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01 Mar, 2013 by Harold
I've known Jeff for over 8 years and he has handled both professional and private matters for me during that time. Jeff helped me incorporate my business, I chose him to represent a family member in a DUI/DWI case and he represented me in a mediation settlement. In each situation Jeff has handled himself in a courteous and professional manner and the results have all been more than satisfactory. I would not hesitate to use him again for any legal matter.
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28 Feb, 2013 by Cassandra
I have had the pleasure of working with Atty. Carmon for the past three years. He assists with corporate legal matters for my business and other civil legal matters as they arise. He is highly professional and efficient. I trust his legal counsel completely and often turn to him for his sage advice. Atty. Carmon works extremely hard for all of his clients and is always accessible to answer questions. I give him my highest recommendation.
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30 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
I would recommend Mr. Parrotte to anyone that need help in the legal system. He treated me with dignity and respect. He explained all my options and never made me feel that I should take any plea that I didn't think I should. I never waiver in my innocence and he stuck with me. I was honest with him and he helped me to the very end. Thankful to have had such a highly professional representative.
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03 Feb, 2017 by Kenneth
I hired Mr. Richard (Rick) Parrotte in June 2016 after spending fifteen months with another lawyer who was unable to move the case to closure. Within four months of taking my case, Rich was able to close the case with a settlement that could have been completed one year earlier.
Rick was forthright, reasonable in cost, answered all my questions, provided clear feedback, direction and was able to take a floundering case and move it to closure within a very short period of time of four months.
I wish my first lawyer had the integrity that Rick presented to me. He kept me informed, did not mislead me, made sure I understood what he was doing, why he was doing it, and explained any options that I need to make.
Rick was a pleasure to work with and I highly recommend using him by those of us needing a guide through the maze of our legal system.
I would hire Rick again.
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14 Oct, 2016 by Michele
Lee Olive and his team took care of everything for me after I gave them all the facts. They won a nice settlement for me which included medical bills and other costs from an auto accident that I was not at fault for. They were kind and very efficient. I'd recommend him to anyone!
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22 Apr, 2016 by Synthia
I'm so glad that a friend recommended Lee Olive when a needed an attorney. Attorney Olive and his paralegal Mariely Bermudez were wonderful to deal with as I went through the litigation process. Attorney Olive was calm, confident and caring as he explained all aspects of the process and effectively championed my case, while respecting my decisions and circumstances. Mariely was warm, positive and energetic, making sure all the details were handled efficiently and effectively. I was in good hands from start to finish and I would highly recommend this firm to anyone.
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16 Dec, 2020 by Calron
Mr. Meekins was very thorough, professional and considered in my time of need. I would definitely recommend him to my loved ones.
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22 Feb, 2019 by Audrey
I was referred to Mr Meekin's by Farm Bureau, my car insurance company. He listen to what happened in accident, looked over medical papers and took my case. It was such a weight off me to know I had found the right person to take care of the case for me. Mr Meekin's and his paralegal updated me as they worked on the settlement. They did a wonderful job and I would highly recommend Ralph Meekin's
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15 Sep, 2011 by Anonymous
Never having been in the situation of having a serious injury and still wanting/needing to both work and see a doctor, I was very baffled and frustrated by the workmans' compensation system. Mr. Peterman and his staff understood my concerns and supported me throughout the process. They took me seriously which I sincerely needed and appreciated.
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14 Sep, 2011 by Anonymous
Mr Peterman was very honest and knowledgeable on my case. I really felt that he had my best interests in mind. I would definitely use Peterman Law Firm again.
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24 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
The best. I hired Kevin to handle what I knew was going to be a messy divorce given my x-wifes bitterness/ anger/ hatefulness and the amount of martial assets to divide. Not to mention child support and alimony issues. He aced it! Navigated me through the rough waters and it was smooth sailing. Can't same the same for the "big shot" family law specialist my X hired. They did a great job of milking her for thousands in unnecessary legal fees and giving her bad advice.
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11 Jun, 2017 by Dj santjer
Talked with me. Paid attention. One dismissed, one acquitted. DUI ! Excellent references for other counties. No complaints . Reasonable too.
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23 May, 2016 by Lisa portis tickle
George Francisco was very professional. I was well informed through the process. I would hire him again .
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21 Sep, 2015 by Richard
George Francisco exceeded my expectations in all aspects. He calmly and actively listened, understood, and helped to focus my concerns and goals. He then formulated a practical, reasonable plan to accomplish those goals and executed the plan with positive effect in a timely manner. His "people-skills" and "legal skills" are impeccable. His estimates of time, costs, and outcome proved to be "right-on." I recommend him with complete confidence.
