ALONSO RAMIREZ vs. ROYALTY LANDSCAPE, MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE GROUP

The Workers' Compensation Appeals Board granted reconsideration and rescinded the WCJ's decision, returning the case to the trial level. This was due to the improper exclusion of defendant's payroll records, which were relevant to determining applicant's employment status. The Board found that these records should have been admitted despite the lack of formal authentication, as workers' compensation proceedings allow for significant latitude in evidence admission. The case will be reheard for a proper admission of evidence and a new decision.