Astoria, Queens Workers Comp Lawyers
So you’ve been hurt on the job and need to apply for workers’ compensation benefits, but you’ve heard from others that it can be a complicated process, that a lot of seemingly legitimate claims are denied. It’s true—employers and insurance companies will go to great lengths to avoid paying benefits under the New York workers’ compensation system. The attorney that you choose to handle your case can make a big difference in how much you recover or whether you get any benefits at all. Here are some things you should look for when hiring a workers’ compensation attorney.
Make Certain Your Lawyer Specializes in Workers’ Compensation
The workers’ compensation process is complex, with many unique rules. Don’t hire a general practice attorney who may not be familiar with all the intricacies of the workers’ compensation system. Confirm that your attorney has handled many workers’ compensation cases. You don’t want to pay for their legal education.
Make Certain Your Attorney Spends a Lot of Time in Court
There are different skills required of a trial or courtroom lawyer than of one who spends his or her time in consultation with clients, in negotiations or in his office. You want a lawyer who can think on his or her feet, who knows the rules of procedure in a hearing, and who has skill and experience at oral argument.
What Will Your Attorney Do to Help You Get the Benefits You Seek?
Make certain you know what steps a lawyer will take to ensure that your application for benefits moves through the workers’ compensation process in a timely and efficient manner. Ask any counsel you are considering hiring to walk you through the process they use to protect your rights.
Will Your Attorney Be Available and Accessible on a Regular Basis?
You’ll have questions throughout the process and you want to know that your lawyer will return your calls or e-mails in a timely manner. Verify that you’ll have direct access to the attorney, and won’t be shuttled to a paralegal, secretary or inexperienced associate.
What Approach Will Your Attorney Take in Court?
Different lawyers have different styles. Some will aggressively advocate for you in every proceeding, while others may be inclined to seek to negotiate an outcome that meets your needs. Be sure that your lawyer will take whatever approach is necessary to get the benefits you need.
What to Look for in a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Experienced Workers Compensation Attorneys in New York
At Pyrros & Serres LLP, we provide comprehensive counsel to people with workers’ compensation and Social Security disability claims in Queens and across the greater New York City metropolitan area. Because of our reputation for effective advocacy, many of our new clients come to us as referrals from clients and other lawyers.
To learn more about the full scope of our practice, see our practice area overview page.
