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4.8
73 Reviews
05 Dec, 2024 by Denise wilson
Meaghan and Kristy were fantastic to work with. Great experience!
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02 Dec, 2024 by Shawn ward
Palmer Law Group is the best feeling of knowing you are with the best. I would recommend this firm to anyone that wants integrity and peace of mind for your law needs. they are great.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Krista robinson
I recently had the privilege of working with Dustin Van Dyk at Palmer Law Group on my malpractice case, and I can’t express enough how grateful I am for his expertise and support throughout the entire process.
Dustin demonstrated a deep understanding of the complexities involved in my case. He took the time to listen to my concerns and made me feel valued as a client, and as a person. His professionalism and dedication were evident at every step, and he always kept me proactively informed about the progress of my case.
Dustin's knowledge of the law is impressive, and he has a genuine compassion for his clients. He not only fought diligently for my rights but also provided emotional support during a challenging time. I felt like I had someone in my corner who truly cared about my well-being.
Thanks to Dustin's hard work and commitment, I received the outcome I was hoping for. I can't recommend him and Palmer Law Group highly enough. If you’re seeking a compassionate and skilled attorney, look no further than Dustin Van Dyk. Thank you, Dustin and team, for everything you’ve done for me!
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30 Dec, 2024 by Nicha adams
Very disappointed in my results from Jessica Timm. In the 1.5 years she had my case I only had 30 minutes of medical treatment. I had a slip and fall where I hit my head and was knocked unconscious, broke my nose and was left disfigured. I just didn't feel like she worked for me. Communication slow or not at all. She also represented me in a car accident prior to that they were close together but had I gotten the results from the car wreck, which were poor also, I would have went elsewhere for the fall. I had no medical treatments from the party who hit me on this case either and the monetary settlement was not worth my troubles. She got more than I did. Very disappointing that I now live with problems like headaches, facial swelling, blurred vision and brain fog but received no treatments.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Muramesa21
I enjoyed the fact that I could get a hold of my lawyer quickly during the day and their clear explanations of how they move forward when my case had complications.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Noel staats
Patterson Legal was great to work with on my case. I was informed of the process every step of the way. I would highly recommend.
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30 Aug, 2021 by Matthew tuck
Mike is a fantastic attorney. He really cares about his clients, especially families and children. He was totally focused on protecting my family and our assets with a revocable trust. His fees are incredibly reasonable. He gives you a quote and that's all it costs. No surprises, no extra charges. He is very knowledgeable and answered all of our questions. I cannot recommend him highly enough.
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05 Jul, 2021 by Chess coach mike
Michael Jahn turned my view of planning for my wife and son inside out. I had never taken the time to piece together what would happen if I die - right now. Eye opening, then decisive action are preserving my family from the potential destruction of my family legacy planning due to an ex (regarding my son's inheritance) and what I never realized about the evil probate nightmare! I can't thank Michael enough!
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31 Dec, 2019 by Christopher
I'm very pleased with every aspect of the client service. Peter Jouras fought to get me the maximum settlement possible. I was very pleased, and a little surprised, by the size of the settlement he secured for me. His office was constantly in contact, throughout the whole process. I always had someone calling or emailing me to keep me updated on the progress, and they were always quick to get back to me when I emailed them a question. I could not be more pleased. I know that the next time I need an attorney, I'm coming back to Jouras.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Angela woods
George Pearson is exactly what you want in a lawyer. He is honest direct and to the point and he worked until I got the result I wanted.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Dalton smith
Don't let this lawyer ruin your life! After two years of battling workman's comp over a torn hip labrum and surgery. I told him that I didn't think I was healed up completely, and george kept reassuring me that it's just soreness from the surgery and that it will heal in time and told me we should just settle and move on. Now that he talked me into settling I'm two years past my surgery and month to month It gets worse and worse now I can't hardly sleep at night, and there is nothing workman's comp will do about it because he wanted to settle. But hey he got his quick buck out of it! Run away from this lawyer!!!!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Brenda hertel
23 Dec, 2024 by Jackie fields
Everything worked great.You and your office are awesome. Glad I can to you guys.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Michael french
Brian, and his staff are very knowledgeable and get things done. Would refer in a second.you need legal representation call 2 Brians.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Mario mayta
Great and professional service.
