When you get injured on the job, the next step is to visit your human resources department to discuss your workers' compensation benefits. It is not unusual for employees to navigate this process on his or her own, but there are times when it is necessary to retain a workers' compensation attorney for assistance. You may want legal representation for certain issues that may arise, such as your employer indicating that your injury is not worthy of being out of work. Anytime you need a workers' compensation attorney, there are certain things you need to keep an eye out for so that you have the best representation possible.
Willing to Dig Deep for Evidence
Evidence for these cases is largely dependent on medical records of your injury and how it was sustained. However, if your employer is fighting your claim, an attorney may need to dig a little deeper for further evidence to support you. You need a lawyer that is going to go the extra mile to locate evidence for you. For example, if your workplace has security cameras in place, your attorney can subpoena your employer for that footage to help prove you were hurt at work. He or she may also be able to speak to witnesses on your behalf to help gain evidence. These are things that can be difficult to obtain without legal help.
Willing to Get You a Fair Settlement
It is no secret that when dealing with settlement negotiations, the responsible party is going to attempt to pay you the lowest figure possible and hope that you do not know any better. A great workers' compensation attorney is going to fight for a fair and reasonable settlement for you based on your injuries and how long you will be away from work. Seasoned attorneys will have a clear idea of how much you should be receiving based on similar cases they have dealt with before yours. He or she will also know how to forecast your future financial needs based on medical treatment and how long your injury will prevent you from working.
Represent You at Your Hearing
If you are required to go to a workers' compensation hearing, a great attorney is going to be willing to attend and represent you. Hearings result when a fair settlement cannot be reached. This hearing is much like a small civil trial before a judge. Your attorney will present your evidence and provide witnesses if available. He or she will argue why you need a certain amount in your settlement so that you can sustain yourself financially.
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