Mar. 14, 2026 at 10:55am

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A webinar hosted by the California Lawyers Association on April 10th, 2026, will focus on the critical processes of Utilization Review (UR) and Independent Medical Review (IMR) in California’s workers’ compensation system. Featuring legal professionals and a workers’ compensation judge, the webinar aims to provide insights and strategies for navigating the complex landscape of obtaining necessary medical treatment approvals for injured employees.

Why it matters

Understanding UR and IMR is crucial for injured workers and their advocates, as these processes can significantly impact access to medical care and the overall workers’ compensation experience. The webinar will offer valuable perspectives from both the defense and applicant sides, as well as insight from a judge, to help attendees better navigate the system.

The details

The webinar will cover the UR process, including strategies for improving the chances of initial approval, and the IMR appeals process when a UR is denied. Speakers include Dominic Ledda, an associate attorney at Hanna Brophy, Zachary Kweller, a Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation Law and president of the CAAA East Bay Chapter, and Hon. James Finete, a workers’ compensation judge.

The webinar will be held on April 10th, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.
The players

Dominic Ledda

An associate attorney at Hanna Brophy in San Jose, Dominic Ledda brings expertise in workers’ compensation defense.

Zachary Kweller

A Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation Law and president of the CAAA East Bay Chapter, Zachary Kweller represents injured workers and offers a valuable perspective on advocating for patient needs.

Hon. James Finete

A workers’ compensation judge with 25 years of legal practice, Hon. James Finete provides insight into the WCAB’s perspective and decision-making processes.

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What’s next

The webinar will offer 1 Participatory MCLE Credit and 1 Legal Specialization in Workers’ Compensation Law credit. The cost is $75 for non-members and $55 for members of the California Lawyers Association.

The takeaway

The webinar will provide valuable insights and strategies for navigating the complex processes of UR and IMR in California’s workers’ compensation system, helping injured workers and their advocates secure the necessary medical treatment approvals.