2026 Advanced Workers' Compensation Retreat

Retreat Chair:
Jennifer Capocelli, Esq.
Injured Workers Law Firm, Richmond

February 6-7, 2026

Synopsis: This advanced CLE program is designed to equip workers’ compensation claimant attorneys with the knowledge and tools to improve their practice. Our presenters will address recent case law and legislative updates, provide an update from the Commission, and explore the growing complexities of multi-jurisdictional practice and independent contractor issues. We will also examine important shifts in third-party recovery, the changing landscape of WCMSAs, and the ethical responsibilities that come with representing injured workers. In addition, our program will highlight innovative ways to leverage technology in workers’ compensation cases, ensuring practitioners have both the legal insight and practical strategies to strengthen advocacy and achieve better client outcomes.

Friday night reception kindly sponsored by Alliance Medication Services and dinner courtesy of TrustRx.

Who Should Attend: Tailored for experienced attorneys specializing in workers' compensation claims on behalf of claimants.

New This Year! Our retreat is Super Bowl weekend, so let's celebrate! Wear your favorite team's jersey and share your favorite chili recipe (or any favorite Super Bowl recipe) that we'll share with all attendees. Send your recipes to kparrish@vtla.com.

Topics At A Glance:

• Multi-Jurisdictional Issues
• A Neutral’s View—Observations from a Mediator
• 2025 Annual Case Law Update
• Defense Panel: Willful Misconduct
• Independent Contractors and Occupational Accident Insurance: There May be Options
• Fawn Goode v. Virginia Commonwealth University, et al, Turned the Post 3rd Party Recovery World Upside Down
• How to Win Your Case with Technology
• Legislative Update
• Update from the Commission and Cases of Interest
• The Intersection of Law and Professional Responsibility: The Ethical Representation of Clients in Workers’ Compensation
• The Rapidly Changing World of WCMSAs

Agenda

Designed exclusively for VTLA attorney members, this in-person retreat is available to claimant attorneys only.

If you are not yet a member, please consider joining.
Call 804-343-1143 for details.

CLE Certificate and Materials: 
Retreat materials, along with the CLE Certificate of Attendance, will be emailed to you 1-2 days before the program so that you may print any materials you wish to have with you. If you would like to access these materials while at the retreat, bring your laptop or tablet; no printed copies will be provided. Materials and certificates to any VTLA program you have registered for may be accessed in MyVTLA, located at the top of the VTLA website.

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early and come to the VTLA registration table to check in.

Event Anti-Harassment, Discrimination and Safety Policy

Courtyard by Marriott - Richmond Downtown
1320 East Cary Street
Richmond, VA 23219
Phone: 804-754-0007

Directions
Valet Parking is discounted at $35/night

VTLA has a block of rooms available at a discounted rate of $182/night. Our rate expires on January 16. Call the hotel directly to make your reservation or click here to reserve online. 

WE HOPE YOU WON'T, but if you must cancel, the VTLA cancellation policy applies to all paid meeting events, including any scheduled social events. All cancellations or changes must be in writing. Cancellations received before materials are emailed will be refunded the registration fee paid less a $50 cancellation fee. Due to guarantees required to our vendors, no refunds will be given after that point. Thank you for your understanding.