Finding a competent workers’ compensation attorney will be a crucial aspect of acquiring a fair settlement. Firstly, however, we believe it’s important to consult with a Workers’ Compensation specialist as soon after an injury as possible. Most offer free consultations, and pitfalls in the course of your claim processing can be better avoided. EARLY INTERVENTION WORKS!
If you’re still looking for a workers comp attorney near me, be sure to understand how to choose the right workers’ compensation lawyer first. If you have already begun the process and have finally received a settlement offer, you should feel confident about its adequacy before accepting it. Often times clients will have questions regarding their settlement. Fortunately, asking California workers comp lawyers the right questions can help you determine whether or not the settlement offer is right for you.
Do I get all my benefits now, later, or over time?
Workers’ compensation claims in California are settled in different ways but generally include settlement by Compromise and Release or by Stipulation. A Compromise and Release (C&R) is regarding the settlement for permanent disability, future medical treatment, and other outstanding fees that you are owed. Some C&R’s however can be strutured to provide BOTH a lump sum AND future medical care. The C&R settlement will be paid to you in the form of a lump sum that comes from the insurance company. This will also be where the fees for your workers’ compensation attorney will be deducted from, which generally amounts to 15%.
A Stipulation (Stips), unlike C&R, pays for your permanent disability but sets your medical treatment costs for your injury as ongoing coverage. Although your benefits can remain open for life, the money is instead paid straight to the medical providers through the Workers’ Compensation system. Cases that settle by “Stips” will often end up, in the future, being settled by C&R for more money at that time. Some people attempt to receive a full C&R settlement in lieu of Stipulation but many insurance companies will only provide one or the other. Be sure to ask your workers comp attorney which of the two settlement types you are receiving for more clarification, or to intervene to negotiate a hybrid or complex structure otherwise. We believe that specialists more than earn their keep, even after payment of their fee.
How much will I receive and how long will it take to receive?
Due to the hardships a workplace injury causes, one of the most common questions for a workers’ compensation settlement offer will be how much you will get once the process is complete. Make sure you ask what the net amount of your offer is once the attorney fees are deducted and for an approximate timeline before it is processed.
An experienced California workers’ compensation lawyer will ensure any medical expenses are handled through the insurance company either prior to or within the final settlement. Once you’ve signed the paperwork, the settlement will then have to be approved by a judge. Following the judge’s approval, an insurance company generally has 30 days to send you your check.
Can I get more if I don’t accept the offer?
Remember, when you first began looking for a workers comp attorney near me, it was for a valid reason. Ask your attorney if choosing to fight over settling will result in a better offer. Workers compensation attorneys are experts in this particular field and will provide you with the best possible advice.
However, it’s important to note that an experienced California workers compensation lawyer is capable of maximizing the benefits you’re offered through tactical planning and negotiation. Not every trial or judge’s ruling will result in a higher outcome, which is why you should feel confident in the abilities of the lawyer you choose to work with.
Consult a Workers Comp Attorney Near Me For Free
If you have been offered a settlement and are unsure whether or not you should take it, reach out for help. Gold Country Workers Comp Center specializes in California workers’ compensation cases and our attorneys will be glad to assist with any concerns you might have. Don’t miss out on the benefits you are rightfully owed! Contact us for a free case consultation and speak with a workers comp attorney near me about your case.
Follow us: Facebook | Google+ | LinkedIn
