Lawyers map
>51
experienced lawyers
Filter by
23 Aug, 2019 by Jackie senise
David Brevda is one of a kind!He cares and it shows. My father has a guarding angel looking over him now. Mr. Brevda cares and concerns make you feel he is not only there to help protect rights but that he is part of your family. There is no other I would trust again for any of my family members but David Brevda and his team.
Read more
10 Jul, 2019 by Gangela
Great nursing home abuse attorneys! You can really tell the difference when someone genuinely cares about the work they do for others.
Read more
10 Jul, 2019 by Adam jan
Best nursing home abuse attorneys in Rochester. Thanks David!
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by Margie
I was referred to Dan to present me in my case and I am so happy that I made the decision to work with him. He is knowledgeable, professional, and his advice was on point, as he guided me in the right direction. He worked tirelessly with persistence, and I would highly recommend Dan as a worker compensation attorney. Jenna and Mary Lynne were great, they were so kind and patient to assist when it was needed. Thank you all!
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Gloria
Have an established Worker's Comp Case., Carrier had Classified my case due to post op complications. Medical addressed, however never received SLU/ Award for injury. Refered to Dan by co-worker, sent letter of inquiry to Law Firm Bronk & Somers, attn:
Daniel Bronk. Within a day, firm called, Elena took 'intake' info, forwarding to Dan Bronk. If he accepts case, Elena will call me with date/time for phone consult. Dan DID, accept case, phone consult happened AND I can say emphatically, I was treated with compassion and respect for MY case.
Nothing had transpired on my case in years, DAN BRONK changed that for me.
The 'integrity' of Mr. Bronk surpassed my expectation! 'Tenacity' in which Mr. Bronk carried out circumstances to my case, 100% plus! Professionalism & Personable, I am eternally grateful.
Dan, thank you for retaining me as a Client, (more than satisfied). Dan and staff, (Elena, Mary, and Jenna), my contacts, ALL, amazing over past several months.
In need of Councel for your Worker's Compenation Case, contact Mr. Daniel Bronk, Attorney @ Bronk & Somers, The Park @ Allens Creek, 110 Allens Creek Rd., Rochester, NY 14618.
Research on line, as 60% of firms business is Worker's Compensation, other areas of expertise as well.
I have and will continue to refer friends and family to Mr. Daniel Bronk @ Bronk & Somers Law Firm.
Regards,
Gloria
Read more
13 Jun, 2023 by Jo
I had contacted 3 other lawyers about my case and no one would touch it. A friend put me in touch with Dan Brock and told me he was the best WC lawyer in the state. He was right. Dan immediately took my case. He guided me through all the phases of my claim, always having my best interests at the forefront. He kept me informed every step of the way and always responded to my inquiries quickly. I will definitely recommend Dan to anyone who needs a lawyer.
Read more
20 Sep, 2022 by Cliff
Mark did a great job representing me!
He and his staff were very professional, courteous and organized.
I truly appreciated the attention to detail provided by Mark and Mary Lynne!
I highly recommend them!
Read more
10 Dec, 2019 by Kay
Mark agreed to take on my appeal of a negative SSI disability ruling. Throughout the process, Mark and his entire staff effectively communicated and executed the steps needed to my ultimately successful appeal. I give Mark my utmost recommendation.
Read more
11 Nov, 2019 by Chris
Mark and Connie did everything in the most professional way to get me my social security disability. Without the advice and assistance they gave me I never would have been able to get through this. Thank you both.
Read more
23 Dec, 2024 by Kylee hughes
Randi, Dan, and the rest of the ZP team are incredible! Not only are they just very talented at what they do, they are also the nicest people to work with and they really care about all of their clients. They make you feel comfortable and at ease, and I will always recommend them to anyone I come across!
