Home/Case Law/RAMIRO CALDERA vs. CAR SOUND EXHAUST SYSTEM, INC.; COMPWEST
Regular DecisionRegular Panel Decision

RAMIRO CALDERA vs. CAR SOUND EXHAUST SYSTEM, INC.; COMPWEST

Filed: Dec 22, 2016
Los Angeles
ADJ8878834

CompFox AI Summary

This case involves a dispute over lien claimant Western Imaging's entitlement to reimbursement for subpoenaed records in a workers' compensation claim. The WCJ initially disallowed the lien, finding Western Imaging failed to prove the records' reasonableness and necessity. The Appeals Board granted reconsideration, rescinding the WCJ's decision and returning the case for further proceedings. The Board clarified that medical-legal expenses are recoverable if incurred to prove or disprove a contested claim and that reasonableness is assessed at the time of expense incurrence, regardless of whether the subpoenaed records ultimately proved the claim. The Board also emphasized the defendant's obligation to specifically object to such expenses within a timely manner.

Full Decision Text1 Pages

This case involves a dispute over lien claimant Western Imaging's entitlement to reimbursement for subpoenaed records in a workers' compensation claim. The WCJ initially disallowed the lien, finding Western Imaging failed to prove the records' reasonableness and necessity. The Appeals Board granted reconsideration, rescinding the WCJ's decision and returning the case for further proceedings. The Board clarified that medical-legal expenses are recoverable if incurred to prove or disprove a contested claim and that reasonableness is assessed at the time of expense incurrence, regardless of whether the subpoenaed records ultimately proved the claim. The Board also emphasized the defendant's obligation to specifically object to such expenses within a timely manner.

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RAMIRO CALDERA vs. CAR SOUND EXHAUST SYSTEM, INC.; COMPWEST (2016) – Los Angeles | CompFox