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07 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
This attorney and his staff did nothing but lie to me throughout the entire legal process. Told me I had won back pay hearings. I called the court only to be told that he never appeared for the hearing. The office secretary told me it was because he appeared via telephone. The workers comp court also confirmed this to be a lie. I finally got a new attorney who confirmed the case had been poorly handled and documented.
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19 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
If you are looking for an attorney to drag your case out and charge for everything he can then this is the guy for you. If you want honesty and timely customer service, then look elsewhere.
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04 Jan, 2019 by Mary
Mr. Kapland is currently my attorney in my injury and illness that I receive in 2001 with the company I worked for over 23 years and recently had to leave the company after 13 failed surgeries due to what we know now a severe metal allergy that has caused me to become very ill and without an elbow. The claim was uncontested by my employer and insurance company. Mr. Kaplands mishandling and greed for my claim is the only reason it went to court. Throughout the years the insurance company changed hands but the last company it was turned over to CAIGA. I was made 100% disable and unable to work in 2014vbut made permanent and stationary in 2007 but continued to work under severe stress and very ill. I was just informed that I won and received an award, future medical with a life pension in 2016. Mr. Kapland has refused to communicate with me except to send me harassing emogyi's laughing at me. I never received a structured settled and for the past year I am being refused medical care locally and being forced to travel from Arizona to Los Angeles Can for court hearings and doctor appointments. I receive no reimbursements for traveling and when I appear in WCAB twice in the past 3 months no attorney speaks to me and I don't see our judge so I have no idea why I'm even ordered to appear. I then receive from the defense counsel via mail that my attorney had the claim. Put on the calendar to inform defense counsel and the court that he is my attorney and they are not allowed to speak with me when I call and have all communications go through him. I haven't spoken to Mr. Kapland since I dismissed him years ago for mishandling and inappropriate behavior. Mr. Kapland who is claiming to be my attorney is trying to cover up his mishandling. He also uses Dr.Khioury to conduct insurance fraud by charging the insurance company for exams and treatment that were never performed. He has caused me to lose my family home and in jeopardy of losing my current residence and belongings. But will send emogyi's from his identified cell phone and work email on a regular basis to terrorize me. Please be aware of this attorney he is a bad man and an even worse attorney. I can supply you with evidence of all my claims and much more.
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19 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Extremely horrible experience with the firm Kaiser and Chew. Took my case and agreed and signed agreement to charge me only if I was awarded settlement or won case. They dropped the case then claimed signed agreement by both parties was not found and sued me for thousands of dollars charging me for by the hour and all kinds of unapproved charges. Horrific experience
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20 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
My employer did not care about my pain and being hurt on the job. I came to watchtel law firm and Shawn was rude and I didn’t trust him. I gave them a try anyway and they sent me to phony doctors and took all of the money I won. Do not trust!
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28 Feb, 2015 by Bruce walters
I was a client in the past of Mr. Dombrowski, he did hid job as well as he could at that time. When I saw his name and had an issue, I immediately thought of him and contacted him via email. After a couple of weeks, I contacted him again via email, still no response. Since he flailed to respond to my email(s) I will have to assume Mr. Dombrowski is very busy, but I would at least like to have heard from him.
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02 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
i contacted this company as i had a problem with a medical product. And they list medical malpractice & problems with products under there legal services provided
I know i have a good case, as I have done all my research . And hundreds of other people have filed recently with the same situation.
A woman name Maria called me back. If rudeness was a person..she's it!
Right from the start she was telling me the myriad of reasons 'why i didn't have a case'. She asked questions, then didn't listen to the answers. Instead reassuring me that no matter what the situation i didn't have a case because of ...the hospital i attended, how long ago i had the surgery (i had it 2 months ago folks!! one has 2 years to file a case) and that j'her'attorneys don't handle medical product problems. I Did point out that both of these service are listed on the attorneys profile on Avvo & this is why i contacted them. She told me to "find an attorney who handled medical product issues". I reminded her this was listed on 'her' attorneys CV. "Well, he's never done a case like this before. And Ive been here 30 years".
Then why list a service 'you have never done in 30years". Oh my!
She was negative rude & disrespectful from start to finish.
