MANUEL VALDOVINOS vs. ALTRA FILTERS, INC., CALIFORNIA INSURANCE GUARANTEE ASSOCIATION, CAMBRIDGE for RELIANCE INSURANCE GROUP

The applicant and defendant jointly petitioned for removal and automatic reassignment of the Workers' Compensation Administrative Law Judge (WCJ) due to alleged delays and prejudice, arguing the WCJ's actions violated their right to an expeditious adjudication. The Appeals Board denied the petition, finding it untimely and lacking grounds for disqualification. The Board noted that removal is only granted for significant prejudice or irreparable harm, which was not demonstrated here. However, the Board expressed concern over the alleged delays and urged the parties and WCJ to proceed expeditiously.