Work Comp Talk Podcast

Work Comp Talk features enlightening conversations with amazing people surrounding the workers’ compensation industry. Lawyers, Workers’ and Union folk, Fitness Experts, Doctors and Work Coaches are just an example of the amazing people we feature. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could easily get the best ideas from the people that make up this community? That’s what Work Comp Talk is all about. Each week, we give you the best of the community.

Ep. 138 - Top Workers’ Comp Questions of 2025 That Can Put More Money in Your Pocket 12/23/2025

Ep. 138 - Top Workers’ Comp Questions of 2025 That Can Put More Money in Your Pocket In this special Episode #138, we bring you clear answers to the top questions our audience has been asking about Workers’ Compensation in California. These are the real concerns injured workers are putting on the table in 2025, including mental health and work-related stress, what happens if you quit or are terminated after an injury, and how pre-existing conditions or injuries that develop over time can impact your case. Carmen Ramirez and workers’ comp attorney Bilal break down the most important insights to guide you through your case, helping you understand how the system really works, where injured workers often lose money, and how having the right legal guidance can dramatically increase the value of your claim. Takeaways: You generally cannot choose your own doctor for workers' comp injuries in California. Workers' comp benefits include medical treatment and indemnity payments. You have one year to file a claim after your injury. Mental health injuries can qualify for workers' comp benefits under specific conditions. Employers must provide information about workers' comp rights and assist injured employees. Future changes in workers' comp laws may improve benefits for injured workers. Consulting a lawyer can help clarify your rights and options in workers' comp cases. Staying informed about changes in workers' comp laws is crucial for employees. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Workers' Comp Questions of 2025 00:27 Choosing Your Own Doctor in Workers' Comp 01:39 Understanding Workers' Comp Benefits 03:14 Dealing with Pre-existing Conditions 05:14 Filing Claims and Employment Status 06:48 Mental Health Injuries and Workers' Comp 09:13 Employer Responsibilities in Workers' Comp 10:51 Using Vacation Time for Injuries 12:59 Future Changes in Workers' Comp Laws This episode is sponsored by Pacific Workers, The Lawyers for Injured Workers, the trusted workers’ compensation law firm in Northern California. With over 10,000 cases won and more than $350 million recovered for injured workers, we are here to help if you’ve suffered a workplace injury. Visit our FAQ and blog for more resources: Follow Us on Social Media for More Content! 🔹 Website: Sponsors: 🔹 TikTok: @pacificworkers /episode/index/show/workcomptalk/id/39510075

Ep. 137 - How to Still Get a BIG Settlement After Being Fired 12/16/2025

Ep. 137 - How to Still Get a BIG Settlement After Being Fired Episode #137 of Work Comp Talk breaks down the real secrets to winning big money in California Workers’ Comp even AFTER you’ve been fired, and yes, even if you quit, got laid off, or your boss is pushing you out. In this new segment, hosts Carmen Ramirez and Bilal Kassem uncover one of the most misunderstood rules in CA Work Comp: Post-Termination Defense, the rule that scares injured workers into thinking they lose all benefits the moment they leave their job. According to attorney Bilal, quitting or getting terminated does not automatically take away your rights under this rule, as long as your injury happened before the termination notice or is properly documented. They also explain what the law actually says, the biggest mistakes workers make, and the top 5 ways to strengthen your case even after termination. Takeaways: Quitting does not automatically forfeit workers' compensation rights. Post-termination defense prevents false claims after termination. Documenting injuries is crucial for pursuing claims. Cumulative trauma injuries may not be recognized until later. Employers can retaliate against employees who file claims. Consulting a lawyer is advisable for navigating claims. Insurance companies, not employers, are responsible for claims. Understanding your financial situation is important before quitting. Myths about workers' compensation can lead to misinformation. Chapters: 00:00 Understanding Post-Termination Defense 06:31 Navigating Injuries and Employment Status 10:07 Five Essential Steps Before Quitting 14:45 Myths About Workers' Compensation Rights This episode is sponsored by Pacific Workers, The Lawyers for Injured Workers, the trusted workers’ compensation law firm in Northern California. With over 10,000 cases won and more than $350 million recovered for injured workers, we are here to help if you’ve suffered a workplace injury. Visit our FAQ and blog for more resources: Follow Us on Social Media for More Content! 🔹 Website: 🔹 Sponsors: 🔹 TikTok: @pacificworkers 🔔 Subscribe & hit the bell so you never miss a new episode. /episode/index/show/workcomptalk/id/39417965

