D. Hyatt et B. Kralj, The impact of representation and other factors on the outcomes of employee-initiated workers' compensation appeals, IND LAB REL, 53(4), 2000, pp. 665-683
Using a unique data set from Ontario, the authors investigate the relations
hip between representation and the probability that a workers' compensation
appeal initiated by a worker will be granted. Unlike similar previous inve
stigations, this study includes many types of claims, not just permanent pa
rtial disability, low-back, or lost-time claims. Only representation by the
Office of the Workers Advisor or by a member of a politician's staff, both
of which are available to workers free of charge, increased the likelihood
of an appeal being granted or partially granted. Injured workers who hired
lawyers, consultants, or advocates, or who sought representation by a unio
n, were no more likely to win their appeal than were workers who represente
d themselves.