Lawyers map
>70
experienced lawyers
Filter by
5.0
1 Reviews
4.9
13 Reviews
23 May, 2024 by Tami paden
25 Apr, 2023 by Cold baer
Professional and thorough!
Read more
25 Apr, 2023 by Socorro cardenas
Excelente, eficiente, amable y confiable. Trabajo 100% garantizado
Read more
08 Nov, 2024 by Karen, norm raines
Faith Martzin helped me update my will, power of attorney and make a few changes in my estate planning. We had several meetings. I found her knowledgeable and efficient. I would highly recommend her services if you need help with your estate planning.
Read more
13 Jun, 2024 by Lorraine maddox
My attorney is Keabie Shaw she is knowledgeable, professional, sweet and caring.You will feel like family and not just client and attorney.
Read more
11 Jun, 2024 by Jaime guzman
This law firm went above and beyond for us! Very professional, kind, and detail-oriented. We are so grateful!
Read more
02 Jan, 2025 by Robert keew
Justin and his team at Heritage Law helped us set up our Estate Plan, and customized it perfectly for our family. They also keep us up to date on legal issues that could affect our situation. We feel we are in great hands, and highly recommend Heritage Law!
Read more
20 Nov, 2024 by Ken hamill
We had a great experience working with The Heritage Law Firm. They did an outstanding job explaining things to my wife and I in a manner we could understand and make sound decisions. I highly recommend them.
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Jay guadalupe
Great experience from start to finish. Very professional and patient every step of the way. James Lyon took the time to explain and ensured we both understood what we were being asked. Thank You James and staff for taking what we believed to be a very complicated and sensitive process and turning it into an experience that we are grateful to have been a part of. Having our estate planning finalized by Heritage Law has put our minds at ease.
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Cassana smith
Katharine Phipps she is a great out going person.
She does a great job at looking after her client's best interests and get things done.
I would recommend her if you are wanting a great lawyer that works hard for you!!!
Read more
31 Dec, 2024 by Kandi phelps
Katie Phipps is a wonderful and caring person. She was there to help me through one of the most difficult times of my life. She listened to how I was feeling as a person and not just as a client. Katie always kept me informed on what was going on with my case. She guided me through my case so i could make the best decision for myself and not just telling me "You need to do this". YES, I highly recommend Katie Phipps for your WC case.
Read more
26 Dec, 2024 by Kelly mcdavid
I am so thrilled that I had Katharine Phipps to represent myself in my Worker's Comp. Case.
I do not think if I had another attorney they wouldn't had been prepared and fought so hard for myself.
Everyone in the office was so warm and friendly. They made you feel welcome.
Katharine does the same she is warm welcoming and you feel comfortable with her.
I am so happy that Katharine Phipps represented myself.
I highly recommend Katarinen Phipps to represent anyone that has a Worker's Comp Case. She will fight for you!! She is a very kind person. She is looking out for your best interest.
Sincerely,
Kelly M.
Read more
26 Dec, 2024 by Eric l.
Doug Churdar has helped me navigate the uncertainties arising from being severely injured in two car wrecks, one as a passenger 5.5 years ago and another as a no-fault driver in August. Both times, he has worked diligently to collect supportive medical records in order to secure maximum insurance liability settlements.
Going above and beyond, Doug also has helped negotiate my property damage claim (not often done by attorneys) and coordinated with disability and estate attorneys to ensure that my financial needs are met for the foreseeable future.
Every step of these journeys, Doug has shown sincere empathy, answered my many legal questions, and updated me on the progress of my settlements, all while demonstrating the highest ethics. He has really helped change my opinion of attorneys to the point where I can say I regard him as a friend. If you are wrongfully injured, rest assured that you can trust Doug Churdar and his staff with your due settlement.
Read more
19 Dec, 2024 by Tom
My wife was in a bad accident. She was injured, and our car was severely damaged. Another lawyer recommended Doug to us. He was easy to work with and kept us informed. He did more than we expected. Recommend you call him.
Read more
06 Dec, 2024 by Steven snyder
I have known Doug Churdar for many years and, as a fellow attorney, have worked with him and on cases against him. He commands my highest respect. He is smart, experienced, honest, works hard, prepares thoroughly, knows how to handle himself effectively in a court room, and gets very good results. He also genuinely cares about his clients. When I meet individuals in need of legal services or representation within the areas of Doug's practice, I strongly recommend, without hesitation, that they contact Doug. And for me, giving Doug 5 Stars on this review is a no-brainer. He has earned it.