Ep. 136 - The 5 Proven Ways to Maximize Your Workers’ Comp Settlement 12/09/2025

Ep. 136 - The 5 Proven Ways to Maximize Your Workers’ Comp Settlement Episode #136 of Work Comp Talk is the one that can literally change the outcome of your workers’ comp case. This episode breaks down the Top 5 Ways to WIN Your Workers’ Comp Case. Whether you're new to the workers’ comp system or already stuck in the middle of a frustrating process, this episode gives you the clarity, confidence, and guidance you need to move forward. Takeaways: The Kite case advocates for simple addition in disability ratings. The Vigil case clarifies the use of simple addition for combined injuries. Injured workers should ensure all body parts are included in their claims. Choosing the right doctor can significantly impact recovery and case outcomes. Fighting denials is essential; don't accept them without challenge. Understanding your rights is crucial in navigating workers' compensation. Communication between doctors and lawyers is vital for patient care. Proactive advocacy can lead to better case outcomes. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction: 5 Positive Ways to Win Your Case 01:36 Kite & Vigil Cases: Changing How Your Disability Is Calculated 06:00 Positive Way #2: Make Sure Every Injury Is Included 09:08 Positive Way #3: Choosing the Right Doctor for Your Case 13:21 Positive Way #4: Fighting Treatment Denials Without Giving Up 16:24 Positive Way #5: Understanding Your Rights in the Workers’ Comp System About our sponsors - Pacific Workers, The Lawyers for Injured Workers, the trusted workers’ compensation law firm in Northern California. With over 13,000 cases won and more than $350 million recovered for injured workers, they are here to help if you’ve suffered a workplace injury. Visit our FAQ and blog for more resources: Follow Us on Social Media for More Content! 🔹 Website: 🔹 Sponsors: 🔹 TikTok: @pacificworkers 🔔 Follow & Subscribe so you never miss a new episode! /episode/index/show/workcomptalk/id/39330620

Ep. 135 - Get the Highest Permanent Disability Rating Allowed by Law 12/02/2025

Ep. 135 - Get the Highest Permanent Disability Rating Allowed by Law In episode #135 learn how to maximize your Permanent Disability Rating and protect your benefits in California Workers’ Comp. Carmen Ramirez and attorney Bilal Kassem break down one of the most confusing stages for injured workers: how the disability rating system really works, how percentages are calculated, and what factors can affect the money you receive. If you’ve ever felt lost with terms like MMI, Permanent & Stationary, WPI, AMA Guides, apportionment, or PD payments, this conversation gives you the clarity you need to confidently move forward and win your case. You’ll learn: What it really means to reach MMI (Maximum Medical Improvement) How doctors calculate Whole Person Impairment (WPI) How age, occupation, functional loss, and surgery outcomes affect your rating How pre-existing conditions and apportionment can change your percentage The deadlines, payment rules, and when PD checks must start Why choosing the right doctor matters, and how ratings can vary drastically How legal strategies can help increase your rating and prevent lowball offers Your rights to backpay, advances, and accurate calculations Chapters: 00:00 Understanding Permanent Disability Ratings 02:14 The Components of Disability Ratings 05:36 Addressing Pre-existing Conditions 08:44 Deadlines and Payment Processes 11:09 Timeline for Receiving Ratings 12:18 The Role of Doctors in Ratings 14:08 Challenges in Permanent Disability Ratings This episode is sponsored by Pacific Workers, The Lawyers for Injured Workers, the trusted workers’ compensation law firm in Northern California. With over 10,000 cases won and more than $350 million recovered for injured workers, we are here to help if you’ve suffered a workplace injury. Visit our FAQ and blog for more resources: Follow Us on Social Media for More Content! 🔹 Website: 🔹 Sponsors: 🔹 TikTok: @pacificworkers /episode/index/show/workcomptalk/id/39229145

