About

Workers’ Compensation Defense

Workers’ compensation claims can quickly escalate into costly, long-term liabilities if not handled decisively from the outset. Poerio & Walter represents employers, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators in all phases of workers’ compensation litigation, with a focus on controlling exposure, challenging unsupported claims, and achieving efficient resolutions.

Our workers’ compensation practice is built around protecting employers and insurance carriers from unnecessary exposure while ensuring compliance with Pennsylvania law. We represent clients at every stage of the claims process—from initial investigation through litigation before Workers’ Compensation Judges and appeals before the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board and Commonwealth Court.

We regularly defend termination and suspension petitions, wage loss disputes, utilization review challenges, occupational disease claims, and allegations of fraud or misrepresentation. Beyond litigation, we work closely with risk managers and claims professionals to develop strategies that reduce reserves, control long-term liability, and prevent avoidable claims from escalating.

Our approach is proactive and disciplined. We evaluate each claim not just on immediate risk, but on its potential downstream impact—on precedent, cost trends, and overall exposure. Clients rely on us for decisive advocacy, responsive communication, and practical solutions that protect both their balance sheets and their workforce stability.

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Schedule a confidential consultation with a Poerio & Walter attorney to discuss your matter, evaluate next steps, and determine the most effective path forward. Our team works directly with employers, insurers, and businesses to provide clear guidance and practical defense strategies.

Other Services

Workers’ Compensation Defense

Defense of employers, insurers, and self-insured entities in Pennsylvania workers’ compensation claims, including litigation, appeals, and cost-containment strategies.

Insurance Defense Litigation

Defense of insurers and insureds in matters involving: General liability Automobile liability Premises liability Property damage Construction-related claims Casualty and coverage disputes

Employment Law (Employer Defense)

Defense of employers in: Wrongful termination Discrimination and harassment claims Employment litigation Workplace compliance counseling

Business & Corporate Law

Legal support for businesses including: Entity formation Contracts and transactions Strategic business counseling Franchising and intellectual property matters

Claim Auditing Services

Claims review and audit services designed to reduce exposure, manage reserves, and improve claims handling outcomes for employers and insurers.

Unemployment Compensation Defense

Representation of employers in unemployment compensation claims, hearings, and appeals.

Subrogation & Recoveries

Pursuit of recoveries on behalf of insurers and employers, including workers’ compensation subrogation, property loss recovery, auto claims, and collections.

ERISA & Employee Benefits Litigation

Counseling and litigation involving employee benefit plans, including disability, pension, and ERISA-governed disputes.

Commercial & Business Litigation

Representation of businesses in contract disputes, commercial litigation, construction litigation, and corporate conflicts.

Federal Black Lung Defense

National defense of coal mine operators and insurers in Federal Black Lung Benefits Act claims.

Heart & Lung Act Claims

Defense of municipalities and public employers in Heart and Lung Act litigation.

Estate Planning & Probate

Wills, trusts, estate administration, and probate matters, particularly for business owners and families.