Case Law Database

LEONARD KEY vs. LOS ANGELES COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION, CORVEL CORPORATION

This case involves applicant Leonard Key seeking workers' compensation benefits for an injury sustained while teaching a music production course. The defendant, Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE), contended that Key was an independent contractor and not an employee. The Workers' Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB) affirmed the trial judge's finding that Key was an employee, emphasizing LACOE's control over the means and manner of his work, despite an independent contractor agreement. Key lacked control over class schedules, room assignments, and was paid hourly, weighing against independent contractor status. Therefore, the WCAB found that LACOE failed to meet its burden to prove Key was an independent contractor.