What Should You Look For In A Workers’ Comp Attorney?
While some injured workers choose to represent themselves in their workers’ comp cases, the complicated nature of the Georgia workers’ compensation process makes it a good idea to get professional help—especially for serious injuries and illnesses.
But while many attorneys advertise workers’ comp legal services, it’s often not their primary practice area. Workers’ comp, with its tight deadlines and strict procedures, requires legal expertise and specialization. Insurers often dispute cases (even ones that seem clear-cut), slow down claims or offer low settlements. An experienced Atlanta workers’ comp attorney can help navigate the claims process for you, helping secure the compensation you deserve.
What will a workers’ compensation attorney do?
Because insurers often put up a fight, hiring an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can make the difference in a successful case. A workers’ comp lawyer will handle the back and forth of communications, stay on top of deadlines, collect the medical evidence you need and negotiate a settlement.
If you require a second opinion or an independent medical examination, a workers’ comp lawyer in Atlanta can make local recommendations, ensuring that your medical records provide a complete, compelling account of your workplace injury or illness.
An attorney will also consider complicating factors, like Social Security disability benefits or third-party personal injury suits. If your claim is denied, your attorney will guide you through the strict deadlines of the appeals process.
What to look for in an Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyer
As you start your search for an Atlanta workers’ compensation attorney, it’s important to focus on years of practice, activity in the field of workers’ comp representation and client reviews focused on workers’ comp cases. Some attorneys may offer stellar representation in other areas of the law, but they have little experience in workers’ comp.
After you’ve narrowed down your choices to a few practices you’re comfortable with, ask the attorney:
- How much of his or her practice is dedicated to workers’ compensation
- How long he or she has handled Georgia workers’ comp cases
- Who manages workers’ comp cases at the firm
- How you’ll be kept up-to-date on your case
- How the fee structure works
You should also feel comfortable with your attorney and confident that your case’s weaker points will be addressed. An expert workers’ comp attorney will keep you updated on your claim’s progress, or your appeal if your claim has been denied, while allowing you the peace of mind to focus on your recovery.
The Law Offices of Laura Lanzisera is 100 percent dedicated to workers’ comp cases. Laura began her career as a Georgia workers’ compensation defense attorney back in 2000. After representing insurers for five years, she decided to instead represent injured workers, helping them obtain the care and benefits they need.
Contact an Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyer
If you’ve been seriously hurt in a workplace accident, you need expert representation from an attorney who understands the Georgia workers’ comp system. Contact the Law Offices of Laura Lanzisera today for a free consultation, or give us a call at 404-991-5097.