>107
experienced lawyers
Filter by
04 Sep, 2024 by Pugcakes
was struggling greatly feeling stuck between a predatory insurance company and non responsive law firm mill where I was handed to a new person every few weeks who knew nothing about me or my case.
I sought out Marc for some basic advice. For FREE, he corresponded with me and, helped to guide me in the right direction to get my case back under control and to seek the true help I deserve.
I highly recommend Marc Wiesner if your are looking for a personable, empathic and knowledgeable Attorney, I wish I found Marc in the beginning of my work comp journey, it would have made all of this so much easier on my family and I.
5 stars!
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Sean regalado
Great experience
I suffered a work related injury and was unable to preform my duties. After about two months of trying to work with my job myself I continued Tim and explained my situation. Tim was very helpful and believed he would be able to serve me and help protect my interests. My worker’s compensation case took longer than expected ( a little over 2 years) but Tim was very attentive and would always answer questions right away either through email or phone. Tim is a great worker’s compensation lawyer and will have your best interest in mind. I would and have recommended Tim to others who have the unfortunate experience of being on worker’s compensation.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
He handled everything with very little instruction for me and was always very kind. He even corresponded with my daughter!
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Pugcakes
was struggling greatly feeling stuck between a predatory insurance company and non responsive law firm mill where I was handed to a new person every few weeks who knew nothing about me or my case.
I sought out Marc for some basic advice. For FREE, he corresponded with me and, helped to guide me in the right direction to get my case back under control and to seek the true help I deserve.
I highly recommend Marc Wiesner if your are looking for a personable, empathic and knowledgeable Attorney, I wish I found Marc in the beginning of my work comp journey, it would have made all of this so much easier on my family and I.
5 stars!
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Sean regalado
Great experience
I suffered a work related injury and was unable to preform my duties. After about two months of trying to work with my job myself I continued Tim and explained my situation. Tim was very helpful and believed he would be able to serve me and help protect my interests. My worker’s compensation case took longer than expected ( a little over 2 years) but Tim was very attentive and would always answer questions right away either through email or phone. Tim is a great worker’s compensation lawyer and will have your best interest in mind. I would and have recommended Tim to others who have the unfortunate experience of being on worker’s compensation.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Chad lozano
Working with my lawyer, Mr. English, has been an incredibly positive experience. From the very beginning, he has been nothing but helpful, responsive, and kind. His professionalism is truly unmatched, and his ability to determine the best possible outcome in any situation is remarkable. Every problem I encountered was met with a solution, thanks to his expertise and dedication.
What really stood out to me was how quickly Mr. English would respond to my emails during business hours—I've never worked with anyone who was so prompt and attentive. It made me feel supported and confident that my case was always a priority for him.
Mr. English also consistently advocated for me, especially when the insurance company threw challenges our way. He handled everything with grace and determination, ensuring that my interests were always protected. Ultimately, the end result of our case was a favorable one, and I am truly grateful for all his hard work.
I highly recommend Mr. English to anyone in need of legal assistance. His professionalism, responsiveness, and dedication make him an exceptional lawyer who genuinely cares about his clients. Thank you so much, Mr. English, for everything you've done for me!
Read more
03 Jul, 2019 by Manet
He was very friendly and professional. He would answer my question very quickly. He resolved my case with no problem. I’m very satisfied.
Read more
30 Apr, 2019 by Sandra lunsford
Jonathan Lee was an excellent attorney and my workers comp case . I felt like he had my best interest fully . I got treatment for my knee injuries and I did not get nothing before I hired him . He is a very good workers Comp attorney .
