A workers’ compensation defense attorney specializes in defending employers and insurance companies against claims of workplace injury. They handle a wide range of cases, from small disputes to large-scale litigation.
Depending on the situation, a workers’ compensation defense attorney may be responsible for:
- Reviewing medical records
- Taking depositions
- Preparing answers to pleadings
- Consulting with experts
- Drafting motions and briefs
- Attending hearings
- Appearing in court
They also provide legal advice to employers on ways to comply with workers’ compensation laws. In addition, they may develop strategies for defending against fraudulent claims of injury or illness.
Your attorney will be able to provide advice on whether you should accept a settlement or pursue litigation and will be there to fight for your rights every step of the way. They can also negotiate on your behalf with insurance companies and employers to get you a fair amount of compensation in a timely manner.
Furthermore, they can explain all potential legal options available to you, so that you can make an informed decision. A workers’ compensation attorney can make a difficult situation easier to manage and provide you with peace of mind throughout the process. It is important to remember that every workers’ compensation case is different, so it is always best to contact an experienced lawyer for advice before making any decisions about your legal rights.
How Do You Find a Workers’ Compensation Attorney to Help with Your Case?
When looking for a good workers’ compensation attorney, it is important to find one with experience in the field. Ask them how long they have been practicing and if they specialize in workers’ compensation cases. It is also beneficial to ask about their success rate in obtaining settlements for clients.
Additionally, make sure you ask questions about fees and payment arrangements so you can ensure you are comfortable with the process. Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential attorneys, take some time to research their past cases and read reviews from other clients.
Questions to Ask Your Attorney
Schedule a consultation with each attorney so that you can get a better sense of who they are and whether or not they would be the right fit for your case. During the consultation, ask the attorney:
- Are you familiar with the local rules, regulations, and laws surrounding workers’ compensation cases? Many states have specific statutes governing workers’ compensation claims, making them complex and tricky to navigate. It is important to hire a lawyer who understands the rules of your particular state.
- Do you have experience dealing with the other parties involved in a workers’ compensation claim, such as insurance companies, employers, and state agencies? These entities will likely be involved during the claims process. An attorney who has a good working relationship with these types of organizations can help facilitate successful negotiations and settlements.
- What is your success rate when it comes to workers’ compensation? Knowing how successful an attorney has been in similar cases is important. Ask for testimonials or case studies from past clients as well as any awards, certifications, and recognition the attorney has received related to workers’ compensation law.
- What strategies do you typically employ when representing a client in a workers comp case? Different attorneys will have different approaches to cases, so find out what strategies they use and how those strategies may apply in the particular case you are pursuing.
- How much do you charge for your services? It is important to know upfront how much money a workers comp attorney will charge for their services as well as any additional or hidden fees that may be applicable. Knowing this information upfront will help you make an informed decision about whom to hire.
To learn more about how a workers’ compensation attorney can help you or to schedule a consultation, contact Shugarman & Mehring at 410.783.4200 or toll-free at 888.342.7200.