If you have a workplace injury and work in Minnesota, you should figure out if you need a workers’ compensation lawyer. Getting started with an attorney takes worry, stress, and deciphering confusing insurance information off your plate.
Figuring Out If You Need a Lawyer
Many injured workers need workers’ compensation lawyers but do not realize it. Some people think that they can handle their cases themselves, while others have never worked with a lawyer before. Also, workers may have concerns about paying the lawyer and about how to find a good one. If you are in any of the following situations, you should consider getting a lawyer:
- Your initial claim for workers’ compensation benefits has been denied, and you aren’t sure what to do next;
- You suffered an injury a long time ago but want to seek benefits;
- Your injury developed over time (such as back pain or carpal tunnel syndrome);
- You need a surgery or other treatment but the insurance company will not pay for it;
- You feel mistreated by your employer or the insurer; or
- You have been fired or retaliated against after filing for workers’ comp.
You might seek out a lawyer for other reasons too – there is no reason not to get a free consultation and learn more about your options.
Getting Started With a Lawyer
Once you decide to speak with a lawyer, you need to find the right one. Helpfully, many workers’ compensation lawyers offer free initial consultations. You can meet with a few different attorneys if you would like with no up-front cost.
At the consultations, ask questions about the lawyers’ approach to your case and your chances of winning benefits. Look for knowledgeable local attorneys with experience in the field. When you pick a lawyer, you will sign an attorney fee agreement explaining the contingency fee and how costs are handled. Then your lawyer will get started on your case.
You can check in periodically and ask for updates on how the case is going. Otherwise, though, your lawyer will let you know when you need to do something. This can take a lot of stress off your shoulders, allowing you to continue healing from your workplace injury.
Need help getting workers’ compensation for your injury? Joe Osterbauer, Esq. and the Osterbauer Law Firm stand up for injured Minnesota workers’ rights. Joe’s 27 years of workers’ compensation experience and his team’s speedy service combine to get clients the results they need. To schedule a free consultation, visit Osterbauer Law Firm online or call Joe’s office at (612) 334-3434.
