Official Site of The State of New Jersey

August 20, 2024: Notice to All Workers’ Compensation Judges and Members of the Bar

Memo from Director and Chief Judge Maria Del Valle-Koch re: Thomas P. Canzanella Twenty First Century Responders Protection Act Reporting Requirements

Governor Phil Murphy signed into law the “Thomas P. Canzanella Twenty First Century Responders Protection Act.”  This legislation was enacted to modernize the workers’ compensation system in this State to ensure that all public safety workers’ critical needs are met and assure that these workers are not denied a level of support which is commensurate to the sacrifices they and their families make for the safety and well-being of the citizens of this State and nation. 

Workers' Compensation May Day Seminar
Wednesday, May 1st 1PM to 4PM
Each Court Vicinage

1. Liens, Subpoenas, & MPCs (1PM to 2PM)
2. Diversity (2PM to 3PM)
3. Lien on Me…: How Not to Wither in the Face of Unpaid Medical Bills… or Fail to Defend Against Them (3PM to 4PM)

Note: You will receive a total of 3.6 CLE credits, 1.2 credits of which will be toward Ethics/Diversity. Please register with the Head Clerk at the appropriate court vicinage by April 26, 2024.

March 7, 2022: Rule Amendments and Adoption

Adopted Amendments: N.J.A.C. 12:235-3.11 and 3.12

Adopted New Rule: N.J.A.C. 12:235-3.19

To view document, click here.

February 14, 2022: Notice to the Bar Re: Reopening of N.J. Workers’ Compensation Facilities for Regularly Listed Matters

Effective Monday, March 7, 2022, the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation shall open all workers’ compensation court facilities to all attorneys, litigants, court reporters, interpreters, and witnesses with regularly listed matters before the Court as listed via COURTS on-line. With the consent of the litigants, workers’ compensation judges may continue to conduct routine proceedings virtually, either telephonically or via Microsoft TEAMs, such as, daily list markings, pre-trial conferences, uncontested motions, and approval of settlement agreements in accordance with N.J.S.A. 34:15-20, N.J.S.A. 34:15-22, N.J.S.A. 34:15-27, and N.J.A.C. 12:235-3.12(f).  All Trials, including Emergent and Non-emergent Motions for Medical and Temporary Disability Bene-fits, as well as contested Motion Hearings, must be conducted in-person in accordance with Workers’ Compensation Court Rules.   

Click here to read full notice.

November 19, 2021: Notice to All Workers’ Compensation Judges and Members of the Bar

Memo from Director and Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Reassignment of Vicinages and Judicial Coordinators

Effective January 1, 2022, the following vicinages shall be supervised by the following Administrative Supervisory Judges of Compensation:

• Administrative Supervisory Judge Ingrid French shall supervise the Bridgeton, Camden, Lebanon, Mt. Holly, and Trenton Vicinages.  ASJ French’s home office shall be the Camden Vicinage. 
• Administrative Supervisory Judge Ashley Hutchinson shall supervise the Atlantic City, Freehold, Mt. Arlington, New Brunswick, and Toms River Vicinages.  ASJ Hutchinson’s home office shall be the New Brunswick Vicinage.
• Administrative Supervisory Judge Maria Del Valle-Koch shall supervise the Plainfield, Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, and Hackensack Vicinages.  ASJ Del Valle-Koch’s home office shall be the Plainfield Vicinage. 

In addition, effective January 1, 2022, Administrative Supervisory Judge Ingrid French, will be the Second Injury Fund Judicial Coordinator responsible for all Second Injury Fund judicial functions, including the supervision of all SIF judges.  Administrative Supervisory Judge Del Valle-Koch, will be the Uninsured Employers Fund Judicial Coordinator responsible for all Uninsured Employers Fund judicial functions, including the supervision of all UEF judges.  Administrative Supervisory Judge Ashley Hutchinson shall remain as the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation’s Judicial Training Coordinator responsible for all N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation CLE programs.

August 17, 2021: Notice to the Bar and Public Re: Proposed Rule Changes – Pension Offset; Public Employees; Accidental Disability Retirement

Below is the link to the Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s proposed amendments to N.J.A.C. 12:235-3.11 and 3.12 and a proposed new rule N.J.A.C. 12:235-3.19 concerning Pre-Trial Conferences; Conduct of Formal Hearings; Pension Offset; Public Employees; Accidental Disability Retirement.

You may submit written comments by October 15, 2021, to:

David Fish, Executive Director
Legal and Regulatory Services
New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development
PO Box 110-13th Floor
Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0110
Fax to: (609) 292-8246
Email: david.fish@dol.nj.gov.

Click Here to Read the Proposed Rule Changes

July 29, 2021: Notice to the Bar

Memo from Director and Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Limited in-person Proceedings Effective August 16, 2021

Effective Monday, August 16, 2021, the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation shall implement a cautious return to normal operations with the resumption of limited in-person proceedings and an increase of on-site presence of workers’ compensation judges and court staff as set forth below.  On Monday, August 16, 2021, all fifteen N.J. workers’ compensation court facilities shall be open to attorneys, litigants, court reporters, interpreters, and witnesses with specifically scheduled events or appointments.  Up to 35% of judges and court staff may be present on-site in state workers’ compensation court locations in accord with the N.J. Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s overall reopening plan.  Consistent with public health guidance, the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation will increase on-site presence gradually with the understanding that we may change direction if COVID-19 trends worsen in the future.  In accordance with N.J.A.C §12:235-1.2, workers’ compensation court rules shall continue to be relaxed, and the vast majority of workers’ compensation court proceedings shall be provided virtually, either telephonically or via Microsoft TEAMs. This shall include routine list markings, pre-trial conferences, dismissals for lack of prosecution, and, if the parties consent, approval of settlements, including Section 20 settlements and Section 22 settlements (Orders Approving Settlement).  Only after a virtual conference with the presiding workers’ compensation judge, in accordance with N.J.A.C. §12:235-3.11, or N.J.A.C. §§12:235-3.2 and 3.3 for Emergent and Regular Motions for Medical and Temporary Disability Benefits, will contested matters be scheduled for an in-person Trial or Motion Hearing.

February 4, 2021: Notice Judges of Compensation and Members of the Bar

Memo from Director and Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Accidental Disability Pensions & Medical Monitoring Settlements

Effective immediately, the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation shall eliminate its Accidental Disability Pensions and Medical Monitoring and Coverage Policy, as set forth in former Director and Chief Judge Peter J. Calderone’s November 16, 2006 Memorandum to all judges and attorneys, titled “Public Employee Pension Issues Affecting Workers’ Compensation Awards”, and August 25, 2011 Memorandum to all judges and attorneys, titled “Accidental Disability Orders”. The aforementioned Memorandums of November 16, 2006 and August 25, 2011 are hereby rescinded.  The Division shall discourage medical monitoring and coverage settlements as a stand-alone form of workers’ compensation benefit for public employees who receive an accidental disability pension and will not approve such settlements if proposed by the parties. All Judges of Compensation shall proceed in the normal course with all claim petitions brought by Petitioners who have applied for, or received, an Accidental Disability Pension in accordance with New Jersey’s Workers’ Compensation Statute, as well as any applicable provision of the N.J. Administrative Code, and appropriate case law.  In addition, no claims before the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation will be adjourned for the the N.J. Department of Pension’s final determination of a petitioner’s eligibility for an accidental disability pension.

