What Does a Workers’ Comp Lawyer Do That I Can’t?

Workers’ compensation can be one of the most difficult branches of law for the average person to understand. That’s why many people seeking workers’ comp should consider hiring a lawyer. The job description for a workers’ comp lawyer is extensive but we’ll cover the key benefits you can expect if you get a lawyer to help with your claim.

What does a workers’ comp lawyer do?

Workers’ compensation is a type of employer insurance coverage that pays you benefits if you get injured or sick because of your job. Workers’ comp lawyers are experts who can help you navigate the entire process and receive the benefits you deserve.

There are multiple types of benefits and they vary widely by state. A lawyer will know the laws in your area, so they can walk you through your state’s regulations. They can help you fill out paperwork and then talk to your doctors, employers, and insurance companies so you don’t need to.

A lawyer can also file appeals for you and represent you in a court hearing. If your employer wants you to sign a settlement, your lawyer will help you settle your case and maximize your compensation.

(If you do need a workers' compensation lawyer, or just want someone to walk you through the basics—Atticus can help. Take our quick quiz to connect with client advocate. They can give you free, personalized legal advice—and match you with a top lawyer if you want one).

How a workers’ comp lawyer can help

First and foremost, a lawyer will help you understand how the workers’ comp process works. Workers’ compensation is one of the most complex branches of law, and a lawyer can answer all of your questions. They can walk you through every step of filing a claim, fill out paperwork for you, and make sure you never miss a deadline.

As part of your workers’ comp, you’ll need to see a doctor for an official diagnosis and a treatment plan. A lawyer will help you choose a doctor, understand the doctor’s reports, and get a treatment plan that doesn’t force you to go back to work before you’re ready.

If your claim is denied, your lawyer can file an appeal and work to build your case. They’ll do things like collect medical evidence, talk to any witnesses, and represent you in court.

Once you receive your final payout, it might be less money than you expected or not enough to cover your medical expenses. This is another area where a lawyer can help. According to one report, when a lawyer is involved with a workers’ comp claim, payouts are five times higher.

If you want to go back to work while recovering, a lawyer can advise you on whether it might hurt your claim or keep you from receiving full benefits.

Finally, if your injuries will keep you from working for the next year or longer, your lawyer can also help you start the application for long-term benefits like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

5 reasons you need a workers’ comp lawyer

Here are some reasons why you should consider finding a workers’ comp lawyer:

1. They’ll help you understand the process. The workers’ compensation process is difficult to understand, and laws vary by state. An expert can translate legalese into English for you. They can also track your claim so you never have to worry about forgetting paperwork or missing deadlines.

2. You will get a bigger payout. Studies show that settlement payouts for workers’ comp claims with a lawyer are five times higher than claims without a lawyer. Even if your injury was minor and you don’t think you’ll get much compensation, a lawyer can explain your options and maximize anything you receive.

3. They can work with uncooperative employers. In some cases, your employer might not be immediately cooperative with the process. A lawyer can help move things along if your company isn’t filing your claim or even denies your injury happened while working.

4. Appeals and hearings are hard to win on your own. You’ll especially need a lawyer if your claim is denied. In this case, you have a certain amount of time to appeal the denial. Then you need to gather evidence to support your claim and get the decision changed.

5. A lawyer will help you gather evidence. To support your claim, you may need evidence like medical records and statements from witnesses. This information is especially hard to gather when you’re injured and stressed. A lawyer will handle that work for you.

Not everyone needs a lawyer, but anyone who is filing a workers’ comp claim will benefit from one (even if you just reach out for an initial consultation). If you still feel unsure whether a lawyer is worth it for you, read our article on situations when you should definitely get a workers’ comp lawyer.

How much does a workers’ comp lawyer cost?

Workers’ comp lawyers are paid on contingency, meaning you only pay them if you win your claim. If you do win, lawyer fees usually range up to about 20% of your benefit payments or your settlement payment if you settle. State law determines how much a workers’ comp lawyer can charge, so the exact fee you pay will depend on where you live.

Learn more about how much a workers' comp lawyer costs.

Tips for finding a workers’ comp lawyer

If you’re looking for a good workplace injury lawyer, look for a law firm specializing in workers’ compensation. Since workers’ comp law is complex, an attorney who focuses on these types of cases are better equipped to help yours succeed.

As always, you should also read reviews of law firms or speak with former clients if possible. You’re looking for a lawyer who is compassionate and trustworthy. Going through an injury is hard enough on its own, so you want to work with someone who will listen to you and take the time to answer all your questions. You can also check whether a lawyer has proven experience helping similar claims succeed. They should also have a high level of medical knowledge.

For more advice, read our article on how to find a workers’ comp lawyer.

Atticus can help you find a lawyer

Here at Atticus, we offer legal representation and free advice to help people who have been injured on the job get the benefits they deserve. Fill out this short workers’ comp quiz to get started. One of our team members will contact you to learn more about your situation and match you with an experienced lawyer.