CHARLOTTE HUB – Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, P.A. (QPWB) secured a decisive victory in a challenging workers’ compensation case before the North Carolina Industrial Commission, defeating a Plaintiff’s demand of $200,000 and obtaining a full defense verdict with a $0.00 award. The outcome underscores QPWB’s litigation strength in high-risk venues and its disciplined approach to expedited medical proceedings.

Overview of the Case

The claim stemmed from a workers’ compensation dispute in which the Plaintiff sought extensive indemnity and medical benefits. After settlement discussions at mediation broke down due to the Plaintiff’s unyielding demand of $200,000, the defense team pivoted into litigation. The dispute quickly became centered on the Plaintiff’s attempt to change treating physicians—a pivotal issue that can influence both medical direction and overall claim exposure in North Carolina.

The defense had previously directed medical treatment to a physician who determined that the Plaintiff could return to full duty. The Plaintiff challenged this decision, seeking a new treating provider and continued indemnity benefits. This triggered an expedited hearing process, known for being Plaintiff-favorable and difficult for defendants to win.

Key Difference-Makers

• Susan Briggs – Managing Partner of Charlotte Hub
• Amanda Smiley – Partner
  

Claims Made Against Our Client

• Plaintiff demanded $200,000 in total indemnity and medical benefits.
• Asserted that the treating physician’s release to full duty was inappropriate.
• Filed a motion to change treating doctors, challenging the legitimacy of employer-directed care.

Defense Strategy

The defense emphasized strict compliance with North Carolina workers’ compensation statutes and rules, as well as the good faith demonstrated by the employer throughout the claim. Key aspects included:

• Strategic Medical Direction: After mediation failed, the employer exercised its right to direct treatment to a physician who ultimately released the Plaintiff to full duty, substantially weakening the ongoing disability claim.
  
• Detailed Documentation: At every stage, the defense team maintained meticulous records of decisions, communications, and treatment authorizations, reinforcing the argument that the employer acted within the law and in good faith.
  
• Legal Precision: The team applied a strict interpretation of North Carolina case law and regulatory provisions surrounding expedited medical disputes. This focus on legal accuracy was central to persuading the Commission to deny the Plaintiff’s motion and affirm the employer’s position.

Impact on Final Outcome

Despite the Plaintiff’s confidence in prevailing, QPWB successfully dismantled the claims. The Commission found in favor of the defense on all issues, resulting in a $0.00 award and a complete dismissal of the Plaintiff’s Motion to Change Physicians.

This outcome saved the client from a six-figure liability exposure and validated the employer’s handling of treatment, claim management, and litigation preparation.

Unique Aspect of the Case

The expedited medical litigation process in North Carolina presents a notoriously uphill battle for defendants. Yet QPWB’s disciplined, evidence-based strategy flipped the expected result. The Plaintiff’s aggressive stance made the win especially significant, reinforcing the firm’s reputation as a strategic leader in complex workers’ compensation litigation.

Predicting the Future

This win reflects QPWB’s commitment to strategic, high-quality litigation from the very beginning of every claim. Our team is deeply versed in the intricacies of workers’ compensation law and is known for being both precise and prepared at every stage of the litigation process. Whether pursuing early resolution or preparing for trial, we meticulously document and strategize with our clients’ best interests in mind. We are fully capable of negotiating fair settlements, but when necessary, we are equally prepared to play the long game and prevail.

About QPWB

Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, P.A. is the largest minority and women-owned law firm in the United States. With 48 offices across the country and over 100 areas of practice, QPWB provides comprehensive litigation, regulatory, and corporate representation to clients across a wide range of industries.