Private industry employers reported 2.8 million non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2022 alone. This statistic represents a 7.5% increase from 2021, which is concerning. If you are one of those workers injured on the job, you may be entitled to receive injury compensation.
However, that’s often easier said than done. Lowball offers, delayed payments, and other challenges make it difficult to get injury compensation. That’s where working with a workplace injury law firm comes in handy.
But how do you choose the right person for the job? Here are seven factors to consider when hiring a workplace injury lawyer.
Experience Handling Workers’ Comp Cases
You’ll want to look closely at experience with workplace injury cases when researching attorneys. Someone with experience in this field will be better equipped to handle the complex legal process. They’ll be able to develop a strategic approach best suited to your unique case.
Look for lawyers who are familiar with workers’ compensation law in your particular state. They should know the types of injuries and illnesses covered, and the benefits you’re entitled to. This level of focused expertise will allow them to best protect your rights and pursue the maximum compensation under the law.
A proven track record of positive outcomes for their clients is also essential. This gives you peace of mind that the lawyer can argue your case and win.
Strong Reputation
Reviews from past clients can tell a lot about a lawyer’s abilities and integrity. Look for attorneys with a strong reputation in the legal community. The same goes for lawyers with glowing recommendations from people they’ve represented.
Look at independent sites like Google, Yelp, and Better Business Bureau for ratings and reviews. Favorable testimonials about professionalism, legal knowledge, and communication are a good sign. They show competence, character, and commitment to clients-that’s exactly who you want by your side when you’ve been injured on the job.
Moreover, don’t be afraid to ask the law firms you interview for client references. Speaking to former clients with similar cases as yours might provide insights you wouldn’t get otherwise. Ask them about their experience with the lawyer.
Specifically, did the lawyer make it easy to understand complex legal issues? Did they show a caring attitude? Did they resolve your case successfully and to your satisfaction?
Availability and Accessibility
Working with a lawyer who’s readily available and accessible to address your needs is crucial. Seek out an attorney known for prompt and thorough communication. Someone available via several channels will likely keep you updated at every stage of your case.
Ideally, they will proactively reach out with status reports before questions even arise. The worker’s compensation law firm should also have enough resources to seamlessly handle your case. Ask about their average response times so expectations are clearly set.
Moreover, you should be comfortable asking questions when uncertainty arises. This means working with a lawyer who can juggle several cases without making any one client feel neglected. Such a high level of uncertainty reduces anxiety during an already stressful time in your life.
Reasonable Rates
You want a workplace injury lawyer who is transparent and reasonable about their fees and costs. Workplace injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means that they only get paid if they win your case or obtain a settlement for you. They will take a percentage of your recovery as their fee. In Georgia, the attorney fee is 25% of the recovery.
However, you should also be aware of any additional costs that may arise during your case. These include court fees, filing fees, expert fees, and travel expenses. Be sure to ask your workplace injury lawyer for a written fee agreement that outlines their fee structure and cost estimates.
Also, get clarity on what common expenses typically fall on the lawyer versus the client. Having a solid grasp of the full costs involved provides helpful context while deciding on representation.
Personality and Rapport
You’ll probably be working closely with your workplace injury compensation lawyer for a long time. As such, it’s important to ensure that their personality and rapport match yours. They should be friendly, respectful, trustworthy, and supportive.
Look for someone patient enough to explain confusing legal issues in a way that’s easy to understand. They need to fully comprehend your situation and care about your well-being. The lawyer shouldn’t be afraid to fight for your rights and interests.
At the same time, they need to know how to negotiate and compromise when needed. Having an attorney in your corner that you can trust implicitly makes the entire process less intimidating.
Location and Convenience
Be careful to evaluate logistical factors like how far the offices are when researching attorneys. Working with a lawyer whose offices are near you will be handy if and when you need to travel.
Also, verify that the prospective attorneys are familiar with the local jurisdiction. A history of working with local courts, judges, and laws may impact your case. It may also unveil important nuances important to your situation that could otherwise be overlooked.
Dedicated Client Service
When looking for a worker’s compensation lawyer, you’ll want someone who takes the time to understand you and what you need. They should get to know you as a person, not just another case. They should listen carefully to how the injury affects your situation.
Choose a lawyer who creates a plan just for you instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach. Having a lawyer who personalizes their services for you provides a better experience. Make sure that they are committed to a high level of client care.
The lawyer and their team should make you feel like a priority. See if previous clients say they felt informed and supported. The lawyer should update you on the case without you having to ask. That shows they are detail-oriented.
Need a Workplace Injury Lawyer in Augusta, GA?
Look no further than Hollington Brown LLP, the work injury lawyer. We offer comprehensive services as the leading workplace injury lawyer in Augusta, GA. Our team stands by you, making every step of this gruesome process easier to handle.
