If you’re involved in a workers’ compensation case in California, knowing how to perform an EAMS case search can save you time, reduce stress, and ensure you’re always in the loop. Whether you’re an injured worker, attorney, or employer, this guide breaks down everything you need to know to search EAMS with confidence.
The Electronic Adjudication Management System (EAMS), managed by California’s Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC), gives users access to vital case information. From hearing dates to case statuses, EAMS centralizes the entire process—if you know how to use it properly.
Let’s explore how to master EAMS case searches from start to finish.
What is EAMS?
The Electronic Adjudication Management System (EAMS) is a digital platform developed by the California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC). Launched in 2008, its purpose is to streamline how workers’ compensation cases are processed and tracked in the state.
Instead of dealing with physical files and paperwork, EAMS makes it easier for stakeholders—injured workers, attorneys, employers, and judges—to access relevant case details quickly and securely.
It’s a one-stop hub for managing workers’ comp adjudication processes across California’s district offices.
Key Features of EAMS
Centralized Case Management
EAMS consolidates workers’ compensation case data into one system, reducing paperwork and increasing processing speed.
Smart Search Functionality
Even if you don’t have exact information, the system allows for partial matches—making it easier to locate cases using available details.
Detailed Case Records
You’ll find data like:
Date of injury
Assigned judge
Hearing schedules
Case status (active or archived)
Privacy Protection
Privacy is a major priority. Under Labor Code §138.7, sensitive personal details—like Social Security numbers and home addresses—are strictly confidential.
Real-Time Data (Almost)
Data is updated nightly, so what you see is usually current as of the previous day.
How to Perform an EAMS Case Search
Here’s a step-by-step walkthrough to perform a case search on EAMS:
Visit the DWC Website
Go to the Division of Workers’ Compensation homepage. Look for the “EAMS Public Search Tool” or use this direct link to access the tool.
Log In or Register (If Required)
Most public case searches don’t require a full login, but if you’re a case participant (like an attorney), you may need to log in to access detailed information.
Identify Yourself
If accessing non-public information, you’ll need to:
Enter your name and contact info
Explain why you need the data
Agree not to share private information, per Labor Code §138.7
Use the Search Criteria
You can search by:
Case Number (most accurate)
Injured Worker’s Name
Employer Name
Hearing Details
Case Events (like filings or hearings)
The more details you enter, the more refined your results will be.
Review Search Results
Your results will show:
Case number
Hearing dates
Assigned judge
Current status
Significant recent events
Watch for Timeouts
EAMS times out after 15 minutes of inactivity. Always save your work to avoid being logged out.
Understanding EAMS Case Numbers
Case Format
The most common case number in EAMS starts with ADJ, which stands for “Adjudication.” This is followed by a 7-digit number. For example:
ADJ1234567
Some entries may include secondary identifiers in parentheses (e.g., SAC 0318786), indicating a district office or older legacy case numbers.
Lookup Process
To look up a case:
Go to the public search tool
Enter the full ADJ case number
View case details like the injured worker’s name, employer, hearings, and status
Knowing the case number is the most reliable way to pull accurate data.
Public Information vs. Privacy
Publicly Available Info
Anyone can view:
Case number
Date of injury
Assigned judge
Hearing schedule
Status (archived or active)
Parties involved (except personal addresses)
This transparency helps keep the legal process fair and accountable.
Protected Information
However, sensitive data is restricted:
Injured workers’ addresses
Social Security Numbers
Medical records or confidential case notes
Only authorized participants can request this data through a proper legal channel.
Legal Framework: Labor Code §138.7
Before accessing non-public records, users must:
Identify themselves
Provide a valid reason
Agree not to share data improperly
Failure to comply could result in penalties, so always act responsibly.
When to Contact a Workers’ Comp Attorney
Navigating EAMS is manageable, but legal situations often get complex. Here are signs it’s time to reach out for help:
You’re unsure about what your case status means
You’re missing documents or case details
You believe your rights aren’t being respected
You need representation for a hearing
An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you interpret case information, file necessary documents, and protect your rights.
At Visionary Law Group, we offer free case evaluations to help you figure out your next step with no pressure or obligation.
Conclusion
Understanding how to perform an EAMS case search is essential for managing workers’ compensation cases in California. With a clear process and attention to detail, you can find the information you need quickly and securely.
Here’s a quick recap:
EAMS is California’s digital tool for workers’ comp case management.
Use the ADJ case number or search by name/employer.
Public info is available, but sensitive data is protected by law.
For legal guidance, contacting an attorney can make a big difference.
Whether you’re tracking your case or preparing for a hearing, mastering EAMS gives you the edge you need in California’s complex workers’ comp system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an EAMS Case Number?
An EAMS case number uniquely identifies a workers’ comp case in California. It usually begins with ADJ, followed by seven digits (e.g., ADJ1234567).
How Can I Find Out if an Employer Has Workers’ Comp Insurance?
Use the WCIRB Coverage Inquiry Tool. Enter the employer’s name and date range to see their insurance status for the past five years.
Can I Search EAMS Without a Case Number?
Yes, you can search using the injured worker’s name or employer name, but having a case number makes the process much easier and more accurate.
Is EAMS Available 24/7?
Yes, but data is updated nightly. Also, your session will time out after 15 minutes of inactivity.
Who Can Access EAMS?
Anyone can search for basic case details. For more detailed records, only authorized participants like attorneys, injured workers, or claims administrators may request access.
Need Help With Your Workers’ Compensation Case?
Contact Visionary Law Group for a free case evaluation and expert legal support tailored to your situation.
