2019 US Virgin Islands Code
Title 24 - Labor
Chapter 11 - Workers' Compensation Administration
§ 291. Resolution of disputes, settlement agreements, written reports, interlocutory orders, final determinations of liability
(a) A dispute may be resolved either in whole or in part at the benefit review conference. If the conference results in the resolution of some of the disputed issues by mutual agreement or in a settlement, the DRU shall reduce the agreement or the settlement in writing. The DRU and each party, or the designated representative of the party shall sign the agreement or settlement. A settlement reached hereunder shall, unless otherwise provided herein, be effective on the date of the settlement is signed.
(b) An agreement signed pursuant to this section shall be binding on all parties through the final conclusion of all matters relating to the claim, unless within 60 days after the agreement is signed or approved, the court, on a finding of fraud, newly discovered evidence, or other good cause, shall relieve all parties of the effect of the agreement.
(c) If the dispute is entirely resolved at the benefit review conference, the DRU shall prepare a written report, which shall not be admissible into evidence in any court, that includes:
(1) a statement of each resolved issue;
(2) the DRU's recommendations regarding the payment or denial of benefits;
(3) no permission of the court is required by an attorney to represent any party before the DRU.
(d) The DRU shall file the signed agreement and the report with the Workers' Compensation Administration.
(e) If an agreement, either partially or wholly, is not reached under the provisions of this section, then the DRU shall file a notice to the administrator for process under section 256 of this chapter.
