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07 Jan, 2025 by Matthew
From the start, they made a stressful situation much more manageable. They were not only professional and knowledgeable but also genuinely compassionate about my case.
The lawyer took the time to explain the entire process in detail, ensuring I understood each step. They were always available to answer questions and provide updates, which gave me peace of mind throughout the process.
What impressed me most was their thorough approach. They left no stone unturned, gathering all necessary documentation and evidence to build a strong case on my behalf. Thanks to their hard work, I was able to get a fair settlement that allowed me to focus on recovering from my injury instead of worrying about legal complexities.
If you’re looking for a lawyer who is dedicated, responsive, and effective, I highly recommend
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28 Dec, 2016 by Michelle
Horrible compensation lawyer. He never returned phone calls that were made to him. The paralegal always said he was out of office and would say that he would get back to me but again that never happened. He got paid for not doing his job. I will never recommend him to anyone,
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26 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
Christopher Mesh made me feel like I wasn't a priority. He asked me to ask my doctor to lie for me. He asked me to lie to unemployment. To delay my care and treatment. He didn't go over the fine details with me for my original award. He didn't fight for me to cover all of my injuries. He only focused on the part of my injury that would make him money. Now, I'm still out of work, not getting any wages, and fighting for approval for my meds, procedures, etc. on my own. He's currently not making any money off of my case, and he clearly only cares and does his job when there are dollar signs in his future.
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26 Aug, 2013 by Theodore
Chris was great, better than I hoped. He stated it would take anywhere from 4 mos. to 2 years to get my SSD claim approved. In 4 mos. I received my approval. He walked me through the letter from my PMD, and reviewed my SSD questionnaire before submitting it. He took care of everything else after an approx. 1 hour meeting with my wife and I. If you need help with an SSD claim, Christopher Mesh, and Connors and Ferris is where you want to be.
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23 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
I felt compelled to write a review based upon my experience with Mr. Saline. It was a tough decision as far as an attorney to use for my case. I had thought about using another attorney, who I understand would be his "competition" in White Plains, but had heard mixed reviews about the other attorney. My wife and I decided to go with Mr. Saline and WOW are we glad. He basically won us exactly as he said he would as well as explaining the process as we went along. He did not promise us the moon. We appreciate his honesty.
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26 Dec, 2012 by Tom
I hired him for my workers compensation case. He gave me a great initial meeting a few returned phone calls and that was it.
I thought he cared as an ex cop. I was wrong. I had to call him again and again and again for a return phone call. He never moved my case forward. I finally switched to a different firm with a lawyer who cares about my case .
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17 Jun, 2022 by Kadaya james
17 Jul, 2021 by Jenny castillo
Thank you guys for everything... They did everything possible to get my case going I highly recommend them to everyone, I give them two thumbs up...God bless 🙏 I'm extremely happy🙌🏻
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18 Jun, 2021 by Raulhp01 privado
I had a wonderful experience working with the attorneys at Rosado, Apat, and Dudley. I have so much gratitude for the support they offered in my case. It was such a pleasure to work with them and the entire firm through what can be a difficult and complex process. Throughout the entire experience, the staff helped guide me through every step of the way from getting access to the needed therapy to the court proceedings. I felt very well taken care of and informed so I would highly recommend working with this firm.
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04 Nov, 2022 by Radiate motivate
25 Sep, 2022 by Scott webber
Quality firm
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17 Dec, 2021 by Ivan del toro
21 Feb, 2014 by Marsha
I called late in the day on a Friday and was pleasantly surprised to receive a call back. Attorney Ann Ruffer spent well over 1/2 hour and answered all my questions. She thoroughly explained both the pros and cons of my case in terms that were easy for me to understand. She is both kind and smart, but can be a fighter when she needs to be. I am happy to have Ann Ruffer on my side. I highly recommend her if you need a successful outcome.
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11 Apr, 2013 by Gp
I did not feel supported by this attorney. I had valid questions that were dismissed. Very disappointed.
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04 Apr, 2013 by Mh
Unfortunately, I was very disappointed in
Anne. Initially very engaging, but once she
Collected her $2500, I felt abandoned.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Mark was the greatest, most caring Attorney! He got me the best help, the best surgeon in New York. I had a spinal fusion which was scary. He was very knowledgeable on every level!, medically, psychologically, nutritionally. A very well rounded Attorney and human being. He tries to give each client individual attention and if you had his case loads, you may have delayed responses also. So you critics give him a break. I’ve had Attorneys for various reasons and he was the best.
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20 Sep, 2019 by Donna
Mark represented me for my workers compensation case. Recently I have been having a lot of issue with them. I called Mark and took weeks to hear back. Then suddenly about three weeks ago he called me and had a hearing about my case. He had no idea what was going on, what the issues were and stated he would call me later that day with update. Since then nothing! I call leave messages, an nothing. This is going on a month now!
