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17 May, 2024 by In lord jesus' name: a strong city
The results of discriminatory refusal to prosecute which allowed multiple attempted murders to go unpunished and the attacker to remain at large.
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13 May, 2024 by In lord jesus' name: rev. dr. andrew d. wenmoth
Prosecuting Attorney G. Gary Tyack is allowing his staff to deliberately disregard clear risks to public safety, playing a "pass the buck" game to ignore indisputable evidence of major violent felonies, discriminating in cases involving the LGBTQ+ community.
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07 Apr, 2024 by Franco castro
Back on 2022, my car was vandalized. As a victim, I've never hear back from anyone, even though I called , left messages, and sent emails. The prosecutor went to a different area, and from the contacts provided that were handling the case, a request for status and restraining order was never acknowledge. As victim on case 22-ju-06267 and 22-ju-06254, I can attest that the Constitutional rights for Victims of Crime, was never followed.
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17 May, 2024 by In lord jesus' name: a strong city
The results of discriminatory refusal to prosecute which allowed multiple attempted murders to go unpunished and the attacker to remain at large.
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13 May, 2024 by In lord jesus' name: rev. dr. andrew d. wenmoth
Prosecuting Attorney G. Gary Tyack is allowing his staff to deliberately disregard clear risks to public safety, playing a "pass the buck" game to ignore indisputable evidence of major violent felonies, discriminating in cases involving the LGBTQ+ community.
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07 Apr, 2024 by Franco castro
Back on 2022, my car was vandalized. As a victim, I've never hear back from anyone, even though I called , left messages, and sent emails. The prosecutor went to a different area, and from the contacts provided that were handling the case, a request for status and restraining order was never acknowledge. As victim on case 22-ju-06267 and 22-ju-06254, I can attest that the Constitutional rights for Victims of Crime, was never followed.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Steve norm
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01 Feb, 2023 by Doug geersens
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26 Oct, 2022 by Taylor bates
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27 Feb, 2024 by Steve norm
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01 Feb, 2023 by Doug geersens
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26 Oct, 2022 by Taylor bates
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19 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
Arrogant, not helpful, disrespectful, awful, hopeless, only interested in making money, more money, lack of common sense, extremely poor communicator
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23 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
He is a condescending horrible attorney. Who took the lazy way out to get things done. He did not include the proper legal language in my divorce decree which came back to haunt me. I paid him a lot to act as my advocate and he did not. He also never returns calls.
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31 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Former client. Words I would use to describe Jim: tardy, unprepared, and unprofessional. Seemed to be judgemental of me rather than my advocate.
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16 Nov, 2020 by Artia
Complete waste of money. Did nothing for bail, filed several continuations (which pretty much ensured we’d have to pay for a bondsmen), lied about dates in which he’d be available, was almost an hour late to the appearance, and we almost ended up with a worst deal then the public defender had already pretty much guaranteed before he stepped in.
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10 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
In our intial meeting Sam stated that he would complete his due diligence in my case and referred to himself as a "bulldog". He made several errors in my case, confusing my information with other clients he had at the time. He would write up rough draft motions and send me content and locations that were from another case. Unfortunately, he rarely answered calls, very delayed in responding to urgent situations, asked the same questions over and over again that he should have already been privy to had he read documents provided to him. Never remembered anything that was discussed. States he is going to do something and never does it. I obtained several emails where the other attorney on the case bullied him and corrected him in how particular procedures go. And most importantly he made decisions on my case, without my authorization that benifited the other party involved and not in the best interest of my children. He is all about receiving money and not doing the work. DO NOT HIRE and if you dont have a choice..make sure you keep and conduct everyting in writing because he changes his story and lies when faced with holding accountability for not doing his due dillegence.
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30 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Beware! I had a total of three phone calls with this firm, all with different lawyers over a five month period. The first call was when I asked them to represent me and the third was in response to a letter I sent, requesting information about my claim. At the time of my phone conversation with Alan Shapiro on 9/28/23, no movement had occurred and I was unaware of any action they pursued with my case. I had never worked with a workman's comp lawyer before and I wanted to get a general understanding of the case procedures and their plan moving forward. From the onset, Alan Shapiro was irritated that I was asking questions and was replying with one word answers to my inquiries. When I asked him about the plan for my case and what a lawyer's responsibilities were to a claimant, he became very angry and hostile. He began yelling and telling me he was insulted that I questioned what he could do for me. It was unsettling and very awkward. He threatened to shut down the case and leave me to figure out the system on my own, since I had the audacity to question him. I was unable to communicate with him because he continued to interrupt and talk over me repeatedly and his hostility was formidable. In the end, I agreed with him that ending his representation was in my best interest. I suggest that if you are looking for a firm that works hard for you to receive results and treats you with professionalism, that you look elsewhere and not waste your time.
