Erica Brumfield vs. County of Los Angeles, Department of Social Services, York Risk Services
The Appeals Board granted reconsideration and rescinded the WCJ's dismissal order. The dismissal was based on a defendant's petition containing material misrepresentations and improper service on the unrepresented applicant. Crucially, the defendant failed to properly serve notice of dismissal proceedings, and the applicant was actively pursuing her claim as evidenced by her communications with adjusters and medical providers. Therefore, the dismissal order is void *ab initio* due to lack of due process and material misrepresentations.