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11 Mar, 2024 by Tasha s
Never called me back.
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27 Aug, 2023 by Castulo ayala
18 Jun, 2023 by Jose arzate
17 Oct, 2024 by Haley c
David is the best attorney! He has helped me in several situations, and each time, David's consistency, ethics, and fairness have allowed me to feel seen, respected, and listened to as a client. Reach out to David as I am sure it will be one of the best decisions you make for your overall well-being!
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14 Oct, 2024 by Alex g
Mr. Duma and his staff were excellent with handling my unplanned and extremely critical legal situation. Their knowledge of the legal system helped me navigate a difficult situation, while insuring my best interests. Would recommend to anyone needing expert counsel with legal defense
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10 Oct, 2024 by Crystal freed
Michael Duma is one hell of a lawyer. Stood up for me when no one else would. Got me a fabulous deal on my legal charges. I'm forever greatful.
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10 Jan, 2022 by Debbie skinner
Amazing gentlemen . Just waiting for him to call me back this week
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01 Jul, 2013 by Kyle
If you're in the Ft. Riley area and especially have an uncontested divorce ie: no children/property disputes he does his services for half the rate of anyone else and I even paid an extra 100.00 for an emergency divorce and was concluded within a week of filing.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Nathan brenzikofer
I was involved in a semi accident and I hired Reidmiller Anderson and Scott. My case was very different than a normal car vs car crash. Their expertise in the trucking regulations and how to handle such difficult cases made a difference. They had fantastic communication with me and my case. I would highly recommend them to anyone involved in a serious accident. I want to praise them for how great of a job they did representing me and taking care of my case. Thanks guys.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Ruben diaz
12 Dec, 2023 by Cwbyfrmhell none
17 Apr, 2019 by Nicholas
I was stopped for a DUI in that state of Missouri in the summer of 2018. I live in Kansas so I was not aware of the process of living in another state while in trouble in another. I was placed under arrest and went to jail. After I was released I found attorney Paul Burmaster through a ton of research on finding the best lawyer for my case. After meeting with him I knew this was the man to represent me and my case. Im glad I did. I had 2 court hearings to overcome and try and win my case. The first was the circuit court for keeping my drivers license. Long story short...We won by a judges ruling and I was able to keep my license and not go on any record or take a insurance hit. The 2nd court hearing I had to attend was for the criminal side of it with the KCMO Municipal Court. Prior to this Paul had came up with the best plan to represent and fight my case before going into the court room. I was always aware and kept in contact at all times of these hearings so I was fully aware of what was going on at all times. The day of the court hearing with the judge, prosecutor, and two police officers I knew what was going on during my trial keeping me in more of a calm state of mind knowing I had a good fighting chance to win. This helped me keep focused and my stress low at a time like this. During this trial I observed Paul being very organized and two steps ahead of everyone in the court room. With his knowledge and aggressive skill set we were able to win my case and was dismissed. I was very pleased with the outcome and would recommend this attorney to anyone. He will stand up for you and your rights to deliver the best outcome of any case that is brought to him. Thanks Again.
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15 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Paul to help me with a DUI charge that I faced in Kansas. From the beginning, I knew I was in good hands. He was thorough, persistent with communication, and able to defend me to the greatest degree when the time came to do so. We won my DUI case, and I could not be happier with the results, as well as the effort that Paul put forth in making it happen. If you ever need someone who knows the law and is willing to fight to the end to win, you should absolutely consider hiring Paul Burmaster as your attorney.