Read more
21 Feb, 2019 by Paula
I was extremely happy with Jonathan. I really appreciated the way he took the time to explain everything and giving me his honest opinion. If I ever have to hire a lawyer again he would be my first call
Read more
17 Dec, 2012 by Ralph
Mr. Brett Johnson is the best attorney anyone could ever hope for. By far, one of the two best attorneys I ever had. Mr. Johnson was meticulous in detail, drawing Venn diagrams and flow charts to explain Workmans' Compensation law and how the current laws effected the major points of my case. Mr. Johnson focused our office visits to making the process of securing medical help, the steps and time frames involved as thorough and complete as I could ever hope possible, advising clear and sensible, as well as practical and viable solutions for seemingly ongoing and difficult issues. Mr. Johnson's grasp and application of Contemporary Disability Law and of the necessaries and protocols required in securing a fair judgment demonstrated his expertise in application. He is outstanding not only as a professional but as a person who "feels" for his client. I wish I could give Mr. Johnson more than five stars as he is certainly far and above, thus, at the top of his profession.
Read more
22 Mar, 2024 by Zac
After my car accident, I went to the Law Offices of Trang Do. They were amazing! They took care of everything from start to finish. They even found me a chiropractor for my neck pain, talked to the insurance company for me, and got me a great settlement. I didn't have to worry about anything because they handled it all. I'm so grateful for their help and would recommend them to anyone who needs a lawyer. They made everything easy for me.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Salil pradhan
08 Jul, 2024 by Elizabeth burch
Moksha is GREAT! Magdalena is GREAT. Cheryll, Jasmine, Look no farther this team has your back.! They are able to articulate a great argument. They did the best that they could with my case and they are so supportive. Don’t look any further. You’ll be sorry if you do.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Sharmistha roy
Magdalena is the most Efficient, Compassionate and Professional family lawyer I have come across in this region. Her knowledge on the subject and efficiency left me dumbfounded. The most cost-effective services offered by her is a great plus. I wish her all the best.
Read more
5.0
3 Reviews
4.6
73 Reviews
27 Mar, 2024 by Trinh to
05 Apr, 2023 by Jovani casias
This is my new work comp lawyer I had a previous lawyer that did not fight for me and did not help me at all this is my new lawyer that is helping me get surgeries that I need and things where I can be independent or get the ball rolling glad that I picked this lawyer office and hope that they fight for me all the way
Read more
19 Jul, 2022 by Oscar bermudez
Great Lawyer
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Sharon garell
> GJEL was recommended by a longtime friend of the family. Jim Larsen and his team were such a pleasure to work with and achieved excellent results. Jim was very kind, thoughtful, a good listener and readily available to answer my numerous questions. I would be happy to refer him to a friend without hesitation.
Read more
03 Aug, 2024 by Said mohamed dunia
02 Aug, 2024 by Dave meinhardt
To say that I am elated with GJEL Accident Attorneys is to put it mildly. They were able to achieve compensation for me in an amount equal to five times what the insurance offered. This was the result of a bike accident I had with a car on August 7, 2024, when the car, parallel parked on Bryant Street in Palo Alto, pulled out to make a U-turn in front of me. The driver did not look. I could not stop and we collided. I spent three hours in Emergency at the local hospital and my bike had a bent handlebar. GJEL Attorneys were very helpful, accommodating and thorough and I am very pleased with the result.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Salil pradhan
08 Jul, 2024 by Elizabeth burch
Moksha is GREAT! Magdalena is GREAT. Cheryll, Jasmine, Look no farther this team has your back.! They are able to articulate a great argument. They did the best that they could with my case and they are so supportive. Don’t look any further. You’ll be sorry if you do.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Sharmistha roy
Magdalena is the most Efficient, Compassionate and Professional family lawyer I have come across in this region. Her knowledge on the subject and efficiency left me dumbfounded. The most cost-effective services offered by her is a great plus. I wish her all the best.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Perla ruelas
Attorney Moksha Smith and her team are the best. Mrs. Smith always replies, texts me back and emails me promptly when I have a question or concern.
It’s very draining emotionally and just to know someone cares, listens and has your back, really has made the difference. She is very compassionate, knowledgeable and works extremely hard to make the the experience less stressful.
Thank you everyone at Magdalena Law Group!
