It’s not always easy to tell when you need a workers’ compensation lawyer. But with insurance companies increasingly denying workers’ claims for benefits and the risk for on-the-job injuries as real as ever, workers often need a helping hand. Here is how to tell when you should seek legal advice.
Ask Yourself These Questions to Know If You Need a Lawyer
No matter if you have just been injured or have been pursuing your case for a long time, it might be the right time to get an attorney. Ask yourself:
- Do you have any experience with workers’ compensation claims?
- Do you know which benefits you could receive?
- Do you have a plan for returning to work after the injury?
If the answer to any of these questions is “no”, then talk to a lawyer. He or she has the advantages of familiarity with the workers’ comp system, knowledge of available benefits, and experience helping workers get back to their jobs after injuries. In addition, also ask yourself:
- Are you having trouble with your employer after getting injured at work?
- Do you need to find a new job or cannot work anymore after your injury?
- Is the insurance company ignoring your calls?
- Has your claim been denied and you don’t know what to do next?
- Are you confused about evaluating a settlement offer from the insurer?
If the answer to any of these questions is “yes”, then talk to a lawyer. Again, his or her experience, knowledge, and familiarity with the system will assist you in your case for benefits.
What Steps Will a Workers’ Comp Lawyer Take in Your Case?
The first steps in any workers’ comp case vary depending on what has happened so far. You may meet with the lawyer in a free initial consultation, then sign a fee agreement. After that, your lawyer will begin reviewing all documents available in your case, as well as reaching out to the insurance company. He or she may request more documents from the insurance company and your employer. The lawyer may need to file a Claim Petition with the state, requesting a hearing of your case. Or the lawyer may begin talking about settlement with the insurance company. You might have depositions and a hearing, or you might settle. As you begin working with an attorney, ask questions about the process, but rest easy knowing that your case is in good hands.
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.
