Navigating the complexities of workers’ compensation law can be challenging for the average individual.
This complexity underscores the importance of hiring a workers’ compensation lawyer/ attorney for those pursuing a claim.
We’ll highlight the benefits of hiring a workers’ comp lawyer despite the complexity of their role.
What does a workers’ comp lawyer do?
Workers’ compensation provides benefits for job-related injuries or illnesses.
Workers’ comp lawyers are experts in this area, helping you navigate the process and ensuring you receive the benefits you deserve.
They navigate laws, aid paperwork, liaise, handle appeals, represent in court, and optimize settlements for maximum compensation.
How a workers’ comp lawyer can help
A workers’ comp lawyer guides you through the complex process, ensures proper medical care, handles denials and appeals, maximizes payouts, and aids long-term benefit applications.
5 reasons you need a workers’ comp lawyer
Here are some reasons why you should consider finding a workers’ comp lawyer:
- They’ll help you understand the process. The workers’ compensation process is difficult to understand, and laws vary by state. An expert can translate legalese into English for you. They can also track your claim so you never have to worry about forgetting paperwork or missing deadlines.
- You will get a bigger payout. Studies show that settlement payouts for workers’ comp claims with a lawyer are five times higher than claims without a lawyer. Even if your injury was minor and you don’t think you’ll get much compensation, a lawyer can explain your options and maximize anything you receive.
- They can work with uncooperative employers. In some cases, your employer might not be immediately cooperative with the process. A lawyer can help move things along if your company isn’t filing your claim or even denies your injury happened while working.
- Appeals and hearings are hard to win on your own. You’ll especially need a lawyer if your claim is denied. In this case, you have a certain amount of time to appeal the denial. Then you need to gather evidence to support your claim and get the decision changed.
- A lawyer will help you gather evidence. To support your claim, you may need evidence like medical records and statements from witnesses. This information is especially hard to gather when you’re injured and stressed. A lawyer will handle that work for you.
Not everyone needs a lawyer, but anyone who is filing a workers’ comp claim will benefit from one (even if you just reach out for an initial consultation).
If you still feel unsure whether a lawyer is worth it for you, read our article on situations when you should definitely get a workers’ comp lawyer.
How much does a workers’ comp lawyer cost?
Workers’ comp lawyers are paid on contingency, meaning you only pay them if you win your claim.
If you do win, lawyer fees usually range up to about 20% of your benefit payments or your settlement payment if you settle.
State law determines how much a workers’ comp attorney can charge, so the exact fee you pay will depend on where you live.
Tips for finding a workers’ comp lawyer
If you’re looking for a good workplace injury lawyer, look for a law firm specializing in workers’ compensation.
Since workers’ comp law is complex, an attorney who focuses on these types of cases are better equipped to help yours succeed.
As always, you should also read reviews of law firms or speak with former clients if possible.
You’re looking for a lawyer who is compassionate and trustworthy.
Going through an injury is hard enough on its own, so you want to work with someone who will listen to you and take the time to answer all your questions.
You can also check whether a lawyer has proven experience helping similar claims succeed.
They should also have a high level of medical knowledge.