How to select a workers' compensation attorney

Sometimes people are hesitant to hire an attorney because they don’t want their employer to “get mad at them” or, worse:  To fire them.  The bottom line is that most people do find that they need an attorney to navigate the increasingly complicated workers compensation systems.

It is important to have the information you need to make decisions about your case.  You must be your best advocate and should be involved in and knowledgeable about your case and how you will progress through the various stages of a workers’ compensation claim in your state.

If possible, your attorney should be located in your immediate geographic area.  In some very rural areas, though, it might be advisable to search in the nearest large metropolitan area.  Word of mouth or referral from a trusted friend or relative who has had a good experience can be invaluable.  However, most people with a workers’ compensation claim do not know anyone else in similar circumstance.

If this is the case you will need to search for someone near you using the phone book or internet.  The internet is good because you might be able to find reviews or other additional information to help you make a short list of attorneys you can contact.  Here are couple of good links to get you started.

        Enter your city and state in the field to the left when you visit HG.org Legal Directory.

        Visit Lawyers.com then on refine results to enter your city and state.

    Check with your state’s workers’ compensation board.

1. Select 3 to 5 of the attorneys specializing in workers compensation that are closest to your house or in an area easily accessible to you.
2. Make sure you have all of the information relative to your case
3. Prepare a list of questions and concerns – leave plenty of room to make notes and make a copy for each attorney you will be meeting with.
4. Request that information on the firm and attorney’s credentials be sent to your prior to the meeting, if possible.
5. Meet with each of your selections.  Take notes.
1. How easy was it for you to schedule a meeting?
2. How friendly and/or helpful was the staff?
3. Did your attorney discuss fees, costs or explain how he/she is reimbursed?
4. How comfortable you were meeting with each attorney. 
5. How confident are you that you will be able to reach your attorney?
6. Do you feel like the attorney answered your questions/concerns and/or explained next steps?
6. Sleep on it.  In most cases, you do not need to rush into a decision.  Unless you have an immediate and strong reaction – give your decision some thought.  If need be, you can change attorneys if you do not get the results he or she has outlined for you. (If this happens the attorneys usually decide how each will be reimbursed considering all the factors involved)
7. Schedule a meeting with the attorney (or top two on your list) that you feel you would work best with and let him/her know you would like him/her as a legal representative.  Get specific expectations on the roles of those involved in your case, how your case should proceed and expected time frames.

Remember that attorneys are like any other professionals you contract with and you should feel comfortable and confident in the service they provide you at all times.  Good Luck!

Mary is a Masters-prepared Career Counselor with over 18 years experience in resume writing, personal branding, career assessment and counseling. Specializing in non-traditional specialized careers and career-transitioning, she has the ability to synthesize and focus your unique skills and abilities to obtain interviews for the positions you want with the employers you want to notice you. Follow her on Twitter at @MarySevinsky.

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