In Jeffrey Johnson v. Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Department and Commercial Risk Management, Inc. following the denial of petition requested benefits at both the trial and appellate levels, the E/C sought to recover their litigation defense costs. There was no dispute the E/C was prevailing party. The total amount demanded was $2,191.28, but $800 for IME related charges were challenged by claimant. The JCC found the IME and associated records review were necessary to defend the claim for impairment benefits and the same were awarded. Taxable costs ASSESSED against claimant in the amount of $2,191.28.
