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22 Mar, 2019 by Melissa
When I first contacted Mr. Cleveland, I was a mess. Mine was a very sensitive case, one that involved a police department. When I left his office that first day (and after hiring him), I felt immediate relief. I knew I had someone in my corner and I wouldn't have to fight the system myself. He kept me very well-informed throughout my case and always answered my questions with tact, never with any trace of impatience. I know I wouldn't have been able to get through my case without him.
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01 Dec, 2017 by Walter
Mr. Cleveland did a superb job of negotiating the settlement,with an insurance company,that was horrible about doing anything from the very start of my workers comp claim.
He paid close attention to my complaints,& addressed them to resolve my claim better than expected.
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend his firm to anyone looking for counsel.
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11 Oct, 2017 by Maritza
While working in a dental office I hurt my back. Even though my employer tried to help me the insurance gave me a hard time. I went to see Mr. Cleveland for a consultation. He gave me some great advice. After looking over all my paperwork he was honest and told me I was doing great on my own. Told me if something changed later to call him. Who does this? He was a really a nice guy. I will definitely keep him in mind. Did I mention my consultation was free.
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01 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
I have known David Masters for many years. David is very kind, considerate and intelligent. I ask David for his opinion before I sign anything from Workers Comp. David throughly explains every step, and why he is doing things this way. I throughly trust Davids judgment. I would recommend David highly.
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14 May, 2014 by Doreen
I agree with all the praises given to David Masters. He's helped me through so much. And anytime I have problems with my WC insurance and they start giving me the run around, all I have to do is give David a call and he's always been there to help. He's sincere, compassionate, and so very helpful. To me he's the greatest. I don't believe there are very many honest and sincere attorneys out there, but I do know one thing David truly is. You can rely on him.
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29 Dec, 2013 by Melissa
I met David Masters 3 years ago, while I was working for a WC Defense Attorney's firm in Southern California. Ironically, he came to our office for a deposition, and we hit it off professionally from there on.
Recently, I was injured with an ex employer, and the first person I thought of to call was David. Being on this side of the table was a whole new experience for me, after working for the "enemy", so to speak. I called David and had explained to him my situation and how, after talking to people about the employer where I got injured, people were saying I was a fool for trying to go after them for medical treatment, etc. My situation happened in California, however, I had moved out of California after, and so my contact with David has been via telephone or when I am flown to California as needed by him or the defense attorney, as happened with my latest deposition.
Well, I have been a basket case, and David, of course, has been my rock. I told him I was scared and didn't know what to do and how I was afraid of my ex employer because of how big of a company they are, and he told me about the "David & Goliath" story from the bible. He said "David went up against Goliath, and I'll be there for you and with you". Not once has David let me down. I've called him having a nervous breakdown, stressed out beyond belief, crying, frustrated, and many other emotional moments.
David has been blessed with patience beyond belief, he's extremely intelligent, compassionate, and has this incredibly amazing passion for his clients. I met with him this month, and if there were words to describe the look of passion on his face when he started talking about how much fight he puts into each and every one of his cases, this review would probably be a lot longer than 4k words. I've met many lawyers on different ends of the legal spectrum, and David Masters is truly an amazing man. Personally, I find him to be more of an angel sent by God who looks out for the "little guys" (those who are injured), and does it with all of his heart. He's truly heartfelt and sincere, and genuine, and not only goes to work each day, but goes to work with a heart filled with compassion and ready to take on the world... one client at a time.
I could sit here and type every adjective describing David, however, the best advice I can give anyone is that if you're in need of a Worker's Comp Attorney, and you're in Southern California, the best one, by every definition, would be David Masters. He's dependable, extremely professional, reliable, and again sincere and compassionate. Don't let anyone tell you any different... David Masters is definitely the best choice out there for injured applicants, when it comes to Worker's Comp.
*David is currently still working on/with my case, however, I have all the faith in the world in him, and I know everything will workout the way it's supposed to.*
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05 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I and many of my friends and family have used Sherif Fathy for various legal services. He is very responsive and an excellent communicator. He will work with you until your issue is satisfactorily resolved. All my friends and family that I have recommended him to were very pleased with the outcome!
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04 Mar, 2015 by John
I recently retained Sherif Fathy to handle my misdemeanor case. Although it looked bad, Mr. Fathy felt that under the circumstances there were still several options open to me. At first, although a longshot, he attempted to get the case dismissed. When that didn’t work, Mr. Fathy told me he would work at getting the misdemeanor reduced to an infraction. I agreed to his plan and because I live out of state, he appeared on my behalf in all court proceedings. In the end, I was very pleased with the outcome. The charge was reduced to an infraction and I paid a small fine.
All Mr. Fathy's communications with me were timely, clear, concise and thorough through each step of the process. In addition, he was most candid in explaining all fees associated with representing me and I found them to be justified and reasonable.
I would recommend Sherif Fathy to anyone who is in need of excellent and thorough representation and counsel.
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12 May, 2016 by Roger
Mr. Kuhlman represented me in my capacity as a conservator for several years and I was pleased with his work
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20 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
I tried to comunicate With my attorney and I cant the lady that answers doesnt know anything. very bad comunication with attorneys .. there very good but cant comunicated with them hope they see this and change
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FAQs
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What a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Do for You
A workers’ compensation lawyer specializes in helping employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job to receive the benefits they are entitled to under workers' compensation laws. These lawyers represent injured workers in claims for medical benefits, wage replacement, and other compensation related to workplace injuries or illnesses. They also help when claims are denied, benefits are delayed, or disputes arise with the employer or the insurance company.
Whether you've been injured on the job, developed an occupational illness, or are dealing with a denied workers' compensation claim, a workers’ compensation lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and ensure you receive the full benefits you deserve.
