Do I Need a Lawyer? How To Pick a Worker’s Compensation Lawyer
As career girls, a employment lawyer with a background in worker’s compensation is crucial to have in your network. You never know when one can come in handy, and you must always be ready to defend your stand and entitlements when necessary. If you are going through a compensation claim and you’re asking yourself if you need a lawyer, chances are, you do. Defending yourself in a worker’s claim dispute can be highly stressful, especially if you don’t know the ins and outs of this legal specialization.
So how do you pick the right lawyer? I’ll have to say this is a question that can’t be answered by a specific formula. One thing to keep in mind though: don’t be deceived by the fancy wrapper. A trusted attorney’s qualities – experience, client relationships, and knowledge, cannot be measured by a glitzy commercial, nice website, or gorgeous office.
Don’t Hunt for a Lawyer, Hunt for Testimonials.
The reputation of a good lawyer travels. Every person who has successfully received a compensation claim with the help of a lawyer never forgets their attorney. Ask the people you trust for some recommendations. You can also check out the internet forums, look for prominent names or firms, or at the very least, make sure that the firm you are consulting has several clients willing to leave a good word for them.
Ask the Right Questions in the Interview.
Most lawyers give free consultation to potential clients. It may seem intimidating at first, especially with the number of questions that they will be asking, but you have to remember one thing: YOU are hiring them. Think of the consultation as a way for you to really get to know your potential lawyer. Worker’s compensation group, Firths, provides a good outline of questions to ask before you hire your lawyer:
- Do they specialize in compensation claims?
- Do they have a proven record of success?
- Will they get the best result?
- Will they keep things moving and push your claim through quickly?
- Will they keep you informed?
- Will they pay all out of pocket expenses for you?
- Do they offer a no-win / no-pay option for their costs?
- Do they have a written fee agreement where you will know right from the start what it will cost?
- Do they confirm all advice in writing?
- Will they recover most of the legal costs from the insurance company?
Lastly, trust your gut.
Consider a lawyer if he or she is able to earn your respect and confidence from treating your case transparently, considerately, and with utmost professionalism. Check his attitude and personality, and see if it compliments yours. Ask. Ask. Ask some more. A good lawyer should be able to respond to your questions without being rude or dismissive. Give deadlines for communications and ask what the best times are to call them. See if they will be available when they say they are.
Do you have any more tips on how to get a good work comp lawyer? Tweet us @mscareergirl or comment below!
