You Should Have An Attorney for Mediation and Settlement Conferences
Unlike other states, Michigan separates mediation and settlement conferences. These important parts of your worker’s compensation case may be necessary before your case will be heard by a judge. It is best to be prepared and have an attorney by your side during these proceedings.
Attorney Bruce Weider has been helping Michigan residents with worker’s compensation claims for more than 30 years. Contact us today for a free consultation, or keep reading to learn what to expect during your worker’s compensation mediation.
What is the Difference Between Mediation and Settlement Conferences?
Nolo has a very good guide on how mediation might work, with specifics on Michigan. In Michigan, mediation may be handled by a neutral third party who tries to resolve the dispute without offering settlement values. The mediator might be an attorney, but not necessarily. This is an informal mediation.
Settlement conferences, on the other hand, are led by a judge. Each side presents arguments, and the judge evaluates the value of the claim. Neither mediation nor settlement conferences are required in every case, but mediation is less common than settlement conferences.
When is Mediation Required in Michigan?
Mediation may be ordered before your case can go to trial. Find Law’s guide on Michigan worker’s compensation shows that mediation is most likely ordered in medical-only cases and cases in which the worker does not have an attorney.
When is a Settlement Conference Required in Michigan?
A settlement conference is required in almost all worker’s compensation cases, and it is best to be prepared for this step. You and the insurance company will provide arguments and the judge will evaluate the value of the claim. He or she may ask you and the insurance company questions.
If no settlement is reached, the case will go on to a hearing. The hearing is where your worker’s compensation attorney will have the opportunity to call witnesses, such as doctors and other experts.
Don’t Go Into a Mediation or Settlement Conference Without an Attorney
Even though mediation and settlement conferences are not a trial, it is still important to be represented by an attorney. An attorney will be able to answer many of the questions and handle negotiations on your behalf. They will be able to argue your case better than you can do for yourself.
Attorney Bruce Weider has 30 years of experience representing clients in mediation and settlement conferences for worker’s compensation. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
