Tenn.: Changes Afoot for Memphis Settlements

It’s hard to believe I’ve been on the bench for over a month already. I’ve already done about 150 settlement approvals using our current process, but things are a-changing.

Specifically, the Memphis Court settlement approval process is changing, effective January 3, 2023. 

Settlement approvals will take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9-11am. Approvals will be on a first-come, first- served basis. You must be in the courtroom, ready to present, by 11am to have your settlement heard on that respective day.

Settlements will not be scheduled in advance. However, parties are instructed to submit the Petition for Benefit Determination for Settlement Approval to WC.Memphis@tn.com 48 business hours before the approval, noting the date you plan to attend. This is simply to inform Court staff and me of the date you plan to appear. We will not “schedule” the approval or limit the number of approvals on a particular day, if you’re ready to present before 11am.

Other than the petition for benefit determination, no paperwork is required in advance of the settlement approval. The Court is no longer requiring the parties to submit, in advance, documents for closed medicals, death, or permanent total disability cases.

The parties will be provided their docket and state file numbers, which must be on all settlement paperwork. Please be sure you have completed paperwork, documentation supporting closing future medicals and impairment rating, and the include filing fee, to avoid the settlement being rejected.

“Our ability to adapt is amazing. Our ability to change isn’t quite as spectacular.” We’re calling on all to be amazing. 

Also, thanks for the warm welcome I have already received!

By Judge Shaterra Marion

Courtesy of the Tennessee Court of Workers' Compensation Claims

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