Employment Relationship Essential Criteria for Jurisdiction

Petitioner, a New Jersey resident, sought benefits under the Workers' Compensation Act (WCA), N.J.S.A. 34:15-1 to -128, alleging injuries both as the result of a specific incident, and occupational injuries "while performing repetitive duties" as an aircraft technician while employed by United Airlines at the airport in Philadelphia. The judge of compensation dismissed both petitions for lack of jurisdiction.

The Internet Redefines Jurisdiction

The Internet has resulted in widespread changes in workers’ compensation including what defines a contract of employment. In determining the applicable law governing a claim, the NJ Appellate Division, in a unanimous reported decision, went back to basics in reaching the conclusion that NJ had jurisdiction.