October 21, 2020: Notice Judges of Compensation, Members of the Bar and Court Staff

Memo from Director and Chief Judge Wojtenko re: New Administrative Supervisory Judge (Plainfield, Jersey City, and Freehold)

Effective January 1, 2021, the Hon. Maria Del Valle-Koch shall be the Administrative Supervisory Judge (ASJ) for the vicinages of Plainfield, Jersey City, and Freehold, succeeding the Hon. Lionel Simon III, who is retiring on December 31, 2020.

October 21, 2020: Notice to Judges and Members of the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: UEF Judicial Coordinator

Effective January 1, 2021, Administrative Supervisory Judge Philip Tornetta will be the Uninsured Employers Fund (UEF) Judicial Coordinator, succeeding the Hon. Lionel Simon III.  Judge Tornetta will be responsible for all UEF judicial functions, including the supervision of all UEF judges.

July 10, 2020: Notice to the Bar

Notice to Bar - Workers’ Comp. Courts Closed to Public until further notice

In accordance with Governor Murphy’s previous Executive Orders, all N.J. Workers’ Compensation Courts shall continue to be closed to the public until further notice.

June 26, 2020: Notice to the Bar

Notice to Bar - Workers’ Comp. Courts Closed to Public until July 13, 2020 (COVID-19)

This notice announces additional statewide steps by the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation to address the ongoing COVID-19 health crisis in New Jersey.  In accordance with Governor Murphy’s previous Executive Orders, all N.J. Workers’ Compensation Courts shall continue to be closed to the public until Monday, July 13, 2020.

June 4, 2020: Notice to the Bar

Notice to Bar - Workers’ Comp. Courts Closed to Public until June 29, 2020 (COVID-19)

All N.J. Workers’ Compensation Courts shall continue to be closed to the public and to non-essential court personnel until Monday, June 29, 2020.  Judges of Compensation shall continue to hear as many workers’ compensation matters as possible by telephonic and video conferencing, including emergent and non-emergent matters, such as, trials, pre-trial conferences, motions for medical and temporary benefits, general motions, and settlements.  There will be no in-person Workers’ Compensation Court proceedings except limited emergent matters and limited ongoing trials and motions for medical and temporary benefits, in which case masks shall be worn by all parties and social distancing shall be enforced. Court offices will remain closed for in-person submissions. Filings will continue to be accepted electronically through COURTS On-line.  Please contact each individual workers’ compensation court if you have questions about a scheduled hearing, motion, conference, or other matter by email, fax, or telephone.

May 21, 2020: Notice to the Bar

Notice to Bar - Workers’ Comp. Courts Closed to Public until June 8, 2020 (COVID-19)

All N.J. Workers’ Compensation Courts shall continue to be closed to the public and to non-essential court personnel until Monday, June 8, 2020.  Judges of Compensation shall continue to hear as many workers’ compensation matters as possible by telephonic and video conferencing, including emergent and non-emergent matters, such as, trials, pre-trial conferences, motions for medical and temporary benefits, general motions, and settlements.  There will be no in-person Workers’ Compensation Court proceedings except limited emergent matters and limited ongoing trials and motions for medical and temporary benefits, in which case masks shall be worn by all parties and social distancing shall be enforced. Court offices will remain closed for in-person submissions. Filings will continue to be accepted electronically through COURTS On-line.  Please contact each individual workers’ compensation court if you have questions about a scheduled hearing, motion, conference, or other matter by email, fax, or telephone.

May 8, 2020: Notice to the Bar

Notice to Bar - Re: Three Additional WC Judges

Effective May 11, 2020, in addition to the twenty-six (26) Judges of Compensation previously assigned as per the Division’s Notice to the Bar of April 28, 2020, the following three (3) workers’ compensation judges shall hear as many workers’ compensation matters as possible in the assigned vicinages by telephonic conferencing, and if possible by video conferencing, including all emergent and non-emergent matters, including trials, pre-trial conferences, motions for medical and temporary benefits, general motions, and settlements: Hon. Sarah Minor - Bridgeton Vicinage, Hon. D. Gayle Loftis - Mt. Arlington Vicinage, and Hon. Dawn Shanahan - Trenton Vicinage

May 7, 2020: Notice to the Bar

Notice to the Bar - COVID-19 Workers' Comp. Courts Closed to Public until May 26, 2020

In accordance with Governor Murphy’s Executive Orders to slow the spread of the virus, all N.J. workers’ compensation courts shall continue to be closed to the public and to nonessential court personnel until Tuesday, May 26, 2020. 

April 27, 2020: Notice to the Bar

Notice to Bar - Re: Additional Judges for Vicinages

Effective May 4, 2020, the following workers’ compensation judges shall hear as many workers’ compensation matters as possible in their assigned vicinage by telephonic conferencing, and if possible by video conferencing, including all emergent and non-emergent matters, including trials, pre-trial conferences, motions for medical and temporary benefits, general motions, and settlements.

April 22, 2020: Notice to the Bar

Notice to Bar - COVID-19 Workers’ Comp. Courts Closed to Public until May 11, 2020

In accordance with Governor Murphy’s Executive Orders to slow the spread of the virus, all N.J. workers’ compensation courts shall continue to be closed to the public and to non-essential court personnel until May 11, 2020.

All Administrative Supervisory Judges and Supervising Judges shall continue to be designated by the N.J. Department of Labor and Workforce Development and the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation as essential personnel and shall hear as many Workers’ Compensation matters as possible in their home vicinage by telephonic conferencing, and if possible by video conferencing, including all emergent matters and the following non-emergent matters, pre-trial conferences, general motions for medical and temporary benefits, and settlements by affidavit.

April 8, 2020: Notice to the Bar

Notice to Bar - COVID-19 Workers’ Comp. Courts Closed to Public until April 27, 2020

In accordance with Governor Murphy’s Executive Orders 107 and 119, to slow the spread of the virus, all N.J. workers’ compensation courts shall continue to be closed to the public and to non-essential court personnel until April 27, 2020.

All Administrative Supervisory Judges and Supervising Judges shall continue to be designated by the N.J. Department of Labor and Workforce Development and the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation as essential personnel and shall hear as many Workers’ Compensation matters as possible in their home vicinage by telephonic conferencing, and if possible by video conferencing, including all emergent matters and the following non-emergent matters, pre-trial conferences, general motions for medical and temporary benefits, and settlements by affidavit.