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Elaine elich
I sought Randi Proukou’s legal advice for a complicated WC case with a large school district. Mrs. Proukou & her staff always kept me informed of progress of my case & always responded back to any inquiries I made promptly. Not only was I awarded what was owed at my WC hearing but even in the
Fast pace of such proceedings Randi spotted an error in the figures. More importantly, she advised me to keep my case open which I did. This was the BEST advice & a decision I have been deeply grateful to her for. My joint injury which required a replacement has had numerous complications for 7 years! A second surgery was required 6 months ago, 7 years after my injury. In all this time, Zea Proukou’s firm has given me the personal attention that you would expect if you were a family member - which I am not! Her genuine caring and management of all the fine details has made it possible for me to trust that I can focus more on my rehab than I The complicated procedures and paperwork.
I have said a prayer of gratitude many times in These 7 years that I chose Zea Proukou’s firm to handle my WC case. For this reason, during COVID we had her legal services to do our first Will which she made easy and reasonable for us to do.
ETE
Read more
17 Jul, 2024 by Irassette cruz
24 Apr, 2024 by Sharod
Jason is a great lawyer with great patience and works with great concerns to make sure you are satisfied. Thank you for your services
Read more
20 Nov, 2022 by Kim
Very satisfied with Jason's personalized service. he fought hard for me against the insurance company I got everything entitled to. If you are looking a workers compensation attorney I would highly recommend Jason.
Read more
26 Jul, 2022 by Kim williams
I was so depressed get hurt at work work all my life from farm to factory to construction Was advised from a coworker to call Jason Poselvich from Segar S from day one nothing but problems from Workers Comp he dove right in Got paid on time Had my 2 Surgeries approved Then it turned into a disiblity case for me never will be able to do construction again He's right on top of that if you want Results Go see Jason and his team
Read more
05 Jan, 2025 by Jenny jenny
I am so grateful for Alecia Elston! Before I met Alecia the Social Security Disability process felt very difficult and confusing to navigate but as soon as I found Alecia I knew that I was putting myself in good hands. At every step she was kind, understanding, compassionate, and always had time for my questions. I would 100% recommend Alecia Elston to anyone. Thank you so, so much Alecia I will forever be thankful for all that you do!!!
Read more
02 Jan, 2025 by Laurie schreiner
From day one we were treated with respect, kindness and understanding. Steven Segar is a true professional; with incredible legal knowledge and compassion. The staff is equally knowledgeable, accommodating, and helpful. This is the team to have on your side if you require legal services!
Read more
16 Dec, 2024 by Susan peel
Alecia ( attorney ) was directly instrumental in my case being won. I would not hesitate to call this efficient and knowledgeable firm.
Read more
05 Jan, 2025 by Jenny jenny
I am so grateful for Alecia Elston! Before I met Alecia the Social Security Disability process felt very difficult and confusing to navigate but as soon as I found Alecia I knew that I was putting myself in good hands. At every step she was kind, understanding, compassionate, and always had time for my questions. I would 100% recommend Alecia Elston to anyone. Thank you so, so much Alecia I will forever be thankful for all that you do!!!
Read more
02 Jan, 2025 by Laurie schreiner
From day one we were treated with respect, kindness and understanding. Steven Segar is a true professional; with incredible legal knowledge and compassion. The staff is equally knowledgeable, accommodating, and helpful. This is the team to have on your side if you require legal services!
Read more
16 Dec, 2024 by Susan peel
Alecia ( attorney ) was directly instrumental in my case being won. I would not hesitate to call this efficient and knowledgeable firm.
Read more
03 Sep, 2019 by Mary
We met Rick in 2003 when my husband was permanently injured on the job and forced to take an early retirement because of it. Rick has always been honest with us and put my husbands best interest first over the years in the many times that we have had to go attend hearings. He has also been a competent liaison between my husband and the 4 so far insurance companies that He has had to deal with over this. We feel so fortunate to have him on our side and feel that we would have been truly taken advantage of without him. Rick is an excellent attorney and we would recommend him to anyone needing representation.
