Message from the Chair

Written on 26 March 2020.

We are in the most difficult time any of us have ever seen in our lifetime. We must raise our professionalism standards to the highest level. We must all work together to weather the COVID-19 storm. Please be cooperative and civil to each other. Work hard to resolve issues quickly and efficiently. Injured workers need benefits and employers and carriers need resolution to the cases. We as attorneys can and should set an example of professionalism, civility and human kindness for the community.

We should not engage in “gamesmanship” or any other tactic thinking you might gain some advantage. We should not be engaging in unnecessary litigation or delay tactics. Do not put anyone’s health at risk. If possible, cancel or reset depositions or just let everyone appear by phone or videoconference, including the court reporters. We can and should resolve cases and issues by doing as much by phone as possible. Be cooperative in rescheduling and granting extensions.

We all have families and lives outside of the workers’ compensation world, and our families, our health, and our lives are more important than any case. Be kind and compassionate as many are suffering. Be safe and protect your health for the sake of your family, your staff and most importantly, yourself. There are many people counting on all of us as we are all in this together. We will get through this and it will change how we live our lives forever.

Glen Wieland, Chair

Florida Bar Workers’ Compensation Section