Every day our office receives calls from injured Minnesota workers looking for a workers compensation attorney. My advice; choose an attorney with extensive experience, with whom you feel a connection, and has experience representing both sides over the course of their careers.
Experience – The law does not allow more experienced lawyers to charge a higher contingency fee than a lawyer just out of law school. Though some people think a young “buck” may be thirsty and willing to work on your file extremely hard, they often work in circles because they really don’t know the system. Though I have been practicing exclusively Minnsota workers compensation for over 20 years, I would be comfortable recommending an attorney with at least 10 years of solid workers compensation experience AND limits their practice to work comp. One analogy I like to use is that if you were having a heart transplant, would you want a young hungry heart surgeon who has only performed a few transplants or one who has performed hundreds or thousands of transplants? I have handled thousands of cases of the last 2 decades. I know every single judge very well, all of defense attorneys and most of the insurance adjusters. This experience is invaluable.
Relationship – I can’t represent everyone. Aside from the issue of time, there are some people who may not find a connection with me. If this happens I am more than happy to recommend another attorney who will not settle your case for a quick attorney fee and has the experience to take your case to hearing if necessary. A workers compensation injury is very personal to you. I too have had a denied surgerical lumbar spine work comp case. I understnad the financial burdens associated with a long term recovery. I understand the frustrations in getting necssary treatment and bills by paid on a timely basis. You do not have to a bully for a lawyer, or one that never returns your calls or emails. My clients have my direct dial phone number, cell phone number and email address.
Former Insurance Company Attorney – For 15 years I represented three of the largest workers compensation insurance companies in Minnesota. I learned what insurance companies are thinking when they deny claims. I know what makes them nervous. I know how they reserve cases for settlement. I know how to stay one step of them and be proactive rather than reactive. This experience has been invaluable. The majority of my staff has previously worked as claim adjusters, employees and attorneys for insurance companies. Let us share these secrets with you. Our Staff is ready to assist you.