Read more
09 Oct, 2017 by Thomas j
Would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to compensation lawyer Richard Ferguson with his guidance, knowledge and professionalism with Workman's Compensation. I was hurt on the job in July 2000 & my Union leaders advised me to get a compensation lawyer realizing that it was a serious accident. Their recommendation was Richard Ferguson, stating "He's The Best". Calling to Rick Ferguson turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life. Dealing with Insurance Doctors, Comp. Court, and all the medical & legal red tape, while going through multiple surgeries was extremely stressful & confusing. Rick was able to handle all the letters I received & always calming me down from all the confusion of understanding the basis of the communication and explained it to me in layman terms, never rushing to end the call.
Many times he accompanied me to court hearings and always impressed me of his handling with his high knowledge of the comp. law. I was given a Disabled Classification due to all the help and dedication of Rick & his wonderful, equally helpful Secretary. After engaging with them for 17 years, I consider them Good Friends & Thank God for all the help & guidance they have given me. I am forever grateful to Rick, his Secretary & My Union leaders.
Read more
21 Aug, 2017 by Philip
When you need the advice and help from a lawyer , you want to choose one that knows the law inside and out and will work hard and fight for you . Richard Ferguson is that type of lawyer . I met Richard two years ago when he was recommended to me by a couple of coworkers . Most jobs have " occupational hazards " . i suffered some injuries from the occupational hazards from my job . The company I worked for began fighting my claims right from the start . Richard started fighting for me right from the start . His knowledge and perseverance is something I noticed about him as soon as he went to work on my case . He came highly recommended to me and now I highly recommend him to others . Richard continues to fight for me as the company continues to appeal . The company is on its third appeal because Richard continues to win my case . I f you need great lawyer , hire Richard now .
Read more
15 Feb, 2016 by Dana
What sets Connors and Ferris apart from other firms in the area is that they care. They really cared about me and what was going on. I appreciated that.
Read more
08 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
I have to say I am certainly beyond satisfied with my representation from Mr. Connors. He knew exactly what he was talking about and was able to make sure I understood anything going on with the case. I received such well reasoned advice because of him.
Read more
10 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Connors was outstanding. He knew exactly how to explain everything to me in a way I would understand the complex legal matters. Connors certainly treated me fair and was well-spoken.
Read more
23 Dec, 2024 by Kylee hughes
Randi, Dan, and the rest of the ZP team are incredible! Not only are they just very talented at what they do, they are also the nicest people to work with and they really care about all of their clients. They make you feel comfortable and at ease, and I will always recommend them to anyone I come across!
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Elaine elich
I sought Randi Proukou’s legal advice for a complicated WC case with a large school district. Mrs. Proukou & her staff always kept me informed of progress of my case & always responded back to any inquiries I made promptly. Not only was I awarded what was owed at my WC hearing but even in the
Fast pace of such proceedings Randi spotted an error in the figures. More importantly, she advised me to keep my case open which I did. This was the BEST advice & a decision I have been deeply grateful to her for. My joint injury which required a replacement has had numerous complications for 7 years! A second surgery was required 6 months ago, 7 years after my injury. In all this time, Zea Proukou’s firm has given me the personal attention that you would expect if you were a family member - which I am not! Her genuine caring and management of all the fine details has made it possible for me to trust that I can focus more on my rehab than I The complicated procedures and paperwork.
I have said a prayer of gratitude many times in These 7 years that I chose Zea Proukou’s firm to handle my WC case. For this reason, during COVID we had her legal services to do our first Will which she made easy and reasonable for us to do.
ETE
Read more
17 Jul, 2024 by Irassette cruz
15 Oct, 2013 by Vicki
i waited 6 months to hire a lawyer after i had been injured. i needed surgery from day 1 after i got injured and had to lay in bed for 6 months waiting for it to get approved. then i decided to hire Alex. the day after i hired Alex my surgery was approved and scheduled! hiring him was the best decision i ever made! ive been with him for 5 1/2 yrs now and he has made my life much easier!
Read more
17 May, 2013 by Lorrie
I could not have asked for a better attorney! Alex AND the entire staff were always quick to respond, very helpful and took stress out of a long situation. Very knowledgeable.. always greeted me with a smile..very nice person all around. Highly recommended!!