Ep. 134 - Workers' Comp Webinar Series Pt. 3 11/25/2025

Ep. 134 - Workers' Comp Webinar Series Pt. 3 In Episode #134 of Work Comp Talk, hosts Carmen Ramírez and Bilal Kassem keep the energy high as they jump into Part 3 of our Special Workers’ Compensation Webinar Series, and this one gets real. In this segment, Carmen and Bilal walk you through “Real Cases: Dodging a Bad QME,” sharing honest insights and real stories of injured workers who almost ended up with the wrong evaluator until the right guidance changed everything. Hosts explain, in a clear and supportive way, what really happens when you miss a deadline, choose the wrong doctor, or find yourself dealing with a QME who isn’t truly on your side. What You Will Learn: How to spot a bad QME before it hurts your case What to do if you missed a deadline or picked the wrong doctor How to request a supplemental report the right way When and why you can switch QMEs with attorney support How to protect your California work comp claim from common traps Real examples of how injured workers turned their cases around Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Overview of QME Challenges02:36 – Missed Deadlines and Wrong Doctor Scenarios 06:53 – Ensuring Complete Medical Records and Supplemental Reports 11:10 – Attorney Power: Subpoenaing Records and Legal Support 15:02 – QME Responsibilities and What to Expect at Evaluation 20:12 – Reading QME Reports, Thin Reports, and Next Steps This was the final part of our webinar series, but there’s more to come! Stay tuned for the next episodes to keep learning how to manage your workers’ comp case, avoid pitfalls, and make sure your rights are protected every step of the way. This episode is sponsored by Pacific Workers, The Lawyers for Injured Workers, the trusted workers’ compensation law firm in Northern California. With over 10,000 cases won and more than $350 million recovered for injured workers, we are here to help if you’ve suffered a workplace injury. Visit our FAQ and blog for more resources: Follow Us on Social Media for More Content! 🔹 Website: 🔹 Sponsors: 🔹 TikTok: @pacificworkers /episode/index/show/workcomptalk/id/39159525

Ep. 133 - Workers' Comp Webinar Series Pt. 2 11/18/2025

Ep. 133 - Workers' Comp Webinar Series Pt. 2 In Episode #133 of Work Comp Talk, hosts Carmen Ramírez and Bilal Kassem dive into QME 101: The real timeline and the number one mistake that can kill your claim, the second part of our Special Workers’ Compensation Webinar Series. In this segment, Carmen and Bilal break down everything you need to know about the Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME), when they appear in your claim, and the crucial role they play in determining your case outcome. A QME’s report can make or break your claim, from establishing your medical condition and disability to influencing the benefits and future care you may receive. Understanding how to navigate this process can be the key to protecting your rights and maximizing your compensation. What You’ll Learn: Where a QME fits in the claims timeline and when they are requested. How a QME report can strengthen your case. What to look for in a QME report to support your claim. The #1 mistake that can derail your claim and how to avoid it. Key deadlines for QME evaluations and what to do if missed. Tips for working with your QME to document injuries accurately. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Webinar Goals 01:00 – When a QME Appears in a Case 02:35 – Importance and Contents of the QME Report 04:52 – Preparation and Strategy for the QME 08:40 – Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong QME 14:11 – Common QME Errors to Avoid 17:21 – Explanation on the Importance of Proper Documentation This latest webinar is packed with QME Essentials. Stay until the very end to learn what to expect from your evaluation and how to navigate the system with confidence. This episode is sponsored by Pacific Workers, The Lawyers for Injured Workers, the trusted workers’ compensation law firm in Northern California. With over 10,000 cases won and more than $350 million recovered for injured workers, we are here to help if you’ve suffered a workplace injury. Visit our FAQ and blog for more resources: Follow Us on Social Media for More Content! 🔹 Website: Sponsors: 🔹 TikTok: @pacificworkers /episode/index/show/workcomptalk/id/39072650