I did ask for an attorney to call me back. Of course none ever did.
Do yourselves a favor folks...if u need a medical malpractice attorney, or a lawyer to file a case for you when a medical device causes you serious health problems..LOOK ELSEWHERE!!
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21 Mar, 2024 by Toan
I regret to say that I cannot recommend the services of this judge. In my experience, the judge's decisions showed a lack of understanding of the fundamental aspects of our case, particularly regarding the value of labor. There was a distinct sense of undermining the cost and effort that goes into professional development work. This disregard for the substantial time and skill invested by developers not only led to an unsatisfactory resolution but also sent a discouraging message about the recognition of professional expertise and fair compensation in the industry. This experience has left me with concerns about the fairness and equity of the judgements passed in such cases.
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02 Sep, 2013 by John m. rasso
Poor attorney , appears to be burnt out....not aggressive and just goes along with the program and doesn't put enough heart into your case. He is poor in responding to clients phone calls......and never familiar with specifics about your case.....Kept giving me different dollar settlement amounts in writing, then we settled for less. Legal staff changes all the time and you talk to someone new......who don't know anything about your case.....thank god the state regulates the workers comp cases. because all he got me was what the state gives you anyway. I really didn't need an attorney....Please don't waste your case with this attorney. Make sure and get it in writing with any attorney you hire to keep you up to date with your case at least once a month and be a fighter. I sure learned the hard way from this attorney. Get it in writing!!!!!!!
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22 Aug, 2012 by Ronald
This was the worst experience I have ever had with a professional. He did not look out for my best interest and never once returned one of my phone calls in the 3 years of his handling my case. I signed off on a workers comp settelment back in March and it took Mr. Moore over 5 months to finally give me back some papers and having his secretary tell me there is no settlement for me. Normal time is 30 days of signing paperwork, why couldn't he have told me back in April, oh i know why, because he didn't even walk my signed paperwork back into court until July 3rd, and it took over 25 calls from me for him to even find my paperwork! He is a joke as a lawyer and I would not recommend him to my worst enemy.
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22 Nov, 2019 by Odirtylove
19 Jun, 2020 by Victor
I was in a car accident and i had this law firm was already handling a another case for me. On my first case they litterally did me wrong they didnt really fight for me and there was no communication. On my car accident case i had to litterally be going and coming and getting information for them because they could not do it. It took 4-5 months so they can send me to a chiropractor and wen i told them i was in pain all they said was that i had old bones (what does that mean) they never treated me for my pain. After 11 months all i got was chiropractor treatment never was i sent for an mri or orthopedic. Everytime i call them there always busy and never return my calls. I have to keep calling and calling. When i was done with the chiropractor they wanted me to go pick up the report and send it to them. Its now almost 15 months from date of accident and im still in pain and have no clue were my case is at. I am going to report them to the state bar because i am not happy with there services. Very bad customer service. If they cant multi task or handle so many cases then they should tell the client to seek help somewere else.
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09 Jan, 2012 by Barbara matos
he has informed me after 3 months that he cant represent me because now he read the law references and I don't have a case.
I got another attorney and I have a case!
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28 Nov, 2017 by Kaye
Very dissappointed with the result of my case. Im not satisfied with the settlement. I got injured from work during the case i had heart surgery because of the stressed coz my benefits got stop bcoz i dont have primary physician for my injured. I got evicted etc. During my last hearing i got offered once which is not acceptable for me so i even explained and ask if we can asked more than the offered but he told me to accept the offered. I even insists to him i had heart problem coz of stressed etc. Then he just told me i will try. I dont even see He worked hard to my case to get a good or even settlement.
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27 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I'm homeless because of Mr Huerta. The so called Dr he sent me to released me to work full duty while my hand and back were at their worst. I asked Mr Huerta if I could get second opinion from my Dr, was told yes. My Dr determined I was not fit to work and was taken off again within a day. I kept Mr Huerta informed of everything. Mr Huerta called the Workers Comp Co and told them I went back to work and to stop my payments. My rent and bills snowballed out of control that I was evicted last year and now permanently disabled, unemployed and homeless. No source of income whatsoever.