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Vishal jha
Where do I start. I was going through a bad divorce and had lost all hope of having any sort of custody of my only son. Magdalena Chattopadhya was my third lawyer and I do not know why I met her. I just had a feeling that I should meet her as a last resort. And boy did she exceed my expectations. In the first meeting itself, she assured me that she’ll do the best she can for me. Although, she didn’t promise anything but kinda said what might be the outcome of the case if I had her on board. She’s an absolute gem of a lawyer and has so much knowledge about the family law cases and commands respect in the San Jose family court circle. She has a very pleasing personality and even though her fees are kinda on the higher side but she never charges a penny extra and is very cognizant of her client’s time and money. If anyone needs an amazing lawyer in the Bay Area for family law; keep calm and retain Magdalena Chattopadhya. She will get the job done and some more. I can’t thank her enough. She has absolutely resurrected my life and I salute her. I can vouch for her any day of the week.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Lance morrison
Legal issues can be daunting. Often we are in need of representation when one is at their low. Especially regarding matters that carry so much emotion. This was my state of mind while facing child custody proceedings and financial support struggles. When under the influence of such high stress and emotion, you need a clear thinking representative that is capable of systematically engineering a plan of action. An attorney who can draw on years of experience and is able to lay out a roadmap. Only then can one begin to see a path toward liberation. What I have found is that it's best to get out in front, take in on and face the challenges with grit. If you procrastinate, you give others the ability to create the narrative and gain advantage. I found Magdalena to be a most wonderful advocate. She was a voice of comfort and reason within a very dynamic and emotional set of circumstances. I emerged from my case in a wonderful position, one that I thought was not possible. In that regard, my attorney outperformed my most optimistic expectations. When choosing an attorney, chose a pure professional. Magdalena and her team are certainly that!
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Rafael trenado
Never again will I hire this firm. My case was a few years ago but it was with this same firm and with Mr. Valencia himself. On the phone he mentioned good things like getting the best results for me possible and possibly getting the charges dropped. All good things you want to hear as a person searching for an attorney but that's not how it went. This guy showed up late to every single one of my court dates by half and or more. He pretty much just showed up to do what I was supposed to do, which is stand before the judge and respond to his requests. I have a prior criminal record so I wasn't expecting him to make magic but at least show up to my court date on time which he did not. All matters were called first who had attorneys but sure enough mine waited until he got there. I feel I would've gotten the same results without him for sure as he did very little communicating with the DA or anyone on the other side of the podium. To top it off on my last court date after not seeing him for over half an hour I called his firm and they informed me he was in redwood city helping someone else. Seriously not cool at all or professional. So they sent another attorney from his office but not until an hour and a half from when the court started. I'm not here to complain about my outcome from the court cause that was a separate issue but i am here to complain about the unprofessional relationship I had with Mr. Valencia and how I will never recommend or reach out to them again. So save your money or go elsewhere because I wasted $4000 for something I could've and should've done myself. Last but not least I think it's very unprofessional how in most of the reviews that are not favored to them they put the person on blast for the previous case they had with them. That's very rude, unprofessional and down right dirty. If they do not like the truth being put in the reviews then maybe they should not be practicing law and giving people false hope. So I won't be surprised if I see information about my case they handled on here based on the responses to reviews that aren't in their favor.
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Sean mou
In November last year, based on online reviews, I started consulting with Riccardo. At the beginning, he was quite patient. I consulted several lawyers and eventually chose him based on online reviews and his claim during the consultation that there was a 99% chance of winning the case. I felt relieved to leave the case to him. However, after we paid him, he stopped communicating and never proactively kept in touch.
At first, I thought my case was not a big deal until I was charged and realized the seriousness of the situation. I spent money consulting another lawyer online, who advised me to write a character letter and resume before being charged, which could have helped. But Riccardo never asked me to do anything besides providing basic materials. He was also unwilling to communicate proactively, and I didn't dare to keep asking him questions. Whenever I had questions, they were relayed through his assistant.
