Should You Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Connecticut?

A workplace injury can disrupt your life, leading to costly medical bills and lost income. Workers’ compensation benefits are designed to ease this burden, covering medical expenses and replacing lost wages. However, navigating the claims process can be challenging, especially if your case falls under Connecticut’s Workers’ Compensation Act or the Federal Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA).

One of the first questions injured workers often ask is whether they need a workers’ compensation lawyer. To help you decide, let’s explore the advantages and potential drawbacks of hiring legal representation.

Benefits of Hiring a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

1. Accurate and Timely Paperwork
   Even minor errors in your paperwork can lead to a denied claim. A skilled Connecticut workers’ comp lawyer ensures all forms are correctly completed and filed on time.

2. Maximizing Your Benefits
   An attorney ensures you receive all the benefits you’re entitled to, including wage replacement, medical coverage, and any applicable vocational rehabilitation benefits.

3. Higher Settlements
   Statistically, workers who hire experienced attorneys often receive higher settlements. Insurance companies may not offer full benefits unless you know exactly what to ask for.

4. Appealing Denied Claims
   If your claim has been denied, an experienced lawyer can handle the appeals process and improve your chances of success.

5. Handling Insurance Companies
   Dealing with insurance adjusters and company attorneys can be intimidating. Your lawyer will handle all communications, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

6. Legal Guidance and Support
   A dedicated attorney will answer your questions, provide sound advice, and prioritize your best interests throughout the claims process.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

1. Perception of Aggressiveness
   Some workers worry that hiring a lawyer may seem confrontational, but remember that employers and insurance companies already have legal representation on their side.

2. Scheduling Adjustments
   Hearings and other meetings may need to be scheduled around your attorney’s availability. However, this can streamline the process by reducing your involvement with time-consuming tasks.

3. Contingency Fees
   Workers’ compensation lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they’re paid a percentage (usually 25%) of a potential settlement and certain workers’ compensation benefits. While this reduces your total compensation, hiring an attorney often results in a larger settlement, offsetting the fee.

Why Sousa Law, LLC?

At Sousa Law, LLC, we’ve spent nearly 40 years advocating for injured workers across Connecticut. Our team understands the complexities of workers’ compensation law and is committed to securing the maximum benefits for our clients. From filing your initial claim to navigating appeals, we’ll stand by your side every step of the way.

Injured at work? Don’t risk handling your claim alone. Contact Sousa Law, LLC today at (203) 929-8283 for a free consultation. Let us help you secure the benefits you deserve.