County of San Joaquin v. Workers' Compensation Appeals Board

Opinion

MORRISON, J.

A workers’ compensation applicant and her employer settled her case by giving her a lump-sum payment, but crediting the employer for certain advances, both in a specified amount and “further” amounts subject to proof. A workers’ compensation judge (WCJ) approved the settlement, but later ruled the employer was not entitled to “further” credits. On reconsideration, the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (Board) agreed with the WCJ. We annul the Board’s decision because it deprives the employer of a lawful, bargained-for provision of the settlement.

BACKGROUND

Norma Sepulveda…