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22 Sep, 2017 by Darin
I had the displeasure of speaking with Geoffrey Shapiro. He was both rude and condescending. I explained I was not 100% familiar with the OWCP system, but my injury was severe and the resulting surgery required the fusion of three vertebrae. (for reference-very rarely will a neurosurgeon conduct a three-level fusion) He did not seem interested in the fact the operating neurosurgeon strongly disagreed with the IME report. He told me, "OWCP is not a retirement system" and made reference to my injury date as if I were on OWCP for too long. He never arrived to the point OWCP took more than one year to approve the surgery. He was smug when I addressed his rudeness and was patronizing when asking, "Then what's your question?" At this point, the only question I could muster was, "Why are you such an ****?" Find anyone else to represent you!
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01 Jun, 2022 by Tracy
I hired Mr. Siferd to represent me when a kid hit me totaling my car and causing me permanent physical damage. Siferd broke his financial contract with me by dropping me right in the middle of my case. There was no reason given for his actions. I was totally left in lurch. He put a lien on my settlement so no other lawyer would help me because there was not enough money in it due to the lien Siferd put on my settlement. He took over $20,000 from me yet I have not received a penny from my settlement. Siferd has caused me so much stress, pain and suffering I had a stroke. He does not deserve any stars at all!
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07 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I am needing to talk to this gentelemen and he has not contacted me one time I cannot get my liscense until I do I would not suggest him seems to be to busy of a guy
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30 Jul, 2022 by Richard sandy
Never returned my phone call!
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04 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Maureen Dodd in Ohio to represent a workers comp. For more than 6 months she failed to get me any weekly benefits, get approvals for Dr appointments, go to court to get approvals for PT, MRI Dr requested or mileage. She never called me or told me why after my complaints that nothing was being done. Maureen father Robert Dodd threatened to not work or even show up to a hearing after I refused to sign to have an IME done for the employer as they so low ball you and lie about your condition that you are refused anything. IME are done by the defense, not the plaintiff. When I refused to go to a IME paid by the defense, not Maureen Dodd, but her dad wrote me a letter stating they were dropping me as a client. They do not protect an injury party but act like defense lawyers. Maureen failed to add my left hip to the claim as my records show, a severe aggrevation of my right knee injury from a fall at work on another comp claim and a posterior root tear on left knee. All she filed was a left shoulder injury and when I went to treat she refused to discuss other injuries except the shoulder and then refused to get me any medical care. Hearing she wrote to have at the BWC she now has no intention of being involved. This firm is not reputably and does not stand by anything in their advertisments. Worst comp attorney because injured patients need good lawyers, not a firm that does nothing and walks out if a claim and does not listen to a client. Thought this firm might be different. Maureen never asked about medical mileage or my right for weekly benefits. Go somewhere else as this firm does damage to a client and then walks out. As a client I have every right to say no to my attorney and not be threatened that if I do not go to an IME my own attorney wants, not the defense lawyer they will drop your case. Poor quality representation. Why would Maureen who I hired, not her father get him to do her dirty work to fire me as a client. He is head of their firm. This is sad that a female attorney cannot stand on her own two feet and talk to her client, and has her Dad do her dirty work. Will be filing other charges against this firm Stay away
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01 Dec, 2015 by Kipp
This attorney appears to only worried about his paycheck and not worry about the Compensation or the well being of his client my case was dismissed by workmans comp due to the fact that their law office faled update medical release and I had to work backwards to reinstate my workmans comp benefits at the same time they disregarded my last paycheck owed to me by the company that I was injured from release me due to inability to come off of light duty work even though they admitted on the timecard lesser hours but agreed they owed me money he refused to send any kind of legal document letter stating the fact of the Law policing companies from not paying employees when I brought it to his attention all he did was state it wasnt anything they specialized in and refused to address it even though I was being put in a predicament of hardship with paying my bills without my last check and he had no concerns for my payment to help compensate my family while off work I feel my attorney should find someone who specializes in collecting my last paycheck and work with me to gain this pay regardless of there specialties. You hire attorneys so that you can relax and get better knowing that someone is always every day every week every month on the job and help you get to a better place after being injured . The secretaries working at this law firm are very short , rude and uncompassionate for the clients calling in looking for help. They should not try to make you feel like you're less of a person while injured they should help you feel better as a person . Any attorney that allows a case to go backwards and have to fight backwards to gain that case back just shows the lack of effort and concern for the client
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24 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Hired him for child support issue (child tax credit) . Basically paid him to settle out of court. I was satisfied with that part and then tried to hire him again for child visits ton.. Called and called and never heard from him again.
