Armando Barragan Pantoja — ADJ20867464

Defendant filed a petition for removal challenging the WCJ's March 23, 2026 order setting the matter for trial, arguing that discovery was not yet complete. The WCJ filed a Report recommending denial, and applicant filed an Answer. The Appeals Board denied removal, finding that defendant failed to demonstrate substantial prejudice or irreparable harm, and that reconsideration would provide an adequate remedy if a final adverse decision issued. The Board emphasized that once the matter proceeds to trial, the parties will have the opportunity to create a record, raise the issue of further development of the record, and let the trial WCJ determine how best to proceed.