Why You Need A Lawyer For Your Workers' Compensation Claim

When you're already missing out on work, shelling out cash to secure the services of a seasoned attorney probably seems like the least practical decision you can make. In reality, however, this is the best thing that you can do to ensure a successful outcome for your claim. Following are several reasons why.

You Don't Have To Pay For These Services Upfront

There is no need to make any generous, upfront payments when hiring workers' comp attorneys. That's because positive settlement outcomes for solid, legitimate cases are virtually guaranteed. Ahead of performing any work on your behalf, a seasoned attorney can review the details of your case and can tell you whether or not it's worth pursuing. If your injuries are the result of unsafe work practices or conditions, or the result of negligence on the part of your employer, you can get legal representation from attorneys like James P. Hoffman without having to pay any out-of-pocket costs whatsoever. Instead, the fees from these services will be deducted from your settlement monies. As such, not having sufficient funds for representation should not deter you from getting the help you need.

There Are Countless Factors That Can Undermine Your Claim

Sadly, cases like these are rarely as cut and dry as injury victims hope they'll be. There are a number of factors that undermine workers' compensation claims. Any diligent, legal professional who is working on behalf of your employer will use these things against you. These include pre-existing disabilities, pre-existing medical conditions, and even the physical ability to continue working in some capacity. There are even instances in which workers who've been injured on the job have gone on to work for other companies before submitting their claims or seeing them through. A reputable attorney can help you build a strong defense against any efforts to undermine your claims of physical harm, irrespective of your physical condition prior to your at-work accident or your current level of functionality and health.

Employer Retaliation

Having an employer retaliate by cutting hours, pay or responsibilities is not unheard of. Employer retaliation is a real problem in this legal area and one that requires additional action. Your attorney can review any decisions that have been made pertaining to your employment status, salary and position following your injury to see whether or not laws have been broken. If you've recently filed an Iowa workers comp claim, these changes could be legally categorized as discrimination. Few workers have a comprehensive understanding of their legal protections and rights and are therefore unable to effectively advocate for these things on their own.

Ultimately, having an attorney can make it infinitely easier to successfully navigate the claims process. Your provider can advocate for your rights and for a fair, feasible settlement. He or she can additionally defend against attacks that undermine your claim, whether these are based on existing conditions and disabilities, or a continued ability to work in some capacity.