Read more
21 Dec, 2012 by Susan
I retained Mr. Osborne for my Worker's compensation case. This case dragged out for almost five years, not through anyone's fault. It's just the way it worked out. During this entire time period, I was able to always count on Alex, and his staff, for advice, support, and knowledge. In the end we were able to obtain a fair settlement. I am very appreciative.
Read more
09 Sep, 2016 by Niles
Overall, Thomas and his team at Connors & Ferris were a well organized law firm. They listened to me and really wanted my opinion throughout the case. I would recommend Thomas Ferris to anyone.
Read more
10 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I am completely satisfied with my representation. Mr. Ferris was beyond thoughtful as well as giving me great advice throughout the case.
Read more
30 Jul, 2015 by Steve
Steve and his firm handled my worker's comp and social security disability case. Everyone in the firm was fantastic. Answered calls and emails in a timely manner. Answered and explained all of my questions and concerns thoroughly. Worker's comp and social security can be overwhelming when your not familiar with the system, Steve's firm goes a long way to ease that burden.
Read more
27 Oct, 2023 by Alexis ortiz
Very good lawyer I recommend her she help me every single minute explain to me what going to happen through the process for work comp through my surgery. Thank you,
Read more
12 Oct, 2024 by Christopher wall
Hughes Matthews Legal Group from Rochester, New York is a good legal place to find attorneys for car accidents. They cover many different claims on injury and the whole legal process. They have many lawyers with extensive knowledge for any case.
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Eunice krauss
Working with our attorney and his staff has been an easy and straight forward process. From the very initial phone call that my wife and I had with them, we felt assured that they were able to cover our needs. They addressed the details involved with our car accident case with ease and made sure we didn't miss any step along the way. I appreciate all of their hard work and I wouldn't hestiate to recommend this law firm to anyone who needs a car accident attorney!
Read more
13 Mar, 2023 by David everett
12 Oct, 2024 by Christopher wall
Hughes Matthews Legal Group from Rochester, New York is a good legal place to find attorneys for car accidents. They cover many different claims on injury and the whole legal process. They have many lawyers with extensive knowledge for any case.
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Eunice krauss
Working with our attorney and his staff has been an easy and straight forward process. From the very initial phone call that my wife and I had with them, we felt assured that they were able to cover our needs. They addressed the details involved with our car accident case with ease and made sure we didn't miss any step along the way. I appreciate all of their hard work and I wouldn't hestiate to recommend this law firm to anyone who needs a car accident attorney!
Read more
13 Mar, 2023 by David everett
12 Oct, 2024 by Christopher wall
Hughes Matthews Legal Group from Rochester, New York is a good legal place to find attorneys for car accidents. They cover many different claims on injury and the whole legal process. They have many lawyers with extensive knowledge for any case.
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Eunice krauss
Working with our attorney and his staff has been an easy and straight forward process. From the very initial phone call that my wife and I had with them, we felt assured that they were able to cover our needs. They addressed the details involved with our car accident case with ease and made sure we didn't miss any step along the way. I appreciate all of their hard work and I wouldn't hestiate to recommend this law firm to anyone who needs a car accident attorney!
Read more
13 Mar, 2023 by David everett
12 Oct, 2024 by Christopher wall
Hughes Matthews Legal Group from Rochester, New York is a good legal place to find attorneys for car accidents. They cover many different claims on injury and the whole legal process. They have many lawyers with extensive knowledge for any case.
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Eunice krauss
Working with our attorney and his staff has been an easy and straight forward process. From the very initial phone call that my wife and I had with them, we felt assured that they were able to cover our needs. They addressed the details involved with our car accident case with ease and made sure we didn't miss any step along the way. I appreciate all of their hard work and I wouldn't hestiate to recommend this law firm to anyone who needs a car accident attorney!
Read more
13 Mar, 2023 by David everett
12 Oct, 2024 by Christopher wall
Hughes Matthews Legal Group from Rochester, New York is a good legal place to find attorneys for car accidents. They cover many different claims on injury and the whole legal process. They have many lawyers with extensive knowledge for any case.
