Avoid These Mistakes When Hiring a Virginia Workers’ Comp Lawyer 

You probably assume that work-related injuries are a serious problem in Virginia, but data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reveals that the issue is far more extensive than you think. In 2018, there were 82,500 recorded cases of workplace injuries and occupational diseases, 43,300 of which involved days away from work, job transfer, or job restriction. In other words, many employees are facing significant hardship due to lost wages – at the same time as enormous medical bills and other losses are mounting.

Fortunately, eligible employees are entitled to monetary benefits under Virginia’s workers’ compensation system, providing essential financial support you need at this difficult time. You have an advantage when you retain an attorney to assist with the process, but you may not know where to begin with finding the right fit. By avoiding the most common mistakes, you are sure to retain the best Virginia workers’ compensation lawyer for your needs.

Hiring a General Practice Lawyer

Many attorneys base their practice upon a wide range of cases, which may serve their goals well. Virginia workers’ comp laws are highly technical and specialized, so someone who has a broad experience may not have the in-depth knowledge necessary to represent you. 

Paying for Legal Fees in Advance

Workers’ comp lawyers understand the financial predicament of an employee who is missing work and accumulating medical bills for treatment. Few would ever require you to pay upfront for fees, expenses, or filing costs. Instead, most work on a contingency fee basis, which means you only pay if your attorney is successful in recovering workers’ comp benefits. Your fee is based upon a percentage of what you receive.

Retaining an Inexperienced Lawyer

Legal knowledge is one important component, but you should also seek out an attorney who has several years of experience: 

• Investigating and gathering evidence to support your workers’ comp claim;
• Completing essential forms, along with supporting documentation;
• Dealing with workers’ compensation insurance companies, including settlement discussions;
• Filing necessary forms with the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC);
• Representing clients at WCC hearings;
• Workers’ comp appeals; and,
• Handling many other critical tasks. 

Working With an Attorney Who Has Limited Resources

Because evidence is so crucial to a Virginia workers’ comp claim, it is important to retain a lawyer who has access to appropriate investigatory and professional resources. Depending on your circumstances, you may need: 

• A private detective to investigate your employer;
• Medical experts;
• Economists and financial analysts; and,
• Occupational and vocational experts.

When your attorney has access to these resources, there is a professional framework in place with a singular goal — ensuring you get the workers’ comp benefits you are entitled to under Virginia law. If your lawyer cannot rely on these sources, your claim could be denied or benefits delayed.

Contact a Virginia Workers’ Compensation Attorney You can Trust

Hopefully, this guide will help you avoid the most common mistakes people make when retaining legal counsel. To learn how we can assist with your workers’ comp claim, please call Hampton Injury Law PLC to set up a no-cost case evaluation with a Virginia workers’ compensation lawyer.