If you are an injured worker in Orange County, CA, you may be eligible for a range of benefits under California’s workers’ compensation laws. Your choice of legal representation could determine the outcome of your claim and the final settlement amount.
So, what should you check before you hire a lawyer? Learn how to choose the right workers’ compensation attorney for your claim.
Why You Need a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Let’s start with the basics: Do you really need a workers’ compensation attorney? While under California law, you can handle your own workers’ compensation claim, injured employees who work with a competent lawyer typically achieve much better outcomes.
Insurance companies may dispute or drag out your claim. The insurer may pressure you to accept a low settlement offer, exploiting your vulnerable situation and natural wish to resolve your claim quickly. Many workers’ compensation claims encounter denials because the injured worker failed to comply with filing protocols or simply didn’t understand their rights.
A competent workers’ compensation attorney can:
- Assess your case and help you understand the value of your claim
- Help you gather compelling evidence to support your case
- Advocate for your interests and work to expedite the claim process
- Handle all legal paperwork and communicate with the workers’ compensation provider
- Advise you on further steps if the insurance company disputes your claim
The following tips will help you choose the right workers’ compensation attorney.
Choose an Experienced Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
When you shop around for lawyers, look for an attorney with enough legal practice under their belt. Choose an attorney who focuses on workers’ compensation and personal injury. Workers’ compensation claims follow specific laws and regulations, and you need an attorney with sufficient experience in similar cases.
Workers’ compensation claims can be highly complex in cases that involve serious injuries. A seasoned attorney will lean on their experience to build a claim that reflects the true worth of your case, including possible long-term costs like future medical treatment.
Look for a Local Law Firm
It’s always better to choose a firm based in your neighborhood or town rather than any attorney licensed to practice in California. A local lawyer is usually more accessible and ready to accommodate your schedule. Local attorneys also work extra hard to foster a positive reputation in their service area.
Moreover, local attorneys may have helpful connections with expert witnesses and other professionals in your area who can forward your workers’ compensation claim.
Consider the Law Firm’s Size
When it comes to law firms, size matters. Big law firms may have impressive resources for handling extremely complex cases, but working with a boutique firm offers unique advantages.
A small law firm often provides a personal touch and direct communication with your attorney. You’ll know your lawyer is handling your case directly rather than delegating management to paralegals and assistants.
Examine Reviews and Track Record
Reviews are a crucial factor in choosing the right workers’ compensation attorney. Online reviews can help determine whether an attorney has the right skills and approach to handle your case.
Read the lawyer’s reviews on reputable websites like Avvo and see what their former clients have to say. Do people describe this attorney as skilled, knowledgeable, assertive, efficient, and attentive? Are former clients happy with the outcomes of their claims?
Keep in mind that any law firm may have the occasional negative review, but beware of repeated feedback that brings up a specific issue, like poor communication.
Discuss the Payment Plan
Lawyers’ fees can be daunting after a workplace injury when you may already face high upfront costs. Look for a law firm that handles workers’ compensation cases on a contingency basis.
The contingency fee system is simple: You only pay the lawyer if and when your claim reaches a successful resolution. A typical contingency fee is 10%-20% of your final settlement, depending on your case’s complexity.
This payment system has two major advantages for the client. First, you avoid out-of-pocket legal fees. Second, when a law firm takes your claim on a contingency basis, you know your attorney believes in your case and will work as hard as possible to promote it since they only collect their payout when you do.
Interview Attorneys and Trust Your Instincts
Knowing how to choose the right workers’ compensation attorney often has no clear-cut answer. A lot depends on the lawyer’s personal qualities, like empathy, approachability, and work ethic.
Reputable workers’ compensation attorneys usually offer free, no-obligation case assessments. You can take advantage of this initial consultation to interview prospective attorneys and determine whether you would feel comfortable working with their firm. Ask yourself:
- Does this attorney sound professional and assertive?
- Does the attorney seem highly motivated to start working on my claim at once?
- Is the attorney ready to answer all my questions and give my case their full attention?
- How long has this attorney practiced law? How much experience do they have with similar workers’ compensation cases?
- Is this the type of attorney I want on my side if the insurance company disputes my claim or settlement negotiations run aground?
Why Injured Workers in Orange County Choose Khalil Law Group
At Khalil Law Group, we fight for the rights of employees who suffered work-related injuries or occupational diseases in Orange County, CA. Injured workers and their families choose us for:
- A stellar team with diverse legal experience
- Uncompromising integrity and work ethic
- A personal approach with constant communication
- Free consultations
- No upfront costs in workers’ compensation cases
- Outstanding reviews by many satisfied clients
Khalil Law Group: Reliable, Personalized Legal Representation for Your Workers’ Compensation Claim in Orange County, CA
If you’re wondering how to choose the right workers’ compensation attorney, we at Khalil Law Group combine experience, skill, an assertive approach, and unparalleled dedication to clients’ needs. Call us at (714) 617-7870 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation with a workers’ comp lawyer in Newport Beach, CA.