If you’re an injured worker, understanding your rights is crucial, especially the right to have legal representation. You are entitled to be represented by a qualified attorney or a licensed representative of your choosing. Navigating the workers’ compensation system can be complex, and having someone on your side who understands the law can make a significant difference in your case.
Your Right to Legal Representation
In New York State, injured workers have the right to seek assistance from both attorneys and licensed representatives for their workers’ compensation claims. These professionals are there to guide you through the process, ensuring your rights are protected. Licensed representatives undergo a Board examination to demonstrate their knowledge of the Workers’ Compensation Law and its regulations, ensuring they are qualified to assist you.
How to Find a Workers Compensation Lawyer Near You
Finding the right legal help is essential. The New York State Bar Association and the Injured Workers’ Bar Association websites offer valuable resources to help you locate a lawyer specializing in workers’ compensation law in your vicinity. These tools can simplify your search and connect you with legal professionals experienced in this specific area of law.
Understanding Attorney and Representative Fees
It’s important to understand the fee structure for legal representation in workers’ compensation cases. Your attorney or licensed representative cannot directly charge you for their services. Instead, if your case results in a monetary award, they can request a legal fee, which must be approved by the Workers’ Compensation Board. This fee is then deducted from your award and paid directly to your representative by the insurance carrier, ensuring a transparent process.
Free Legal Assistance for Medical-Only Cases
For injured workers with “medical-only” cases, meaning cases that do not involve financial compensation for lost wages or permanent injury, free legal representation may be available. The Injured Workers Legal Assistance Project offers this valuable service to those who qualify, ensuring everyone has access to legal help, regardless of the case type.
Disclaimer:
Please note that the New York Workers’ Compensation Board does not endorse or recommend any specific lawyers or licensed representatives, including those listed on the websites of the Injured Workers’ Bar Association and the New York State Bar Association. These resources are provided for informational purposes only, and it is your responsibility to investigate and choose a representative who meets your needs. The Board is not a lawyer referral service, and using these resources does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should always interview and thoroughly assess the qualifications of any attorney or licensed representative before hiring them to handle your legal matter.