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05 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I was stopped for a DUI and Paul convinced me to go all the way through trial. After the prosecution wasn't able to get my case ready for speedy trial, he managed to get the case dismissed.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Nicha adams
Very disappointed in my results from Jessica Timm. In the 1.5 years she had my case I only had 30 minutes of medical treatment. I had a slip and fall where I hit my head and was knocked unconscious, broke my nose and was left disfigured. I just didn't feel like she worked for me. Communication slow or not at all. She also represented me in a car accident prior to that they were close together but had I gotten the results from the car wreck, which were poor also, I would have went elsewhere for the fall. I had no medical treatments from the party who hit me on this case either and the monetary settlement was not worth my troubles. She got more than I did. Very disappointing that I now live with problems like headaches, facial swelling, blurred vision and brain fog but received no treatments.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Muramesa21
I enjoyed the fact that I could get a hold of my lawyer quickly during the day and their clear explanations of how they move forward when my case had complications.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Noel staats
Patterson Legal was great to work with on my case. I was informed of the process every step of the way. I would highly recommend.
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05 Apr, 2021 by Tjay
He handled an unemployment appeal for my daughter. He was knowledgeable, understanding and provided clear direction on what to expect. The outcome of the hearing would have been different without his experience in how the appeal process works.
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30 Dec, 2013 by Scott
I was denied unemployment benefits and hired mike to appeal the case. I was very worried about paying my bills while looking for a new job. Mike made me feel comfortable about the situation and was always just a phone call away, it was worth every penny of his cost. WE WON!!!!!!
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30 Sep, 2013 by Heather
Mike is a great guy and attorney. We first used him for a work comp case for my husband and then most recently he helped me win my disability case, which was no easy task. I will definitely use him again in the future if the need arises and continue to recommend him to anyone who is in need of an attorney, even if he can't help personally, he will point you in the right direction.
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03 Sep, 2017 by Gordon mcdowell
Michael returned my request for information over the weekend. He was quick to get me into the office to talk about my case and I was surprised that he had all the answers to my questions and gave additional information i didnt think to ask about. I give him a 10 star rating and I want to thank AVVO for putting his firm on the list to contact. I waited for three months and was not getting medical care. A week after retaining his firm I was getting the care I should have in the beginning. We have a ways to go yet but I am no longer worried about it because I have a firm who cares about me and my family. They care about the law and the rights that are so often deprived of people. He is not the everyday run of the mill attorney, he actually cares and practices law from the heart and not the pocket book.
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22 Apr, 2016 by Ted
Mike and I have now been dealing with my work injury for over a year now. And not once has this man let me down. It has been a long, trying road for sure. But Mike has a rare and special quality of being a top notch expert and still has time and compassion for his clients. With Mike as your Lawyer, you will not ever be lost on where things are with your case and you'll always be treated with respect. Thanks to Mike I am now getting the surgery I need to be the Dad and Husband my family needs me to be. So if you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of being injured at work, you can't go wrong with hiring this man. He's honest, dependable and really cares about the people he represents.
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07 May, 2015 by Ted
Mike always has kept me informed along the way of this work comp nightmare. He actually cares about me as a person and always tries to keep me updated and gets back to me the same day when I call or email. If you need a good work comp lawyer I honestly believe he is the best at what he does and he is a very rare breed.
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26 Mar, 2022 by Jennifer
I needed an attorney in 2011 for a case where I was run over by an ex boyfriend. I highly recommend Mr. Neustrom. My family contacted Mr. Neustrom while I was in the hospital (Wichita, Ks) a hour and fifteen minutes away from home and he drove to the hospital the next day to speak with me. He went above and beyond. Mr. Neustrom and the rest of the team eased my mind about the whole process. Definitely great customer service and professionalism. All my calls were answered and or returned. Honest and trustworthy. He mailed me a check after the case was settled due to the companies lack of communication for payment. Mr. Neustrom is the one I will call on. Thank you so much for everything!
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01 Sep, 2017 by Paula
My car accident was in 2010. This case was an international case because I am an international student who is from Taiwan. I studied in Salina kansas and it happened in South Dakota. He pretected my rights and explained every detials for me. I really apprecatied everything he had done for me. After I moved to Nebraska, he still help me to understand some legal questions even introduced me his office attorney to help when he was busy. Once again, he works hard and help me a lot but only for money.