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Eunice krauss
Working with our attorney and his staff has been an easy and straight forward process. From the very initial phone call that my wife and I had with them, we felt assured that they were able to cover our needs. They addressed the details involved with our car accident case with ease and made sure we didn't miss any step along the way. I appreciate all of their hard work and I wouldn't hestiate to recommend this law firm to anyone who needs a car accident attorney!
Read more
13 Mar, 2023 by David everett
12 Oct, 2024 by Christopher wall
Hughes Matthews Legal Group from Rochester, New York is a good legal place to find attorneys for car accidents. They cover many different claims on injury and the whole legal process. They have many lawyers with extensive knowledge for any case.
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Eunice krauss
Working with our attorney and his staff has been an easy and straight forward process. From the very initial phone call that my wife and I had with them, we felt assured that they were able to cover our needs. They addressed the details involved with our car accident case with ease and made sure we didn't miss any step along the way. I appreciate all of their hard work and I wouldn't hestiate to recommend this law firm to anyone who needs a car accident attorney!
Read more
13 Mar, 2023 by David everett
08 Feb, 2025 by Drew pic
24 Jan, 2025 by Melissa walker
I like to say they work like team and really show that they care and really get the job done I like refer anyone that needs help getting services. Thank you everyone for doing a great job
Read more
16 Jan, 2025 by Ismael melendez
Great people they really care and get deeply involved in every aspect of your case and make sure you get what is due to you. I’d recommend them to anyone who needs the best worker’s comp attorneys in Rochester….
Read more
5.0
25 Reviews
3.4
13 Reviews
06 Dec, 2024 by Providencia
Following a friend’s suggestion I consulted with Attorney Segar, after a dog attacked me. He saw merit in my case, after looking at all the evidence. Since our initial consultation I knew I could trust Segar & Sciortino.
Read more
03 Dec, 2024 by Lisa
This is Lisa Vince. Alecia Elston handled my Social Security Disability case and I am truly grateful for all she did for me. Because of the decisions she made as to how to proceed with my claim the approval for my claim was expedited.
Alecia is competent, knowledgeable and very helpful. She was patient with my questions and explained things clearly. I appreciate all of your help, Alecia -- thank you so much!
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I was involved in car accident that left me injured & unsure of what legal actions needed to be taken next. I was then recommended to Stephen Segar, and there is nothing but positives to say about him and Virginia Jonas. From day one their team was very caring and knowledge on the situation and took my worries away from the very first meeting! Their legal representation allowed me time to heal from injuries without having to worry about the legal side of things & I really appreciated that. They always kept me informed on the things that were going on with the case and if I ever had any questions they were answered with a simple phone call or e-mail. I would recommend Stephen Segar and Virginia Jonas to anyone with an injury that needs legal representation
Read more
20 Apr, 2023 by Louis
I was represented by this firm, specifically Attorney Ryan Reynolds, throughout my Workmen’s Compensation case. At all times, I gained comfort knowing that everything was in very capable hands and did not have to worry. I received immediate answers and reassurance when needed. I was guided through the entire process flawlessly. The outcome was optimal. Thank you for your professionalism and expertise!
Read more
20 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Vincent and his team, for all the care and concern you have shown me, and for working tirelessly to ensure that the law worked in our favor. If it weren’t for your analytical skills and knowledge, the matter wouldn’t have been settled by now. Special thanks to Ryan and Joshua, you all have done a tremendous job Thanks once again for your legal advice, efforts ,time and your expertise professionalism. I will never forget what you have done to make sure I was given a fair trial. You were able to prove the case beyond any reasonable doubt and we were more than pleased with the outcome. I feel so indebted to you for your hard work.You are highly recommended.