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30 Nov, 2018 by Martha
Mark Schulman has been my attorney for many years now but for some reason I call and leave messages and he never returns my calls. I have trouble getting refills on my prescriptions and he told me to call his office and they would help me. Unfortunately there's never anyone in the office to help and if I leave a message his secretary Amanda never returns my calls. Why do I have an attorney that's not there to help me??
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31 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Won’t do anything for you to help you make smart decisions. His staff isn’t much better either. Do yourself a favor and stay away!
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06 Nov, 2019 by Jimmy b
Mr. Newman Esq. was my Attorney for a workers comp case, He was a no nonsense and professional, The staff was excellent, very helpful and knowledgeable, they do care and showed concerned for my case.
Mr. Newman and his staff really came thru, They never gave up, worked very hard for my case and got great results. Highly recommended.
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30 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I don’t want to disclose the details, so I’m just going to keep it short and simple. Michael Newman is a terrible attorney along with his paralegals Chris and english. I Hired Michael J Newman because I trusted him. He requested to withdraw from the board 20 days from a deadline. He did this when I recently just Undergone s. He abandoned me in my most vulnerable state.
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08 Jan, 2021 by Taryn
Phyllis was hired to handle my home closing. She failed to attend, and therefore has no clue what transpired. I am still trying to fix what she messed up 7 months ago. She gas now stopped returning my emails. I am left to fight with the bank, title company, village, county and other attorney.
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01 Oct, 2020 by Brian
Just wanted to add my 2 cents since that other review looks bogus. This is all my opinion, but...
I felt Phyllis Shandler dressed unprofessionally (wrinkled clothing, hair a mess).
I remember I had to call a lot to follow up, because their office didn't keep on top of matters.
It was for a mortgage. IMO Shandler overcomplicated the process and made it drag on. Maybe to rack up a big bill? Who knows.
I DO NOT recommend Shandler or her firm. Two thumbs down from me.
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04 Nov, 2010 by Anonymous
She was able to do what she had initially told me she would do. It was extremely rewarding to me and my family
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29 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired John Federice for my Workers Comp injury. John has been on my case from the beginning to the end. 100% professional and courteous to my many phone calls and emails. John Federice is a fighter for his clients, end of story!
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15 May, 2021 by Andrew
They used to be good when I first signed on. Now they don't return calls, secretary can't be bothered to answer any simple questions even giving the fax number she was sighing on the other end of the phone as if it was not her job to give me the number. When you do get a call back they don't even review you file and have no idea what is even going on in the case. Absolutely unprofessional and useless
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06 Jan, 2021 by Donald
Called 19 times since November 3rd. I will not do four more years with these imbecile low grade attorneys they have went downhill significantly on the past year especially.
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21 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
I called James Troy after being told he was the best in town and he may be , however when it came time to get records he had me running all over town getting them. When it came that the insurance carrier wanted to settle he did not give me all the facts so I almost made a bad choose and signed off on the medical. Then after being harassed buy the carrier, when I said something to him about it his response was lets wait until they do it again. After I had surgery they dragged right into court because the had to paid for full disability, I still had stitches in my back and he said he had another case with a new client so he put me off to one of his associates how went in and talked to the lawyer for the carrier, he came out and told me if I agreed to let them put me back to my mark rate they would leave me alone, if not they were going to keep calling me into court a sending me to see there Dr. until I went back to the mark rate. Needless to say I have fired the firm and do not recommend Jim Troy to anyone anymore. The said thing is I had recommended he to several people.
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26 Aug, 2013 by William
I have had Troy's office on my claim.. they are slow to get back to you at times.. but over all I was pretty happy with them..
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16 Mar, 2011 by Jane
my husband was in the courthouse and this office had an attorney there and asked if we needed any help and we said yes. that was close to 6 six years ago and now we are finally looking for a new attorney. they have been unhelpful,rude, and always losing information sent to them.
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18 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
doesnt know the law and as a result really hurt my case. and cost me alot of my money. never called me back. the people who work in his office are very rude.