Read more
19 Jul, 2016 by Christie
She was very helpful and supportive when I was involved in an automobile accident. I had to go to various doctors and had various test done she was patient and listen to all of my concerns and uneasiness I was experiencing at that time. She very kind and had great client and lawyer relationship she doesn't make you feel like you just another case to make money off of.
Read more
10 Jul, 2016 by Ken kolodzik
Prior to my move to SC, I knew I had to find an attorney to represent me after relocating. I knew no one and took a chance using AVVO's website and sent an email off to Ms. Poe which provided my first surprise when I received a response within an hour acknowledging my inquiry and informing me that she was on vacation. Being the fastest response ever from an attorney, I chose to wait until she returned and I was settled to request a consultation. I recontacted her a week after settling in and realized I had a deadline approaching and hoped that a meeting to be arranged quickly to compensate for my failure to contact her earlier. I sent an email off to her and was surprised to see I had a voicemail from Keith her associate within the hour. I returned the call hoping not to sound anxious regarding my time constraints and Keith without being asked immediately offered me several times to meet in addition to offering a choice of offices that would be most convenient to my location. With little familiarity to the area he assisted me in choosing the location and I failed to make a note of the zip code. I called Keith since I was not able to find their office only to learn I was not even the right town. Before I could share my embarrassment along with the fact that a rescheduled appointment could eliminate my chances of meeting the hard deadline facing me. He had me on my way to their other office 30 minutes away and assured me not to worry and meet as planned. I was relieved and surprised by how gracious he was. I My wife and I were met by Ms. Poe and she would not allow us to be concerned about my mistake altering the time that was scheduled on our behalf. We were amazed by how welcome we felt along with providing all the time necessary to obtain all the necessary information, provide clarity about the process and insured all our questions were answered. In addition to the case issues she provided valuable information regarding some off topic questions we had concerning our move and the area. Referring to the title, I had never nor would I been able to describe a meeting with an attorney as being delightful. She inspired my confidence with her knowledge, professionalism and clarity in providing realistic expectations based on her knowledge of the local political arena that is almost always the most difficult to navigate. In addition to delightful, my wife and I left knowing we had hired an attorney that is not only the best in her field but someone that we are excited to have representing us as well as the added bonus of having met a person we can completely trust.
Read more
26 Jan, 2016 by Sarah
I would highly recommend Venus as an attorney. Her level of professionalism is incomparable. Venus was my attorney regarding a civil matter and I could not have been more pleased with the work that she did. She was thorough and supportive throughout the process and prompt in responding to phone calls and e-mails. She was able to put my mind at ease and I was able to put my complete trust and faith in her. I was thoroughly pleased with the outcome of my case and would definitely use Venus again for my legal needs.
Read more
04 Feb, 2016 by Allison
I am very grateful for Mr. Davis and the had work it put into my disability case. He followed up me on a regular basis regarding my case and my well being. I was found fully favorable in regards to my case, without him it not have been possible. I would recommend his law firm to any one.
Read more
31 Oct, 2015 by Sandra
Just wanted to thankyou for all the helpful advice regarding my situation! I really appreciate you taking the time out as you have. If I ever need a lawyer or know anybody that does I will definitely recommend you! Thanks so much once again!
Read more
28 Oct, 2015 by Johnnie
Mr. Davis helped me more than even I imagined . He not only got me 3 times what was offered to me but also got me $30,000.00 for future expenses. He treated me like I was his only client . He cared about my problem. His goal was to get me back to as good as I once was . His fee was inline and even lower than others I've seen . Would I recomend MR. DAVIS You bet I would over and over again. thank you Mr. Davis so much.
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Kenny dial
Mr Mills and his team are the best family court attorneys in town. He fully understands the law and the lawfare used by SCDSS in the family court system and is patient, precise in revealing the truth and shining light on deceit and manipulation that runs rampant within SCDSS. The whole process has made me realize that SCDSS lacks any real oversight other than family court judges and attorneys like Mr mills and his team keeping them in check. If you need an attorney to shine the light on the darkness, do not hesitate, you have found him right here. Thank you Mr. Mills, Justin and Denise!
Read more
25 Feb, 2024 by Yakima dennis
If you read my previous review you will know your dealing with the best. I needed an additional attorney for the case Ariel law firm is representing for me and I wasn't left hanging because Ariel jumped right in before I could think about finding someone else. I send all my Thanks to everyone at the Ariel Mills law firm you all are a blessing and truly appreciated
Read more
20 Jun, 2021 by Daniel bowman
02 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Great lawyer who wants all the details about the case , so she can make sure you are happy and satisfied .
