If my client does not attend the meeting he/she is placing doubt in the mind of OWCP Claims Examiner that something is wrong.  The first knee jerk reaction a Claims Examiner would be to send my client for a 2nd opinion examination and then proceed from there.  If my client has been on the Periodic Roll (long term disability) then there is a good possibility that adding “another cook to soup” will “rock the boat” causing problems down the line.  I believe in “I raise no issue before it’s time”.  I would encourage my client to go but discuss with my client how to handle themselves during the meeting.  I would like to attend, not to answer the questions but to sit in on the meeting and listen.  A lot information can be obtained from listening to other people talk.  I recommend answer the questions asked, but don’t volunteer any additional information.  Listen to what is being said and how it is said.  The burden of proof rest with OWCP to terminate and/or reduce entitlements to benefits under the Act.  Don’t do their work for them.   They are on a fishing trip and if you bite at the bait, then they will have hooked a big fish.  If this pilot program works in Boston, then you will see it Nationwide.

I would coach your my client to be armed with a written list of questions that have not been answered by the District Office.  Keep the questions germane to the client’s case.  Remember, “The only dumb question is the question you don’t ask”.  Let the CRR ask her questions and then turn the table on the CRR, ask questions respectively not as a “pissed off claimant” being required to travel to the meeting.  I would start by stating “I want to thank you for the opportunity to attend a face to face meeting like this and giving me an opportunity to ask questions about my case”.  Then start down your list of questions one at a time. Then at the conclusion of the meeting either present your travel voucher for reimbursement or ask where you submit the voucher.