March 30, 2020: Notice to the Bar

Notice to the Bar from Director and Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Limited Reopening of Workers' Compensation courts

All N.J. workers’ compensation courts will remain closed to the public and to non-essential court personnel until April 13, 2020.

However, on Monday, April 6, 2020, all Administrative and Supervising Judges shall be designated by the N.J. Department of Labor and Workforce Development and the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation as essential personnel and shall report to their home vicinages for the purpose of hearing as many Workers’ Compensation matters as possible by telephonic conferencing, including all emergent matters and the following non-emergent matters: pre-trial conferences, general motions for medical and temporary benefits, and settlements by affidavit. There will be no in-person Workers’ Compensation Court proceedings (except for extremely limited emergent matters and certain ongoing motions for medical and temporary benefits and trials in which case social distancing will be enforced).

March 16, 2020: Notice to the Bar 

Memo from Director and Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Suspension of All Workers’ Compensation Court Calendars

This notice announces a three-week suspension of all workers’ compensation court calendars as part of the Division of Workers’ Compensation’s ongoing efforts to contain the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. This suspension of workers’ court proceedings will begin Tuesday, March 17 and continue through Friday, April 3, 2020. Litigants, attorneys, and witnesses who are scheduled to appear for a workers’ compensation matter from March 17, 2020 through April 3, 2020 should not appear in workers’ compensation court and should await notice of a rescheduled court date.

March 12, 2020: Notice to the Bar

Memo from Director and Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Continuation of Normal Court Operations & Guidance to Attorneys and Litigants

The New Jersey Workers’ Compensation courts are following the guidance of the New Jersey Department of Health (NJ DOH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to navigate the evolving situation relating to the coronavirus (COVID-19). Based on that guidance, we are currently maintaining normal business operations.  All workers’ compensation courthouses and facilities at present remain open according to their regular schedules.  At the same time, we are taking preventive measures to reduce risk and ease concerns. It is imperative that attorneys, litigants, court users, and court employees not come to court if they are or may be at risk of exposure to or transmission of COVID-19.  Instead, anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 or a risk of exposure (including a risk based on recent travel) should contact the court by phone and request to reschedule the proceeding or seek some other accommodation.  Requests should be documented in writing as well.  Judges and staff will handle requests on a case-by-case basis consistent with the most up-to-date guidance from the NJ DOH and CDC.

January 2, 2020: Notice to the Bar, Workers’ Compensation Insurance Carriers, and Self-insured Employers

Memo from Director and Chief Judge Wojtenko re: New Member of the Commission on Judicial Performance 

On December 31, 2019, Marie Rose Bloomer, Esq., resigned from the N.J. Division of Workers' Compensation's Commission on Judicial Performance. Effective January 1, 2020, and in accordance with N.J.A.C. 12:235-10.5, I have appointed Michelle G. Haas, Esq., of the Law Office of Hoagland, Longo, Moran, Dunst & Doukas, LLP, to serve on the Commission for the remainder of Ms. Bloomer's term, which expires on August 31, 2020.

December 17, 2019: Notice to the Bar, Workers’ Compensation Insurance Carriers, and Self-insured Employers

Memo from Director and Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Supplemental Benefits Dependents of Public Safety Workers (N.J.S.A. 34:15-95.6)

Governor Murphy signed into law Senate Bill S1967 (N.J.S.A. 34:15-95.6) providing supplemental benefits to the dependents of public safety workers payable by the Second Injury Fund. Under this law, in order to process these benefits, all insurance carriers and self-insured employers responsible for the payment of workers’ compensation death benefits to dependents of public safety workers shall provide the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation - Office of Special Compensation Funds with the identities, including current mailing addresses, of said dependents, together with a copy of the formal award of dependency benefits and the calculation of the supplemental benefits, no later than the 60th day after the date on which it is determined that the payment of supplemental benefits to these dependent is required pursuant to this legislation.  Failure to timely provide said information, including the correct calculation of benefits, to the Office of Special Compensation Funds resulting in the payment of an incorrect amount of benefits, shall result in the individual insurance carrier or self-insured employer’s liability for payment of said supplemental benefits.  This law only provides for payment of supplemental benefits to those dependents who were formally awarded dependency benefits by a Judge of Compensation in the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation.  If dependents of a public safety worker have not received a formal dependency award from a N.J. Judge of Compensation, but rather are receiving voluntary tendered dependency benefits, and wish to qualify for the new supplemental benefits, a Dependency Claim Petition to Convert Voluntary Tender to Formal Judgment Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:15-95.6 must be filed with the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation.  Then, a claim for supplemental benefits will be processed as set forth above.

Dependency Claim Petition - To convert Voluntary Tender to Formal Judgment

Worksheet for Supplemental Benefit Calculations

November 15, 2018: Notice to the Bar

Memo from Director and Chief Judge Wojtenko re: COURTS on-line Workers’ Compensation Mandatory Electronic Filing - Initial Pleadings

As of March 15, 2019, the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation shall require all licensed New Jersey attorneys and law firms to file the following pleadings electronically through COURTS on-line in accordance with N.J.A.C. 12:235-3.1: Claim Petitions, Answers to Claim Petitions, Dependency Claim Petitions, Answers to Dependency Claim Petitions, Medical Claim Petitions, Answers to Medical Claim Petitions, Applications for Review and Modification of Formal Awards (Re-Openers), Answers to Review and Modification of Formal Awards (Re-Openers), and Amendments to all the pleadings set forth above.  Any such pleading filed on or after March 15, 2019, shall be rejected for filing, with instructions to file the matter electronically through COURTS on-line.  In such instances, the filing date shall be the date the document is received through COURTS on-line.

COURTS on-line Subscriber Application form

COURTS on-line Subscriber Change form

October 15, 2018: Notice Judges of Compensation, Members of the Bar and Court Staff

Memo from Director and Chief Judge Wojtenko re: New Administrative Supervisory Judge (Bridgeton, Atlantic City & Toms River)

With the approval and consent of Robert Asaro-Angelo, Commissioner of Labor & Workforce Development, effective October 15, 2018, the Hon. Arthur J. Marchand has been appointed the Administrative Supervisory Judge (ASJ) for the vicinages of Bridgeton, Toms River, and Atlantic City.  ASJ Ingrid French will now supervise the Camden, Mt. Holly, and Trenton vicinages, ASJ Philip Tornetta will supervise the Newark, Hackensack, and Paterson vicinages, and ASJ Ashley Hutchinson will supervise the New Brunswick, Lebanon, and Mt. Arlington vicinages.  ASJ Lionel Simon, III, will continue to supervise the Freehold, Plainfield, and Jersey City vicinages.