Read more
25 May, 2022 by Melissa
I am so thankful that I had Andrea as my representation. I have been back and forth with custody of my son for years due to false allegations. I had several other lawyers that were not half the lawyer Andrea is. She is passionate about getting results, but also is very to the point. She made things happen in my case that previous lawyers couldn't. To say she is dedicated, wouldn't be enough. I highly highly recommend her to anyone needing EFFECTIVE legal counsel that actually cares, keeps you informed every step of the way, and does not rip you off! She is an angel on earth, and I do not throw that term around loosely. You will not be disappointed with her!! (:
Read more
14 Sep, 2021 by Alberta
That’s what I thought about the service rendered by Andrea B Williams. I was in a unique situation and she worked to determine what was needed to resolve my case. She approached every angle to make sure every question or requirement would be addressed. My unmarried daughter died of COVID after delivering a newborn infant by an emergency c-section. The expectation was to be in sedation on the ventilator until are lungs were stronger. She was never able to sign to get the birth certificate and name the father of the child. Neither the father nor myself was able to apply for the birth certificate. Andrea made certain that an emergency hearing was set and we were granted a final hearing at that time so that benefits could begin. She was stern and straightforward and communicated with me to keep me informed. She was also very affordable for the amount of time dedicated to this case. I’m very grateful for her personal concern for my family and would recommend her for any legal matter you may have.
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Dan
A bit disappointing. The settlement I received was ok and all the people were friendly, but it came at a price. I didn't feel as if i were a priority to them - which considering what they earned for so few hours and such little negotiation imo - was surprising. I was in an accident where a car hit me as I was walking on the sidewalk. Open and shut case. Even though the perpetrator had no insurance, I had uninsured motorist so it was simply a matter of collecting from my insurance company. Imo, there was very little or no negotiating. My real complaint is that I wasn't kept informed of anything. I would have to call Melanokos every few weeks to find out what was going on (after several months elapsed first). Then they would take action and typically say, "Oh, we have to file so and so at a different place." They didn't know. This happened 3x. I never even knew the case was settled until I got a letter in the mail from my insurance company. No excuse for that. And then 3 months later I received my settlement.Also, when you sign with a firm, make sure the percentage they take is only from what YOU GET...As an example, if you agree to pay the firm 35% and your settlement is 200k dollars, make sure their 35% commission is from what you RECEIVE, because if you owe say, Medicare, the law firm might have to pay Medicare 25k (or whatever) before the law firm gives you your money. So it's 175k you get, and then they take out their 35%, but they take 35% of 200K and not the 175k lol. Why? I never would've signed up for that if i knew. I'm paying Medicare the money, and then the law firm is taking 35% of my TOTAL settlement (i.e. 200k)? So I'm paying 135% of what i owe Medicare? How ridiculous. I probably ended up with a bit more using Melanokos than if i did it myself, but not worth the aggravation, "extra" payment, and basically no communication from them - unless it was initiated by me. Not for me.
Read more
17 Mar, 2021 by Gina
Very pleasant, low keyed person to work with! He was easy to get a hold of through his office and always responded punctually to my calls. Best of all, he got more than double the amount that was first offered me!
Read more
04 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
My legal case was not a big one, so I decided to work with the insurance company myself to reach a reasonable settlement. At first the insurance representative could not have been nicer and more interested in my wellbeing as we discussed all my pain, medical visits, etc. That was until we began talking about a settlement. At that point, she had a total personality change. We could not reach an equitable settlement because she was adamant about the unacceptable amount her company would pay.
That’s when I contacted Michael Melonakos. He took over the case and reached a settlement for more than double the amount offered by the insurance. Plus, I no longer had to deal with a cantankerous insurance representative.
Should you need an attorney, call Michael. I’m sure he will do a wonderful job for you as he did for me.
Read more
15 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
David Yokel and his team we extremely professional. They were able to answer any questions I had clearly and were able to work with me through a difficult time. They were able to give answers at appropriate times, walked me through the whole process and all my options.
Read more
21 Apr, 2023 by Sara
David has been my attorney for 10+ years. He handled my divorce and custody issues. He is incredibly knowledgeable and did a wonderful job. He always walked me through my options and ensured I was at ease with each decision. I hope I never have to hire him again, but I would do it again in a heartbeat.