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23 Sep, 2019 by Steve
Worst experience I ever had with an attorney. No regard for his clients. Does not do the right thing. Never kept me informed and did not relay settlement offers to me that could have gotten me out of the case
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06 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. McGillicuddy as my attorney to represent me in a worker’s compensation case against my company. This was necessary in order to obtain authorization for the back surgery I required because of a work related injury. This case was against a very large semiconductor manufacturing facility in Poughkeepsie New York. Mr. McGillicuddy promised during our consultations that when the time comes to present our case at the compensation board he will bring out all the necessary facts. Mr. McGillicuddy requested from me any information I could supply involving the company accident. This included any of my reviews which would be helpful to my case in court. I did so and also provided him with an excellent review. He said this would be very beneficial at our hearing with the compensation judge. The compensation board hearing with the judge did not take place for many months. Within this time period I required extensive back surgery. This required steel plates with screws and a spinal fusion. Just before the compensation board hearing was to take place Mr. McGillicuddy had me in his office for a final consultation. When I asked about the good review I had given him he stated “he could not find it” but said it is not needed since it will be “his day in court”. During the morning of the compensation board hearing I entered the court to find Mr. McGillicuddy was not present. When asked, the court informed me that another attorney had been provided in his place. This attorney was a retired judge and he was not even familiar with me or my name. I had never seen or heard about him in any meetings with Mr. McGillicuddy and he never informed me about him. Thank goodness for the fact that my orthopedic surgeon was there as a witness in my case. If you are looking for a competent attorney who is working with you I would defiantly not recommend Mr. McGillicuddy under any circumstances. Look somewhere else. Gave one star only to post review, otherwise a zero!
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05 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
I was with Mr Balter for a year. He promised to set up a trial for workers comp case. Two months later I had another lawyer check on it. Guess what? He did not do as he promised in his email. He is an author of a major book in the workers comp world. My case is a serious one, One with major surgeries. I do not understand why he put my case to the side.
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25 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I had a very poor experience with this attorney.
First of all, he is supposed to be representing clients who have sustained bodily injury and he talks more about his own injuries (which he always seems to be recovering from) then the clients.
Secondly, although I am aware that this is a business, it is quite irritating when an attorney treats a case with an expected large judgement very differently than those with a potentially more moderate award.
Thirdly, he is very short staffed and is overwhelmed with handling even the simplest tasks which wind up taking an undue amount of time to complete. This creates a domino effect where important components appear to be rushed.
In conclusion, there are better choices out there and if I had to go through this again I would look elsewhere.
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04 May, 2023 by Anonymous
If I could give ZERO stars, I would have. He is lewd and unprofessional. Hard pass!
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17 Feb, 2015 by Nora
Ms. Sambur did a terrible job representing me. She combined four cases into one for reasons u can't figure out. I am trying yo sort thru the damage she did.
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11 Mar, 2019 by Artemis realty
Lambros was my closing attorney ,yet two years later he Sue's me with my ex everything over same transaction he lambros and his firm effectuated .How so? Sad but he never gave me copy of my owners title policy that insured me and would show I am was true owner at 142 w 83street and not an alleged nominee that never existed . Hes a horrible attorney who compromised me his client and other things he did with a firm his affiliated with. He shows no face either . People beware of his transactions . On top of the fact the property never had marketable title so how the hell did it go forward anyways ? People beware .
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03 May, 2016 by Anonymous
The attorney was my closing attorney on West 83St. Two years after he goes along with my ex everyhthing to allege to sue me over same conveyence he transacted , alleging some nominee crap that ever existed, he even had title certified to me, malpractice is more like it here right Lambros? Then again can't legally sue me over his screwup...Never hire him his firm...
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05 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Everything that is said about this law firm is absolutely correct, they mislead, lie, conceal, alter, and works with workman's compensation and cut deals that hurt you the client and benifit them and comp. Stay clear of th onis law firm . Horrible lawyers, receptionist, I feel sorry for all those who will get ripped by these idiots. You need a good attorney Murad and Murad, Utica, My. Don't waist your time with Carlisle it will be years of grief and you will get nothing
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28 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Preston Carlisle's office has been very unprofessional and uncaring. He and his office are not responsive to questions. This attorney and his staff have kept me totally in the dark about the entire process and have told me incorrect information and inconsistent information on many different occasions. They have lost nearly every document I have dropped off to them and then accused me of not bringing them. They appear to be not trustworthy at all and their inconsistent and inaccurate information make me question how they have operated in this practice for years. I do not trust them and do not find them knowledgeable AT ALL. They have not put in any real work and I have had to do WAY too much just as a client when all I should be focusing on is getting my injuries taken care of.
Carlisle has told me to "Shut up," hes "not making any money off me anyway," and expressed literal disdain for my appearance of physical discomfort that stems from my injuries. I cannot control the fact that I am injured and I need an advocate not abuse from a person who is supposed to be helping me. I am absolutely disgusted by how I have been treated. Injured people beware! Stay away from this attorneys practice!!!!
