Fontenot v. Wal-Mart

hWhile the majority discounts many of the workers’ compensation judge’s evaluations in reaching its conclusion, I find an affirmation required in light of the deferential standard of review owed factual findings and credibility determinations. In short, my review of the record reveals support for the ruling that the employer sustained its burden of proving the defense of self injury under La.R.S. 23:1081(l)(a).

First, and as will be explained below, I do not find that the workers’ compensation judge was required to reject the opinion of Dr. Rennie Culver. Dr. Culver diagnosed Mr. Fontenot as…