When to Hire a Workers' Compensation Attorney

March 17, 2025

Navigating the complexities of workers' compensation can be a daunting task for employees who suffer workplace injuries. While many minor incidents can be resolved through the employer’s insurance, some cases require the expertise of a workers' compensation attorney. Understanding when to seek legal representation is crucial to ensuring you receive the benefits and protection you deserve. In this article, we will explore scenarios in which you may benefit from seeking the expertise of a workers' compensation attorney.


Insurance Denies Claim

One common situation where hiring a workers' compensation attorney becomes necessary is when your claim is denied. Insurance companies may deny claims for various reasons, including but not limited to, disputing whether whether the injury is work-related or claiming the injury is just temporary when it is not or blaming the symptoms on a pre-existing condition, to name a few.  This can occur even after the employer/insurance company initially accept the claim.  An experienced attorney can help gather the necessary records and develop evidence to prove the claim was improperly denied and present the strongest case possible to get the the benefits you deserve under the law.


Late or Underpayment of Benefits

Another common situation arises where weekly healing period / temporary benefits are repeatedly paid late or suddenly stop for no reason. There is nothing more frustrating than having weekly benefits you are entitled and rely on show up weeks late or never at all.  This adds unnecessary financial strain and stress on the injured worker who is just trying to get better so they can get back work.  Our lawyers know this situation all too well and help relieve this stress by advocating to get those benefits paid and to pursue penalty benefits for the unreasonable delay or denial of weekly benefits, which can be up to 50% of the amount. 


You Face Long-Term Disability

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported by private industry employers in 2022. Among these work injuries many result in extended time off work, surgeries and/or the need for long term medical management for symptoms. In those situations the injured worker is often left with permanent impairment and work restrictions that may prevent them from working in the same line of work they did before the injury or any work at all.  Having a legal expert on your side will help ensure that you receive maximum compensation for your permanent disability and loss of earning capacity.


In summary, hiring a workers' compensation attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Consulting with a skilled attorney early on in a case can also help you avoid costly mistakes and help you obtain the  benefits you deserve, while allowing you to focus on recovery with peace of mind. If you need workers' compensation attorneys, reach out to Johnson & Legislador PLC today for a free case evaluation.

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