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10 Feb, 2014 by Deborah
My worker's comp case began in 2005 while employed with the state. It dragged on forever as I was shuffled doctor to doctor and given the run-around. I was not hurt seriously enough to warrant a court hearing but did need advice as to how to bring my case to closure and still receive a due impairment award. Ben didn't know me and still took the time to properly advise me so that I could handle the case on my own. Because of him, my case is finally coming to an end. He provided me with the proper information to be able to negotiate with the worker's comp company. I was so impressed that he was not concerned about what was in it for him but what was best for me. He is very knowledgeable and easy to understand. He is not an ambulance chaser. Thank you, Ben!
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23 Sep, 2013 by Ronnie
If you been hurt on the job or need a lawyer for any reason, I would highly recommend Ben Whitley. In the court room he'll show just how smart and knowledgeable he is. He comes well prepared with evidence, questions and answers. He can discredit just about every witness the other side has. He is strong, confident and never nervous, and neither should you with him on your side. He will have you well prepared to face your obstacles. The moment he starts to speak you will feel his confidence and you will see the opposing lawyers facial expressions change. After working with him on my case, which we won thanks to Ben and his staff, we are not just a client and a lawyer, but we are friends! When you work with Ben Whitley you will have a new friend for life!
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28 Jan, 2016 by Julie
Initially I didn't think I really needed a lawyer but called them about some questions. A few days later I realized I needed an attorney and called Ashley back. Knowing my situation, he offered to come to see me although I was able to make it to his office.
Ashley didn't always tell me what I wanted to hear but he always told me the truth. He is very knowledgeable and professional. For two years he always returned my calls promptly and got my problems resolved, ( he even sent a representative to the hospital) to make sure I was getting what I needed.
I would highly recommend Ashley if you feel the need to hire an attorney. He is honest and truly cares about his clients.
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05 Nov, 2015 by Mitch
Great Experience with a caring lawyer who took the time to actually meet with me. He handled my case to the end and explained everything. Highly recommended.
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30 Sep, 2019 by William green
Mr James Gillespie
Is one of a kind, he was very professional but most of all what our family appreciated about him is that he was very compassionate, caring, empathetic and extremely patient with us we are forever grateful for the service he rendered on our behalf therefore if you are in need of someone such as this we highly recommend Mr Gillespie.
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25 Feb, 2016 by Joe
I live in the county Elkin NC is located. I have been aware of James Gillespie Practice for nearly 30 years. His experience, professionalism, and knowledgeable about the law and court system is well known.
As a result when it came time to hire an attorney myself in regards to a divorce involving traumatic custody issues, I knew I couldn't trust the safety and future of my children to anyone with less experience and knowledge of the law and court proceedings.
James is always professional. I often shared my opinions on our court proceedings and he always listened. He was very polite in guiding me about the proceedings. While I didn't always understand why we were doing what we were doing as a father, I knew I could trust him. I told him as we went in, I am trusting you with our children the most important part of my life.
I couldn't have done it without him. He stood with me many times in a long drawn out court battle, never wavering in his vigilance for the best interest of our children.
While it was difficult, in the end the courts determined it was in the best interest of the children that I have custody. We still work as a family to get through some things, but because of Jame's professionalism and watchful eye in our case I am no longer concerned with the safety of our children.
I now carry Jame's business cards with me and when I hear of anyone needing an attorney, I am quick to recommend him and pass them a card.
I would highly recommend James Gillespie to anyone who needs an attorney regarding Family, Criminal Defense or Personal Injury.
Quickly in regards to the personal injury, I had an occasion to need a personal injury lawyer in the state of VA. I hired one of the highest recommended lawyers from Blacksburg VA. While he was working my case around 2001, he asked if I knew James Gillespie. I said yes I did. The attorney told me if you or anyone ever needs a personal injury lawyer in NC, tell them to hire James Gillespie. The VA attorney told me James argued a case against him once and he had never had anyone do as good a job as James did against him arguing a personal injury case.
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09 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Chesnutt and his staff will work hard for you in any case you bring to them! He has so much experience in so many different aspects of the law that he can help with anything from a speeding ticket all the way up to a felony in superior court. I wouldn't go anywhere else and neither would my family. Thank you Mr. Chesnutt!
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11 Apr, 2018 by O
Mr. Chesnutt is more than anyone could ever hope for. He is an awesome attorney. His office staff are so welcoming. Where most attorneys are nothing more that paper handlers this man gets the job done. You really feel like he is working for you and does a remarkable job.
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10 Dec, 2022 by Don
Mr Lane litigated a case in Forsyth Superior Court involving 4 plaintiffs who required ingress and egress to their properties. He worked both professionally and personally to prepare plaintiffs, witnesses and historical evidence to support the plaintiffs' claim before a jury of twelve.