August 23, 2018: Notice to Judges of Compensation, Members of the Bar and Court Staff

Memo from Director and Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Appointment of the Members of the Commission on Judicial Performance

Effective September 1, 2018, and in accordance with N.J.A.C. 12:235-10.5, Director and Chief Judge Wojtenko has appointed E. Richard Boylan, Esq., Joyce A. Parisi, Esq., Hon. Andrew Smith, J.W.C. (retired), Hon. George Pollard, J.W.C. (retired), Marie Rose Bloomer, Esq., Bryce S. Chase, Esq., Julius Feinson, Esq., James C. Knicos, and Mark B. Zirulnik, Esq., to serve as member of the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation’s Commission on Judicial Performance. Mr. Boylan shall serve as the Chairperson and Ms. Parisi shall serve as the Vice Chairperson.  Their terms of service shall expire on August 31, 2020.

April 18, 2018: Notice to Judges, Members of the Bar and Court Staff

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Medicare Conditional Payments

It is the position of the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation that litigants fully comply with and adhere to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) policies and procedures regarding its recovery of conditional payments, including the mandatory reporting requirements of Section 111 of the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Extension Act of 2007.

Before a N.J. Judge of Compensation can consider a proposed Order Approving Settlement or Order Approving Settlement under N.J.S.A. 34:15-20 (Section 20 settlement) involving a petitioner who is a Medicare beneficiary, the parties shall first report the required workers’ compensation claim information to CMS as set forth by Section 111 of the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Extension Act of 2007.  The parties shall also begin CMS’ process of obtaining conditional payment information. 

In accordance with the Division’s memorandum of March 28, 2016, if conditional payments have been made, it is best left to the parties to decide how they will resolve their remaining Medicare issues.  The parties are strongly encouraged to reach specific agreements delineating how their remaining Medicare issues will be resolved, thus protecting the injured Medicare beneficiaries, employers, and workers’ compensation insurers, as well as honoring the rights and interests of Medicare.

For more information, visit the following:

• https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Coordination-of-Benefits-and-Recovery/Mandatory-Insurer-Reporting-For-Non-Group-Health-Plans/Overview.html
• https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Coordination-of-Benefits-and-Recovery/Beneficiary-Services/Liability-No-Fault-and-Workers-Compensation-Reporting/Liability-No-Fault-and-Workers-Compensation-Reporting.html
• https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Coordination-of-Benefits-and-Recovery/Coordination-of-Benefits-and-Recovery-Overview/Contacts/Contacts-page.html

February 14, 2018: Notice to Judges, Members of the Bar and Court Staff

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko Re: New Vice Chairperson for the Commission on Judicial Performance

Joyce A. Parisi, Esq., of Parisi & Gerlanc, P.A., is the new Vice Chairperson for the Commission on Judicial Performance

November 29, 2017: Notice Judges and Members of the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko Re: Liquidation of Guarantee Insurance Company

The N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation has been informed that Guarantee Insurance Company was ordered into receivership on November 27, 2017, for purposes of liquidation by the Second Judicial Circuit Court in Leon County, Florida.

The administration of all claims against this carrier will be handled by the office of the New Jersey Property-Liability Insurance Guaranty Association (NJ PLIGA) in accordance with N.J.S.A. 34:15–103 et seq.  We anticipate that NJ PLIGA will appoint attorneys in all active New Jersey workers’ compensation cases within the next 3-4 cycles.  Inquiries regarding this transfer should be addressed to New Jersey Property-Liability Insurance Guaranty Association, 233 Mt. Airy Road, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920, Telephone (908) 382-7100.

October 2, 2017: Notice Judges, Court Staff, and the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko Re: Certified Court Reporters

As per the N.J. Department of Treasury, Division of Purchase and Property, the N.J. Department of Labor and Workforce Development – Division of Workers’ Compensation shall utilize certified court reporter services set forth under the current Statewide Contract (T-2767) for Certified Court Reporters/Certified Real Time Court Reporters.
In accordance with that contact and its method of operation, J.H. Buehrer & Associates, Jersey Shore Reporting, L.L.C., and William C. O’Brien & Associates, Inc., shall provide the certified court reporters for all the courts in the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation.

September 11, 2017: Notice Judges, Court Staff, and the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko Re: Certified Court Reporters – Sept. 11 through Sept. 29, 2017

As per the N.J. Department of Treasury, Division of Purchase and Property, the N.J. Department of Labor and Workforce Development – Division of Workers’ Compensation shall utilize certified court reporter services set forth under the current Statewide Contract (T-2767) for Certified Court Reporters/Certified Real Time Court Reporters.

In accordance with that contact and its method of operation, J.H. Buehrer & Associates, Jersey Shore Reporting, L.L.C., and William C. O’Brien & Associates, Inc., shall provide the certified court reporters for all the courts in the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation for the period of September 11, 2017 through September 29, 2017.

August 21, 2017: Notice Judges, Court Staff, and the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko Re: Certified Court Reporters – Aug. 21 through Sept. 8, 2017

As per the N.J. Department of Treasury, Division of Purchase and Property, the N.J. Department of Labor and Workforce Development – Division of Workers’ Compensation shall utilize certified court reporter services set forth under the current Statewide Contract (T-2767) for Certified Court Reporters/Certified Real Time Court Reporters.
In accordance with that contact and its method of operation, J.H. Buehrer & Associates, Jersey Shore Reporting, L.L.C., and William C. O’Brien & Associates, Inc., shall provide the certified court reporters for all the courts in the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation for the period of August 21, 2017 through September 8, 2017.

August 8, 2017: Notice Judges, Court Staff, and the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko Re: Certified Court Reporters

In accordance with the Order entered by the Hon. Douglas H. Hurd, P.J.C.V., on August 8, 2017, and as per the N.J. Department of Treasury, Division of Purchase and Property, the N.J. Department of Labor and Workforce Development – Division of Workers’ Compensation shall utilize certified court reporter services set forth under the current Statewide Contract (T-2767) for Certified Court Reporters/Certified Real Time Court Reporters.

In accordance with that contact and its method of operation, effective August 9, 2017, J.H. Buehrer & Associates, Jersey Shore Reporting, L.L.C., and William C. O’Brien & Associates, Inc., shall provide the certified court reporters for all the courts in the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation for the period of August 9, 2017 through August 18, 2017.

J.H. Buehrer & Associates shall provide certified court reporters for the Central region of the State.  This consists of the workers’ compensation courts in New Brunswick, Lebanon, Freehold, Trenton and Toms River. Jersey Shore Reporting, L.L.C., shall provide certified court reporters for the workers’ compensation courts in portions of the Northern region and all of the Southern region as follows:  Paterson, Hackensack, Jersey City, Plainfield, Mt. Holly, Camden, Atlantic City and Bridgeton. William C. O’Brien & Associates, Inc., shall provide certified court reporters for the courts in the remainder of the Northern region as follows: Mt. Arlington and Newark.

July 28, 2017: Notice Judges, Court Staff, and the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko Re: Certified Court Reporters TRO II

Pursuant to the Order to Show Cause with Temporary Restraints, entered by the Honorable Douglas H. Hurd, P.J.C.V., on July 10, 2017, the N.J. Department of Labor and Workforce Development - Division of Worker’s Compensation shall utilize the certified court reporter services as set forth in Director and Chief Judge Russell Wojtenko, Jr., memorandum of November 16, 2016.