Ep. 132 - QME Made Easy! Workers’ Comp Webinar Series Pt.1 11/11/2025

Ep. 132 - QME Made Easy! Workers’ Comp Webinar Series Pt.1 In Episode #132 of Work Comp Talk, hosts Carmen Ramírez and Bilal Kassem kick off the 6th edition of our Special Workers’ Compensation Webinar Series. This first part focuses on the Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME), why it matters in your workers’ comp case and what to expect when going through the evaluation process. This special segment highlights the key role the QME plays in determining your medical condition, level of disability, and overall case outcome. What You’ll Learn: Why the QME process is one of the most important steps in your workers’ comp claim. What to expect before, during, and after your QME evaluation. How the QME report influences your benefits and case resolution. The timeline and procedures every injured worker should know. How to avoid common mistakes and make the most of your evaluation. Chapters: 01:05 – Learn why understanding the QME process is essential for injured workers. 03:06 – Discover the critical error that could ruin your entire workers’ comp case. 04:44 – The real purpose of a Qualified Medical Evaluator and when they get involved. 07:19 – What to Expect from the QME Process This latest webinar is packed with QME Essentials. Stay until the very end to learn what to expect from your evaluation and how to navigate the system with confidence. This episode is sponsored by Pacific Workers, The Lawyers for Injured Workers, the trusted workers’ compensation law firm in Northern California. With over 10,000 cases won and more than $350 million recovered for injured workers, we are here to help if you’ve suffered a workplace injury. Visit our FAQ and blog for more resources: Follow Us on Social Media for More Content! 🔹 Website: Sponsors: 🔹 TikTok: @pacificworkers /episode/index/show/workcomptalk/id/38987040

Ep. 131 - Think Before You Answer: The Truth About Insurance Calls 11/04/2025

Ep. 130 - Why You Should Never Accept the First Workers’ Comp Offer 10/28/2025

Ep. 129 - The Hidden Risks of Seasonal Jobs 10/21/2025

Ep. 129 - The Hidden Risks of Seasonal Jobs In episode #129, podcast host Carmen Ramirez is joined by attorney and visionary leader at Pacific Workers, Bilal Kassem, to discuss the complexities and challenges faced by seasonal workers, particularly during the holiday season. They explore the rights of seasonal employees, the importance of safety in fast-paced work environments, and the risks associated with seasonal employment. The conversation also delves into the hiring process, the potential for misclassification of workers, and the intricacies of workers' compensation and temporary disability benefits. The episode aims to arm listeners with knowledge and awareness to navigate the seasonal job landscape effectively. Takeaways: Seasonal workers often face unique challenges and risks. Understanding your rights as a seasonal employee is crucial. California labor laws provide protection for all workers, including seasonal ones. The hiring process for seasonal jobs can be rushed, leading to confusion. Misclassification as independent contractors can deny workers their rights. Temporary disability benefits can be complicated for seasonal workers. It's important to weigh the risks versus rewards of seasonal employment. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Overview of Seasonal Employment 02:54 Understanding Seasonal Workers and Their Rights 05:34 The Challenges Faced by Undocumented Seasonal Workers 08:33 The Risks of Seasonal Work: Injuries and Safety 11:13 Navigating the Hiring Process and Employee Rights 14:17 Common Issues and Fears of Seasonal Workers 16:49 Temporary Disability and Compensation for Seasonal Workers 19:56 Misclassification of Seasonal Workers 22:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Seasonal Employment This episode is sponsored by Pacific Workers, The Lawyers for Injured Workers, the trusted workers’ compensation law firm in Northern California. With over 10,000 cases won and more than $350 million recovered for injured workers, we are here to help if you’ve suffered a workplace injury. Visit our FAQ and blog for more resources: Join Us for Our October Work Comp Webinar Learn key insights, best practices, and expert advice on Workers' Compensation, all in one live session. /episode/index/show/workcomptalk/id/38720530

Ep. 128 - The DWC-1 Form Could Save Your Claim 10/14/2025

Ep. 128 - The DWC-1 Form Could Save Your Claim In Episode #128, host Carmen Ramirez is joined by special guest Yuvanna M. Diaz, a dedicated Workers’ Compensation Attorney, who dives deep into the DWC-1 Form, the first and most important step in filing a workers’ compensation claim in California. Discover what this form means, when to file it, and how it protects your rights after a workplace injury. Whether you’re new to the workers’ comp process or looking to strengthen your understanding, this episode breaks down the key steps every employee should know. Learn from Yuvanna’s expert insights on how to avoid common filing mistakes, secure your benefits, and take control of your recovery journey. What You’ll Learn: The DWC-1 form is crucial for starting a workers' comp claim. Injured workers should not rely solely on employers to provide the DWC-1 form. Filling out the DWC-1 form accurately is essential to avoid complications later. Describing all injuries, even minor ones, on the DWC-1 form is important. Employers are required to provide the DWC-1 form within one business day. Injured workers can seek medical treatment before submitting the DWC-1 form. Legal representation can help navigate complex workers' comp claims. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Workers' Compensation Law 02:13 Understanding the DWC-1 Form 05:03 The Importance of Reporting Injuries 07:44 Navigating Employer Responsibilities 10:29 Filling Out the DWC-1 Form Correctly 13:09 Common Mistakes in Reporting Injuries 16:19 The Role of Medical Documentation 18:54 What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied 21:49 Understanding Your Rights and Benefits 24:25 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways This episode is sponsored by Pacific Workers, The Lawyers for Injured Workers, the trusted workers’ compensation law firm in Northern California. With over 10,000 cases won and more than $350 million recovered for injured workers, we are here to help if you’ve suffered a workplace injury. Visit our FAQ and blog for more resources: Join Us for Our October Work Comp Webinar: Learn key insights, best practices, and expert advice on Workers' Compensation, all in one live session. /episode/index/show/workcomptalk/id/38572760

