By law, California workers’ compensation attorneys must offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis. This means that attorneys only get paid once the case is settled.
Injured workers may need to hire an attorney to handle their case and take it to court, if necessary. But before signing with an attorney, workers should schedule a consultation to learn more about the attorney, the legal process, and attorney fees.
What Happens During A Consultation?
A free consultation is always handled by the attorney, not a paralegal or other law firm staff member. During the consultation, the injured client will share details about their claim, discuss any challenges they may be experiencing in obtaining benefits and care, and ask questions about the attorney’s background and experience.
The consultation is an opportunity for both parties to interview each other and determine if they’d be a good fit. A few important questions injured workers should ask attorneys are:
- How long have you been a lawyer?
- What is your success rate?
- What areas of law do you practice?
- Do you specialize in workers’ compensation law?
- Who pays for litigation costs?
- What is your general approach to workers’ compensation cases?
- How long do you think my case might take?
- Do you also represent insurance companies?
- Have you handled a case similar to mine and what were the results?
- What makes you the best work injury lawyer in Orange County?
- What kinds of benefits am I entitled to?
- What challenges do you anticipate with my case and how do you propose to handle them?
- How much do you charge for representing workers’ comp clients?
- How often do you provide case updates to your clients?
- What are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?
- Have you received any awards or recognition?
Attorneys, on the other hand, may ask injured workers the following questions:
- How and when did the injury occur?
- What body parts were injured?
- How and when did you notify your employer?
- How and where did you receive medical treatment?
- What kind of treatment have you received?
- Do you have any pre-existing conditions affecting the same body part?
- Were there any witnesses of the accident?
How To Prepare For A Consultation
Injured workers should bring the following documents and information to the consultation:
- Written reports of the accident or injury
- Relevant medical records
- Contact information for the worker’s primary medical provider
- List of witnesses and their contact information
- Information about previous injuries to the impacted body part
- Written correspondence from the employer and their insurance company about the claim
- Contact information for the employer and the claims administrator
If the injured worker decides to sign with the attorney, they will receive information about next steps in obtaining treatment and pursuing legal action. The workers’ compensation attorney will ensure the worker is getting the care they need as the case progresses.
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 are entitled to. 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.
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