Throughout this period, he didn't inform me of what he was doing, and I had no idea about his actions until my case became more severe. He didn't help me much during the whole process and even made excuses, saying the DA was too young to understand family difficulties, which made me feel he was very unprofessional. I had trusted him because he claimed to have 30 years of experience.
After my case resulted in a conviction, I didn't disrespect him until a week ago when I asked if he could attend court on that day. He agreed, and I was very grateful. But today, when I asked him, he angrily told me he was very busy. He could have refused me or informed me earlier. Instead, he made a lot of excuses.
I swear that this person is really unprofessional, and I even doubt if those positive reviews about him are real. I know that when someone makes a mistake and needs professional help, they might go online and look at reviews. If you don't want to waste your time and risk losing your case, you really need to be cautious and not rely solely on ratings. From my experience, sometimes they are not reliable. This is my personal experience working with this person, and I hope to share it with those who need help. I fully understand your feelings, but it's crucial to be careful when choosing a lawyer.
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Rigo r.
Very happy with VIB Law.
Riccardo was informative, personable and very helpful every step of the way. I’m glad I found this firm and highly recommend them!
Read more
31 Aug, 2024 by Carlos s ezquerro (realtor)
08 Mar, 2024 by Mike kelly
I knew my case would be difficult and take some time. In the end… Andrew and team managed to settle for more than the original estimate. Very professional and aggressive when necessary. I highly recommend Andrew B. Shin!
Read more
21 Jan, 2024 by Ahmad meher
05 Sep, 2024 by Oscar gutierrez
2024
Robert T Bledsoe Law Offices in San Jose ca is a joke …. Mr. Bledsoe did nothing for me lied to me and was always telling my case was worth nothing and always telling me close my case down when I still had neck brace features for about 10 months with all this injury’s c6 c7 fracture in my neck and damaged artery T3 T4 T5 fracture
T10 T11 T12 fractured and much more…..i fired Bledsoe and hired Law Offices of Bryan K. Leiser Fresno ca
MR. Bryan Lieser give me double the settlement that Mr. Bledsoe had give me that should tell you every thing how much Bledsoe cares to help any one out !!!!
Bledsoe shouldn’t get any fees payed to him by Mr. Leiser because Bledsoe did nothing for me at all
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by James
I hired Attorney Mason Bledsoe for a Workers compensation case that I was denied after sustaining a work injury that rendered me incapacitated. I did some research online and was happy I found him. I love him and his crew, their deep understanding of the law and meticulous attention to detail were crucial in achieving a favorable outcome for me. Attorney Bledsoe was always available to answer my questions and concerns, and their calm and reassuring demeanor put me at ease throughout the entire process. I highly recommend Attorney Mason Bledsoe to anyone seeking legal representation. They are truly dedicated to their clients and achieving the best possible results.
Read more
06 Apr, 2024 by Keith adkins
I need legal representation these are the people I go through to get the job done they always take care of you always courteous the only place I go when I have a problem legal I'm always happy with the outcome
Read more
28 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Scheduling an appt. was very easy. Both Roxanne and Cristal we are very professional especially when I need to reschedule the appointment to another day and time. I needed to consult mr. Navarrete on insurance regarding my resignation, the type of references that I should expect my former employer is allowed to provide. He also helped clarify the documents that I received from my previous employer. He was also very patient in listening to all the concerns that I had leading up to my resignation. He addressed all my concerns and questions and help me put my mind at ease in finding my next role without any issues. I would highly recommend him to a professional who needs clarification and assistance in regards to employment law.