Read more
12 Jan, 2022 by Rene'
I can't say enough about David. He's an amazing lawyer. He kept me on track, taught me to keep emotions out of things, and always told me when I was unnecessarily running up my clock! My outcome couldn't have been better.
If you can get him, snag him!
Read more
07 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Jeff worked diligently to help me get through a very difficult divorce in a timely manner.
Read more
05 Apr, 2019 by Lisa
Attorney Jeff Ezell has treated my case like I am a family member, not just a client. He has followed through with every aspect of my concern for my children and has shielded me from unnecessary stress during litigation. I highly recommend Jeff Ezell if integrity, empathy and professionalism is what you are seeking. I am confident that attorney Ezell will facilitate a final order that will best serve my children for their immediate and extended needs.
Read more
05 Apr, 2019 by Nathan
I came to Mr Ezell as soon as I recognized that I would need legal help with a family court case. He and Janet, the paralegal, were both very forthcoming and gracious to me. They helped me in so many ways and I can't tell you how much I appreciate their efforts and empathy toward my situation. All the legal work was done in a timely fashion and he kept in close contact with me throughout the entire process.
Read more
17 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Dennison helped us with our will and power of attorney. She made the process easy and was very reasonably priced.
Read more
10 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
I went to the Dennison Law Firm for my wills and power of attorney. Carol consulted me in a very comprehensive, understandable way. She and her staff were very professional and friendly and did an excellent job.
Read more
13 Oct, 2018 by Virginia
Was given the paperwork to fill,out and then went back for the final , permanent draft.
Brandi was very helpful and the whole experience was professional and fast. Pleasant experience .
Thanks
Read more
25 Feb, 2020 by Adelaide
Ms. Johnson represented me in reference to an illegal eviction matter! She is very professional and goes above and beyond for her clients! I strongly recommend Attorney Johnson! Should the need arise, I would not hesitate to utilize her services again!
Read more
15 Mar, 2016 by Asha
Zandra was very professional and adamant. She had excellent communication skills and made sure to involve me in every step of the case. She also got my case settled in a short amount of time.
Read more
07 Nov, 2015 by Charissa
I've been thoroughly impressed with Zandra. She made me feel like I was her only client when I was with her working on my custody case which was different than lawyers in the past. I trusted her with my case and to be able to bring me the best outcome. I've seen lawyers in the past make clients feel that but they ask for something in court that they can get that result just because they want it. She fought for me but didn't sugar coat and make me believe I could get things that I wouldn't be able to get because the judge is still a person too as well as an opposing side that wants things their way. Zandra is very personable and extremely knowledgeable. I was impressed with her knowledge and her ability to weigh outcomes from her experience. I will definitely be recommending her to others!
Read more
29 Jan, 2016 by Allen
I have had the opportunity to work with Jimmy on a number of cases over the years. He is an effective advocate who cares about doing the best job possible. Is a wonderful person. BAC,Jr.
Read more
05 Jun, 2015 by Paul hammack
I have worked with Jimmy for over 10 years -both with and against him on cases. He is always prepared and cares about his clients. He stays current on legal issues and is a strong advocate for his clients. I highly recommend him and would not hesitate to refer clients to him.
Read more
19 Feb, 2017 by Randall
Mr. Anderson and his team worked with me in navigating through a car accident in which I was rear-ended while at a complete stop. What initially appeared to be minor in nature, grew in complexity quickly due to 1 car triggering a cascading sequence of 4 other cars impacting one another. In addition to always answering my questions in a timely manner, Pam Halsnik, Paralegal for Grimes, Teich & Anderson, worked closely with me to understand each stage of my case. We were able to close this case within a reasonable amount of time and to my satisfaction.
Read more
20 Nov, 2013 by Karin
Mr. Anderson and his staff handled my case with compassion and great knowledge. From the time he walked into my home until the time of mediation he was with me every step of the way. His staff is knowledgeable and on top of your case. My case was not an easy one but Mr. Anderson and his staff handled this case with great care. I could never find all the right word to express my thanks to him and his staff. When I couldn't get the medical help I needed they stepped in and I had it within day's ! His knowledge and hard work won my case and the out come was more than satisfactory. If you are looking for a lawyer that is compassionate , hard work and knowledgeable then hiring Mr. Anderson will be the very best move you can make, he will be honest and forthright with you from the first time you speak with him till the time you settle your case. He and his staff went above and beyond and I can sincerely not find enough words to thank him and his staff. Hiring him was the very best thing I could have done, he is a beyond a wonderful person and a excellent lawyer. He knows Workmans Comp and anticipates what they are going to do before they do it ! Hiring Mr. Anderson will be one of the very best moves you can make in regards to your Workmans Comp issues !