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10 Feb, 2015 by Kirk
When I was injured in an on-the-job accident in 1999, Pat was the attorney I chose to represent me because he was a neighbor and a personal friend, who I had known for nearly ten years. Pat helped me secure an award for the state maximum amount, as well as an agreement that obligated the work comp insurer for future, accident-related, medical expenses. I settled into an amicable relationship with the insurer that lasted for nearly 10 years, but suddenly, for reasons that I've never been able to discern, I began having trouble securing insurance approval for prescribed medicines. Additionally, the insurer demanded I consult a physician located 3 hours away because they were "concerned about the quality of care" my pain management physician was providing. I suspected their concern was more likely centered on prescription cost, rather than quality of care, but I knew I needed legal help to resolve the issue. Even though it had been nearly a decade since Pat had worked on my case, he and his staff gathered the information they needed to adequately, successfully, confront the insurance company and convince them that they would not fare well if this matter would appear before a judge. It's probably no surprise that the insurance company tried several times to make it more difficult for me to maintain the level of pain control I enjoyed prior to their "concern" for my welfare, but Pat successfully met and overcame every challenge. He also submitted the bill for his services to the insurance company, who having been unable to produce a single, successful, legal outcome, signaled total defeat by paying for my defense! I don't know how Pat's performance could possibly be improved.
Pat provides advice that is reasoned and reliable. His strategies are informed by nearly 40 years of experience, which renders them particularly effective. He is practical, but he never made me feel that I was just a "client" or that my issues were just components of a "case". Pat never lost sight of me as a person, and he understood that the result of the insurance company's failure to live up to their responsibilities, was an increase in my physical pain. Pat and his excellent staff worked with an urgency that made me feel as though they were experiencing that same pain. Who could ask anything more?
I give Patrik Neustrom my highest recommendation.
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10 May, 2016 by Rick
I first discovered Tamar when I was a passenger in a car that was involved in an accident. She was very thorough, kind, understanding and effective. That was about 16 years ago I think. Since then she has represented a friend in a workers compensation case and two other friends in car accidents and everyone has been very satisfied with her work. She is not only a great lawyer but she is honest and responds to her clients. Having been in business for myself for many years and used many different types of attorneys, Tamara is the most effective I have ever been associated with and would highly recommend her. No issues with her whatsoever. Great person also.
Rick in wichita ks
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23 Apr, 2016 by Bob hiller
Tamara Collins has had several Medicaid clients over the years, and we often discussed the issues relating to Medicaid subrogation under KSA 39-719. Tamara worked in a way that allowed everyone to benefit from settlements and payouts to Medicaid that were equitable for all involved. Tamara is a very good attorney, and it has been a pleasure to work with her over the years.
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25 May, 2024 by Justin
After being in a 6 car pile up I was left in poor shape. My life will never be the same. But Scott Mann has been the fighting force in ensuring my family received justice. And he has yet to fail my family and instead is fighting in the trenches to ensure we are cared for. In no world would I ever be able to endorse a firm more eagerly than this. Thank you for being my teammate and ally!
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28 Feb, 2024 by Jeff
I was injured at work which required multiple surgerys and physical therapy. I'd never been through this before. The insurance carrier for my employer said they'd take care of everything but then the place where I was being treated started bouncing bills back to me. This was confusing and scary. A local attorney suggested Mr. Voegeli for a consult. He took the reigns from there and absolutely shouldered all the stress and worries. Excellent support staff and a bulldog advocate with clear communication skills. I would recommend Mr. Voegeli as the first call you make if injured on the job. He will protect you.
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12 Feb, 2020 by Tim
Brian really did a good job at getting me healed when the company Dr's were trying to brush me off he made things happen
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04 Jun, 2013 by Olivia
I have recommended Trent Besse on several occasions. He has helped me settle 2 workmen's comp cases, as well as one for my son. I like the way he keeps me informed with the progress of the case. He knows the law and makes solid recommendations to me. I am agreeable with the settlements he gets for me. I will call him again, in a heart beat.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Kyle thompson
Mike has been an incredible asset and a wonderful source of calm for my family in what is the hardest time of our lives. He has helped us immensely through his tireless dedication and expert legal advice. He was able to, under a very constrained timeline, sort out all of the necessary paperwork to bring stability and clarity to my families estate, and he has done it all with a tremendous amount of respect and empathy for our unique situation and challenges. I cannot begin to recommend him enough to anyone who may be considering estate planning or who requires his expert assistance.
