How to Hire a Workers' Compensation Attorney

By eHow Legal Editor

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Most states require employers to carry workers' compensation insurance, so if you get injured on the job, your medical expenses and salary are covered. But even with this safety net, insurance companies and employers can find loopholes and deny coverage. When this happens, you need a worker's compensation attorney--ASAP. Read on to learn more.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Step1

Ask the union for a referral--even if you don't belong to one. Unions usually have a recommended workers compensation attorney. If you're not a member, a friend or family member who is in a union can track down their attorney's contact information for you. Alternatively, contact a union who represents employees in positions similar to yours and see who they suggest.

Step2

Ask attorney friends and family members if they have a colleague who deals with workers' compensation cases. Or if you have a lawyer who is in a different specialty, such as a divorce lawyer or a real estate attorney, ask if they can refer you to a specialist in workers' compensation.

Step3

Check with your local chapter of the American Bar Association at AbaNet.org if you have been unable to get referrals from other sources. Or try FindLegalHelp.org for online referrals.

Step4

Check the attorney's success rate with workers' compensation cases before paying a retainer. You can also ask for references. You want a lawyer with a good track record.

Step5

Assess whether you like the workers' compensation attorney's style before signing on as well. You'll have frequent interaction with the attorney, and a positive, professional relationship is essential.

Tips & Warnings

Beware of flashy television advertisements and billboards. While attorneys who heavily advertise can be excellent lawyers, for the best representation, rely on word of mouth rather than the law firm whose phone number is easiest to dial.
If your injury was due to a fight with a coworker, happened when you weren't working, or occurred while you were on drugs or drunk or were committing a crime, it's not worth it to pursue the case. These situations automatically disqualify you from workers' compensation.