Being injured on the job can be a traumatic experience. Not only do you have to deal with the physical pain of your injuries, but you also have to deal with the financial repercussions. If you’re like most people, you probably don’t have a lot of experience dealing with workers’ compensation claims. As a result, you may not know what to expect or what questions to ask during your initial consultation with a Washington D.C. workers’ compensation attorney.
Here are some key questions to get you started.
How Long Have You Been Practicing Workers’ Compensation Law?
You want to hire a lawyer who has significant experience handling workers’ compensation cases. This is not the time to hire a general practice lawyer or a criminal defense lawyer who only dabbles in workers’ compensation law. Make sure the lawyer you choose has a solid track record of success in securing benefits for injured workers.
Have You Handled Cases Like Mine Before?
It’s always a good idea to work with an attorney who has prior experience with cases similar to yours. For example, if your claim is particularly complex or if you’re seeking compensation for multiple injuries, it’s important to make sure that your attorney has relevant experience.
Additionally, if your claim has already been denied, you’ll want to hire a lawyer who knows how to navigate the appeals process. The more specific experience your lawyer has, the better positioned they’ll be to achieve a positive outcome in your case.
What Are My Chances of Success?
Although no lawyer can guarantee a particular outcome, an experienced workers’ compensation attorney should be able to give you a good idea of your chances of success based on the facts of your case. Be wary of any lawyer who refuses to answer this question or who tries to downplay the importance of winning. However, also be cautious of any lawyer who guarantees positive results.
How Much Will This Cost Me?
Most workers’ compensation lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid if they win your case. Their payment comes out of your settlement or your workers’ comp benefits. However, there may be some expenses associated with your case that you will be responsible for, such as filing fees or the cost of obtaining medical records. Make sure you understand what costs you will be responsible for so there are no surprises down the road.
What Are The Most Common Problems That Arise In Cases like Mine?
An experienced workers’ compensation attorney will be able to spot potential problems before they even arise. Asking about the most common problems that come up in cases like yours can help you avoid potential pitfalls and get the best possible outcome for your case.
Asking these questions will help you choose the right lawyer for your needs and increase your chances of getting a favorable outcome for your claim. If you’ve been injured on the job, it’s important to consult with a workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and ensure that you get the full extent of benefits that you’re entitled to under the law. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.