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14 Nov, 2023 by Jacqueline herring
Wonderful
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05 Nov, 2023 by Bridget avery
15 Jul, 2024 by Kyle thompson
Mike has been an incredible asset and a wonderful source of calm for my family in what is the hardest time of our lives. He has helped us immensely through his tireless dedication and expert legal advice. He was able to, under a very constrained timeline, sort out all of the necessary paperwork to bring stability and clarity to my families estate, and he has done it all with a tremendous amount of respect and empathy for our unique situation and challenges. I cannot begin to recommend him enough to anyone who may be considering estate planning or who requires his expert assistance.
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14 Nov, 2023 by Jacqueline herring
Wonderful
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05 Nov, 2023 by Bridget avery
09 Jan, 2023 by Jen avinger
05 Aug, 2022 by Brittany sanders
01 Oct, 2021 by Sean meyer
06 Dec, 2024 by Erica berry
Mr.Wellman is absolutely wonderful ! He helped me with my bankruptcy and was very patient and supportive of me and everything I was going through . He always responded to me and communicated well . He never treated me like he was too busy like some attorneys do . One of the biggest things I’m grateful for was his ability to communicate and clarify things in a way where I could understand . I will always recommend him and use him for all future legal matters . Best attorney in KC !!!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Peter cabell
Mr Perelmuter has provided me with good advice and suggestions to approach the arduous process of legal immigration my daughter and her husband have faced. I have so much appreciated his straightforward and honest guidance.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Barbara baker
26 Jul, 2024 by Kassie ingram
Very knowledgeable and professional. Direct and straight to the point. He is the guy!
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24 Jul, 2024 by Nathan kovac
Kramer knows what he is doing.
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17 Feb, 2024 by David bowden
Please read
Scott myself and the family thank you for the making sure the right result took place. Kelsey, thank you for taking my calls,following up and listening after the follow ups lol.
You both are extraordinary due to the fact you cared and I am living proof you wont stop until that right result happens.
I recommend Scott and his team to all!
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13 Nov, 2022 by George soriano
Samuel is a great person
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01 Jun, 2023 by Andrea hernandez
Great lawyer!
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20 Oct, 2022 by Yasmin herdoiza
Gary is a fantastic bilingual lawyer! He knows the law and is very thorough.
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02 Dec, 2018 by Susann ramirez
30 Aug, 2021 by Sean ehrman
I am very thankful for Mike Bandre, one of the associates to this law firm. They are all extremely friendly.
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16 Nov, 2020 by Cory fryman
12 Mar, 2020 by Janice brim
18 Apr, 2020 by Shirlene parker
I highly recommend Gary Rappard. Gary, did an amazing job on my case! He is a wonderful, knowledgeable attorney and works hard on your side! I will definitely call him first if I ever needed his type of services again! Thank you, Gary, you are great!
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23 Dec, 2024 by Jackie fields
Everything worked great.You and your office are awesome. Glad I can to you guys.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Michael french
Brian, and his staff are very knowledgeable and get things done. Would refer in a second.you need legal representation call 2 Brians.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Mario mayta
Great and professional service.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Tammy minnis
I’ve been very happy with Zac and his secretary Jane. Zac has kept me informed with what’s happening in my case as it progresses. I would highly recommend him.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Fermin saldivar
I am 100% satisfied very nice people and professional. The most important part for me was when I met them for the first time. The attorney gave me sufficient time to explain my problem . Thank you . Mark and Burkhead
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27 Nov, 2024 by Antman
Keith Mark came highly recommended and didn't disappoint. He kept me informed throughout the process and was looking out for my best interest...Jane was great with all my questions and responded quickly when I had one...These two are great and won't let you down
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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:
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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.
