to formalize a permanent option for virtual hearings could improve efficiency and cut down on travel costs, but in-person hearings may still be needed to avoid frustrating delays in the appeals process, stakeholders said Tuesday. “I have mixed feelings about it,” said work comp defense attorney Richard "Jake" Jacobsmeyer, founding partner at Oakland firm Shaw, Jacobsmeyer, Crain & Claffey. “I think there are some real efficiencies in doing status conferences and mandatory settlement conferences tel...