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29 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney to represent me March 2023 nearly one year ago for a work injury case. Did everything as instructed and was going to Physical Therapy appointments soon after he was hired. I was approved for six sessions of physical therapy and then was told that I needed an MRI to confirm if I proceed with sessions or discontinue. I circled back with his office with this information as well as the medical office and never did this MRI happen. To be honest I even forgot about it.
Fast forward to November 2023. My Deposition was taken by the opposing counsel and to be honest it looked like Mr. Jimenez was not even paying attention. He did not interrupt or object to any questions was just on zoom doing computer work or texting. Finally the deposition was completed and I was told by Mr. Jimenez, the court reporter and the apposing counsel that the deposition report would be completed by then if not sooner and then sent to me for review and acceptance or to note any changes as I see fit. After going after Mr. Jimenez and his secretary over and over via text, email and phone calls I finally received the Deposition January 2024 TWO MONTHS after not two weeks as I was told. I immediately signed and sent the form acknowledging that I had no changes to report and today I am CC'd in an email from my attorney where he's asking for the deposition again and asking that one of us circle back with the court reporter to request it. I emailed him back and said, you already sent it to me on January 17th today is the 29th and on the 17th I sent you the signed acknowledgement doc and you confirmed receipt so why am I asking for the deposition again? It is constant mistakes like this that are only prolonging this matter and last time I checked I don't work for him, but it really feels like I do have to do things myself or locate important documents or remind he and his secretary to get back on topic or reiterating what he said to me and what he clearly did not communicate to the secretary. It is just insanely clear they don't communicate with one another and I'm just along for the ride.
Now going back to the MRI this was to be scheduled back in March 2023 and this request went along as far as as June 2023 and never happened. January 2023 I met before a medical panel and was asked if I ever received an MRI I stated that I did not and the medical panel stated the same that at this point a year after the injury occurred is just foolish to even do an MRI and that obviously someone dropped the ball somewhere. I circled back with my attorney and let him know what was said at the appointment and frankly that I cannot go further with him and begged that he just settle being that rather than helping he is just imposing further stress. He then said he wanted me to do more physical therapy and the MRI I declined in just about all languages I know and said NO! Finally, it seemed as if he understood only to receive a call this morning from a Dr's office to schedule physical therapy, I declined circled back with my attorney and reminded him again that I am not and nor in the future going to do further physical therapy or an MRI he certainly had the opportunity a year ago and frankly I am not going to waste my time nor his in looking foolish in having an MRI one year after my injury. He claimed that he would generate a letter stating such and would move to settle and send this off himself personally. Only to receive an email from his secretary four hours later scheduling an appointment for physical therapy with my attorney and im cc'd in this email the appointment started off 6 miles away from my home then goes onto being scheduled 42 miles away from me and then another email from the Dr himself saying I am to see the patient twice a week this is too far! and included a map to show both the secretary and the attorney. I hit reply all on this frankly idiotic exchange and basically said REMEMBER and reiterated again to settle and no physical therapy.
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20 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
I tried to comunicate With my attorney and I cant the lady that answers doesnt know anything. very bad comunication with attorneys .. there very good but cant comunicated with them hope they see this and change
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01 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
Attorney Montgomery is an attorney I would never use again or refer. She never returns calls, she doesn't hit important deadlines, she has too many things going on at once. She is never there when she says she will be there. Never once did I sit with her over 30 min. for the settlement of a 26 year marriage. She claims she works hard on your case, but she gives you everything to you to do so she doesn't have to spend time on the case. When told not to entertain calls from ex-wife, she did. She was an under performer for the money I gave her. After many months of back in forth with her, I went pro-per and had another attorney help clean up her mess. The last day I had an appointment with her, but her husband "an attorney" threaten not to give me my files after I was suppose to meet with her to sign them and she wasn't there when I got to her office. I asked him where she was at because I had a few questions and he said she's gone and I am taking care of it now. He said I was rude and threaten to call Police/911 because I wanted to speak with her before signing the docs. I needed the docs that day for the ex-wifes attorney deadline. I was forced to sign the docs, but have never forgot how horrible they made a paying client feel and the treatment from a so called "Attorney at Law".
