Boston Workers Compensation Lawyer Blog
If you were hurt at work in Massachusetts and just received a Conciliation Notice from the Department of Industrial Accidents (DIA), you’re not alone. Every week, injured workers across the state receive this notice after an insurance company stops paying weekly checks, denies a claim, or disputes medical treatment.
This article explains what a conciliation is, why you received the notice, and exactly what to expect next — all under Massachusetts workers’ compensation law.
1. What Is a Conciliation in Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation?
A conciliation is the first step in the dispute process at the Massachusetts DIA. It’s an informal meeting, not a court hearing, where the goal is to resolve the dispute quickly — often before a judge ever gets involved.
The conciliation is conducted by a neutral DIA conciliator, who helps both sides (the injured worker and the insurance company) see if an agreement can be reached.
Conciliations are required under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 152, § 10, and they typically happen after one of the following:
– The insurer stopped or reduced weekly disability checks
– The insurer denied payment for medical treatment
– The employee (or attorney) filed a claim for benefits
– There’s a dispute about average weekly wage or extent of disability
Learn more about the Massachusetts workers’ compensation process: https://www.carnlaw.com/workers-compensation
2. Why You Received a Conciliation Notice
You’ll receive this notice when a claim or complaint is filed with the DIA — by either side. Common examples include:
– The insurer filed to discontinue or modify your weekly checks
– Your attorney filed a claim to reinstate benefits or approve medical care
– You’re seeking Section 34 (total) or Section 35 (partial) benefits after being denied
– You’re requesting Section 36 loss-of-function or disfigurement payments
The notice will list the date, time, and location (or virtual meeting link) for your conciliation. Attendance is mandatory.
For more on your rights under Massachusetts workers’ compensation, visit: https://www.carnlaw.com/massachusetts-workers-compensation-rights
3. What Actually Happens at a Conciliation
At the meeting, the conciliator reviews:
– Your medical reports and wage records
– The insurer’s reason for denial or stoppage of checks
– Any supporting documents submitted by your attorney
You won’t have to speak if you have representation — your lawyer will handle the discussion.
If an agreement is reached, your attorney will draft an agreement and payments can begin (or restart) within fourteen (14) days. If not, the case is automatically referred to a Conference before an Administrative Judge under § 10A.
Learn more about DIA hearings and conferences: https://www.carnlaw.com/dia-hearing-process
4. If No Agreement Is Reached — Next Steps
When conciliation fails, your case moves to the DIA Conference. This is a more formal hearing before a workers’ compensation judge. Both sides present evidence and arguments. The judge issues a Conference Order, which can either continue, modify, or stop your benefits.
If you disagree with that decision, your attorney can appeal to a full evidentiary Hearing — the next level in the process.
Read about appealing workers’ comp decisions: https://www.carnlaw.com/appeals
5. How to Prepare for Your Conciliation
To give yourself the best chance of success:
– Stay in contact with your attorney. Provide all recent medical notes and any correspondence from the insurer.
– Bring updated medical documentation. A recent work restriction note from your doctor is powerful evidence.
– Be truthful about your physical abilities. Credibility matters in front of both the conciliator and judge.
– Show up on time and be professional. Missing the meeting can delay your case or hurt your credibility.
6. How Carney Rezendes & Crowley Helps Injured Workers
At Carney Rezendes & Crowley, we’ve represented hundreds of injured workers through the conciliation process and every stage of the Massachusetts workers’ compensation system.
Our team ensures insurance companies follow the law, meet deadlines, and pay the benefits you’re entitled to — whether it’s reinstating weekly checks, securing medical coverage, or recovering additional Section 36 payments for permanent impairment.
If you’ve received a Conciliation Notice, don’t face the insurer alone. They’ll have professionals protecting their interests — you deserve the same.
7. Key Takeaway
A conciliation is your first opportunity to protect your benefits and move your case forward. With an experienced Massachusetts workers’ compensation attorney by your side, you can turn a confusing notice into your first step toward getting the benefits you deserve.
Carney Rezendes & Crowley LLP – contact us
Representing Injured Workers Across Massachusetts
📞 617-426-9797 | 🌐 www.carnlaw.com | ✉️ bcarney@carnlaw.com
