Lopes's Case

We are asked to interpret the provisions of G. L. c. 152, § 39, which addresses payment of worker’s compensation benefits in case of the death of the injured employee and, in particular, the insurer’s obligations to furnish legal services in connection with the appointment of a legal representative for the deceased employee. We conclude that an administrative judge in the Department of Industrial Accidents (department) erred in refusing a request by the employee’s sister, Theresa Lopes (Theresa), for an order directing the insurer, Zurich American Insurance, to furnish legal services in…