Workplace injuries are stressful enough as it is, but when you realize you might have to contact a workers’ compensation attorney to help with your case, you may be even more overwhelmed. If you have never dealt with a workplace accident or the workers’ compensation system, it is likely that you are unsure of where to begin in the process of identifying a workers’ compensation attorney you want to hire and schedule your first consultation. Although the first several days and weeks after a work-related accident can seem overbearing, it is essential that you prioritize meeting with a workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible. This will not only speed up the process of awarding you workers’ compensation benefits, but it will also give you a better chance of winning your case in the event it has to be brought to trial. 

To ease your mind about your initial visit with a workers’ compensation attorney, below are 5 of the most important questions you should ask beforehand to ensure you are comfortable with the attorney you have selected and prepared for the meeting: 

• What paperwork should I have prepared to bring?

The main documents needed during your first meeting are simply the name of your employer and the address of your workplace. This will allow your workers’ compensation attorney to begin the claim process. In addition to this basic information, any medical documents as a result of the injury, pay stubs from your employer, or images/videos regarding your accident and resulting injuries can also be helpful in developing your case. Your workers’ compensation attorney will help you work through all of the documents you provide to determine which items could serve as evidence and be useful to build the validity and strength of your claim. If there is anything required outside of what you provide during the initial visit, your attorney will work with you to obtain the necessary documents.

• Should I see a doctor to receive an opinion before my first meeting with a workers’ compensation attorney?

If you are injured, there is a high chance that you should seek immediate medical treatment. Your health should be your utmost priority so it is entirely acceptable to receive treatment and a doctor’s opinion before contacting an attorney. If your employer/workplace insurer refuses to send you to a doctor, your attorney will likely help coordinate your first appointment with a medical provider.

• Who, in addition to my attorney, will be assisting with my case?

It is common for paralegals and legal assistants to handle much of the paperwork and scheduling of your case. At Poirier Law Firm, we work as a tight-knit interconnected team to fight for the best possible outcome of your claim. Your attorney will be present at every step of the process to ensure the choices that are being made will only serve to benefit you.

If your attorney is part of a larger firm, they will commonly have other attorneys work on the case, so the people actively working on your claim might not be the person you first meet with. This could potentially lead to confusion and miscommunication so make sure you identify who will be the contact person for your case. Regardless of if there is one attorney or five attorneys working on your case, you have full control of the direction of your case. It is important that you remain involved in the case to ensure that your needs are met and you are comfortable with the progress of your claim. 

• Do I have to pay out of pocket for a workers’ compensation attorney? 

At Poirier Law Firm, you will not be required to pay any upfront or ongoing costs to us. We are a contingency firm, meaning our team only gets paid if you get paid and/or receive a settlement from your employer/insurer. This way, you know we have your full interest in mind and can guarantee we will do everything in our power to fight on your behalf. 

• Should I bring anyone else with me to my first meeting with a workers’ compensation attorney? 

Although it is not a requirement at all, it could be a good idea to bring a loved one to your first meeting with a workers’ compensation attorney. During this stressful time, it is beneficial to have a much-needed support system as well as a second set of ears to help you digest and process all of the information. Your initial consultation may be overwhelming as you will be receiving a good deal of information about your rights as an injured worker, in what ways your rights were violated, and a road map as to how your case will be handled to ensure you receive all of the compensation and benefits you deserve.

These are just a few of the questions you may want to ask before your initial consultation with a workers’ compensation attorney. If any other questions come up before your visit, never hesitate to contact the attorney’s office. At Poirier Law Firm, we understand that filing a workers’ compensation claim is likely an unfamiliar and uncomfortable process. Our team is dedicated to assisting you in any way possible and answering any and all questions you may have. If you have been injured on-the-job, contact us today to schedule your initial visit and begin to put your mind at ease.