Finding the right attorney after a workplace accident can help victims recover costs through a workers’ compensation claim. People suffer injuries due to work-related accidents at an alarming frequency. Victims of workplace injuries are able to obtain workers’ compensation benefits. The workers’ compensation claims process is a difficult system to navigate. This process is made more difficult by insurance companies. The likelihood of claimants obtaining the benefits they are entitled to be dependent upon retaining a competent workers’ compensation lawyer.
Table of Contents
What Tools Are Available to Find a Lawyer?
Injured victims have several tools at their disposal to find a workers’ compensation attorney. They can contact their local bar association, as many bar associations maintain a lawyer referral service and will provide the contact information for a qualified lawyer. Lawyers can also be located by conducting a simple google search. Victims can get referrals through coworkers, family members, or friends who have filed claims in the past as well. Finally, victims can search through legal directories.
Evaluating an Attorney
There is no sole factor that should be used when evaluating a lawyer. Rather, a claimant should consider multiple sources of information when choosing an attorney. Many law firms and lawyers advertise their services on their websites. These websites often contain information regarding a lawyer’s background, education, and areas of practice. This information is useful when evaluating an attorney as it demonstrates his or her accomplishments and professional experience. Firms may also provide testimonials from previous clients on their websites, as well as awards they have earned.
Some lawyers may participate in websites that provide peer reviews. Additionally, reviews written by past clients can be found on Google. An attorney or firm’s social media pages may provide further insight into the satisfaction of previous clients and the outcomes of prior cases.
What to Ask When Meeting an Attorney
Lawyers typically offer free consultations. During this consultation, an injured victim should ask a workers’ compensation lawyer how the worker’s compensation process works and for evaluation of his or her claim. The answer a lawyer provides can demonstrate his or her familiarity with the Workers’ Compensation System. Additionally, an evaluation may reveal more options to a claimant, such as the possibility of a crossover case or additional damages.
