Virginia appeals court restores benefits in worker misclassification case

A Virginia Court of Appeals ruling reversed a worker classification decision and reopened access to more than $180,000 in past-due workers’ compensation benefits. The case adds another reminder that day-to-day control, not just contract language, can determine whether a worker is protected under state law.

Why it matters: - The ruling restores workers’ compensation benefits and medical support for a worker who had been denied aid after being labeled an independent contractor. - The decision reinforces that employers cannot avoid legal protections by using contractor labels when the working relationship functions like employment. - The case could matter for other Virginia workers whose pay, schedules, and duties are tightly controlled but who are still classified as independent contractors.

What happened: - ChasenBoscolo Injury Lawyers won a reversal before the Virginia Court of Appeals in Record No. 0863-24-1. - The appellate court overturned a prior decision that had classified the worker as an independent contractor. - The reversal restores access to more than $180,000 in past-due workers’ compensation benefits. - The ruling also clears the way for ongoing weekly payments tied to recovery and lost wages.

The details: - Lead trial lawyer David Snyder and senior appellate attorney Kevin Stillman argued that the employer retained significant control over the worker. - The control cited in the case included selecting the worker for specific tasks, paying an hourly wage, setting a fixed schedule, and tracking performance through a mobile app. - The court agreed that professional experience or some autonomy on the job does not automatically remove a worker from workers’ compensation protection. - Snyder calculated that the client is now entitled to more than $180,000 in back-dated compensation. - The client is also entitled to continued weekly benefits under the ruling. - Snyder said the appeal was filed because the client deserved the same protections as any other employee. - Snyder said the court recognized the reality of the work arrangement over the contract label.

Between the lines: - The decision shows how courts can look past formal job titles and focus on how work is actually managed day to day. - A finding of control can carry major financial consequences when a worker is denied benefits for years before an appeal succeeds. - The ruling may strengthen future challenges to misclassification when employers direct schedules, pay rates, and task assignments.

What’s next: - The worker is expected to receive back pay and ongoing workers’ compensation support under the appellate ruling. - ChasenBoscolo is directing readers seeking information on workplace injury representation to its legal services. - More information is available in the firm’s announcement.