Read more
28 May, 2019 by S.r
Everyone at this office is extremely helpful, professional, knowledgeable and caring ! The whole staff was excellent and very helpful through my whole ordeal. I may have been doing quite a bit of suffering from my injury, but they helped me get through it all by taking a lot of the additional worry and extra pain from stress away. They pushed and followed up consistently with my carrier and the WCB to make certain that I had everything that was needed and right for ME and my case. THANK YOU to Vincent, Ryan, Josh, Maggie, Jake, Zeb, Lizzie and everyone there ! I couldn't have chosen a better attorneys office.
Read more
25 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Kalker represented me after years of fighting for worker's compensation in a pretty clear-cut case. OWCP took advantage of my lack of knowledge for the process, and turned down my claims citing technicalities, failure to establish various conclusions, and repeatedly sidestepping the evidence. They clearly did not care about the truth of the issue, and I began to understand that the directive OCWP gave their reviewers (with the exception of one fine fellow who unfortunately was not reviewing my case) was to try to deny claims as much as possible.
It was infuriating, and anyone that has dealt with OWCP probably understands what I'm talking about. How can an honest person with an honest work accident and complete documentation be denied so stubbornly?
I was at my wits' end, until I decided to do a East-Coast-wide search for a lawyer. Of the ones that turned up, I found Mr. Kalker, who was kind, caring, patient, and entirely effective.
Within two months, Mr. Kalker coordinated the effort, rewrote my claim, and won my case. He explained to me why my claim had been rejected, and very sadly I realized that OWCP had been rejecting my claim because they knew I didn't know my legal options to fight back and damage them, so they saw me as a non-threat; it seems my story is pretty common among injury applicants.
Very few times in my life has a stranger made such an incredible difference, and Mr. Kalker counts among the blessings I've been lucky enough to have. While he is quite a busy guy, I never felt like a number; he treated my case with respect and dedication, and was patient with my frayed emotions.
I wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Kalker. He was kind and honest to me about my injury situation and my chances of getting an approved claim, which was a breath of fresh air after dealing with OCWP.
To be honest, I have never met a lawyer that I have liked, but Mr. Kalker is the one exception. God bless him for his good heart and his incredible competence.
Read more
28 Jul, 2020 by Bandk buckner
14 Mar, 2020 by Brian schaedler
10 Jan, 2020 by Cindy manuele
28 Jul, 2020 by Bandk buckner
14 Mar, 2020 by Brian schaedler
10 Jan, 2020 by Cindy manuele
28 Jul, 2020 by Bandk buckner
14 Mar, 2020 by Brian schaedler
10 Jan, 2020 by Cindy manuele
06 Apr, 2023 by James bailey
Great, great top attorney excellent Social Security attorney as well
Read more
14 Oct, 2022 by Renee okafor
14 Feb, 2025 by Nick capostagno
20 Jan, 2025 by Helaine rhem
My experience with William Mattar’s Law Firm was a great experience, because everyone worked together and answered my questions to the best of their ability when I couldn’t get in contact with the person that I was calling for, and I am so grateful that my case was successful and I want to thank everyone that is a part of William Mattar’s Law Firm, because everyone work hard and got the work done, sometimes there may be obstacles, that is out of their control, and it’s no fault William Mattar’s Law Firm, because they want to close the case just as much as we want it closed, so I want to thank everybody that is a of William Matter’s Law Firm, I am grateful to all of you for your hard work, and I want to give a special thank you to Randy Melber and Stacy.
I will recommend others to William Mattar’s Law Firm without a doubt.
Read more
15 Jan, 2025 by David grandberry
John did an amazing job and was very helpful and knowledgeable. He explained every detail of what he was doing as he proceeded with my case. Definitively a very knowledgeable and great person to work with
Read more
22 Mar, 2024 by Jimmy stack
16 Mar, 2024 by Vsg 0626
I have no words for the crookedness and cowardess.
Read more
07 Mar, 2024 by Marco rivas
Super skilled and very responsive. This is a differentiator for us. We do healthcare, not legal, so we're happy to share that the team has really come through for us!!
Marco Rivas, CCEP
Chief Compliance and Risk Officer
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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:
-
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.