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13 Nov, 2013 by Diana
We received a letter from this office saying things were filed and it would take several months... over a year ago. We called today and several other days trying to get in touch with the attorney and never can. Today we were told he was again out of the office. We spoke with someone very rude by the name of Katy. I was attempting to explain to her what we did not understand and asking for help in all of this. She began talking over me while I was still trying to explain myself (she did not want to hear it) and I said, "Excuse me" to which she replied, "NO! EXCUSE ME!" and kept talking. Then she hung up on me. I was not yelling, calling names, nothing like that, I was asking for help. Since this has happened and since we can get absolutely no help or info from this office I would advise against using them. I have never heard of anyone treating a client this way.
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26 Jun, 2021 by Ashley
I was told to contact Mr.Kalniz by someone I assume has had a positive experience, however, my experience has been quite the opposite. Though he answered the phone most times when I called, he could never answer my questions. I was lost most of the case and never given advice that benefited me. Though I had red flags after speaking with others regarding my experience with Mr.Kalniz and was told I should get another attorney, I decided to give it a chance but should have followed my gut and the advice of others and consulted a different attorney. 3 days before my hearing at 5pm he called to say he could not continue my workers compensation case but he could negotiate a separation settlement. Which was strange because I couldn’t see how that would be possible if he didn’t have confidence in proving the injury. I was left with no representation 3 days before my hearing. From the beginning he led me directly down the path toward failure. What a way to handle a client.
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06 Jun, 2017 by Rose
Going in he seemed like an ok firm. Bad grimmer in emails but shrugged it off. Later he failed to show up for meetings. Then came to court intoxicated. Don't waste your time or money.
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06 Jun, 2012 by Unhappy with henke
I hired Mr Henke to handle a case for me. He did not accompany me to the deposition or keep me up to date with my case. Approximately 1 week before we went to trial he decided to review the case and suddenly was not aware of things that were disclosed in the preliminary documents and the transcription of my deposition. He advised me that I should not continue on with the case due the attractive nuisance laws in the state of Ohio. Apparently there were not enough comparable cases to support our claim. He told me that it was in my best interest to not continue to trial because we would likely lose. I spent approximately 1 year dealing with this drama and was advised to walk away owing him approximately $4000 additional to what I had already paid during the course of the case. When I went to court for my final hearing to drop the case he sent his previous partner with me. His partner told me that he had advised him not to take the case initially and that he responded with "it's easy money one way or another". Wow!!! I had a tragic event in my life and it was just easy money. I don't see how the man can live with himself. I have talked with other attorneys since this event and was told by those attorneys that I would have more than likely won regardless. I realize that no amount of money was going to make me happy again, but I felt that the parties responsible should have been held responsible and had I had an attorney who participated in my case during the entire course, things would have ended differently.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Andrea
Cuts off others testimony in court like he is a judge or so important. Man child I'd never hire - besides what is he is Cleveland Housing court for when he should following his titles? Works outside his profession. Must be desperate.
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04 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Unprofessional. Dumped me and left me unprotected. Careless. Disrespectful
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26 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
unusually arrogant , even for an attorney. Acts kind and appears to care up until the point of taking your money, then acts too busy to talk for 3 minutes to give you an update or answer a few questions pertaining to the case. save yourself the elevated blood pressure from dealing with this man and find another attorney.
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27 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Hired this attorney to complete some paperwork including wills. After the paid consultation ($125) I was given no time frame on when the documents would be completed. After a few months I emailed to follow up. Was told things were almost done. Fast forward 8 months and I still have no documents. Repeated calls and emails have been completely ignored. Awful experience that cost $125 for no results
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19 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
This joke of an attorney didn’t even tell me I was denied my first year applying after I called for months and was finally informed nothing was done . Ok, so I use her again when she switches offices and she literally did nothing for me at all. I got into an argument verbal basically with her and she dropped me and sent me a letter like haha basically I got your money and you seem mentally ill. It was very rude and degrading and I cannot believe an attorney would send something like that. I was explaining that for everyone to get their “money” I do not believe I should have to act mentally ill when I have had a violent infection in my spine for years drs. Cannot eradicate . I can no longer work due to daily vomiting and violent diareah every hour for 8 years . This woman was the most heartless person along this horrible journey and I’ve even have had health care workers assume I was on drugs bc of the vomiting and be cruel, but this woman’s attitude was like the world owes her and how dare I even disagree. There are many attorneys in chardon, this woman doesn’t deserve a dime . Seriously .
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30 Sep, 2024 by Pete
Ms. Hunter was hired by our Workman's Comp TPA for a complex trial. Our HR Director and Safety Manager participated via TEAMs during the procedure. Ms. Hunter ONLY used 1/2 of her allotted time! She did not present rebuttal. We had Private Investigator video, pictures, and Social Media posts backing up our assertions of FRAUD by other side. Which she barely referenced. She focused on prior data which WC had previously approved. Paid a flat rate by the TPA and it appeared she wanted to spend as little time as possible on the case and end the session. In 40 years, I never had an attorney not use ALL available time to plead their case. Shameful representation.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including the potential challenges and outcomes.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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