Ep. 127 - What Every Firefighter Needs to Know 10/07/2025

Ep. 126 - The Truth About AMEs and QMEs in Workers’ Comp 09/30/2025

Ep.125 - Decoding the Workers' Comp Claims Adjuster 09/23/2025

Ep.125 - Decoding the Workers' Comp Claims Adjuster This is a brand new Episode 125 of our podcast, where Carmen Ramirez, our dedicated host, dives into one of the most important, yet often overlooked, topics in the workers' comp journey: documentation. In this powerful edition, Carmen breaks down why documentation is the secret weapon every injured worker needs to understand in order to navigate their claim successfully. You'll get an inside look into how claims adjusters think, what kind of paperwork really matters, and, most importantly, how you can take control of your own process with confidence. From building a bulletproof paper trail to communicating clearly and professionally with your claims adjuster, Carmen walks you through the essential tools every injured worker in California should have in their toolkit. You’ll also learn: -How to avoid delays that cost you time and money -How to stay organized even when life feels overwhelming -When it’s time to get legal help, and how to find it -Why being proactive (not passive) can change everything Whether you’re just starting your claim, stuck in the middle of a confusing process, or feeling completely discouraged, this episode is packed with real-world advice to help you move forward with clarity and strength. Chapters: 00:00 Understanding Workers' Comp Claims 01:38 The Importance of Documentation 05:34 Building Rapport with Adjusters 07:24 Managing Expectations in the Claims Process 09:38 When to Seek Legal Help This episode is sponsored by Pacific Workers, The Lawyers for Injured Workers, the trusted workers’ compensation law firm in Northern California. With over 10,000 cases won and more than $350 million recovered for injured workers, we are here to help if you’ve suffered a workplace injury. Visit our FAQ and blog for more resources: /episode/index/show/workcomptalk/id/38318295

Ep. 124 - The Do's and Don'ts of Working While Injured 09/16/2025

Ep. 124 - The Do's and Don'ts of Working While Injured In episode 124 of our podcast Work Comp Talk, host Carmen Ramirez sits down with Brendean Luce, Associate Attorney at Pacific Workers, to delve into the complexities of workers' compensation and the rights and responsibilities of injured workers in California. This conversation explores the nuances of working while on workers' comp, the importance of communication with treating doctors, and the implications of temporary and permanent disability. The discussion also highlights the risks of working under the table and the potential legal consequences of not disclosing income from secondary jobs. Expert insights are shared to help injured workers navigate the system effectively. What you will learn: Injured workers often seek to balance recovery with economic needs. Communication with treating doctors is crucial for injured workers. Temporary total disability means no work at all, with benefits provided. Insurance companies control medical care in workers' compensation cases. Permanent disability does not preclude returning to work. Working under the table can lead to insurance fraud allegations. The process of workers' compensation claims can be slow and complex. Chapters: 00:00 Understanding Workers' Compensation Basics 02:37 Navigating Work Restrictions and Employer Responsibilities 05:51 Temporary and Permanent Disability Explained 08:25 Managing Multiple Jobs During Workers' Comp Claims 11:05 The Risks of Working Under the Table 13:53 Key Takeaways for Injured Workers 16:55 Final Thoughts and Expert Insights This episode is sponsored by Pacific Workers, The Lawyers for Injured Workers, the trusted workers’ compensation law firm in Northern California. With over 10,000 cases won and more than $350 million recovered for injured workers, we are here to help if you’ve suffered a workplace injury. Visit our FAQ and blog for more resources: /episode/index/show/workcomptalk/id/38231225

