Maria Romo — ADJ315957, ADJ850180

Applicant Maria Romo petitioned for reconsideration of an April 13, 2021 Findings and Award that found a cumulative upper extremity injury (period ending November 12, 2000) causing 31.5% permanent partial disability and need for further medical treatment, arguing she was permanently totally disabled. The Board granted reconsideration to study the issues, and at its request the parties attended a commissioners' settlement conference, ultimately agreeing to resolve the matter by Compromise and Release. The C&R, filed August 5, 2021, provided $100,000 in new money less a $15,000 attorney fee, incorporated the prior Findings and Award, and required SNIC to pay, adjust, or litigate liens of record. Applying Labor Code sections 5001 and 5002 and WCAB Rule 10700, the Board inquired into adequacy, found the settlement adequate and in applicant's best interest (noting the release of any potential death benefits), and found the attorney fee reasonable. The Board affirmed the Findings and Award and approved the Compromise and Release.