Advanced WCB: Appeals
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM PST This is a virtual event
This course will build on the information and skills of experienced WCB reps and/or those who have taken the WCB Level I beginner course. The course will focus on effective advocacy skills at the WCB and its appeal bodies. Effective advocacy includes identifying likely issues for particular cases of injury or occupational disease, knowing the Board’s case, and obtaining new evidence, especially medical evidence. As time permits, we will review written submission templates and how to prepare (and prepare your worker), for an oral hearing.
Zoom – Zoom link will be forwarded 1-2 days prior to class
Facilitators: Sarah O’Leary and Caitlin O’Leary
Sarah O’Leary was called to the bar in 1981 and has primarily been practicing Workers’ Compensation and disability related law for over 30 years. She has been a workers’ advisor, a Vice-Chair at the Appeal Division, a staff lawyer at a major health care union, and practiced for 16 years at Rush Crane Guenther and Harrison O’Leary LLP. She is currently in private practice in Vancouver. Sarah has been teaching workers’ compensation advocacy to labour unions for over three decades.
Caitlin O’Leary has been a dedicated advocate for ill and injured workers since 2012. With over eight years of experience in advocacy at a major healthcare union, Caitlin brings a strong background in navigating complex systems on behalf of workers. Her expertise also includes health and welfare benefits policy, strategic communications, and member engagement. She is currently a workers’ advocate at O’Leary Law, representing unionized workers in their Workers’ Compensation claims.