Understandably, plaintiffs were emotional and anxious during preparation and litigation of this matter, but Mr Lane's calm demeanor, personal investment, attitude, exhaustive research and presentation served to allay anxieties and, ultimately, provided a positive verdict. We are very happy to have chosen his services.
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15 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
I hired Chris to represent me in a copy right infrigment case. The case is still pending but I am very happy with his services. He returns calls in a timely manner, keeps you updated on your case.
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24 Jul, 2019 by Peter carpenter
Very engaging well versed in social security administration issues, follows up well and shows and becomes engaged in your situation .
Highly recommended Mr. Anthony to help with your case.
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19 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Anthony has been an excellent representative for my child during the horrible social security disability fight. He is very knowledgeable and has kept me well informed throughout the process.
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18 Jan, 2016 by Breonna
GREAT PEOPLE THEY DID A WONDERFUL JOB AND ZEYLAND DOES HAVE A GREAT CROSS EXAMINE. I AM SUPER HAPPY WITH SERVICE AND WOULD DEFINITELY RECOMMEND.
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11 Aug, 2012 by Ronald
Zeyland is an interesting and very competent "country" attorney. He won my criminal case for assault with a belly bump in a pretrial sidebar by getting the judge to laugh about the upcoming case, causing the DA to become uncomfortable and to ask the complainant to drop the charges. So I never got to see him cross examine the complaintant. As the "alleged" belly thumper, I really wanted to see that.
Zeyland has so many cases that getting him to keep you informed is hopeless but his reputation in court in cross-examining witnesses is legendary in Murphy, NC where I live. So yes, I would hire him again!
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12 Jun, 2017 by Margaret
5 Stars are not enough for Kim Steffan for the Process of Events as they evolved…and it was a long time before I realized the depth of her Integrity…and that old fashion word…Honor
Client Protection: The Will
My Life Partner took almost a Year before he was Satisfied with his Will. Ms Steffan was patient with every change. When it was time to Sign the Will, as my Partner was by then Bed Bound, Ms Steffan arrived with her Staff for the Signing. I was sent almost to Siberia because it was mid January and it had Snowed just that week, but I was required to leave for Ms Steffan will not allow anyone other than her Client to be around to assure her Client has no Interference. It took about 45 minutes for the final signing.
Probate: ‘The Estate’
I happened to be both the Executor and a Beneficiary. Having been an Executor before in a more simple State, It was hard for me accept some principles Ms Steffan had to give me for processing a NC Probate. Ms Steffan had to drag me ‘kicking & screaming’ into the reality of “The Estate is my Client”, along with more of the complexities of NC Law. I didn’t want to accept that I was not the ‘Client’ but the ‘Estate’.
Will Contest: Bygone Era Honor & Integrity
As can happen sometimes along comes a Will Contest and this is when it became known to me the substance of Kim Steffan…her Integrity & Honor and her Loyalty to her Client even after he was gone. In bygone days, a Lawyer knew your Family History, the Generations and kept it’s Secrets. When a Will Contest showed up it was then things came out that I had never knew. Even as Executor and a Beneficiary, Ms Steffan never revealed her Private Conversations with her Client. She kept her Client’s Confidentiality even after he was gone. And this was the Revelation of Ms Steffan’s Integrity…She knew her Client’s Wishes & Desires and kept them with Honor.
For Client Loyalty…and Complexity of NC Estate & Trust Law: Look no further than Kim Steffan, Attorney at Law. I would TRUST her with anything and only regret I never realized the Power and Honor of her long before.
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05 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
Steffan and Associates has made me feel as someone does care and wants the best for me.
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15 Jan, 2018 by Janette
I cannot recommend Jeff highly enough. He has worked tirelessly, and successfully, on my workers comp claim for over a year. He is an unwavering advocate for his clients and should you make it to hearing, you definitely want him on your side. He is fierce!
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07 Jul, 2016 by Sydney duggan
Jeffrey is currently working on my workers compensation case and he is doing a phenomenal job and has gone above and beyond to make sure I'm not stressing. I would highly recommend him to represent you.
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03 Feb, 2017 by Gary b.
It is my great pleasure to tell you about my story. I was in a horrible car wreck in November, 2015 and very badly hurt. I not only had to recover from bodily injuries, but also a traumatic head injury. Melissa handled all my paperwork and determined the best method for understanding the process of trying to get disability from the life threatening injuries. Melissa set up an email just for this specific purpose and we corresponded back and forth. She was professional, positive and let me know what was happening every step of the way. Melissa was prompt and ready to answer any and all my questions. She is a great lawyer to use for this purpose.
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24 Oct, 2016 by Th
Mrs. Garcia did an excellent job in representing me. She was very thorough in addressing every aspect of the case and fought hard to get me the best results. I could not have had better legal help!
