In 2019, there were over 2.4 million non-fatal workplace injuries reported in the United States. Fortunately, most companies provide workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. These policies provide financial assistance to employees who suffer injuries and financial hardships due to accidents that occur in the line of duty.
Workers’ comp covers things like medical bills, missed wages, and more. However, you might have trouble getting the compensation you deserve for your injuries. In this case, you need to start looking for the best workers’ comp attorneys in your area.
They can help you build your case, identify your damages, and determine the value of those damages. Without them, it will be difficult to acquire the compensation you’re entitled to.
But how do you find the right attorney for your case? Keep reading for the top questions you should ask to hire the right workers’ comp lawyer for your needs.
Will You Give Me a Free Consultation?
The very first question you should ask potential workers’ comp attorneys is whether or not they will sit down with you for a free case evaluation. Free case evaluations or consultations are necessary if you want to find the absolute best attorney for your case.
You can use these consultations to find out as much about your case as possible. You can ask questions and address any concerns you have about moving forward with the lawsuit.
Additionally, take this time to learn more about the attorney. You can ask them questions about their practice and experience.
Just as importantly, gauge your rapport with the workers’ comp lawyer, as you will be working together for several months. You need to hire a legal expert who’s genuinely invested in your case and shows you respect and compassion.
What Are Your Rates?
Next, find out more about the top workers’ comp attorneys’ rates. In most cases, these types of lawyers charge a contingency fee. You will pay the lawyer a certain percentage of your winnings, provided your case is successful.
However, different lawyers have different commission rates. Talk to the attorneys on your list to find out what their rates are. Yet, don’t be turned away from a higher rate, as the attorney may be more qualified or have better case results.
Furthermore, there are additional legal fees outside of lawyer fees you’ll be responsible for regardless of whether or not you win your case. This includes things like court fees, mailing expenses, expert witnesses, etc.
In What Areas of Law Do You Specialize?
Of course, when searching for workers’ comp attorneys, you need to ensure the lawyer you hire specializes in these types of cases. For example, you wouldn’t hire a criminal defense attorney for a personal injury claim.
Dig a little deeper to learn more about the workers’ comp lawyer’s expertise. How many cases like yours have they handled in the past? Do they have direct experience dealing with cases that have circumstances similar to yours?
Check out Reasonover Law Attorneys to find an experienced group of legal professionals who specialize in workers’ comp cases.
Can I See Your Case Results?
One of the most important workers’ comp attorney tips is to look at their previous case results. Sometimes, you can find these posted on their website and social media pages.
You need to learn more about their success rate. You should also be able to find out more details about how their cases were resolved. We recommend looking for cases that resemble yours to see how they turned out.
Do You Have Online Client Reviews I Can See?
Reading client reviews and testimonials is another practical way to find the best workers’ comp attorneys in your area. Once again, you should be able to find these on their website and social media profiles. If not, however, you can search for reviews using the law firm’s name.
Client reviews will provide a lot of insight into the attorney’s professionalism, competency, knowledge, and demeanor. Find an attorney that has a long list of positive reviews left by clients who were satisfied with their case results.
While few business owners or professionals will have 100% positive reviews across the board, the ratio should be overwhelmingly positive. We recommend avoiding attorneys that have repeating complaints or recurring issues listed by their past clients.
How Many Other Clients Do You Have?
Workers’ comp cases can take months, and sometimes years to settle. As such, it’s perfectly normal for workers’ comp attorneys to handle multiple cases and clients at one time.
However, it’s important to ask your attorney how many other clients they have to ensure your case is going to get the attention it deserves. If your workers’ comp lawyer is too busy to answer your questions or return your calls, it can add stress to your settlement.
You need an attorney who’s reliable and accessible. They may not be able to answer your calls 24/7, but they should be able to get back to you in a reasonable amount of time.
An overworked attorney may be less patient with you. This means they’ll be less willing to answer your questions or address any concerns.
Do You Handle Litigation Costs?
Before your case goes to trial (if it ever does), there will be a litigation process. During this time, you and your attorney will present your claims to the defendant and their lawyer. Settlements are usually reached during this process.
However, the litigation process can be expensive and the costs will need to be paid before you get any money from your claim. As such, it’s important to find out if your attorney will cover the costs of if you’ll be responsible for them.
In some cases, they will cover the cost until you get paid. Common litigation fees include document recovery and copies, expert witness testimonies, doctor reports, transcripts, mailing fees, and more.
Are You Searching for Workers’ Comp Attorneys in Your Area?
We hope our workers’ comp attorney guide helps you find the legal help you need to win your case. Remember, you’re in it for the long haul. The process won’t be easy but the right workers’ comp attorneys will alleviate your stress and improve your chances for success.
And if you’re looking for more legal news or tips, stick around. Our blog is full of content created to help people like you.
