R. Ferrell Newman Reappointed as Commissioner of Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission
Earlier this year, R. Ferrell Newman was reappointed as Commissioner of the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission (VWC). As an insurance defense lawyer, Doug Landau had tried many workplace injury cases against Richmond lawyer Newman. Landau had always found this attorney to be smart, well-prepared and a straight shooter.
Newman’s six-year term was effective February, 2016. He joins the VWC’s other two Full Commissioners, Wesley Marshall and Roger Williams. These are the appellate level judges at the agency who direct its operations and staff of 292. These three judges hear appeals from a Virginia Workers’ Compensation trial judge. In workplace accident cases, the trial judges who hear the testimony of witnesses and receive the exhibits and evidence are called “Deputy Commissioners.” These trial level jurists are akin to an Administrative Law Judge in a Social Security Disability case and a “Hearing Officer” in a DC workers comp claim.
Commissioner Newman was appointed by the General Assembly in 2013. The three Full Commissioners are supposed to represent the interests of the insurance companies and employers, claimants and then a third who is neutral. Newman and began his position with the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission (“VWC”) on March 11, 2013. A native of Richmond, Mr. Newman is a 1983 graduate of The College of William and Mary’s Marshall Wythe School of Law and a 1979 graduate from the University of Richmond. His appointment as Commissioner follows a 30‑year practice of law with a heavy concentration in workers’ compensation. He has taught on legal education programs and even come to speak at the Virginia Trial Lawyers (VTLA) Annual Convention is improve communications as to VWC policies and procedures.
Workers’ compensation lawyer Doug Landau has tried many cases against Commissioner Newman, whom he found to be smart, hard-working, fair, and possessing a sense of humor. Plus, Landau admired the fact that Newman was one of the very few other lawyers who used a backpack!
If you or someone you know or care for has been injured while on the job and there are questions as to what – if any – workers’ compensation benefits may be available, email or call Abrams Landau, Ltd. at once (703-796-9555).