Further instruction will be provided upon the expiration of the temporary restraining order.

July 10, 2017: Notice Judges, Court Staff, and the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko Re: Certified Court Reporters (TRO)

Pursuant to the Order to Show Cause with Temporary Restraints, entered by the Honorable Douglas H. Hurd, P.J.C.V., on July 10, 2017 and expiring on July 28, 2017, the N.J. Department of Labor and Workforce Development - Division of Worker’s Compensation shall utilize the certified court reporter services as set forth in Director and Chief Judge Russell Wojtenko, Jr., memorandum of November 16, 2016.

Further instruction will be provided upon the expiration of the temporary restraining order on July 28, 2017.

July 6, 2017: Notice Judges, Court Staff, and the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko Re: Certified Court Reporters (7/10/17 through 7/28/17)

As per the N.J. Department of Treasury, Division of Purchase and Property, the N.J. Department of Labor and Workforce Development - Division of Workers’ Compensation shall utilize the certified court reporters services set forth under the current Statewide Contract (T-2767) for Certified Court Reporters/Certified Real Time Court Reporters.

In accordance with that contract and its method of operation, effective July 10, 2017, J.H. Buehrer & Associates, Jersey Shore Reporting, L.L.C., and William C. O’Brien & Associates, Inc., shall provide the certified court reporters for all the courts in the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation for the period of July 10, 2017 through July 28, 2017.

May 5, 2017: Notice to Judges and Members of the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko Re: New Member of the Commission on Judicial Performance

On April 24, 2017, due to his retirement from the practice of law, Patrick Caulfield, Esq., resigned from the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation’s Commission on Judicial Performance.  In accordance with N.J.A.C. 12:235-10.17, I have appointed Julius Feinson, Esq., of the Law Office of Borrus, Goldin, Foley, Vignuolo, Hyman & Stahl, P.C., to serve on the Commission for the remainder of Mr. Caulfield’s term, which expires on August 31, 2018.

April 3, 2017: Notice to Judges and Members of the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Liquidation of Castlepoint National Insurance Company

The N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation has just been informed that Castlepoint National Insurance Company is insolvent and has been placed into liquidation by the Insurance Commissioner of the State of California.  The administration of all claims against this carrier will be handled the office of the New Jersey Property-Liability Insurance Guaranty Association (NJ PLIGA) in accordance with N.J.S.A. 34:15–103 et seq. 

November 16, 2016: Notice to Judges, Court Staff and Members of the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Certified Court Reporters

As per the N.J. Department of Treasury, Division of Purchase and Property, the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation shall utilize the court reporter services set forth under their new statewide contract for certified court reporters / certified real time court reporters.  In accordance with that contract, effective November 21, 2016, State Shorthand Reporting Service, Inc., Guy J. Renzi & Associates, and William C. O’Brien & Associates, Inc., shall provide the certified court reporters for all the courts in the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation. State Shorthand shall provide the court reporters for our courts in Paterson, Hackensack, Jersey City, Mt. Holly, Camden, Atlantic City, and Bridgeton.  Guy J. Renzi & Associates shall provide the court reporters for our courts in New Brunswick, Lebanon, Freehold, Trenton, and Toms River.  William C. O’Brien shall provide the court reporters for our courts in Mt. Arlington, Newark, and Plainfield.

November 7, 2016: Notice to Judges, Court Staff and Members of the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: New Administrative Supervisory Judge

I am happy to announce, with the approval and consent of Aaron Fichtner, Ph.D., Acting Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development, effective January 1, 2017, the Hon. Lionel Simon, III has been appointed the Administrative Supervisory Judge for the Vicinages of Freehold, Mt. Holly, and Camden. 

November 7, 2016: Notice to Judges, Court Staff and Members of the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: New Supervising Judges – Plainfield and Camden

I am happy to announce, with the approval and consent of Aaron Fichtner, Ph.D., Acting Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development, effective January 1, 2017, the Hon. Maria Del Valle-Koch will be the Supervising Judge of the Plainfield vicinage, and the Hon. George Gangloff will be the Supervising Judge of the Camden vicinage.

October 17, 2016: Notice to Judges, Court Staff and Members of the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Second Injury Fund Judicial Coordinator 

I am happy to announce, effective immediately, Administrative Supervisory Judge Ashley Hutchinson will be the Second Injury Fund Judicial Coordinator, succeeding the Hon. Virginia Dietrich.  Judge Hutchinson will be responsible for all Second Injury Fund judicial functions, including the supervision of all SIF judges.

October 7, 2016: Notice to Judges, Court Staff and Members of the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Interrogatories in Medical Provider Claims

Notwithstanding Former Director/Chief Judge Calderone’s Memo of November 21, 2013 (Re: Interrogatories in Medical Provider Claims) to the contrary, interrogatories in medical provider claims shall only be permitted in accordance with N.J.A.C. 12:235-3.8(g)(Interrogatories may be allowed in other cases, upon motion, for good cause shown).

September 1, 2016: Notice to Judges, Court Staff and Members of the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Commission on Judicial Performance

In accordance with N.J.A.C. 12:235-10.17, Director Wojtenko has appointed Patrick Caulfield, Esq., Chairperson, Richard Boylan, Esq., Vice Chairperson, Hon. Mark E. Litowitz, J.W.C. (Retired), Hon. George Pollard, J.W.C. (Retired), Marie Rose Bloomer, Esq., Bryce S. Chase, Esq., James C. Knicos, Joyce A. Parisi, Esq., and Mark B. Zirulnik, Esq., to serve as members of the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation’s Commission on Judicial Performance.  Their terms of service shall expire on August 31, 2018.

August 29, 2016: Notice to Judges, Court Staff and the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Documents filed with Division of Workers’ Compensation – Color of Ink

Effective immediately, any and all documents filed with the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation, including but not limited to, claim petitions, answers, motions, orders and/or judgments, may be filled out and signed in either black or blue ink.

August 23, 2016: Notice to Judges, Court Staff and the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Move of the Elizabeth Workers’ Compensation Court to Plainfield, NJ.

The Elizabeth Workers’ Compensation Court will move to our new facility in Plainfield, located at 200 W. 2nd Street, Plainfield, New Jersey 07060, on Friday, September 23, 2016. In order to accomplish this move, the Elizabeth/Plainfield Vicinage will be closed to the public on Thursday, September 22nd, Friday, September 23rd, and Monday, September 26th, 2016.  All lists will be cancelled on those days.

July 7, 2016: Notice to Judges, Court Staff and the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: New Administrative Supervisory Judge

I am happy to announce, with the approval and consent of Harold Wirths, Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development, effective July 9, 2016, the Hon. Ashley Hutchinson has been appointed our fifth Administrative Supervisory Judge for the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation. Judge Hutchinson will supervise the New Brunswick, Elizabeth and Jersey City vicinages.

