subject: How to Choose a Workers' Compensation Lawyer [print this page] How to Choose a Workers' Compensation Lawyer
If you are injured on the job or become sick due to the type of work you perform and can no longer work, you are probably worried and even frightened that you may not be able to provide for you and your family. If you were the "breadwinner," then you surely are wondering how the bills will get paid now that you are injured or too sick to work. Thankfully, there is a government program known as Workers' Compensation that provides financial compensation to people who are injured on the job and meet certain requirements.
Unfortunately, however, the Workers' Comp system is a complicated one, and there are a great deal of forms to fill out and deadlines to meet. It is almost impossible to get benefits approved the first time you apply without the assistance of an experienced Workers' Compensation lawyer. These attorneys know Workers' Comp law inside and out for their state and can advise you on what to do once you are no longer able to work due to injury or illness.
Steps to Take to Find a Workers' Comp Lawyer
The first step in choosing an excellent Workers' Compensation lawyer is to research whether a particular attorney or law firm generally represents the employee, the employer, or the insurance company. It would be rare and even unethical for an attorney to represent both employees and employers in his/her legal practice. Many lawyers who represent employers also represent employers' insurance companies. There generally are more attorneys that represent employees than there are that represent employers and insurance companies. You definitely want an attorney who will fight for the injured party. Please be sure to ask about this when you contact the law firm to schedule a confidential consultation.
Next, a potential client should ask a prospective lawyer for a copy of the retainer agreement. A qualified, experienced Workers' Compensation lawyer will review the agreement during the consultation. In general, there are laws that establish how much money a Workers' Compensation attorney can collect if a case is won. The attorney can also charge a fee for the work that was completed if the case is settled without going to trial. Costs, such as fees for court reporters, photocopies, legal research, medical records, and expert witnesses may also be collected from the client. You have every right to inquire about these costs at the time of your consultation.
Finally, the Internet is a great source of information. You can quickly and easily search for a Workers' Compensation attorney in your city and state. You can then read through the lawyer's website. You can also use online search engines to see if there are any reviews from past clients. If a particular client was displeased with the attorney, a review reflecting that displeasure may prevent you from having a bad experience, too. The same is true for clients who had good experiences. It would be helpful to know this ahead of time.
If you live in Chattanooga, Tennessee and feel you need an experienced Workers' Compensation lawyer, please visit Wagner & Wagner Attorneys at Law online today.
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