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10 Apr, 2017 by Felicia
How do you write a wrong? By doing what's rightt. Ivy Holden is a dear friend and client of this lawyer He has scheduled hearing that she and her husband had to fly from LA where they reside and did not show up nor have the professional courtesy to notify her, booked flights, hotel states, etc. Donald Fraulov falsely assured Ivy for years he would get a fair settlement., knowing that a check had been issued by Workers compensation 20 years ago??? ivy has 9 surgically implanted screw in her back and has advanced in age. been strung along for more than 20 years. I'm speaking about this because this lawyer told her Worker's Comp. sent her a check for $38,000 in 1997 to the address that I currently live in and have been since 1993. Ivy has never received such a check nor have I she asked this attorney to produce a copy of the check showing where it had been cashed and by whom. He did not do so he told her her case was selling for $1000 and that was the best he could do he was taking 25% of it and he was retiring in a month. From April 4, 2017. He told her in addition to the 1000 settlement amount she was entitled to a mileage check only if she could get all of her information in by the end of April . This lady worked paid her dues paid her insurance fees and was seekink what she believed was the Best in Legal representation. Yet, something is very wrong I personally believe it's not too late to right this wrong . there are numerous unanswered questions that her Worker Comp Adjuater should answer. But they cannot and will not talk to her as long as she has an attorney . This is just wrong. There is still time to correct this.
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20 Apr, 2017 by Celie
I spent less than 5 minutes in his office this morning and in that time, this attorney did everything in his power to agitate me with his arrogance by telling me without looking at ANY of my medical reports, or hearing anything about all my new disabilities since I was originally given SSDI in the first place!! He took a look at me and said in a stern voice and without even letting me explain my health issues, "I'm not going to take your case unless you have medical paperwork saying that you 100% disabled!!". I then handed him a pile of medical records, and said very upset, "Here are my records! You will see that I'm disabled!". Not liking that I was clearly upset by his abrupt egotistical interrogation, he then handed me back my records and told me to get out of his office! Unbelievable!
After I got cancer and after I was originally approved for disability in the first place, I then broke my back 3 times, in 9 places over a 1 year period time. Radiation treatment for colon cancer weakened the structure of my bones and I now have osteoporosis and arthritis, I limp from that and I lost 3 inches in height. I also now have other physical disabilities from the cancer and other new medical problems that limit my ability to function daily, yet in 5 minutes, without letting me explain all my medical history or looking at the medical records, he decided NOT to take the case based on me sitting in a chair. He stated that the new administration is denying a lot more cases and it sounded like he was asking me questions to quickly get rid of me, rather than asking appropriate questions to take the case.
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25 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
He started off strong and ended up shoddy. Case took too long. He was never able to get me any w/comp. disability benefits, either re-tro or current. I literary had no income for over 3 yrs. In court, I lost my case in the worse manner in regards to monetary benefits. He refused to help me try to get back my position with employer of 14 yrs.
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26 Aug, 2019 by Roberto
I engaged Telleria, Telleria & Levy LLP, specifically Anthony F. Telleria, 3 months ago for legal representation on my Worker’s Compensation case. Communication was poor and they lacked professionalism. They provided negligent service and I was highly unsatisfied. Save yourself a headache by staying clear of this firm.
Service
Over the course of several months, I made multiple requests for Telleria to change my doctor. For months they did not take action and there was no progress with my case. I was better off representing myself.
Communication
-I tried scheduling an appointment with the attorney during the first 3 ½ months of engaging with this firm. I was continuously referred to the legal assistants who lacked legal knowledge. The assistants confirmed they were not attorneys and did not have a legal background. Their advice and responses were not useful and lacked substance. I preferred to speak with the attorney, who I engaged with.
-I finally received a call from the attorney after months of multiple attempts to reach him. He said he would check his availability and get back to me about possibly arranging an in-person meeting. I find this unacceptable and I do not believe they had my best interest at heart. It should not be this difficult to receive face time with your attorney.
-The Legal Assistant mentioned that the attorney would prepare me for my deposition 1/2 hour prior to my deposition and sent me a video link to access prior to our meeting. I find this to be extremely impersonal and poor planning. I believe it should be coupled with attorney face time well in advance to my deposition (not ½ hour prior).
