Workers' compensation is insurance that employers purchase in case their employees are injured while working. Workers' compensation can replace the wages you lose when you're unable to work because of your injury. It should also pay for part or all of your medical bills. If your workers' compensation case is straightforward, you may not need the services of a workers' compensation attorney. However, a workers' compensation attorney can help you if you feel you have not been properly compensated for your injury. Here are four things a lawyer will do if you hire them for a workers' compensation case.
1. Review your case.
The first thing your lawyer will do is review your case. They will want to hear your version of the events so they can get an idea of what happened. You should bring your medical records and any relevant information to your meeting with your attorney. Your workers' compensation attorney will also look at any statements made by your employer and the offer made by their insurance company. If they deem that the insurance company's offer is unfair, they may decide to take your case.
2. Collect statements from relevant parties.
If your workers' compensation case goes to court, your attorney will want to be prepared with testimonies. They will likely spend time collecting written statements, called depositions, from certain key people ahead of time. They will likely take statements from any doctors who have treated you, as well as other medical experts. If the veracity of your claim is in question, your lawyer may also take statements from any of your coworkers who witnessed the injury or accident occur.
3. Research relevant cases.
Knowledge of relevant case law can help your workers' compensation attorney argue your case effectively. To that end, they may spend time researching cases that share similarities with your own. While lawyers are well-versed in the law, the law itself is vast and broad, and specific research may be needed to provide the ideal outcomes.
4. Represent you in court.
One of the most vital functions of a lawyer is to represent you in court. They will lay your case out before the judge in a well-organized and concise manner. Being represented by a competent attorney can greatly increase your changes of a favorable ruling. Hiring a workers' compensation attorney with experience can help you get the money you need to pay for your medical bills.
Fore more information about the process, contact a local workers' compensation attorney.
