About WCAB

Organization | Members| Function | Procedure | Caseload

The statutory scheme for the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board is set forth primarily in sections 110 through 138.2 of the Labor Code. The WCAB exercises all judicial powers vested in it under the Labor Code and consists of seven members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. The term of office is six years. Five of the seven members must be attorneys admitted to practice in California.

A chairperson is designated by the Governor from the membership of the Appeals Board and holds the office of chairperson at the pleasure of the Governor.

The chairperson may appoint a secretary and assistant secretaries who must be attorneys admitted to practice in California, and may authorize the secretary and two assistant secretaries to act as deputy appeals board members. No act of a deputy is valid unless concurred in by at least one member of the Appeals Board.

The professional staff of the Appeals Board presently consists of three deputies, one workers' compensation judge and 12 attorneys.

May 2022