Best Workers Compensation lawyers in Winter Garden, FL

1 Workers Compensation Lawyers in Winter Garden, FL

experienced lawyers

Paul Anthony Kelley

Post Office Box 783276, Winter Garden, FL

Criminal Defense Personal Injury Social Security & Disability +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

20 Reviews

26 Feb, 2023 by Bobby m.

Let me begin this review by explaining that I had an EXTREMELY rough case to overcome due to an unrelated attorney I had hired prior to Mr. Kelley. My case was also very unique in its level of difficulty in general, so that also added to the likelihood that I would not see a successful outcome. At the recommendation of the PBA, I retained Kelley Law Group and was consulted by Mr. Kelley on a different direction he thought we should take in relation to my case. He was upfront and honest with me in his belief that my case may not be winnable due to several errors made by others and myself prior. He was NOT there just to take my money...he appeared 100% compassionate (Workers Comp really put me through the ringer!) and wanted nothing more than to get me the desired outcome I wanted and rightfully deserved. The following was a very unlikely thing for me to personally do but I was at the end of my rope -- I decided to put every ounce of faith into Mr. Kelley and adhere by everything he insisted we do to give my case at least a fighting chance. His professional/legal advice was a Godsend to me. Because of this man's hard work, knowledge of the law and attention to detail, along with the dedication and hard work from all of the employees at Kelley Law Group, I WON MY CASE!! The decision I won has literally changed my life for the best, hands down! If you have been bent over the proverbial barrel by Workmans Comp and even your agency, do yourself a favor and at least call Kelley Law Group for a consultation. The decision to retain Kelley Law Group may have been the best decision I ever made in my career of over 23 years. Thank you to Mr. Kelley and his ENTIRE staff -- you will always be heroes to me! ~Bobby M.

27 Feb, 2022 by Mark

First and foremost obtaining a FRS duty disability it can be a long process and by no means easy. DO NOT ATTEMPT this alone. Laws change all the time Federal, State and Work mans comp. Paul Kelley stays on top of all that! Remember he has 35 years as an Attorney and comes from a law enforcement family. He is no doubt time and money well spent. And during the pandemic Paul and his amazing staff could get calls through to other Attorney, Doctors and State offices effectively. What more could a client ask for? Thanks Paul for helping me get the benefit I am truly deserving of. Sincerely Mark

05 Oct, 2020 by Sonny

In 2006, while working as a patrol officer, I had a heart attack on the job. This led to several weeks in the hospital and months of recovery. The City I work for denied my claim under the Heart and Lung Bill. Based upon recommendation from my union, I sought out Paul Kelley to represent me. I did not know it at the time, but this would turn out to be the best decision I have ever made. The city fought ruthlessly to deny my claim; so much so that at one point, I wondered if it was worth the fight. Paul assured me that it was and he was absolutely right. The city continued to deny my claim and Paul took them to court and won. Despite this, the city still denied my claim and appealed. Paul went before the appellate court in Miami, which consisted of a 3 judge panel. All three judges unanimously upheld our win in the lower court. The city now, by court order, recognizes and is responsible for my claim. Since 2006, I have had to have many heart related procedures. I had to retire medically as a police officer. Paul represented me through all of this and negotiated a transition from officer to a civilian administrative position, where I presently continue to work. In 2020, I developed severe heart failure and had to undergo an evaluation for a heart transplant. Paul again represented me throughout this very scary time. Thanks to Paul and his team, I received the medical attention that I needed in a timely manner. Luckily, I did not have to undergo transplantation at this time and am continuing to receive medical therapy. I have had the need for an attorney more than I have ever imagined that I would. I can tell you, Paul is an absolute expert pertaining to the Heart and Lung Bill and Worker's Compensation. Above all else, he is one of the nicest and most caring people you will ever meet. He has put together a team of experts. Connie, Barbara and Kristin are the best! During this recent transplant scare, they worked late hours and did whatever it took to make sure that I got what I needed medically. You absolutely cannot go wrong with choosing Paul to represent you. 14 years after choosing Paul, I still say it was the best decision I have ever made.

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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.

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.