Ep. 123 - California Workers’ Comp Payments 09/09/2025

Ep. 123 - California Workers’ Comp Payments In episode #123 of Work Comp Talk, hosts Carmen Ramirez and attorney Bilal Kassem take a deep dive into how workers’ compensation payments function in California. They explore temporary and permanent disability benefits, explain how wage replacement is calculated, and clarify the rules around maximums and minimums. The hosts also discuss whether workers’ comp payments are taxable, how child support liens may impact settlements, and the differences between compromise & release versus stipulated awards. With their clear and practical approach, provide listeners with valuable insights to better understand their rights and benefits within the workers’ comp system. What you will learn: How wage replacement works in California workers’ comp cases. The difference between temporary disability and permanent disability payments. How maximums and minimums are calculated for 2025. Why workers’ compensation benefits are generally not taxable. The role of child support liens in workers’ comp cases. Settlement options: Compromise & Release vs. Stipulated Awards. Additional reimbursements such as mileage expenses and job retraining vouchers. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction & catching up with Bilal 03:00 – Understanding wage replacement in workers’ comp 04:30 – How temporary disability payments are calculated 06:15 – Permanent disability vs. temporary disability explained 08:30 – Payment deadlines and limits for temporary disability 09:50 – Maximums and minimums in workers’ comp benefits (2025 updates) 11:30 – Are workers’ comp payments taxable in California? 13:30 – Child support liens and workers’ comp settlements 14:45 – Insurance companies and the workers’ comp system 15:55 – Compromise & release vs. stipulated awards settlements This episode is sponsored by Pacific Workers, The Lawyers for Injured Workers, the trusted workers’ compensation law firm in Northern California. With over 10,000 cases won and more than $350 million recovered for injured workers. They just win, simple as that! Visit our FAQ and blogs for more resources: Share your story on our podcast: /episode/index/show/workcomptalk/id/38139560

Ep. 122 - Workers' Comp Webinar Series Pt. 3, Delays, Denials and FAQ's 09/02/2025

Ep. 122 - Workers' Comp Webinar Series Pt. 3, Delays, Denials and FAQ's In Episode 122, we share the final (Part 3) of our special webinar series, where hosts Carmen Ramírez and Pacific Workers co-founder Bilal Kassem close with one of the most frustrating topics for injured workers: delays in treatment, paperwork, and real progress. We know how hard it is to navigate a system that often feels confusing, slow, and even unfair. That’s why, in this episode you will learn: What to do when your treatment is delayed by your insurance adjuster What an RFA is, and why timing matters How doctors and medical reports influence your benefits What your rights are when delays cross the legal line and how judges can intervene The two types of settlements: Stipulated Award vs. Compromise & ReleaseWhy your location can impact access to medical care—and what to do if you're in a rural area The value of a second opinion and understanding your QME (Qualified Medical Evaluation) rights Q&A session to some of the common workers’ comp issues Download our Free Pocket Guide mentioned in the webinar that breaks down essential terms, timelines, and practical tips to help you feel more informed and in control. Whether you’re just getting started or already deep in the process, this episode offers clarity and guidance to help you move forward with confidence. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to Part 3 of the Webinar Series 01:00 - Importance of Free Consultations & Pocket Guide 02:00 - Where to Download the Free eBook 03:00 - Viewer Question: What Happens When a Request for Authorization (RFA) is Delayed? 05:00 - Filing a Motion for Penalties and Sanctions 06:00 - Does Pacific Workers Handle Cases in Los Angeles? 07:00 - Access to Medical Treatment in Rural Areas 08:00 - Viewer Question: What if You Didn’t Sign a Stipulation? 09:00 - Explaining Stipulated Award vs. Compromise and Release 11:00 - Final Advice on Signing Settlements 12:00 - Importance of Consultations and Understanding the System 13:00 - Encouragement to Ask Questions and Seek Help If you haven’t seen Episode 120 (parts 1) and Episode 121 (part 2) of the webinar series yet, be sure to check those out for a complete understanding of denials, delays, doctors’ roles, and more. We’ve attached the links for you here. This episode is sponsored by Pacific Workers, The Lawyers for Injured Workers, the trusted workers’ compensation law firm in Northern California. With over 10,000+ cases won and more than $350 million recovered for injured workers, we are here to help if you’ve suffered a workplace injury. 👉 Want to join our next live webinar? Learn more and register here: Visit our FAQ and blog section for more tips on navigating the CA Workers’ Comp System: /episode/index/show/workcomptalk/id/38053820

