How do you pay for a workers’ compensation lawyer to represent you?
If you’ve been injured on the job and are considering hiring a workers’ compensation attorney, it’s important you understand the ultimate costs involved before worrying about money. If you think a workers’ compensation lawyer is out of budget, not hiring one is going to be even costlier. When you need the services of one of our attorneys, the law states that workers’ compensation cases be handled on a contingency fee basis. They don’t get paid unless and until you win your case.
What is a contingency fee?
Contingency fee arrangements give all injured workers, even those with limited financial resources, access to quality legal representation by eliminating the need for substantial up-front payments. A contingent fee means that the attorney’s fees are only payable if you receive benefits. There is never an out-of-pocket cost to you for attorney fees. Attorneys handling workers’ compensation cases are paid a percentage of the lump sum offered to settle the case. Any fee agreement with your lawyer must be approved by the judge or Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board.
When would you need a lawyer?
- You are not receiving benefits even when you were injured on the job
- You received benefits for your injury that were discontinued, and you need to have them reinstated
- You’ve been receiving benefits but are currently faced with having them terminated or modified
- You have been asked to submit to a medical examination in order to determine an impairment rating
- Your employer has talked to you about resolving your claim
- Your employer has filed a request for compromise and release