Sumwalt Anderson & Spence Law Firm

06/22/2026

Big news for injured workers in North Carolina! 📜✍️

For the first time in decades, our state is making critical, long-overdue updates to workers' compensation benefits. With the Governor's Signature on North Carolina House Bill 315, injured workers will soon see a significant increase in some types of compensation.

Here is a breakdown of the major changes taking effect on July 1, 2027:

🔹 Doubled Disfigurement Maximums: The maximum compensation for serious facial or head disfigurement is increasing from $20,000 to $40,000. Serious bodily disfigurement limits are also doubling, moving from $10,000 to $20,000.
🔹 Organ & Internal Damage Protection: Maximum compensation for the permanent loss or injury of an important internal or external organ or important body part is doubling from $20,000 to $40,000.
🔹 Total Disability Minimums: The minimum weekly benefit for total disability is increasing from $30.00 to $50.00 per week.

As advocates for injured workers, we celebrate these statutory adjustments. While a monetary increase can never truly replace your health, doubling these decades-old caps is a massive step forward in ensuring North Carolinians receive the equitable support they deserve after a workplace injury.

Do you have questions about how these upcoming statutory changes might affect a current or future claim? Our team is always here to help you navigate the changing landscape of NC Workers' Compensation law.

05/13/2026

We are thrilled to share that our attorneys had an opportunity to argue before the Full Commission this week to advocate for one of our clients! This is a pivotal step in the legal process, and we couldn't be prouder of the hard work and dedication our legal team has poured into this case.

But you might be wondering... what exactly is the Full Commission, and why does it matter for your Workers’ Comp claim?

Think of the Full Commission as the head of the Workers' Compensation system.

In a typical claim, your case is first heard by a Deputy Commissioner (a single judge) who makes an initial ruling. If either side believes the decision wasn't quite right based on the law or the facts, they can "appeal" it to the Full Commission.

How it Works:

A Panel of Three: Instead of just one judge, the case is reviewed by a panel of three Commissioners.

The Review: They don't hear new witness testimony. Instead, they review the existing trial transcripts, evidence, and "briefs" (written legal arguments) submitted by the attorneys.

Oral Arguments: This is where the magic happens! Our attorneys stand before the panel to passionately argue why the previous decision should be upheld or overturned.

Why This Matters for You

The Full Commission has the power to change the outcome of a case entirely. Their decision sets the stage for whether a claim is accepted, what medical treatment is covered, and the amount of benefits a worker receives.

It’s a high-stakes environment that requires sharp legal minds and a deep understanding of the law—and that’s exactly where our team shines.

At Sumwalt Anderson & Spence, we believe in supporting our clients at every level. Whether it’s the first hearing or the final appeal, we are with you every step of the way.

04/21/2026

⚠️ ALERT: New Workers’ Comp Fraud Schemes Reported

We want to ensure all North Carolina workers stay protected from emerging fraud schemes currently targeting claimants across the country.

How the Scam Works:
Scammers are posing as state officials and contacting workers—frequently targeting Spanish-speaking communities. They often use text messages, video calls, or social media to convince you to attend a "mandatory" online hearing and demand payment or "fees" before you can receive your settlement award.

Important Facts to Remember:

- No Unsolicited Digital Contact: The Industrial Commission (IC) will never contact you via text, video call, or social media.

- No Fees for Awards: You should not pay money directly to an agency to receive your workers' comp benefits.

- Verify Your Official: Always verify the name and credentials of the Deputy Commissioner assigned to your case.

🛡️ How to Protect Yourself

If you receive a suspicious message or doubt the legitimacy of a communication:

Call Your Attorney: We can immediately verify the status of any hearings or awards.

Speak with a Specialist: Contact an Information Specialist at the Industrial Commission to confirm if a communication is official.

Report It: Send any suspicious details or screenshots to [email protected].

Don’t let scammers take advantage of your hard work. Stay vigilant and always verify through official channels.

04/14/2026

Our clients are always kind to us! Happy Be Kind to Lawyers Day. If you'd like to set up a free consultation with one of ours, today's the day!

04/10/2026

Sumwalt Anderson & Spence Attorney Casey Spence was honored to present at the NCAJ 31st Annual Workers’ Compensation Roundtable. This is an educational seminar open only to Plaintiff attorneys. Casey, also Workers’ Compensation Section Chair, spoke on post hearing litigation tactics, covering the entire process from deposition to appeals.

If you have questions about your workers’ compensation claim, or you are an attorney needing assistance in litigation, please reach out today! 

03/31/2026