June 30, 2016: Notice to Judges, Court staff and the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Certified Court Reporters

Under the existing statewide contract for certified court reporters / certified real time court reporters, effective July 1, 2016, Guy J. Renzi & Associates, shall provide the court reporters for the Central region, which consists of our courts in New Brunswick, Lebanon, Freehold, Trenton, and Toms River.

March 28, 2016: Notice to Judges and Attorneys

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Medicare – Insurer Non-Group Health Plans Recovery (Conditional Payments)

Many attorneys have contacted the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation with concerns about the recent changes to Medicare’s new Insurer Non-Group Health Plans Recovery program (Conditional Payments) and its impact on the timely resolution of workers’ compensation cases.  See Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ website for a summary of the Insurer Non-Group Health Plans Recovery policy at https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Coordination-of-Benefits-and-Recovery/InsurerServices/Insurer-NGHP-Recovery.html

February 23, 2016: Notice to Judges and Attorneys

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Court Closing Policy and Attorney Adjournment Process

The only consistent statewide cancellation of Court lists shall occur on the following days: the day of the Spring Judicial College (held on the first 3-3 Day in May), the day of the New Jersey State Bar Association’s Annual Meeting and Convention – Workers’ Compensation Section Meeting, the day of the Fall Judicial College (held on the first 3-3 Day in October), the day after Thanksgiving, the day of the Workers’ Compensation Bench Bar Conference, and the days between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.  

February 3, 2016: Notice to Judges, Court Staff and the Bar

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Certified Court Reporters

On January 31, 2016, the contract with our court reporter services expired.  As per the N.J. Department of Treasury, Division of Purchase and Property, the N.J. Division of Workers’ Compensation shall utilize the court reporter services set forth under the existing statewide contract for certified court reporters / certified real time court reporters.

January 13, 2016: Notice to Judges and Attorneys

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: New Adminstrative Supervisory Judges and Supervisory Judges

I am happy to announce, with the approval and consent of Harold Wirths, Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development, effective Monday, January 4, 2016, Judges Emille Cox and Philip Tornetta were appointed Administrative Supervisory Judges for the Division of Workers' Compensation. 

January 11, 2016: Notice to Judges and Attorneys

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Expert Fees

Today, Governor Chris Christie signed A-4438/S-3202 into law.  This law raises the maximum fee for an evaluating physician's report to $600.00.

December 11, 2015: Notice to Judges and Attorneys

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Wojtenko re: Counsel Fees

Counsel fees are governed solely by N.J.S.A. 34:15-64, applicable case law and applicable New Jersey Administrative Code provisions

August 18, 2015: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Revel Final Decree and Order Closing Chapter 11 Cases

February 27, 2015: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Web based Oscar-Calcs Program

The Oscar-Calcs program, developed by the Division of Workers' Compensation with the assistance of many judges and attorneys, has become the primary method for judges and attorneys to calculate settlement awards... read full memo.

January 12, 2015: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Adjournment and Ready Hold Forms

I mentioned at the December Bench Bar that the Division of Workers' Compensation would be implementing the ability to file adjournment and ready hold requests by e-mail. The process has been accomplished... read full memo.

December 9, 2014: NOTICE TO INTERESTED PARTIES

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Medical Provider Committee Report

A Committee of the Commissioner’s Advisory Council on Workers' Compensation issued the attached report concerning Medical Provider Claims. In particular, the Report recommends... read full memo.

December 4, 2014: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Judge Dietrich Scholarship

You may be aware that a Kids Chance scholarship fund has been started in memory of Administrative Supervisory JudgeVirginia Dietrich... read full memo.

December 4, 2014: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Counsel Fees

Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:15-64, judges of compensation have the discretion to award a reasonable counsel fee not to exceed 20% of the award entered... read full memo.   

August 4, 2014: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Revised Adjournment and Ready Hold Form

Recently we posted an Adjournment and Ready Hold Form for mandatory use in Elizabeth as a pilot program to assess the form's effectiveness and the form was also available for use in other vicinages... read full memo.

June 16, 2014: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Adjournment and Ready Hold Form

We have received requests for a Division Adjournment and Ready Hold form. In consultation with the Administrative Supervisory Judges and others, we have developed the attached form...read full memo. 

January 28, 2014: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Communication between Galen Booth and Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: NJPLIGA Insolvency List and Contact Person.

November 21, 2013: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Interrogatories in Medical Provider Claims

There has been an increase in the number of Medical Provider Claims (MPC) which has resulted in additional discovery motions particularly for the filing of interrogatories... read full memo. 

November 21, 2013: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Total Disability Calculations

In consultation with judges and attorneys including Second Injury Fund (Fund) counsel, the following procedures should be utilized in appropriate Total Disability cases... read full memo.

June 6, 2013: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Video Conference Testimony

With the assistance of the Workers' Compensation Section of the State Bar we have formulated the attached guidelines for Video Conference Testimony... read full memo.

April 15, 2013: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Court Rules

Pursuant to the Administrative Procedures Act, we periodically review our court rules found at N.J.A.C. 12:235-1.1 et seq....read full memo.

February 12, 2013: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Electronic Filing of Motions

We are pleased to announce that this week we initiated a key upgrade to the COURTS system that now allows the electronic filing of motions... read full memo.

December 3, 2012: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Counsel Fees

Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:15-64, judges of compensation have the discretion to award a reasonable counsel fee not to exceed 20% of the award entered... read full memo.

July 11, 2012: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS   

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Medicare Conditional Payment and Set-Aside Issues

The federal Medicare Secondary Payer Statute as administered by the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has set various policies, procedures and regulations affecting workers' compensation petitioners who are Medicare entitled or have reasonable expectation of eligibilty... read full memo.

June 7, 2012: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS   

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: COURTS IV

New Jersey was the first state to have a fully automated workers' compensation case management system.... read full memo.

June 7, 2012: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS   

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Medicare and CMS

The New Jersey Advisory Council on Safety and Health has requested a response to questions below concerning Medicare and the Center for Medicare Services ("CMS").... read full memo.

June 5, 2012: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS   

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Division of Vocational Rehabilitation

In consultation with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation ("DVRS"), we are discontinuing workers' compensation judge referrals to DVRS.... read full memo.

January 31, 2012: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS   

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Second Injury Fund

Recently Judge Delores McNamee made a presentation to the Burlington County Bar Association on topics that included the Second Injury Fund.... read full memo.

November 29, 2011: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Workers' Compensation Discovery Issues Committee

Both petitioner and respondent attorneys have raised concerns with our workers' compensation discovery process... read full memo.

November 29, 2011: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Counsel Fees

Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:15-64, judges of compensation have the discretion to award a reasonable counsel fee not to exceed 20% of the award entered... read full memo.

September 29, 2011: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Counsel Fees on Motions for Medical and Temporary Disability Benefits

In order to expeditiously conclude successful Motions for Medical and Temporary Disability Benefits where counsel fees had been reserved, counsel fees to petitioner's attorney should ordinarily be paid when active treatment pursuant to the motion has been completed....read full memo.

