What does a workers’ compensation lawyer do?
Workers’ compensation lawyers represent employees who were hurt or became ill because of their job. Workers’ comp is a no-fault system — you generally do not need to prove your employer did anything wrong — but claims are frequently delayed, underpaid or denied.
An attorney can make sure deadlines are met, push for the right medical treatment, challenge a denial, and identify whether a separate injury claim exists against a third party such as an equipment manufacturer or subcontractor.
Common workers’ compensation cases
- Denied or delayed claims
- Repetitive stress and occupational illness
- Construction injuries
- Permanent disability ratings
- Return-to-work disputes
- Third-party injury claims
When should you hire a workers’ compensation lawyer?
- Your claim was denied or benefits stopped
- Your employer disputes that the injury is work-related
- You are being pushed back to work before you are ready
- You are offered a settlement that closes future medical care
How much does a workers’ compensation lawyer cost?
In most states workers’ compensation attorney fees are set or approved by the state and are paid as a percentage of benefits recovered, so there is usually nothing to pay up front.
Questions to ask in your consultation
- How are workers’ comp attorney fees approved in this state?
- Do I also have a claim against someone other than my employer?
- How will a settlement affect my future medical treatment?