What Does a Workers Compensation Attorney Do?
A workers compensation lawyer is similar to a personal injury lawyer but focuses only on workplace injuries. Your workers compensation lawyer will help you receive compensation for medical bills, financial losses due to missed work, and pain and suffering caused by an injury due to negligence on your employer's part.
How Do I Know If I Need a Workers Compensation Attorney?
Have you been injured or disabled on the job? You may want to consider speaking with a workers compensation lawyer who can assess your case for validity and then represent you through the proceedings if your case has merit. Some common issues workers compensation attorneys deal with are:
- Falls from heights
- Lifting injuries
- Repeated strain injuries
- Automobile injuries
- Equipment malfunctions
These are not the only cases that a workers compensation lawyer will take on, but these constitute a majority of the injuries. If you cannot make it to work or end up in the hospital, it's a good idea to speak with an attorney. Also, as a family member of a worker killed on the job, you may want to consult with a workers compensation attorney about filing a lawsuit.
How Much Does a Workers Compensation Attorney Cost?
Lawyers take different approaches to how they bill and how much they charge. Many workers compensation charge based on a contingency. Contingency means that you will not have to pay anything up front but your lawyer will take a percentage if you win your case. The percentage charged can range from 10-40%. Some workers compensation lawyers also charge by the hour. Rates will vary depending on where you live. Be sure to ask up front how much your lawyer will charge.
What Should I Expect When Working with a Workers Compensation Attorney?
If your workers compensation lawyer is able to prove that your injury happened due to workplace negligence, you'll win a settlement either outside of court or you'll be awarded compensation by a judge in court. Many businesses will attempt to settle outside of court to minimize damages. You'll receive payment for lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering. If you are the family of the victim, you will receive the payment in his place. Often, payments are made in installments. Even with a workers compensation attorney, there's no guarantee that you'll win, but a lawyer will have legal expertise to go through the process in the right way. With a lawyer, you should have a better chance of not only being compensated, but getting the best deal possible.
Please note: This page offers general legal information, but not legal advice tailored for your specific legal situation. Rocket Lawyer Incorporated isn't a law firm or a substitute for one. For further information on this topic, you can Ask a Legal Pro.
