How Long Does a Workers’ Compensation Case Take in Pennsylvania?

Hourglass on an office desk symbolizing the timeline of a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation case.

At Stern & Cohen, our goal is to provide injured workers with clear, practical information about Pennsylvania workers’ compensation law. Our blog is here to answer the questions clients ask most often and to guide you through the process of protecting your rights after a workplace injury.

One of the most common questions we hear during an initial consultation is: “How long will my workers’ compensation case take?” It’s an important and fair concern. If your lost wages are denied by the insurance company, you and your family may suddenly be without income — and understandably, you want to know how soon you can expect results.

What Happens if Your Claim Is Denied?

If your claim is denied, we must file a Claim Petition. This is the first step in getting your case into Pennsylvania workers’ compensation court so we can fight for your lost wages and medical benefits.

Here’s what typically happens:

Case Assignment: Once we file the Claim Petition, your case is quickly assigned to a Judge in your county.
First Hearing: Usually held within three to four weeks.
Your Testimony & Medical Evidence: We have 90 days to present your case, including your testimony. Within 45 days, the insurance company may send you for an independent medical examination.
Insurance Company’s Defense: They must present their evidence within 90 days of ours.

Most evidence is completed within about six months. After this, both sides file legal briefs, and the Judge typically issues a decision within another two to three months.

👉 In total, a litigated case often takes about one year from start to finish.

Settlements Often Happen Sooner

The good news is that most workers’ compensation cases settle before a Judge issues a decision. Many cases resolve through:

Mediation during litigation
Direct negotiation with the insurance company’s lawyer

At Stern & Cohen, we have extensive experience securing fair settlements early, but we are also fully prepared to take your case to a decision if necessary. Unlike some firms, we are not afraid to go to trial when that’s in your best interest.

Why Communication With Your Lawyer Matters

The workers’ compensation process can feel overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect. That’s why transparency and communication are so important. At Stern & Cohen, we keep you updated at every step, explain your options, and make sure you feel supported.

When you understand the timeline and process, a year doesn’t feel like a lifetime — it feels manageable.

Talk to an Experienced Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

If you’ve been injured on the job and need to know what to expect from your workers’ compensation case, call Stern & Cohen at (215) 999-1443 for a free consultation. Our experienced Philadelphia workers’ compensation lawyers are here to protect your rights and fight for the benefits you deserve.

What’s Not Covered Under Pennsylvania Workers’ Comp

Generally, injuries and damages not covered by Pennsylvania workers’ compensation include injuries sustained outside the scope of employment, self-inflicted injuries, injuries caused by illegal activities or intoxication, injuries resulting from a direct violation of company policy, injuries to certain categories of workers, and pain and suffering. What does this really […]

Penalty Petitions in Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Cases

If you were hurt at work in Pennsylvania, your employer and their workers’ compensation insurance company are required to follow the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act. These rules ensure that you receive wage-loss checks on time and that your medical bills are paid. But what happens when the insurance company ignores […]

Injured at Work in Allentown? Here’s What You Need to Know About Workers’ Comp

Suffering a workplace injury can turn life upside down. Beyond the immediate pain and physical challenges, injured workers often face the sudden loss of a paycheck. Meanwhile, medical bills and household expenses keep piling up, creating financial stress during an already difficult time. Fortunately, Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation system is designed […]

Forklift Injuries and Your Rights Under Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation

Forklifts are essential pieces of industrial equipment used in many workplaces across Pennsylvania, including warehouses, distribution centers, construction sites, and manufacturing plants. Designed to lift, move, and transport heavy loads, forklifts improve efficiency and reduce the physical burden on workers. However, they also carry significant risks. Improper use or unsafe […]