Ivan Palma v. American Airlines and, Sedgwick CMS

In this workers’ compensation case, Claimant appeals an order of the Judge of Compensation Claims (JCC) denying entitlement to attorney’s fees and costs. For the reasons below, we reverse.

Claimant injured his right hand hooking up carts while working on luggage for Employer American Airlines. The Employer/Carrier (E/C) accepted the injury as compensable. When the temporary disability benefits Claimant expected did not arrive, Claimant filed a petition for benefits asking for them, as well as for penalties, interest, attorney’s fees, and costs. The petition for benefits was received by the E/C…