When Should I Hire a Workers' Compensation Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a workers' compensation lawyer in several situations, especially when complications arise during the claims process or when your rights as an injured worker are being challenged. Some common reasons to hire a workers' compensation lawyer include:
- Claim denial: If your workers' compensation claim has been denied, a lawyer can help you appeal the decision and represent you in hearings or litigation.
- Inadequate benefits: If the insurance company offers you a settlement that doesn’t cover your medical expenses, lost wages, or other damages, a lawyer can negotiate on your behalf for a fair amount.
- Delay in receiving benefits: If your benefits are being delayed, a lawyer can help expedite the process to ensure you receive timely compensation.
- Permanent disability: If your injury leads to permanent disability (partial or total), a lawyer can help you navigate the more complex process of securing long-term benefits.
- Retaliation by employer: If your employer retaliates against you for filing a workers' compensation claim (e.g., by firing or demoting you), a lawyer can protect your rights and pursue legal action.
- Third-party liability: If a third party (e.g., a contractor or equipment manufacturer) was responsible for your injury, a lawyer can help you pursue additional compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.
- Pre-existing conditions: If your employer or the insurance company claims that your injury is related to a pre-existing condition, a lawyer can help you present evidence showing that the injury was work-related.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can prevent delays, avoid mistakes, and ensure you receive all the benefits you’re entitled to under workers' compensation law.
What Does a Workers' Compensation Lawyer Do?
A workers' compensation lawyer provides a range of legal services to injured workers, ensuring that they receive the benefits they deserve. Their tasks often include:
- Filing claims: Helping injured workers prepare and file their workers' compensation claims to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
- Appealing denied claims: Representing workers whose claims have been denied and guiding them through the appeals process, including hearings and court appearances.
- Negotiating settlements: Negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
- Handling disputes: Resolving disputes between the injured worker, the employer, and the insurance company regarding the amount of compensation or the nature of the injury.
- Coordinating medical evidence: Gathering and presenting medical records, expert testimony, and other evidence to support the workers' compensation claim.
- Advocating for benefits: Ensuring that injured workers receive all the benefits they’re entitled to, including temporary or permanent disability benefits, vocational rehabilitation, and medical treatment.
- Filing third-party lawsuits: In cases where a third party is responsible for the injury, a workers' compensation lawyer may also pursue a personal injury lawsuit to recover additional damages.
How Are Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Paid?
Workers' compensation lawyers typically charge a contingency fee, meaning they only get paid if they successfully recover benefits for you. This fee is usually a percentage of the benefits awarded, and the specific percentage is often regulated by state law. Here's how it generally works:
- Contingency fee: The lawyer's fee is typically between 15% and 25% of the total benefits awarded to you. You don’t have to pay any upfront legal fees, and the lawyer’s fee comes out of the settlement or benefit award.
- No fee if no recovery: If the lawyer doesn’t recover any benefits for you, you generally don’t have to pay for their services.
- State regulations on fees: Many states cap the percentage that workers' compensation lawyers can charge, and some states require the fee to be approved by the workers' compensation board or judge.
Be sure to discuss the fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will owe if your case is successful.
How Much Does a Workers' Compensation Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a workers' compensation lawyer typically depends on the contingency fee arrangement, meaning the lawyer’s fee will be a percentage of the benefits you receive. General cost estimates include:
- Contingency fees: Most workers' compensation lawyers charge between 15% and 25% of the total settlement or benefits awarded. For example, if you receive $50,000 in benefits, the lawyer’s fee would range from $7,500 to $12,500.
- State regulations: Some states limit the percentage that workers' compensation lawyers can charge. In these cases, the fee is usually capped, often at 20% to 25%, depending on state law.
- Additional costs: Some lawyers may charge for out-of-pocket expenses, such as filing fees, medical records retrieval, and expert witness testimony, though these costs are typically deducted from the settlement after the case is won.
You should always ask for a clear explanation of fees and potential additional costs during your consultation so you understand the financial arrangement.
Top Questions to Ask a Workers' Compensation Lawyer
Before hiring a workers' compensation lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with workers' compensation cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, especially if your injury is severe or the case involves disputes. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a contingency fee and whether there are any additional costs you need to be aware of. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including the potential challenges and outcomes. -
Have you handled cases like mine before?
Find out if the lawyer has experience dealing with cases involving similar injuries or disputes, such as denied claims or permanent disability. -
How long will the process take?
While it’s difficult to predict an exact timeline, the lawyer should be able to provide a general estimate based on their experience with similar cases. -
Will you personally handle my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of your case. Make sure you know who will be working on your claim.
How to Check the Credibility of a Workers' Compensation Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable workers' compensation lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for workers' compensation experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in workers' compensation law and have successfully handled cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s expertise and service.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients who can speak to their experience in workers' compensation cases.
- Check for professional affiliations: Membership in organizations like the Workers' Injury Law & Advocacy Group (WILG) or local bar association committees on workers' compensation can indicate the lawyer’s commitment to this area of law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with a workers' compensation lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Accident report or incident documentation: Bring any documentation related to your workplace injury or illness, including accident reports or notifications to your employer.
- Medical records: Provide copies of medical records, including treatment notes, doctor’s reports, and any information related to your injury or condition.
- Employer correspondence: Bring any letters, emails, or forms related to your claim from your employer or the workers' compensation insurance company.
- Wage and benefits information: Provide information on your wages, benefits, and any lost income due to the injury.
- List of questions: Prepare questions about your case, the process, costs, and what to expect moving forward.
- Timeline of events: Prepare a timeline of the incident, your injury, and any medical treatment or communication with your employer and the insurance company.
Being well-prepared for your consultation will allow the lawyer to assess your case more effectively and provide you with the best possible legal advice.