- I was put on hold for extended periods of time or was told they would return my calls. I would either never hear from them or they called several days later. Call backs were from the legal assistant, not the attorney.
Professionalism
-General tone while corresponding was rude and abrasive.
-I read many adverse and negative reviews (many 1 out of 5 stars on yelp). I made a comment on Facebook regarding my personal experience with them and they responded to me on social media requesting for my information. I believe it was unprofessional for them to reach out to me and to address my case openly in social media. My information had already been provided.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Irma Edmonds’s interactions are marked by a distinctive combination of rudeness, impatience, and hostility. Her communication style, characterized by curt responses and a lack of empathy, contributes to a challenging environment for those who interact with her. Her perceived impatience and rigid time management further complicates interpersonal dynamics. Understanding the underlying factors and exploring strategies for improvement could potentially lead to more positive outcomes and a more constructive approach to interactions. Addressing underlying stressors or dissatisfaction that may contribute to Irma’s behavior is another important strategy. Exploring stress management techniques, seeking support or counseling, and finding ways to address potential sources of frustration could help mitigate some of the negative aspects of her demeanor.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Lack of communication is their best quality at LA Law firm . Nothing gets done. They accept you as a client but what do they do. On paper you have a representative but they don't represent you at all. So far it's been years trying to not loose my job.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Is rude
No empathy or knowledge of many facets of body ailments
Dznt care
Makes mistakes
The whole firm makes huge mistakes causing prolonged suffering or entirely unhelpful unlike website description
I was referred to a different attorney originally at boxer n gerson
That attorney left ! They wouldn’t say y . I
Fell through cracks somehow then was assigned her not knowing who she was, I agreed
I assumed I’d get the best attorney since they already failed me
But I believe they are not the best or fighters
Just wam bam …… easy is what they like
If it’s too hard they don’t have answers nor do they try or they are working WITH work comp
Like da makes plea deals with defense
The whole system is a joke
The firm needs auditing
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10 Aug, 2024 by David
He treats clients like scum. Like we work for him and everything he does is a favor. He could not care less about getting max value for a case because his take is limited. Screamer and an awful person to work with.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Do for You
A workers’ compensation lawyer specializes in helping employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job to receive the benefits they are entitled to under workers' compensation laws. These lawyers represent injured workers in claims for medical benefits, wage replacement, and other compensation related to workplace injuries or illnesses. They also help when claims are denied, benefits are delayed, or disputes arise with the employer or the insurance company.
Whether you've been injured on the job, developed an occupational illness, or are dealing with a denied workers' compensation claim, a workers’ compensation lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and ensure you receive the full benefits you deserve.
When Should I Hire a Workers' Compensation Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a workers' compensation lawyer in several situations, especially when complications arise during the claims process or when your rights as an injured worker are being challenged. Some common reasons to hire a workers' compensation lawyer include:
- Claim denial: If your workers' compensation claim has been denied, a lawyer can help you appeal the decision and represent you in hearings or litigation.
- Inadequate benefits: If the insurance company offers you a settlement that doesn’t cover your medical expenses, lost wages, or other damages, a lawyer can negotiate on your behalf for a fair amount.
- Delay in receiving benefits: If your benefits are being delayed, a lawyer can help expedite the process to ensure you receive timely compensation.
- Permanent disability: If your injury leads to permanent disability (partial or total), a lawyer can help you navigate the more complex process of securing long-term benefits.
- Retaliation by employer: If your employer retaliates against you for filing a workers' compensation claim (e.g., by firing or demoting you), a lawyer can protect your rights and pursue legal action.
- Third-party liability: If a third party (e.g., a contractor or equipment manufacturer) was responsible for your injury, a lawyer can help you pursue additional compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.
- Pre-existing conditions: If your employer or the insurance company claims that your injury is related to a pre-existing condition, a lawyer can help you present evidence showing that the injury was work-related.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can prevent delays, avoid mistakes, and ensure you receive all the benefits you’re entitled to under workers' compensation law.
What Does a Workers' Compensation Lawyer Do?
A workers' compensation lawyer provides a range of legal services to injured workers, ensuring that they receive the benefits they deserve. Their tasks often include:
- Filing claims: Helping injured workers prepare and file their workers' compensation claims to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
- Appealing denied claims: Representing workers whose claims have been denied and guiding them through the appeals process, including hearings and court appearances.
