Navigating agency appeals for injured workers
Workers’ compensation claim disputes are decided by the Iowa Workers’ Compensation Commission, an administrative agency of the state of Iowa. With more than 240 years of combined legal experience in appealing agency decisions, our attorneys at Gallagher, Langlas & Gallagher, P.C. diligently represent your interests in the Iowa courts and uphold your right to obtain workers’ compensation benefits. We understand that you need help when you are hurt on the job. Our lawyers can advocate for your right to recovery for your injury.
Denied claims and agency appeals: how it all works
In the event that your Iowa workers’ compensation claim is denied, there are several steps for appealing the decision that you can take. Here’s how the process operates:
- Your case is first brought before the Deputy Workers’ Compensation Commissioner, who issues a decision.
- If the deputy commissioner’s decision is not in your favor, you can appeal to the Iowa Workers’ Compensation Commissioner.
- If you lose your appeal before the commissioner, whose decision is a final agency decision, you can then petition the Iowa district court for judicial review.
Each case is different, and the appeals process can take a few months or longer, depending on your individual circumstances. Our attorneys guide you through each step. We help you determine the best strategy to obtain a positive outcome.
Can you appeal denials of claims for unemployment insurance or health insurance?
Yes. If your unemployment insurance claim or health insurance claim was denied, you have the right under Iowa law to seek legal review of denials and even go to trial to obtain benefits that are rightly yours. If your Iowa unemployment insurance claim was denied, you can appeal to an administrative law judge. If your health insurance claim was denied, our experienced attorneys work with you to make sure that your insurance carrier is acting in good faith and that your rights as a policyholder are upheld. In many cases, settlements can be reached. In other cases, particularly where an insurance carrier is not cooperative, you may need to file suit in court and go to trial. Our Waterloo attorneys diligently pursue all legal avenues available in seeking the maximum amount of damages for you.
