Workers’ compensation attorneys are paid on a contingency basis. That is, they don’t get a penny until they recover benefits for their client.
The Workers’ Comp Attorney Fee Structure
Workers’ comp attorney fees are usually 15 percent of the total permanent disability award. This is significantly lower than the 33 percent to 40 percent typically charged by personal injury lawyers for injuries outside the workplace.
Once a settlement is reached or an award is received, the attorney will ask the judge to approve their fee. The judge will consider the amount of time the attorney put into the case, the results, and the complexity of the case. Complex cases, such as those involving detailed investigations, multiple employers, and difficult legal issues, qualify for a 15% attorney fee.
Clients won’t know what the total attorney fee will be until the end of the case. However, an experienced work injury attorney in Orange County will explain the fee structure during the initial consultation.
Initial Consultation Cost
Zero. During the consultation, the lawyer will ask questions about the injury and discuss the process.
Deposition fees
If the employer decides to take your deposition (like a statement, but with a court reporter) the employer has to pay your lawyer for the time spent preparing you for your deposition and the time for the deposition. This fee is paid by the employer’s insurance company and doesn’t impact the worker’s settlement amount.
Medical-Legal Costs
If the employer’s insurance company disputes certain medical issues, the cost of doctors medical evaluations, diagnostic tests, medical reports and records, and interpreter services necessary to obtain benefits for the client will be paid by the insurance company.
The Next Step
Choosing a competent work injury lawyer in Orange County is the best way to make sure you receive all of the benefits you deserve. To discuss your claim with award-winning attorney Thomas F. Martin, call us today at 714-547-5025 or reach out to us online to schedule a free and confidential consultation.