Read more
21 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Attorney Arthur Navarette and his staff are true professionals who get the job done - the right way! I am a Silicon Valley executive who first consulted two other attorneys about a severance agreement but felt like they really were just going through the motions. In my gut I felt I was wronged by my former employer, so I decided to get a third opinion. This time I contacted The Navarette Law Firm. When I called their office, Mr. Navarette's assistant Roxanne was very professional and accommodating in setting an after hours appointment that fit my busy schedule, and more important one that was before my deadline to respond. When I arrived for my appointment with Mr. Navarette, his other assistant Cristal was also very professional, really nice and got me into my consultation appointment right away. In the consultation, Mr. Navarette was very thorough and asked several very pointed questions that neither of the two previous attorneys had even asked me. He pointed out to me that my employer technically had broken the law and explained exactly why, and in non-legalese. He was very up front with me and didn't sugar coat anything about the weaknesses in my case. He then asked me a question that neither of the two other attorneys even bothered to ask: he asked me "what is your goal?" I told him my goal was to get more money in severance pay, have a clean record, and move on with my career. I ended up hiring Mr. Navarette to re-negotiate my severance package. I was being offered 12 weeks of severance pay and he got me 52 (one year). He also ensured that future employers would know nothing about my termination, by making the severance agreement mutually confidential. Mr. Navarette kept me informed every step of the way and provided me with excellent legal advice and excellent legal services. I am thrilled with the result that Mr. Navarette achieved for me and highly recommend him to anyone looking for an attorney who really knows how to get the job done right!
Read more
16 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
Said he would take my case, then was unresponsive for a week, scheduled a meeting, and then said the day before the meeting that he couldn't take my case. Never called me at any point to discuss the potential case. Was a bad situation because things are often time-sensitive and he didn't respect that (up front) and made me waste several days chasing him.
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Rafael trenado
Never again will I hire this firm. My case was a few years ago but it was with this same firm and with Mr. Valencia himself. On the phone he mentioned good things like getting the best results for me possible and possibly getting the charges dropped. All good things you want to hear as a person searching for an attorney but that's not how it went. This guy showed up late to every single one of my court dates by half and or more. He pretty much just showed up to do what I was supposed to do, which is stand before the judge and respond to his requests. I have a prior criminal record so I wasn't expecting him to make magic but at least show up to my court date on time which he did not. All matters were called first who had attorneys but sure enough mine waited until he got there. I feel I would've gotten the same results without him for sure as he did very little communicating with the DA or anyone on the other side of the podium. To top it off on my last court date after not seeing him for over half an hour I called his firm and they informed me he was in redwood city helping someone else. Seriously not cool at all or professional. So they sent another attorney from his office but not until an hour and a half from when the court started. I'm not here to complain about my outcome from the court cause that was a separate issue but i am here to complain about the unprofessional relationship I had with Mr. Valencia and how I will never recommend or reach out to them again. So save your money or go elsewhere because I wasted $4000 for something I could've and should've done myself. Last but not least I think it's very unprofessional how in most of the reviews that are not favored to them they put the person on blast for the previous case they had with them. That's very rude, unprofessional and down right dirty. If they do not like the truth being put in the reviews then maybe they should not be practicing law and giving people false hope. So I won't be surprised if I see information about my case they handled on here based on the responses to reviews that aren't in their favor.
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Sean mou
In November last year, based on online reviews, I started consulting with Riccardo. At the beginning, he was quite patient. I consulted several lawyers and eventually chose him based on online reviews and his claim during the consultation that there was a 99% chance of winning the case. I felt relieved to leave the case to him. However, after we paid him, he stopped communicating and never proactively kept in touch.
At first, I thought my case was not a big deal until I was charged and realized the seriousness of the situation. I spent money consulting another lawyer online, who advised me to write a character letter and resume before being charged, which could have helped. But Riccardo never asked me to do anything besides providing basic materials. He was also unwilling to communicate proactively, and I didn't dare to keep asking him questions. Whenever I had questions, they were relayed through his assistant.
Throughout this period, he didn't inform me of what he was doing, and I had no idea about his actions until my case became more severe. He didn't help me much during the whole process and even made excuses, saying the DA was too young to understand family difficulties, which made me feel he was very unprofessional. I had trusted him because he claimed to have 30 years of experience.
After my case resulted in a conviction, I didn't disrespect him until a week ago when I asked if he could attend court on that day. He agreed, and I was very grateful. But today, when I asked him, he angrily told me he was very busy. He could have refused me or informed me earlier. Instead, he made a lot of excuses.