September 1, 2011: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Bar Center Centennial Picnic and Barbeque

Attached is a flyer for the Centennial Picnic and Barbeque on September 23, 2011 to be held at the New Jersey Law Center...read full memo 

August 31, 2011: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Burn Surgeons of St. Barnabas v. Shop Rite

Administrative Supervisory Judge Virginia Dietrich recently issued an opinion in the above matter concerning medical payment issues...read full memo

Read Administrative Supervisory Judge Virgina Dietrich's opinion:
Burn Surgeons of St. Barnabas v. Shop Rite 

August 25, 2011: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Daily Calling of the List

The calling of the list is a long standing tradition in workers' compensation court and serves as a common practice across vicinages.... read full memo 

August 25, 2011: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Accidental Disability Orders  

In consultation with other agencies, the following is the recommended language to be included in Orders where the petitioner is receiving an accidental disability pension and has accepted the continuing medical treatment option... read full memo 

May 24, 2011: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Centennial Gala Photos

Photos from the Centennial Gala by the Department's photogropher can be found by going to the Centennial webpage found to the right on this page of the Division's website... read full memo  

May 3, 2011: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: May 2, 2011 Centennial Seminar

We had over 500 attorneys sign up for the Seminar. Your feedback on the evaluation forms will be helpful to determine the benefits of the Seminar and whether future Division seminars would be supported...read full memo 

February 22, 2011: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Workers' Compensation Regulations

Pursuant to the Administrative Procedures Act, the workers' compensation regulations, N.J.A.C. 12:235-1.1 et seq., will sunset in July 2011 unlesss readopted or extended... read full memo.  

February 10, 2011 - NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Liquidation of Atlantic Mutual Insurance Company and Centennial Insurance Company

The New York Liquidation Bureau has informed the Division of Workers' Compensation that approved Atlantic Mutual and Centennial Insurance companies' awards will be processed and paid... read full memo.

January 28, 2011: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Specialized Medical Expert Allowances

N.J.S.A. 34:15-64 provides an allowance schedule for reports and appearances by evaluating and treating physicians. A Task Force appointed by Bar Section Chair Jerry Rotella recognized that there are situations where petitioner attorneys must retain... read full memo.

January 19, 2011: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Office Closures or Delayed Openings

There is a new section on the first page of our website that links to the Department and State websites for information on office closures and delayed openings.... read full memo.

December 21, 2010: NOTICE TO WORKERS' COMPENSATION COLLEAGUES

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Workers' Compensation Centennial

2011 will be the 100th Anniversary of the New Jersey Workers' Compensation Program. Our Centennial Committee is finalizing events and activities for next year... read full memo 

November 8, 2010: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Task Force for Medical Provider Claims

Enclosed is the Report of the Task Force on Medical Provider Claims which was chaired by Administrative Supervisory Judge Virginia Dietrich for your review.... read full memo

November 4, 2010: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone re: Proposed Stop-Work Order Rule

The attached rule proposal to implement amendments to N.J.S.A. 34:15-79 was published in the November 1, 2010 New Jersey Register.  The rule proposal specifcally addresses procedures for stop-work orders when an employer has not complied with the workers' compensation insurance requirements....read full memo  

October 28, 2010: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Medicare Release Language

Attached are e-mails between the workers' compensatin judges and this office concerning Medicare Release Language....read full memo

September 28, 2010: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Court Reporting Services

We have been advised this week that new contracts will take effect between the State of New Jersey and Workers' Compensation Reporting Services on October 1, 2010.  The relevant changes in the new contracts include:... read full memo

September 22, 2010: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone... re: NJM Charts and OSCAR

There are a few instances where OSCAR and the New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance Company (NJM) differs on weeks 90 and 96. For example, on the front of the 2007 NJM chart the benefit for 30% of the leg is $17,995.50... read full memo. 

June 21, 2010: NOTICE TO BAR

Please be advised that on June 21st, the Atlantic City Workers' Compensation Court moved up one floor to the Fourth Floor of the Atlantic County Office building.  The new address is:

1333 Atlantic Avenue
4th Floor
Atlantic City, NJ 08401

The telephone number will remain the same.

June 4, 2010: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Liquidation of Imperial Casualty and Indemnity Insurance

We have just been informed that Imperial Casualty and Indemnity is insolvent and has been placed into liquidation by the Oklahoma Department of Insurance...read full memo.

May 12, 2010: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Workers' Compensation Centennial

In 1911, New Jersey was one of twelve states that enacted the first workers' compensation statutes in the country....read full memo 

May 11, 2010: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Judicial Re-Assignments

There are a number of judicial reassignments taking place on June 1, 2010....read full memo  

March 29, 2010: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: May 21, 2010 Bar Convention Workers' Compensation Section Meeting

There has been discussion concerning attendance by judges and the status of the court system for the Bar Convention Workers' Compensation Section meeting.... read full memo  

March 12, 2010: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Dismissal As to Carrier

We are advised of delays in dismissing carriers who are mistakenly listed on claim petitions.  If a carrier is not the correct carrier, the dismissal as to carrier form (order) should be entered without the need for a formal motion and dismissal. Read full memo.

January 28, 2010: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Recent Events

Governor Chris Christie nominated Sussex County Freeholder Director Harold J. Wirths to be Commissioner of the Department of Labor and Workforce Development...read full memo 

January 14, 2010: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: New Judges and Re-Assignments 

As you may be aware, the New Jersey Senate confirmed eight (8) new judges of compensation during the last two weeks of the legislative session. The current case distributions, office space, support staff and geographical locations of the new judges creates serious administrative problems. Reassignments concerning current judges will be as limited as possible as we accommodate the additional Judges.... read full memo.

November 23, 2009: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Medicare

We are advised that there is a new website available to access information from Medicare. The only individuals allowed to access the site are Medicare recipients and their authorized representatives.......read full memo. 

October 20, 2009: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Rule Adoptions

The rule proposals for emergent medical motions, carrier and self-insured contact person information, judicial enforcement powers and Uninsured Employer's Fund amendments have been adopted....read full memo. 

September 10, 2009: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Medicare Articles

Enclosed please find two Medicare articles by Rob Lewis Esq. that addresses, among other things, the insurer reporting requirments that may be of interest to you... read full memo. 

August 24, 2009: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Medicare Questions on Court Orders

Medicare reviews and compliance when required should be initiated early in a case proceeding. However, there have been ongoing problems where cases have been finalized without recognition of Medicare requirements. Such noncompliance puts the petitioner, the respondent, the attorneys and the judge at risk... read full memo.  

July 14, 2009: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Amendments to N.J.S.A 34:15-79

As you may be aware, Governor Jon S. Corzine signed into law Assembly, No. 3569 and Senate, No. 2498 which amend N.J.S.A. 34:15-79. Of primary interest is the new section of the statute that allows the Director to issue stop-work orders in certain situations.....read full memo. 

