What is a Workers’ Compensation Hearing in Washington, DC?

What to Expect at a Formal Workers’ Compensation Hearing

If your workers’ comp case in Washington, D.C. has been denied or delayed, you may need a formal hearing. This is a legal process that works like a small trial — with a judge, testimony, evidence, and legal arguments. It’s your chance to fight back and get the benefits you need.

We’ve helped hundreds of injured workers through formal hearings and know how to guide you every step of the way.

What Happens at a Formal Hearing?

A formal hearing includes:

• Opening statements from both sides

• Testimony (you’ll likely be asked to testify)

• Medical records and evidence

• Witnesses, if needed

• Closing arguments

An administrative law judge will listen to both sides and make a decision. That’s why having a lawyer with trial experience—especially in D.C. workers’ compensation—makes a difference. We prepare you thoroughly so you feel confident and ready.

What Is a Deposition and Why Does It Matter?

If you file for a formal hearing, you’ll likely go through a deposition. That means:

• You’ll be asked questions under oath by the insurance company’s attorney

• It happens in an office—not a courtroom

• They’ll ask about your accident, medical history, lost wages, and more

We take depositions seriously and make sure every client is confident, prepared, and ready to tell their story.

What Happens at a Workers’ Comp Deposition?

During a deposition, the insurance lawyer may ask about prior injuries, current medical conditions, your diagnosis, lost wages, and your ability to work. They may also go into other parts of your history, depending on your case.

They’re not just gathering facts—they’re looking for ways to limit your benefits. That’s why having a lawyer who prepares you the right way matters.

How We Prepare You

We see the deposition as a chance to educate the insurance company about how serious your injury is—and how it’s affected your life and your family. That’s why we take preparation so seriously.

Every client gets our full support:

• We walk you through every question you might face
• We make sure you’re confident, calm, and ready to testify
• We’re with you the entire time—not just at the deposition, but throughout your case

In fact, we expect a deposition in nearly every serious injury case we take on. So we start preparing early—before your case is even filed.

If Your Workers’ Comp Claim Is Denied, You Can Appeal

Many injured workers contact us after their workers’ compensation claim has been denied—whether it’s for surgery, medical treatment, or weekly wage benefits. Most don’t realize the insurance company already has a lawyer working against them from the start.

If you were injured at work in Washington, D.C., the best time to call is right after your accident and after seeing a doctor. But even if you’re already scheduled for a formal hearing, we may still be able to help you protect your benefits and get the medical care you need.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

If you’ve been seriously injured at work in Washington, D.C.—and you need surgery or extended medical care—don’t wait. We regularly hear from people who hired the wrong lawyer or filed in the wrong place and are now losing out on benefits.

Frank Kearney has helped hundreds of workers get treatment approved, income protected, and settlements secured.

Call us at 202-393-3320 or reach out online if you have a deposition or formal hearing coming up.

We’ll make sure you’re ready—and that your case is handled the right way.