I swear that this person is really unprofessional, and I even doubt if those positive reviews about him are real. I know that when someone makes a mistake and needs professional help, they might go online and look at reviews. If you don't want to waste your time and risk losing your case, you really need to be cautious and not rely solely on ratings. From my experience, sometimes they are not reliable. This is my personal experience working with this person, and I hope to share it with those who need help. I fully understand your feelings, but it's crucial to be careful when choosing a lawyer.
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Rigo r.
Very happy with VIB Law.
Riccardo was informative, personable and very helpful every step of the way. I’m glad I found this firm and highly recommend them!
Read more
04 Mar, 2024 by Maggie powers
Horrible! Flipping through papers looking for answers in court. This guy is not a good lawyer.
Read more
20 Oct, 2023 by Jennifer miners, lcsw
Very good experience getting estate plan done. Thorough and detailed work.
Read more
08 Oct, 2023 by Chris shelton
Michael Lonich has been a delight to work with. He first helped me with my father's estate, redoing the trust to close loose ends at a time when family trolls were seeing nothing but dollar signs. He just wrapped up my wife and myself with our estate planning. He is knowledgeable, efficient, and easy to work with.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Melissa miller
Great place to go if you're looking for help. They got some of my charges dismissed and some of my charges reduced. I am very happy with the outcome this firm has gotten on my case!
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Jake hahn
I found the workers very sympathetic and helpful. I had a very efficient conversation on the phone and I got the help I needed for my DUI. I would 100% recommend to anyone that needs help with a DUI in the Santa Clara area.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Gertie burchett
Unfortunately I was in need of a criminal defense attorney for reasons I don't wanna disclose on the internet, but I'm very happy with my decision to use H Law Group. They are amazing and I couldn't have have made a better choice.
Read more
17 Feb, 2024 by Rick sedillo and hermelina barba sedillo
Lack of follow-up
Extremely disappointed with my experience with Attorney Maing. Beware if you are going to consult his services. My husband and I have been trying to contact him and no have not received any response. We reached out to Maing & Co and was transferred to the San Jose office. Went to the location and nothing. Unfortunately, I reached out to him in 2019 and last spoke with his assistant in 2020. My car accident case is from 2018 and remains unresolved. I am still trying to reach him. Very poor services, professionalism, and communication.
Read more
11 Apr, 2014 by Shawn
I really didn't want to have to write a bad review, but I feel compelled to warn others of Mr. Maing's behavior.
I was extremely disappointed in my experience with him. If you are going to hire him, PLEASE be prepared to constantly follow-up on given deadlines immediately once passed (and trust me when I say you will need to follow-up). And even then, expect your calls not to be returned. My calls were not returned until weeks later, and only after I actually spoke with his boss. This happened on more than 3 different occasions, so please remember to document your conversations well. But the saddest part was that when my calls were returned, there was an excuse not acknowledging that the ball was dropped. I was thinking that I was mistaken until I started taking notes during my conversations with him. Initially, It wasn't until then that I realized that I was being told one thing initially, then told something completely different later on. I had to have a very frank conversation with Mr. Maing and only then was he finally truthful about his errors.
Unfortunately, this did not change his behavior. 6 months was wasted for a complaint that needed to be filed within a year of it actually happening. Perhaps with more experience, things may change
Read more
09 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
Every time i call to check on my fole they nevr told me nothing this people are not responsable for their custumers i think their work for the boss not for the employer please contact others lawyers with experience dont go with this people
Read more
08 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
I would give her zero stars if I could. Save your energy and time this lawyer is looking for a quick return on her clients. I was injured and lost my job while I was in the hospital for a work related injury. After 1 year of working on my case she told me to settle my case for 10k and give up my future medical. She literally stated "this case is only worth 10,000 and I am only making 2,000 from this. So you should just settle" Who says that stuff to clients yet alone a human being? I still was not in any condition to walk or go back to work. She is not there for your best interest as she has limited experience in trials and funds to appeal your case. Think twice before going to her.
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.
