MELISIA BANKS vs. LARKIN STREET YOUTH CENTER, STATE COMPENSATION INSURANCE FUND

This case involves a dispute over a proposed Compromise and Release (C&R) settlement. The WCJ improperly attempted to gather further medical evidence by directly contacting the applicant's physician, exceeding his authority. The Appeals Board dismissed reconsideration because the WCJ's order was not final, but granted removal due to the prejudice caused by the WCJ's procedural overreach. The case was returned to the trial level for proper proceedings to determine the adequacy of the C&R.