Caswell, Plager & Westerhold, LLC

03/25/2026

This past weekend, CPW Law was proud to support Plager for a Purpose at its annual fundraiser. Our “Harlan Special” basket raised $375 to help this incredible 501(c)(3) organization continue its mission.

Founded in honor of the late Gene Plager, Plager for a Purpose ensures that **100% of proceeds go directly to individuals and families in Southeast Nebraska** who are battling cancer and other serious illnesses.

In just the past year, they’ve provided over **$54,000 in assistance** to our friends and neighbors in need—an impact that truly makes a difference close to home.

We’re grateful to be a small part of such meaningful work and to support a cause that gives so much back to the community. 💙

03/19/2026

Big news for Nebraska Workers' Compensation Court 👇

The Court will be relocating this summer from its current location at 1010 Lincoln Mall to a new space just a few blocks away at Center on N (1221 N Street) in Lincoln.

For now, everything remains business as usual at the current office, and additional updates—including any temporary changes to hearings or services—will be shared as they become available.

For more information, visit their website or call the Information Line at 402-471-6468 or 800-599-5155.

03/17/2026

Back-to-back STATE CHAMPS! 🏀🏆

Huge congrats to Cooper Westerhold and the Ashland-Greenwood boys on bringing home the state title for the second year in a row! What an incredible accomplishment and a testament to the hard work, grit, and heart these boys play with.

Even more impressive — 4 state titles in the last 5 years for this program. That’s dominance. 💪

So proud of this team and the way they represent their school and community. And Caroline Westerhold — what an amazing moment as a mom getting to watch your son be part of something this special.

Way to go, Bluejays! 💙🤍

03/09/2026

Honoring the Women of CPW Law—Yesterday, Today, and Every Day

At CPW Law, we are proud to be a women-owned law firm staffed by an exceptional team of women who bring strength, insight, and unmatched dedication to our practice. Our attorneys offer decades of workers’ compensation defense experience across a wide range of industries, serving clients throughout Nebraska and Iowa with integrity and expertise.

Yesterday on National Women’s Day—and every day—we celebrate the women who lead, advocate, and innovate within our firm. Their perspectives shape the way we practice law and how we support our clients.

Thank you to the incredible women of CPW Law. Your work makes a difference, and we are honored to celebrate you not just on one day, but all year long. 💙

03/06/2026

Today we celebrate our incredible team! 🎉

Happy Employee Appreciation Day to the hardworking staff at Caswell, Plager & Westerhold. Your dedication, professionalism, and teamwork make our firm what it is. We are truly grateful for each and every one of you!

03/04/2026

✅ WEEK 4 — What Employers Must Do When an Employee Reports a Work Injury in Nebraska

Nebraska law imposes specific obligations on employers once a workplace injury is reported. Failing to follow these steps can create exposure, delay claim handling, or result in penalties.

Upon receiving notice of an injury, employers must:

• Provide immediate medical attention if needed and allow the employee to choose their own physician
• Report the injury to the insurer or TPA promptly so benefits can be evaluated without delay
• Complete the First Report of Injury (FROI) and ensure it is filed with the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Court
• Preserve any relevant evidence such as incident reports, witness statements, or video footage
• Communicate work restrictions to supervisors and determine whether light duty is available

Common issues that arise when employers do not follow required procedures include:
• Late reporting penalties
• Disputes over medical treatment or choice of doctor
• Confusion regarding work restrictions or return-to-work options
• Increased claim costs due to lack of early investigation

Proper early handling is crucial to controlling exposure and ensuring statutory compliance.

Questions about injury reporting obligations or best practices? We assist employers and carriers with timely reporting, evidence preservation, and early claim strategy under the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Act.

02/20/2026

Updated Rules of Procedure – Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Court

The Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Court has released its revised Rules of Procedure, now available here:
👉 https://www.newcc.gov/resources/court-forms-and-publications/rules-of-procedure

Amendments to several rules—including Rules 9, 10, 12, 14, 21, 26, 32, 47, and Addendum 2—were adopted on December 30, 2025. Updates to the Schedule of Fees for Medical Services were also approved.

Effective dates include:
• Dec. 30, 2025 – Amendments to non-adjudicatory Rules 32, 47, and Addendum 2
• Jan. 1, 2026 – Amendments to non-adjudicatory Rule 26 and the updated Medical Fee Schedule
• Feb. 11, 2026 – Amendments to adjudicatory Rules 9, 10, 12, 14, and 21 following approval by the Nebraska Supreme Court

View the recently adopted and approved amendments here:
👉 https://www.newcc.gov/resources/court-forms-and-publications/rules-of-procedure/recently-adopted-rules

Recently Adopted Rule Amendments

02/19/2026

Due to inclement weather, Chief Judge Rossiter and Chief Judge Kruse have ordered the Nebraska Federal Courts in Omaha and Lincoln to close at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 19.

02/11/2026

✅ WEEK 3 — What Injuries Are Covered Under the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Act?

Not every injury is automatically compensable under Nebraska law. To be covered, an injury must arise out of and occur in the course of employment.

Generally, covered injuries may include:
• Accidental injuries occurring while performing assigned job duties
• Work-related repetitive stress or occupational disease claims
• Aggravation of a pre-existing condition when causally related to work

However, claims may be denied when injuries result from:
• Intoxication or drug use
• Horseplay or deviation from job duties
• Intentional self-inflicted harm
• Activities outside the scope of employment
• Personal conditions unrelated to work

Employers are not responsible for injuries that lack a sufficient connection to the job or fall within statutory defenses.

Questions about whether a reported injury is compensable? We assist employers and carriers in evaluating coverage and defending questionable claims under the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Act.

01/20/2026

✅ WEEK 2 — Who Is Covered Under the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Act?
Most Nebraska employees are covered under the Act — including full-time, part-time, minors, and employees of private or governmental entities. Independent contractors, however, are not covered.
Employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance unless specifically exempt under NEB. REV. STAT. § 48-106.
Unsure whether someone is an employee or independent contractor? We can help you evaluate the factors.

01/13/2026

✅ WEEK 1 — What Is Workers’ Compensation in Nebraska?
Workers’ compensation provides benefits to employees who suffer injuries or occupational diseases arising out of their employment. In Nebraska, workers’ compensation is governed exclusively by the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Act (NEB. REV. STAT. §§ 48-101 to 48-1,118).
This act is the only avenue for employees to obtain benefits for work-related injuries. It is separate from unemployment, Social Security Disability, or private health insurance.
If you have questions about compliance, coverage, or claims, CPW Law is here to help Nebraska employers stay protected and informed.