What characteristics should you look for in your workers compensation attorney?
1) An injured worker should be explained in layman's terms what the workers compensation law can do and what it cannot do for them. That is the only way to know if the insurance company is treating you fairly.
2) Any questions that you have, should be answered by the attorney or the attorney’s staff promptly. Telepho
ne calls and messages should be responded to in no less than 24 hours.
3) Before any deposition, mediation, or hearing in your case, in my opinion, days before, your attorney should speak with you to prepare you and explain what to expect.
4) We will try to resolve the issues before we get to a mediation.
5) Not all attorneys will file Petitions/Claims for matters such as authorization of medication, doctor visits and tests, and late indemnity checks. We are not here just to negotiate settlements, even though that is an important part of what we do.
6) When you must decide whether to settle a dispute with the insurance company, or to settle the entire case, you should be advised all the pros and cons of the settlement. You should make the decision whether to go to a hearing or settle, and whether to lump sum settle your case for an amount that is acceptable to you, or not.
7) If the attorney seems like he or she does not want to protect your rights in every way possible, and is only looking to make a fee, that is usually obvious to an injured worker. It does not cost anything to go see an attorney before one is hired so you do not have to sign up with the first one you talk to. You should only establish an attorney – client relationship if it "feels right" to you. Take a friend or family member with you when you meet with someone that you may want to represent you. Ask their opinion after the appointment.
8) The attorney with the most advertisements is not necessarily the best fit for you. Ask for the names and phone numbers of prior clients to contact for references.
9) Finally, ask how much experience the attorney has in handling workers compensation petitions/claims in cases and how often they go to court for their clients.
