Closing Arguments
At the end of the hearing, both attorneys present closing arguments. The Judge may ask that this be done orally at the end of the hearing, or in writing shortly thereafter. Closing arguments summarize the case and outline the legal arguments for the Judge. Since the injured worker has the burden to prove his case, each fact presented that proves the case will be reviewed in the closing srguments.
The Judge will not make a decision at the hearing. He will "close the record" which means that no new evidence can be submitted. The Judge will then issue a written decision which is called the Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law and Order. If the case involves a dispute between doctors on a medical issue, the Judge will issue a Tentative Order which outlines the facts of the case and sends the matter to a Medical Panel.
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