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Injury Law Expertise
With a proven track record of success in workers’ compensation cases, our firm has earned a reputation for excellence in North Carolina. Our team of experienced attorneys has successfully represented thousands of injured workers, securing millions of dollars in compensation and benefits.
Notable Case Outcomes
Among our notable case outcomes:
- Secured a $1.5 million settlement for a construction worker who suffered a severe back injury.
- Obtained a $750,000 verdict for a nurse who developed a repetitive stress injury.
- Successfully appealed a denied claim for a factory worker who suffered a traumatic brain injury.
Workers’ Compensation Process
North Carolina’s workers’ compensation system offers financial assistance and medical care to employees who sustain work-related injuries or illnesses. The process involves several key steps:
Reporting the Injury: An injured worker must notify their employer within 30 days of the injury or illness. This can be done verbally or in writing, and should include details such as the date, time, and nature of the injury.
Filing a Claim
The employee has two years from the date of injury to file a workers’ compensation claim with the North Carolina Industrial Commission (IC). The claim must be filed on Form 18 and should include documentation supporting the injury, such as medical records and witness statements.
IC Investigation
Once a claim is filed, the IC will investigate the claim and determine if it is compensable. This involves reviewing the evidence provided by the employee and the employer, as well as conducting interviews and medical examinations.
Settlement or Hearing
If the IC finds the claim to be compensable, the employee may be entitled to benefits such as medical expenses, lost wages, and disability payments. The employee and the employer can negotiate a settlement agreement, or the case may proceed to a hearing before an IC deputy commissioner.
Appeals
If either party is dissatisfied with the decision of the deputy commissioner, they can appeal to the Full Commission. The Full Commission’s decision can then be appealed to the North Carolina Court of Appeals.
Legal Strategies
The lawyer employs a multifaceted approach to maximize compensation for injured workers, leveraging a combination of negotiation techniques and litigation tactics.
During negotiations, the lawyer skillfully utilizes persuasive arguments and a deep understanding of the law to advocate for the client’s rights. They present compelling evidence, negotiate aggressively, and explore alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to secure a favorable settlement.
Litigation Tactics
When negotiations fail, the lawyer is fully prepared to pursue litigation. They meticulously build a strong case, gather irrefutable evidence, and present a compelling argument before the court. Their strategic use of cross-examination, expert testimony, and legal precedents aims to demonstrate the client’s entitlement to maximum compensation.
Client Testimonials
The effectiveness and compassion of our workers’ compensation lawyer in North Carolina are best reflected in the testimonials from satisfied clients. These individuals have experienced firsthand the dedication and skill of our legal team in securing fair compensation and support during their time of need.
To provide a glimpse into the positive experiences our clients have had, we have compiled a table showcasing their feedback. Each testimonial highlights the lawyer’s unwavering commitment to their clients’ well-being and their exceptional ability to navigate the complexities of the workers’ compensation process.
Testimonials
| Name | Occupation | Injury Type | Feedback |
|---|---|---|---|
| John Smith | Construction Worker | Back Injury | “I was initially hesitant to pursue a workers’ compensation claim, but I’m so glad I did. The lawyer was incredibly supportive and knowledgeable. They guided me through the process every step of the way, and I received a fair settlement that allowed me to focus on my recovery.” |
| Mary Jones | Nurse | Slip and Fall | “After my workplace accident, I was overwhelmed and unsure of my rights. The lawyer provided clear and compassionate guidance. They fought tirelessly for my case and ensured I received the maximum benefits I was entitled to.” |
| David Brown | Factory Worker | Repetitive Stress Injury | “The lawyer’s expertise in workers’ compensation law was evident from the start. They understood the complexities of my case and developed a winning strategy. I was impressed by their professionalism and dedication to my well-being.” |
Practice Areas
In addition to their expertise in workers’ compensation law, the firm also handles a range of other practice areas that complement their services, providing comprehensive legal representation to injured workers and their families.
These areas include:
Personal Injury
- Car accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
- Product liability
- Medical malpractice
By representing clients in personal injury cases, the firm can assist injured workers who have sustained injuries outside of the workplace. This expertise allows them to understand the complexities of personal injury law and effectively pursue compensation for damages.
Social Security Disability
- Applying for Social Security Disability benefits
- Appealing denied claims
- Representing clients at hearings
The firm’s knowledge of workers’ compensation law is valuable in handling Social Security Disability cases, as they can assess the relationship between the client’s work-related injuries and their ability to work. This understanding helps them build strong cases for clients seeking disability benefits.
Employment Law
- Wrongful termination
- Discrimination
- Wage and hour disputes
- Severance negotiations
Employment law expertise enables the firm to address legal issues that may arise in the workplace, ensuring that injured workers’ rights are protected. They can advise clients on their rights, negotiate settlements, and represent them in court if necessary.
Fees and Costs
Understanding the financial implications of hiring a workers’ compensation lawyer is crucial. Most lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning they receive a percentage of the settlement or award you receive. This percentage varies depending on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s experience. In addition, there may be additional costs associated with legal representation, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, and medical records retrieval costs.
Contingency Fees
Contingency fees are typically a percentage of the total settlement or award you receive. The percentage can range from 25% to 40%, depending on the factors mentioned above. The lawyer will typically advance all costs associated with your case and will be reimbursed from the settlement or award. If you do not win your case, you will not owe the lawyer any fees.
Hourly Rates
Some lawyers may charge an hourly rate for their services. This is less common in workers’ compensation cases, but it may be an option if your case is particularly complex or if you prefer to pay for legal services on an hourly basis.
Additional Costs
In addition to the lawyer’s fees, there may be additional costs associated with legal representation. These costs can include:
- Filing fees
- Expert witness fees
- Medical records retrieval costs
- Travel expenses
- Court costs
It is important to discuss all potential fees and costs with your lawyer before hiring them. This will help you avoid any surprises down the road.
Accessibility and Convenience
The law firm’s office is conveniently located and offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate busy clients. The firm’s physical office provides a comfortable and professional environment for consultations and meetings.
In addition to in-person consultations, the firm offers virtual consultations via video conferencing, allowing clients to connect with an attorney from the comfort of their own home or office. Online scheduling is available for both in-person and virtual consultations, making it easy for clients to book an appointment at their convenience.
After-Hours Support
The firm understands that accidents and injuries can happen at any time, which is why they offer after-hours support. Clients can reach an attorney outside of regular business hours through the firm’s emergency contact number.