April 6, 2009 - NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Medicare Eligible Petitioners

As you may be aware, the Center for Medicare Services (CMS) will shortly require insurers and self insured employers to report to CMS the names of Medicare eligible individuals involved in or claiming a work injury. While it has been our policy to inquire about Medicare status at an early stage of a case, the CMS expanded reporting procedures create added impetus for all parties to be aware of a petitioner's Medicare eligibility. Such reporting will provide CMS with additional information to enforce its requirements that all CMS conditional payment and when required set-aside reviews are completed....read full memo. 

March 26, 2009: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Mandatory Electronic Hearing Calendars Effective July 1, 2009

As you are aware, we have had support staff reductions in our central office and district office locations.  We have also had to reassign central office personnel to the district offices to accommodate the daily flow of court proceedings and to best serve the case parties...read full memo. 

March 3, 2009: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone... re: Child Support Liens

Pursuant to statutory requirements, we have obtained information on Child Support Liens from the Administrative Office of the Court (AOC) on a monthly basis inputting the data into our COURTS system.....read full memo.  

January 5, 2009 - NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re:  Second Injury Fund Lists

As you are aware Deputy Attorney General Dolores McNamee has been recommended for confirmation as a Workers' Compensation Judge by the Senate Judiciary Committee on nomination by Governor Corzine......read full memo.

December 23, 2008: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Natale v. Celanese et als (Appellate Division - Unpublished)

Enclosed please find the above Appellate Division opinion affirming Judge Mark Litowitz's decision assessing liability against several insurers of respondent in an occupational total disability case.......read full memo and decision.

December 11, 2008: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Court Closing Policy and Adjournment Process

In 1998 a Committee of judges and attorneys chaired by Judge Peter Womak reviewed the then court closing schedule and attorney adjournment process...read full memo.

December 1, 2008: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Counsel Fees

Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:15-64, judges of compensation have the discretion to award a reasonable counsel fee not to exceed 20% of the award entered. The judge should in all matters determine a reasonable fee based on the circumstances of the case and the value of the services performed....read full memo.

October 2, 2008: NOTICE TO ALL JUDGES, ATTORNEYS AND CASE PARTIES

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone... re: Legislative Changes

We are advised that Governor Jon S. Corzine has signed the following bills into law on October 1, 2008 to take effect immediately:.... read full memo. 

October 1, 2008: NOTICE TO ALL JUDGES, ATTORNEYS AND CASE PARTIES

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone... re: Emergent Medical Care, Contact Person, Enforcement and UEF Rule Proposals

Pursuant to recent legislation L.2008, c:____(Senate Nos. 1913 and 1916), signed into law by Governor Jon S. Corzine on October 1, 2008 and effective immediately, attached to this memorandum are pre-publication rule proposals.:.... read full memo.    

September 29, 2008: NOTICE TO ALL ATTORNEYS AND CASE PARTIES

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone... re: Day after Thanksgiving

Due to leave requests, there will be no court lists in the following offices on November 28, 2008: ..... read full memo. 

August 4, 2008: NOTICE TO BAR, INSURANCE CARRIERS AND SELF INSURERS

For Calendar Year 2009, the maximum workers' compensation weekly benefit rate for temporary total disability, permanent total disability, permanent partial disability and dependency benefits will be $773.  Click here for further details.

July 8, 2008 - NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: AIG Cases

We have been in contact with AIG with respect to issues raised by judges and attorneys. Attached please find correspondence I received from AIG setting a centralized mailing address for AIG affiliates.....read full memo.

July 7, 2008 - NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Recent Second Injury Fund Appellate Opinions

We normally only provide the unpublished Appellate Division opinions to the workers’ compensation judges.  However, we have this year received several extensive unpublished Appellate Division opinions concerning Second Injury Fund cases.  The most recent appellate opinions, Quick v. Discount Oil Co., Docket No. A-3489-06T1 (App. Div. June 17, 2008) and Vassilatos v. Mercer Wrecking Recycling Corp., Docket No. A-4878-06T3 (App. Div. July 2, 2008) set forth the basic legal principles and cite the relevant case law affecting the Second Injury Fund which may also be of interest to workers’ compensation attorneys.....Read full memo.

May 9, 2008: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone....re: Transcript Fees

The four court reporting companies for workers' compensation have been charging differing fees for transcripts under the current State contract which will expire at the end of August, 2009.  Read full memo.

April 25, 2008: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND THE BAR

OSCAR-Calcs is a PC-based software package which addresses the most common date and arithmetic functions that arise during the course of a workers’ compensation case.

Since its initial release in December, 2007, a number of comments and suggestions have been received.  The latest version of OSCAR-Calcs corrects calculation problems in the partial-total disability function, adds print functions to all calculators and addresses some monetary entry problems.

The software, previously only available on CD-ROM from the district offices, is now available as a download from this website.  Click for further details and downloading information.

April 24, 2008: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND THE BAR
Earlier this month, amendments to N.J.S.A. 34:15-130 et seq. were enacted which expands workers' compensation coverage under the New Jersey Horse Racing Compensation Board Act...Read full memo.

April 21, 2008: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND THE BAR

PRESS RELEASE - SARLO: WORKERS' COMP TO BE FOCUS OF NEXT SENATE LABOR PANEL MEETING

Trenton - Senator Paul A. Sarlo, Chairman of the Senate Labor Committee, today said the panel would schedule a special hearing May 5 on the workers' compensation system in New Jersey...see full notice. 

March 4, 2008: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND THE BAR

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone....re: MCARE cases

Attached is the most recent listing of MCARE cases. Generally, a case is marked MCARE if the case is settled but still open pending the completion of Medicare review(s). As indicated, the number of MCARE cases has been significantly reduced from the January 2007 level. The Division's website has extensive information on the process that must be completed when the petitioner is Medicare entitled......read full memo.

March 3, 2008: NOTICE TO THE BAR

Please be advised that on March 24, 2008, the Freehold Workers’ Compensation Court will move to the following address:

2 Paragon Way
Freehold, NJ 07728

The telephone number will remain the same.

Our Freehold Court will be closed on Thursday March 20^th through Monday March 24, 2008 to facilitate the move.  Court will resume in Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at the new location.......download. NOTICE TO BAR.

February 5, 2008: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone...re: Second Injury Fund Cases

In 2007, 1,838 second injury fund cases were closed. This number was well above the average for previous years of 1,292 closures. Further, open Second Injury Fund petitions were reduced from 4,597 in January 2007 to 4,102 in January 2008... read full memo.

January 2, 2008: NOTICE TO JUDGES AND ATTORNEYS

Memo from Director/Chief Judge Calderone..re: OSCAR Computer Programs

As presented at the Bench-Bar Conference, the OSCAR computer program discs for calculating, among other things, awards, commutations and penalties will be available for attorney distribution on or about January 14, 2008... read full memo.