how to find a workers comp attorney

by Alverta Corwin 4 min read

Recommendations for Finding the Right Lawyer

  1. Ask Your Family, Friends or Neighbors If you’re starting from scratch in your search for the right workers’ compensation lawyer, the best place to start looking is to ask ...
  2. Check With State and Local Bar Associations Your state or local bar associations or even local legal aid offices can help you separate the wheat from the chaff. ...
  3. The Internet

Full Answer

How to find a good workers' compensation lawyer?

Look for any or all of the following: emphasis on workers' comp expertise, including years of practice. membership of professional organizations, such as t he Workers' Compensation Trial Lawyers Association. articles, blog posts, presentations, or …

Should I hire a workers' comp attorney?

Best Workers' Compensation Lawyers Near Me - Attorney Ratings | FindLaw. Enter legal issue and location. Search for legal issues. Search for legal issues. Begin typing to search, use arrow keys to navigate, use enter to select. More Options.

How much does a workers' comp lawyer charge?

A workers’ compensation attorney can interpret the laws in your area, calculate the damages in your case, and determine the correct amounts and types of benefits you should receive in connection with a workers’ compensation claim. A workers’ compensation attorney can also explain what rights you have under the law, can help you prepare your claim, and can ensure …

What exactly does a workers' compensation attorney do?

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What are the most reliable indicators of a good attorney?

The most reliable indicators of a quality attorney — years of experience, depth of knowledge, attention to detail, trustworthiness — are seldom apparent in an advertisement. While it might take some extra effort to find the right attorney for you, it can make all the difference in your case.

What to do if your attorney doesn't return your calls?

If they treat you rudely or dismissively, or don't return your calls promptly, feel free to take your business elsewhere. As your case progresses, your attorney should provide you with periodic updates on the status of your claim. If you rarely hear from your attorney, speak up about your concerns.

What is the initial consultation?

The initial consultation is a great time to evaluate the attorney's professionalism and demeanor when dealing with clients. A quality attorney will answer all your questions patiently and authoritatively, and will listen to and address your concerns.

Do all workers comp attorneys offer free consultations?

Virtually all workers' comp attorneys offer free initial consultations with prospective clients. While your lawyer will certainly ask you dozens of questions related to your claim, you should be asking just as many questions. Remember: This is a job interview, and you are the employer.

What happens if you don't file for workers compensation?

Workers who fail to file within the prescribed time frame may forfeit their right to recover workers’ compensation benefits and may have their claim denied. A worker whose claim gets denied may have to pay out-of-pocket for medical expenses and could potentially lose their job or income.

How long does it take to file a workers comp claim?

Although the length of time an injured worker has to file a claim will vary by state, the standard length of time is usually around 30 days. Workers who fail to file within the prescribed time frame may ...

What can a workers compensation attorney do?

A workers’ compensation attorney can interpret the laws in your area, calculate the damages in your case, and determine the correct amounts and types of benefits you should receive in connection with a workers’ compensation claim. A workers’ compensation attorney can also explain what rights you have under the law, can help you prepare your claim, ...

Can an employer deny a claim?

When an employer is successful in making such an argument, the insurance company may deny the claim. In this instance, a lawyer can help the worker gather evidence that proves the worker was in fact injured on the job, that their injury is real, and that they deserve to be compensated for it.

Is it illegal to fire someone for workers compensation?

Notably, it is illegal to fire a worker for simply filing a claim for workers’ compensation. A termination based on this reason is known as a retaliatory discharge. If this situation occurs, the worker will have grounds to sue their employer for retaliatory discharge. To help ensure the retaliatory discharge lawsuit is successful, ...

Can a workers compensation attorney discuss the pros and cons of a claim?

In addition, workers’ compensation attorneys can discuss the pros and cons associated with filing a workers’ compensation claim, and can assess whether filing for workers’ compensation is your best course of legal action. If they determine there are better options for how to handle your case, they can also recommend the next steps you should take.

Can you sue your employer for workers compensation?

The amount of compensation and the type of benefits you receive for a workers’ compensation claim will vary based on the facts of your case, the circumstances surrounding the accident, and by the laws enacted in the jurisdiction where your injury occurred. Although employees who receive workers’ compensation forfeit the right to sue their employer ...

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Conduct Background Research

  • Before you start making calls or appointments, do some background research about the lawyers on your preliminary list. First, you should verify that the attorneys are licensed to practice law and not facing any disciplinary charges. In many states, you can look up attorneys by name on the s
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Meetings with Potential Lawyers

  • Once you have a shortlist of two or three lawyers, you should contact them to set up consultations. Workers' comp lawyers typically don't charge a fee for the initial meeting, which may happen by telephone or in-person. If attorneys can’t schedule a meeting promptly, it may be a sign that they’re too busy to take on your case. You should come to these consultations with all …
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What to Do When An Attorney Won’T Take Your Workers’ Compensation Case

  • In almost all states, workers’ comp lawyers charge a certain percentageof your settlement or award. If you lose your case, your lawyer isn’t paid. So attorneys might hesitate about taking your case for various reasons, including:
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