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15 Mar, 2016 by Julie
I worked with Doug Meis on a personal injury case stemming from a car accident with an underinsured motorist. He was fantastic. He explained everything to me, provided me with possible scenarios, and guided me through some very complicated information. He got me a great settlement, when I originally thought I was going to have to pay even though I wasn't at fault. He is everything you want your attorney to be. Kind and patient and knowledgeable for the client, and tenacious and persistent with the insurance companies. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing an attorney for personal injury. He also does workman's comp claims.
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11 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
My husband had a bad accident at work and his company was not helping him with anything. After a while we decided we needed help and we were referred to Brian Hochman by a friend. Mr. Brian took the time to meet with us multiple times and explain the entire process to us. Although the case took a while (not Mr. Brian's fault) my husband finally got his surgery and at the end of the case my husband received what he deserved and we are very grateful our friend recommended Mr. Brian. I would recommend Mr. Brian for anyone who needs a lawyer especially if they had an accident.
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23 Apr, 2018 by Dominique
The best Workmans Comp lawyer you can hire. Grace is very caring and empathetic towards your situation. I would travel to the end of the world to hire her as my attorney again!
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09 Feb, 2009 by Anonymous
Matthew Dixon worked really well with me. I could come in the office to see him or call his office to talk to him. He had very prompt, helpful service. His staff and him are very friendly, personable, and knowledgeable. Also, if he couldn't help me with what I needed, who knew exactly who to direct me to.
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31 Jul, 2012 by Kim
I really didn't want to get a lawyer after I had my wreck, but I was getting so many calls and felt pressured. Once I met with Mr. Ferguson and his assistant, I felt so much better. I'm so glad that I hired them. It took awhile to get my money, but the waiting paid off - I got a much better deal than I expected!
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08 Nov, 2020 by Wayne claiborne
24 Jun, 2015 by Marty
for the last 14 years I have been represented by leah broker for social security disability as well as workers compensation.my case is very complicated and it took a while to resolve but they stuck with it and after 12 years they finally got paid for their services. most attorneys would have written me off. I am very thankful to them for their great work and support.
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09 Dec, 2013 by Matt & sherri
My Husband and I retained David(Brad) Collins in July of 2013 for 3 separate
Issues. Workmans Comp,Social Security Disability& Employer Disability Appeal.
To date: Brad has prevailed on a Comp settlement,
Social Security Appeal& Disability Appeal( In less
Than 5 months. He is VERY GOOD on follow up
and far exceeded our expectations. We would recommend him HIGHLY
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25 Jun, 2020 by Jo
I hired my attorney after having difficulties trying to handle a Workers compensation claim. Attorney Jahnes's knowledge and expertise were very beneficial to me in handling my case. Attorney Jahnes was able to get approval for medical test and procedures that had been denied by Workers compensation. The Hodgman Law Firm Staff were friendly, caring, and professional. My attorney and office staff were very prompt about returning my calls. I am thankful I didn't try to handle my injury claim without my attorney. I would highly recommend Attorney Jahnes and Attorney Hodgman who helped me through a difficult time.
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11 Jul, 2019 by Alex
Megan is not only a fabulous attorney, she actually cares about her clients. She is honest and will explain the law in a way you will understand. A lot of attorneys don't convey things to their clients and leave them in the dark, but Megan always goes above and beyond to make sure you get what you deserve and that you understand the process. She is the only one I recommend to anyone I know who has ever been injured at work or involved in a car accident.
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10 Mar, 2020 by Brad
Marty has represented my wife on more than one occasion due to what was pretty much a harassment situation regarding efforts, over several years, by the dol owcp to avoid their responsibility to her. They caused her many sleepless nights, but Marty changed all that. Without getting into the details concerning her situation, or the protracted efforts on their part, let me simply say that Marty Kaplan has, over the years, demonstrated a thorough knowledge of owcp rules and regulations, as well as the law. He has demonstrated a very keen legal mind in his efforts as her advocate. Personally, I do not believe that you can find better representation.
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25 Sep, 2015 by Bobby
Contacted Mark the day before my court date, he was very professional, told me he would handle it the next day and contact me with the results. I found out the next day he had the speeding ticket taken care and would not show on my record. Highly recommend him to others.
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21 Apr, 2016 by Annette
I first called Michael from my elderly mother's hospital room. She experienced a horrific, on the job injury and was facing months of medical treatment and many more additional surgeries with a questionable outcome. He actually recommended I didn't need an attorney at that time as her needs were being met and it would not add value. Fast forward a year later and we are now in final settlement negotiations. We are overwhelmed with the process and felt we needed advice and counsel. He was generous with his time with me even though he knew we couldn't hire him because of conflict of interest issues. He provided invaluable information about the forms and filings we had ahead of us and referred us to an appropriate attorney to assist us. I will always remember is kind, compassionate and patient manner during a very difficult chapter in our family history.
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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.