- Negotiating settlements: Negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
- Handling disputes: Resolving disputes between the injured worker, the employer, and the insurance company regarding the amount of compensation or the nature of the injury.
- Coordinating medical evidence: Gathering and presenting medical records, expert testimony, and other evidence to support the workers' compensation claim.
- Advocating for benefits: Ensuring that injured workers receive all the benefits they’re entitled to, including temporary or permanent disability benefits, vocational rehabilitation, and medical treatment.
- Filing third-party lawsuits: In cases where a third party is responsible for the injury, a workers' compensation lawyer may also pursue a personal injury lawsuit to recover additional damages.
How Are Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Paid?
Workers' compensation lawyers typically charge a contingency fee, meaning they only get paid if they successfully recover benefits for you. This fee is usually a percentage of the benefits awarded, and the specific percentage is often regulated by state law. Here's how it generally works:
- Contingency fee: The lawyer's fee is typically between 15% and 25% of the total benefits awarded to you. You don’t have to pay any upfront legal fees, and the lawyer’s fee comes out of the settlement or benefit award.
- No fee if no recovery: If the lawyer doesn’t recover any benefits for you, you generally don’t have to pay for their services.
- State regulations on fees: Many states cap the percentage that workers' compensation lawyers can charge, and some states require the fee to be approved by the workers' compensation board or judge.
Be sure to discuss the fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will owe if your case is successful.
How Much Does a Workers' Compensation Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a workers' compensation lawyer typically depends on the contingency fee arrangement, meaning the lawyer’s fee will be a percentage of the benefits you receive. General cost estimates include:
- Contingency fees: Most workers' compensation lawyers charge between 15% and 25% of the total settlement or benefits awarded. For example, if you receive $50,000 in benefits, the lawyer’s fee would range from $7,500 to $12,500.
- State regulations: Some states limit the percentage that workers' compensation lawyers can charge. In these cases, the fee is usually capped, often at 20% to 25%, depending on state law.
- Additional costs: Some lawyers may charge for out-of-pocket expenses, such as filing fees, medical records retrieval, and expert witness testimony, though these costs are typically deducted from the settlement after the case is won.
You should always ask for a clear explanation of fees and potential additional costs during your consultation so you understand the financial arrangement.
Top Questions to Ask a Workers' Compensation Lawyer
Before hiring a workers' compensation lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with workers' compensation cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, especially if your injury is severe or the case involves disputes. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a contingency fee and whether there are any additional costs you need to be aware of. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including the potential challenges and outcomes. -
Have you handled cases like mine before?
Find out if the lawyer has experience dealing with cases involving similar injuries or disputes, such as denied claims or permanent disability. -
How long will the process take?
While it’s difficult to predict an exact timeline, the lawyer should be able to provide a general estimate based on their experience with similar cases. -
Will you personally handle my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of your case. Make sure you know who will be working on your claim.
How to Check the Credibility of a Workers' Compensation Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable workers' compensation lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for workers' compensation experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in workers' compensation law and have successfully handled cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s expertise and service.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients who can speak to their experience in workers' compensation cases.
- Check for professional affiliations: Membership in organizations like the Workers' Injury Law & Advocacy Group (WILG) or local bar association committees on workers' compensation can indicate the lawyer’s commitment to this area of law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with a workers' compensation lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Accident report or incident documentation: Bring any documentation related to your workplace injury or illness, including accident reports or notifications to your employer.
- Medical records: Provide copies of medical records, including treatment notes, doctor’s reports, and any information related to your injury or condition.
- Employer correspondence: Bring any letters, emails, or forms related to your claim from your employer or the workers' compensation insurance company.
- Wage and benefits information: Provide information on your wages, benefits, and any lost income due to the injury.
- List of questions: Prepare questions about your case, the process, costs, and what to expect moving forward.
- Timeline of events: Prepare a timeline of the incident, your injury, and any medical treatment or communication with your employer and the insurance company.
Being well-prepared for your consultation will allow the lawyer to assess your case more effectively and provide you with the best possible legal advice.
