Who Selects the Mediator in a NC Workers’ Compensation Case?

The short answer is the attorneys for both sides in a North Carolina workers’ compensation case will usually mutually agree upon a mediator. If not, the North Carolina Industrial Commission can appoint a mediator.

A mediator is a person, usually another attorney, who helps negotiate an agreeable outcome between two different parties. Mediators have been used in the legal system for an incredibly long time and usually help parties reach a mutually agreeable outcome without having to go to court or in front of a “finder of fact.”

If you have a North Carolina workers’ compensation case then you too will likely use a mediator at some point in time. The North Carolina Industrial Commission requires that a case go through mediation if a Form 33 is filed. Additionally, the plaintiff(s) and defendants can agree to have a voluntary mediation as well. The chances of having a successful mediation can, often times, depend upon the mediator. A good mediator can explain to both sides that neither will get everything they want out of a case and having a mutual agreement where neither party gets everything they want is sometimes better than running the risk of not receiving anything at all. An experienced mediator can also help both parties in a dispute get a better understanding of what the opposing party is thinking and arguing. Knowing this will allow you to better understand the other sides position and really allow the sides to focus on the areas in dispute versus every facet of a case.

In a North Carolina workers’ compensation claim, attorneys for both the plaintiff(s) and defendants will try to pick a mediator that both sides can agree upon. Experienced work injury lawyers know which mediators are best in their area. The two sides almost always agree upon a mediator. However, if the plaintiff(s) and defendants cannot agree upon a mediator for a required mediation then they would notify the North Carolina Industrial Commission and the Industrial Commission would appoint a mediator.

Most workers’ comp cases are settled at a mediation. Therefore, it is important that you have a good mediator. An experienced attorney for your injury at work will know who the best mediators in your area are and will fight to ensure you have someone that can help you resolve your case in the most efficient and fairest manner possible.