Read more
20 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Awesome attorney. Call her for anything you need, especially personal injury!
Read more
09 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
I used Laura's services and felt really comfortable during the interactions. She and her paralegal (Shona) are a great team and know their stuff. I highly recommend Mrs. Martin's services to anybody.
Read more
02 Dec, 2024 by Amanda r
If you need any help with legal advice contact Jordan Law Center. Stephen and Melissa are quick to respond, very professional, and take your case with care. I highly recommend 10/10!
Read more
02 Dec, 2024 by Delorean johnson
I had the pleasure of working with Stephen Anderson and Melissa. I found them to be compassionate and hardworking individuals who dedicated themselves to my complex case. I am grateful for their efforts and the positive outcome they achieved!
Read more
25 Oct, 2024 by Connor jackson
Made the experience extremely easy for me.
Professional, timely, prepared to do the work for you!
Read more
02 Dec, 2024 by Janet mcgee
My case was recently opened. Scott and Samantha has been working with me and they both have been very nice.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by Tim carson
08 Oct, 2024 by Diamonde scott
Michael Swindell I highly recommend ! & Sherri Southerland , his paralegal is so sweet and kind . They really handled my worker’s compensation case with ease and I’m so grateful :)
Read more
19 Dec, 2024 by Quindella broadnax
I had an outstanding experience with this law office. From start to finish, they went above and beyond to ensure I received the compensation I deserved. They kept me informed throughout the entire process, always updating me on the status of my case. What impressed me most was their dedication to exhausting every possible avenue to secure the best outcome for me.
The team took the time to explain everything in detail, making sure I fully understood each step of the legal process. Their professionalism was matched by their warmth and approachability..they treated me like family, making me feel supported every step of the way.
I highly recommend this law office to anyone in need of skilled and compassionate legal assistance. They truly care about their clients and deliver excellent results.
Read more
27 Jul, 2024 by Texas!! 1
If you have a WC claim I would not recommend them! Got hurt at my job ended up having joshua as my attorney. Time goes on in my case where I started going to see my own Dr's and what they were telling me was not matching up with what WC dr's were saying cause I no longer trusted the nothing is wrong with you stuff WC dr's try and push on you. If you get that gut feeling to fire your attorney do it sooner rather than later where other attorneys say it is to far in on the case. I spoke to a few other attorney's about my case not at C&C . Which they said did he tell you this did he tell you that I said no did he try and get the video I said no. Which they said he should have told you those thing's . It's like he was more for my employer side than he was actually my side. Simple and plain I do not recommend them PERIOD!!!!!!
Read more
19 Jun, 2024 by Jaida smith
14 Dec, 2024 by Ryan bitner
Foster Law Firm came highly recommended from several sources, and they did exactly what they said they would do in a timely fashion . I was being denied the last portion of my long-term disability case and they won the case got me paid in a timely fashion. I would highly recommend this firm.
Read more
28 Sep, 2024 by Ava estrella
STAY AWAY! Save your time and money - go somewhere else! Especially if Leila Louzri and her crappy paralegal Nikki Tesnar take your case. They don’t respond, started my appeal 3 months ago and didn’t send the disability companies my medical records which were received over two months ago! I’ve emailed them both about 5 times this week with no response so I guess they want to lose the ability to continue representing me. Nikki the paralegal has a terrible attitude and seriously needs to retire! She is cranky, negative and unhelpful. They will be getting fired on Monday and I can’t wait! I’ll never leave my well being or money up these degenerates.
Read more
05 Mar, 2024 by D
This law firm is a fraud. I ask would I have to pay taxes on settlement for disability the lawyer said no. They lied about case being open and close I got two different responses. When I called every time I had a different person I had to speak with no body knew nothing this was terrible. I never experienced such unprofessional lawyers.
Read more
03 Nov, 2020 by Lindsey
I was referred to Harold by a family friend, and I couldn't be happier. He took the time to listen to my case, answered all my questions and truly treated me like a friend not a client. His knowledge of medical malpractice is priceless he actually successfully won, one of the first medical malpractice cases in Greenville County.
Read more
29 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Poor service, incompetent, dishonest, and doesn't stick to deadlines. Not worth the hassle.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