Ep. 121 - Workers' Comp Webinar Series Pt. 2 08/26/2025

Ep. 121 - Workers' Comp Webinar Series Pt. 2 In Episode 121 of Work Comp Talk, the second part of our Special Workers’ Compensation Webinar Series. Carmen and Bilal break down the critical deadlines every injured worker in California needs to know. Missing key timelines can cost you care or benefits. In this episode, we cover the deadlines insurance companies won’t tell you about, and how delays or the wrong doctor can seriously impact your case. We also clear up a major misconception: filing a claim isn’t suing your employer, it’s using the insurance system meant to protect you. Plus, Carmen and Bilal explain how attorney fees really work, and why legal help doesn’t come out of your pocket but can make all the difference. What you’ll learn: The truth about insurance doctors and what they may not tell you about your injury. How to choose or change your doctor in the Medical Provider Network (MPN). Why filing a workers’ comp claim is not the same as suing your boss. How attorney fes really work in California workers’ comp cases, and why legal help doesn’t come out of your pocket. Chapters: 00:00 – Why deadlines in workers’ comp are critical 01:00 – Filing your case and the statute of limitations 02:00 – Deadlines you cannot miss during your claim 03:00 – “Secret #2”: Insurance doctors are not impartial 04:30 – Choosing the right doctor from the MPN list 07:00 – Real case example: cumulative trauma denied 09:00 – How and when you can change your doctor 10:00 – Finding strategies to protect your case 11:00 – “Secret #3”: Filing a claim is NOT suing your boss 13:00 – Why small businesses may take claims personally 15:30 – Your health, your future, and your family come first 16:00 – How attorney fees actually work in workers’ comp 17:00 – Closing thoughts: your rights and protections This episode is sponsored by Pacific Workers, The Lawyers for Injured Workers, the trusted workers’ compensation law firm in Northern California. With over 10,000 cases won and more than $350 million recovered for injured workers, we are here to help if you’ve suffered a workplace injury. 👉 Don’t forget to listen Part 1 of our webinar series if you missed it. Stay tuned for Part 3, where we’ll continue to share the “secrets” that the insurance companies won’t tell you. Want to join our next live webinar? Learn more and register here: ... Visit our FAQ and blog for more resources: /episode/index/show/workcomptalk/id/37955455

Ep. 120 - Workers' Comp Webinar Series Pt. 1 08/19/2025

Ep. 120 - Workers' Comp Webinar Series Pt. 1 In Episode #120, host Carmen Ramirez presents Part 1 of our exclusive Workers’ Compensation Webinar Series, held monthly by our sponsor, Pacific Workers. In this live session, Bilal Kassem, co-founder of Pacific Workers, breaks down the most common challenges injured workers face, including claim denials, delayed benefits, and the complexities of navigating the legal process. Learn Bilal's journey from defending insurance companies to representing injured workers, revealing why even the most serious cases are often overlooked, unless you understand the system inside out. This episode is packed with practical, attorney-approved tips for California injured workers, whether you’re dealing with a recent denial, trying to understand the QME vs AME process, or seeking strategies to maximize your claim. While Bilal is out on paternity leave, we will be bringing you the live webinar's best insights. Get practical ideas and options to help you make informed decisions, protect your rights, and move forward with confidence in your workers’ comp journey. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why a workers’ comp denial isn’t the end of the road How insurance companies operate behind the scenes Key steps to protect your rights as an injured worker Insights from an experienced California workers’ comp attorney How attorneys can actually speed up your claim This episode is sponsored by Pacific Workers, The Lawyers for Injured Workers the trusted Northern California law firm specializing in workers’ compensation. With over 10,000 cases won and $350 million recovered for injured workers, we’re here to help if you’ve suffered a workplace injury. Check out our FAQs and blogs: https://www.pacificworkers.com/blog/ #WorkersCompAppeal #CaliforniaWorkersComp #QMEProcess #InjuredWorkers #WorkInjuryHelp #WorkersRights #PacificWorkers #WorkersCompTalkPodcast #InjuryLawyers #CarmenRamirez /episode/index/show/workcomptalk/id/37872635