Finding the right lawyer for a workers’ compensation case

What are the things to look for in a worker's compensation lawyer?

People who work hard in California may find themselves injured on the job or suffering from a job-related illness. There are few things worse than having to deal with the above issues and not being able to secure proper compensation. If a claim for workers' compensation has been denied, it may be that it has been submitted improperly. Finding the best attorney for workers' compensation situations can strengthen people's chances of obtaining benefits but it is not always an easy process.

The difficulty of navigating regulations

The California Department of Industrial Relations has an extensive guide regarding all the requirements for pursuing a claim for workers' compensation. There are labor codes, penalty assessment orders, requirements of notice, and time guidelines to follow. Even finding a qualified medical examiner requires adhering to a number of parameters and the filling out of numerous process and application forms. Attorneys who handle these types of cases are familiar with these regulations and can use their knowledge to help injured workers avoid making costly mistakes.

Steps to take

The American Bar Association offers some helpful strategies when it comes to finding the right lawyer for a specific case. These include the following:

  • People should be careful when viewing advertisements. While an ad may give an idea of what areas lawyers practice in, what kinds of fees they may quote and give people some names to look into, people should always conduct further research before assuming everything stated on an ad is true.
  • Every case has its unique aspects, and a lawyer that did a great job for one person may not be a good fit for someone else. That being said, if a work associate, relative, or friend has had success with a lawyer in a similar situation, and has recommended one, it may be worth looking into further.
  • A person should not decide to hire a lawyer just from hearsay or because that lawyer has a good record. The only way for someone to be sure that a lawyer is trustworthy and will provide the help that is needed is to personally meet that lawyer and ask questions about what can be offered.

Additionally, people should interview several attorneys and ask questions before selecting one. During the initial consultation, they should pay attention to how well the attorney listens to them. Is the attorney checking his or her watch, or interrupts the discussion to take a phone call? These behaviors can indicate how the attorney will respond to them throughout their legal matter. Many people approach the idea of finding an attorney with the attitude that they need the attorney, but they should remember the attorney works for them. Therefore, they need to make sure that they are going to get their money's worth in return.

In the Anaheim area, workers' compensation claims are made frequently. In order for people to obtain the money they are entitled to by law, they should approach the process in the most effective way. For these cases, a skilled attorney can be invaluable.

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