Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
A workplace injury can leave you facing medical bills, lost paychecks, and an insurance process that seems built to confuse. The workers’ compensation firms below have each been recognized in the ELA Awards for helping injured workers get the benefits they are owed. Each profile shows the firm’s practice areas, attorneys, and office locations so you can find a recognized workers’ comp lawyer near you.
Workers Compensation
Law Office of Michael Lawrence Varon, PLLC
Workers Compensation
Law Offices Of David M. Benenfeld, P.A.
What a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Does
A workers’ compensation lawyer helps employees who were hurt on the job or developed an illness because of their work. The attorney can file the claim correctly, deal with the employer’s insurance carrier, gather medical evidence, challenge denials, and represent the worker at hearings. When a claim is approved but benefits are cut off early or a settlement offer is too low, a lawyer can push back on the worker’s behalf.
Workplace Injury Matters Recognized Firms Handle
- Denied or delayed claims
- Construction and industrial injuries
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Back, neck, and shoulder injuries
- Occupational illnesses
- Injuries during work-related driving
- Permanent disability ratings
- Settlements and benefit disputes
- Retaliation for filing a claim
How Workers’ Compensation Works
Workers’ compensation is a state-run insurance system, and nearly every state requires employers to carry coverage. It is generally a no-fault system, which means an injured worker can receive benefits without proving the employer was careless. In exchange, workers’ compensation is usually the main remedy against the employer, so a regular injury lawsuit against your employer is typically not available. A separate claim may still be possible against a third party, such as a negligent driver or the maker of defective equipment. Benefits commonly cover medical treatment and a portion of lost wages. Each state sets its own deadlines for reporting an injury and filing a claim, and many states set or approve the fees workers’ comp attorneys can charge.
Choosing a Workers’ Comp Firm
Look for an attorney who handles workers’ compensation regularly in your state, since the forms, hearing process, and benefit rules are state specific. Ask whether the firm also handles third-party injury claims in case someone other than your employer contributed to the accident. Find out how the fee works and whether you will owe anything if no benefits are recovered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do right after a work injury?
Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible, get medical care, and keep copies of every report, bill, and letter. Delays in reporting can create problems with a claim.
Can I be fired for filing a workers’ comp claim?
Most states prohibit employers from retaliating against workers for filing a claim. If you believe you were punished for reporting an injury, speak with an attorney.
What if my claim was denied?
A denial is not necessarily the end. Most states have an appeal process with strict deadlines, and an attorney can help gather the medical and work evidence needed to challenge the decision.
Can I sue my employer for a workplace injury?
In most cases, workers’ compensation replaces a lawsuit against the employer. A lawyer can tell you whether an exception applies or whether a third party can be held responsible.
How much does a workers’ comp lawyer cost?
Workers’ compensation attorneys usually work on a contingency basis, and the fee is often limited or approved by the state. Ask for the terms in writing.