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14 May, 2022 by Sharyl
Many thanks to my wonderful attorney Jeff Duarte of Kelly, Duarte, Urstoeger & Ruble, LLP. For the past 2 plus years Mr. Duarte successfully completed my workman’s comp case. He is very knowledgeable countering the issues of workman’s comp. Mr. Duarte is a skilled professional and a tough negotiator when necessary, yet very caring and personable. He listened to my concerns, broke down “legalese” language to understandable lay terminology which allowed me to make informed decisions. Representing me, his actions always demonstrated he had my best interest at heart. Mr. Duarte and his staff were attentive and consistent in responding to all my inquiries throughout the legal journey. If you need someone to go to battle for you to successfully “divide and conquer” your case, I highly recommend Attorney Jeff Duarte for your legal concerns. I’m ever so grateful I was referred to him. Thank you, Jeff.
Sharyl Nitta RDH.
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07 Sep, 2024 by Adrian alcantar
I don’t understand where these false reviews are coming from for Gary Nelson but I can assure you Gary Nelson handled my case in such a professional manner. He was very responsive and very understanding about the situation I was with my work related injury he helped me secure a settlement so I could put my accident behind me. Gary Nelson is highly recommended he will get the job done. Responsive and quick with filling paper work I spoke to him and in that same week he had paper work going out that very same week. Like I mentioned he is very responsive and he is very friendly and respectful 10/10 highly recommended.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Sarah gerber
Very good at there job and I was very pleased with the guidance they ate giving me
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27 Aug, 2024 by Kawaljit singh
One of the best in the 209. Just had to call and everything else was taking care of with ease. Really great staff and I really had to do nothing. They were not lying when they said I don’t have to worry about anything, they’ll take care of everything. And they did
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19 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I had him as a lawyer and this has to be the worst ever. He never returns any messages or staff. They are so unprofessional and would not recommend him at all. Don't hire him as you will forever regret it. I would rate them a below 0 but will not allow me to.
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24 Jun, 2021 by Alicia
This has got to be the worst office, my husband had him as a lawyer for 4 months. His wife-Paralegal yelled at my husband when he called and asked for a milleage form and some questions about his case.My husband would call and leave messages with no response. He has injuries that require a Dr because he is in pain and he sent him to a chiropractor. We switched lawyers now this office wants$10,000 for supposedly working on my husband's case for 4 months which I'm not sure what he did besides sending him to a chiropractor. And he has the oddasity to not releasing my husband's case file. Now he can't even go to the Dr either because of what this lawyer is doing.. STAY AWAY FROM THIS OFFICE YOU WILL REGRET IT!
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13 Feb, 2019 by Stephanie
If I could give a rate to this place it would be a 0. The law attorney, Esequiel Solorio, has been working on my mother's case for 4 years and still has not solved her case. He has failed to send her to the doctors within the first 2 years up until last year; now she has gotten worse from her injuries. He doesn't want to advance her case, based on my observations. It seems like he just wants my mother to give up and settle with the 58k for her permanent disability on 2 injuries knowing she has 3 injuries! It's upsetting, because as an attorney, you should do everything in your power to fight your client's case. Also, her assistant, Cecilia is not attentive.
NOT RECOMMENDABLE.
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24 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
I had a workers comp accident over 5 years ago, the paperwork and dealing with the W/C insurance was way over my understanding and time I had. I seen this attorney's office while driving through Modesto and went for a consultation. I talked to John Gonzales and he insured me that he and his staff would take care of it all and make sure it gets handled correctly. After signing the papers hiring this firm, I have not been able to speak to the attorney I hired even once since. They are so far behind on my case that they were sending me letters saying my MRI was denied and they were not going to file against it, when I had a actually already had the MRI and even the surgery over 6 months prior to the letter. This firm is such a disappointment due to there lack of client compassion, do not keep up on my case at least or have any desire to call me back and file what I ask of them and have completely dropped me from getting information that I desperately need. Now what ? I can not find any attorney to take my case after John Gonzales had it, they will not work for me and when I go into the office and demand they talk to me about my case, it seems as if they just gave up working for me and or got paid off by my employer, which is a big company in the local area. Had to have 5 surgeries and a joint replacement, the other joint is bad also due to this injury and still they do nothing.
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31 Jan, 2013 by Dune
I have been trying to get on Social Security Disability for sometime and I have waited for over a week to 10 days to have an phone interview with Sharon Kelly and I have been very stressed over my situation and I was trying to explain to her what was going on. She and I were only on the phone for less then a minute and she told me that I talked to much and just Hung up on Me.. That was Wrong.!!! I don't care how much education you might have. There is such thing called Good Manners and companion. Because of her arrogance and narcissist attitude I Would Not Recommend her as an attorney. I don't care how good she thinks she is. If she wanted me to slow down in my conversation she said OK, slow down and take a breath and let me talk.. Instead she said that I talked to much and just Hung Up On Me... Less then on minute of a conversation with her. Sharon Kelly Just Don't be a hateful, inconsiderate person and just Don't Hang Up ON A Person.. You Should Not Waist Your Time with This Law Office.. There are other and Better Attorney's then Sharon Kelly.. Just to let you Know so you Don't get hung up..
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20 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
this lawyer only cares about how much money ur case will bring him, he doesnt care about the person or their injury. you will NEVER get returned phone calls, he has the highest turnover rate for staff, and no one ever seems to know what's going on with ur case, he does not fight for his cilents rights, he will tell u one thing and then 2 months down the road tell u he doesnt know what ur talking about. he was hired in 2009 didnt receive a returned phone call from his office till Oct 2011, he is more instrested in my personal life then he is my case, one of his paralegal staff members was fired for screwing up mine and serval others peoples files, the new paralegal had called me asking me what was going on with my case, i had to tell her she was asking the wrong person cuz i never had a returned phone call from anyone at his office. Find someone who cares about ur injury and will fight for you, cuz Adam Stewart WONT.....
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FAQs
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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.
