what to ask before hiring a worker's compensation lawyer

by Leif Morar 6 min read

4 Things You Should Ask Before You Hire a Workers’ Compensation Attorney

  1. What kind of experience do you have representing injured workers? Obtaining full compensation for your injuries is obviously important to you. ...
  2. Will you be available to answer any questions I have about my workers' compensation case? ...
  3. How will you handle my workers' compensation claim? You’re not a lawyer. That’s why you’re in the market to hire one in regard to your workers’ compensation claim. ...
  4. How much will it cost if I hire you to be my workers' compensation lawyer?

1. What kind of experience do you have representing injured workers? Obtaining full compensation for your injuries is obviously important to you. That's why you need to choose an attorney who has real, in-depth experience in California's workers' compensation law.

Full Answer

What questions should I ask before hiring a workers comp attorney?

To assist in finding the right lawyer for your case, we have listed seven of the most important questions you should ask before hiring a workers’ compensation lawyer. By asking these questions, you will better understand whether this is a lawyer that you believe will best handle your specific case. #1. How Long Have They Been Practicing Law?

When should I contact a workers’ comp attorney?

Here are four questions that you can ask which will help you hire a workers’ compensation attorney who will bring your claim to a successful conclusion. 1. What kind of experience do you have representing injured workers? Obtaining full compensation for your injuries is obviously important to you.

Why hire a workers’ compensation lawyer?

Oct 25, 2021 · Ask how they go about ensuring they are familiar with any and all updates to the state’s workers’ compensation laws. An attorney who may have provided quality representation 10 years ago might not be able to do so today if they haven’t …

Do I need a lawyer for a workplace injury?

When you are interviewing a workers’ compensation attorney, you want to make sure you are getting the best possible representation for your claim. Here are …

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Written by Jared Staver

Jared Staver is a Personal Injury Lawyer based in Chicago, Illinois and has been practicing law for over 20 years.

2. Have You Represented Clients With Similar Cases to Mine?

If your injury occurred while working on drywall for a project your company assigned to you, it’s a good idea to find an attorney who has represented other clients in the construction industry. They’ll be better equipped to file your claim and know how to fight for proper and fair compensation on your behalf.

4. Will I Be Updated of My Case Status Often?

Even though most workers’ compensation attorneys are busy juggling multiple clients, you should make sure the one you hire can keep you informed about any developments in your claim. This way, you’ll always know what’s going on and never feel left out.

5. What Are Your Fees?

The majority of workers’ compensation lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning they’ll take a certain percentage of any compensation you are awarded. Before committing to a workers’ comp lawyer, make sure they clarify how they will get paid for their time and service.

What are the benefits of workers compensation in California?

In California, workers’ compensation provides five basic benefits: medical care, temporary disability, permanent disability, supplemental job displacement, and death benefits. After reviewing the details of your case, your attorney will be able to tell you exactly which benefits you’re entitled to.

Do you have to settle a workers comp case before trial?

However, if your claim is denied or your employer refuses to provide the benefits to which you’re entitled, it’s more likely that you’ll have a hearing.

Do workers compensation lawyers get paid?

Always ask about attorney’s fees. Most workers’ compensation lawyers work on contingency – meaning they don’t get paid unless you get paid. Find out upfront what percentage of your settlement they’ll collect when you win.

Can you sue your employer for a car accident?

Generally, you can't sue your employer for personal injury after a workplace injury, even if the accident was your employer's fault. However, if there was a third party involved in the accident, such as another driver in the case of a work-related car accident, or a defective product such as in the case of an equipment-related injury, you may be able to sue the third party for damages.

Can employers deny workers comp claims?

Unfortunately, many employers and their insurance companies do what they can to limit or deny workers' comp claims. That means you need to take precautions to protect your work injury claim.

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