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16 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Maio I knew about his history after he was spppointed for my case
MrMaio is in responsive to essential issues for his client Duch as paper work filing t. Jydge said to him , I think we can do better Mr. Maio . He comes yo the court completely unorepaid. Never tell his client what is going on even the prepared orders which has never been informed to his client
Giving the client an appointment , he is not there in the office neither he has some one else answer his call
For a single filing for modification of support which should be ready six months before ended up that his client is paying support far by more than his monthly incom
Take a big retainer cash in front and does not do anything for his client , does not want yo recuse himself , refund the retainer or give a copy of the client file
I am not recommending him at all specially for the poor attorney who will get nothing !!
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09 Aug, 2019 by Scott
He was hired for a criminal matter, failed to contact Investigator, he was supposed to file motions and when we had to be in court for motion hearing, I receive a call from his secretary 10 minutes after the hearing was supposed to start that he was ill. Found out a week later, he never prepared a motion. I informed his secretary he was fired and 7 hours after firing him he submitts his 2 month past due motion, to say that he did file a motion. He never returns calls, does not investigate any case law. DO NOT HIRE!!! HE TOOK OVER $6,000 from me
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14 Dec, 2021 by Brian
Pat Fiore does not return phone calls,if he does he treats you like lesser person than him. Had to file a complaint with nysba,because the insurance company stopped paying me 3 weeks before Xmas. Try calling 518-783-2600 to see if he's available. Good luck!
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26 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Failed to include all doctor bills to be paid in final settlement. When we called his office and asked for help they never got back to us, even though we tried several times. We were finally told by his paralegal to just pay it out of our own pocket. Just be ware that you don't get stuck for huge bills do to their oversight. I wouldn't recommend their practice.
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25 Oct, 2023 by Richard
Unresponsible ? to mean he showed up to a hearing for a summary judgement motion telling me it was an inconsequential hearing and would not change my chances of prevailing. More than just being unprepared , he had not been assigned to my case, I had never seen him before and he and knew nothing about it. But through
his actions he did more for the other side than he did for me. He refused to look at any case changing documents, refused to hear anything I had to say, refused to honor my request to postpone the hearing, and plunged forward with cookbook defense while completely missing the critical details. Then he had audacity to blame me for his incompetence .It was as if he was being aid by the other side to loose the case, as it would be hard to be more incompetent than he was. But according to a A large number of reviews on line, and I believe a majority of on line reviews, state that the entire law firm he works for, Zelenitz+Shapiro et al, consistently demonstrates a lack integrity, responsibility, and ethical standards, and prefers to fleece the client of their money than actually trying to win a case, as evidenced by taking my money, and for an entire year, never even assigning an attorney to my case, refusing to review huge amount of supporting evidence I have, talking with my prior attorney who documented bad faith, never spoke with any of us to find out what happened and other critical details, never provide. d any statement of expenses for doing noting, misrepresenting a critical hearing as being inconsequential and discouraging me from attending, not talking to the prior attorney who documented the bad faith of the opposing side, never speaking with us or anyone who was actually involved in the case, and instead using a cookbook generic approach that was not appropriate in our case. They refused my offer to not point the finger at them or file complaints or hold them responsible so we could just move forward so I would not be wrongly evicted and end up on the street. That would mean requesting a re-hearing and filing a solid appeal. Instead they refused to discuss anything and dropped me like a hot potato, refusing to take my calls or answer my emails. They never provided any statement of account yet took the entire retainer. They also falsely told me there is noting I can do to correct their negligence or how to overcome it so I am not unjustly evicted. They refuse to admit they did anything wrong, when they did EVERYTHING, wrong. THE LARGE NUMBER OF ON LINE REVIEWS THAT SAY ALMOST THE SAME THINGS GO BACK TO 2O14 AND SHOW A DISTINCT PATTERN OF ABUSING CLIENTS TO TAKE THEIR MONEY AND NOT GIVE A FLYING ____ ABOUT WINING THEIR CASES.
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04 Nov, 2015 by Jeff
I used him for a Workers Compensation case. His office missed deadlines and we only won due to the other side's doctor not being available for testimony.
When my condition worsened we tried to reopen the case. He never really got behind it. When the judge stated that since the doctor said I required surgery when the case was first closed and that now I require surgery, there has been no change in condition so case can't be reopened. The problem with this is that the doctor never said I required surgery when the case was first closed. Within two weeks of receiving this letter I asked for them to appeal the decision. They never did!
Two years later I was able to get another judge to look at the case. The summation letter written by the other side was full of false statements and made up testimony that did not exist. Wachtell's response to the letter was silence. DO NOT USE THIS FIRM UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES!!!
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31 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
Does not call you back. Does not seem to work for you. Will charge you extra and still get nothing done. Does not care about your case or your family only his small business! Will harrass you to sign papers for his money and for his to charge you more but then you have to harrass him to find out thatnothings been done. Don't waste your time or money. Keep looking!!!
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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.
