Investing in a Workers Compensation Lawyer: What You Need to Know About Costs In Washington

A workplace injury can be a life-changing event. Depending on how bad the injury is, you might not be able to work, which would mean lost wages and possible financial hardship. Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that provides benefits to employees who are injured while on the job. 

Fortunately, in Washington State, workers’ compensation provides a range of benefits to employees who suffer from work-related injuries or illnesses. These benefits may include medical benefits, reimbursement of travel expenses, compensation for damaged or lost personal property, partial wage replacement, permanent partial disability payments, monthly pension benefits, and vocational training to acquire new job skills if unable to return to previous work.

But figuring out how the workers’ compensation system works can be complex and overwhelming, which is why investing in a workers’ compensation lawyer is a smart decision. In this article, we’ll explore what you need to know about the costs of hiring a workers’ compensation lawyer.

Types of Fees:

Workers’ compensation lawyers typically charge their clients in one of two ways: on a contingency fee basis or on an hourly fee basis. With a contingency fee, the lawyer will only get paid if you win your case. Most of the time, the fee is a certain percentage of the money you get from the workers’ compensation claim. The attorney is not compensated if you lose the case. On the other hand, an hourly fee is when the lawyer charges you for the time they spend working on your case, regardless of whether or not you win.

Contingency Fees Explained:

The most typical type of fee structure for workers’ compensation attorneys is contingency fees. Injured workers who have lost income as a result of their injuries may not be able to pay hourly fees. With a contingency-fee basis, you don’t have to make an upfront payment. The attorney will instead take a cut of your settlement or reward. The number ranges from 20% to 33% in the majority of states. The exact percentage will depend on Washington laws and the complexity of your case.

Hourly Fees Explained:

Hourly fees are less common for workers’ compensation lawyers, but they can be an option for some clients. The attorney will charge you for the time they spend on your case, including meetings with you, analyzing your medical data, and case preparation. Hourly fees can range from $100 to $500 per hour, depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the case.

Additional Expenses:

Aside from the lawyer’s fee, you may also have to pay for other costs related to your case. For instance, your attorney might need to pay court fees, employ medical specialists, or get copies of your medical records. These costs are paid out of your settlement or award and are distinct from the attorney’s fee.

Work Injury in Washington State:

It’s worth noting that the fee is set by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries, and workers’ compensation lawyers are not allowed to charge more than the approved amount. This helps to ensure that injured workers can access legal representation without worrying about exorbitant fees.

Another thing to consider is how complex and time-consuming work injury cases can be. Even if your case is straightforward, it may still take several months to resolve. If your case is disputed, it could take even longer. In this case, having a lawyer on your side can be invaluable. A lawyer can help you navigate the system, gather evidence, and represent you at hearings and appeals.

Contact Smith Duran Law Today For a Free Consultation About Your Washington Workers’ Compensation Case

If you’ve been injured on the job, you don’t have to face the workers’ compensation system alone. At Smith Duran Law, we’re here to help. Our experienced workers’ compensation lawyers have a track record of success in helping injured workers get the benefits they deserve. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t have to pay anything upfront. We’ll only get paid if you win your case. Smith Duran Law represents clients in King County, Lewis County, Pierce County, Thurston County, and all across Washington. Our main office is located at 10118 Highway 12 SW, Rochester, W, and we also have an office at 1105 Tacoma Ave. S., Tacoma, WA. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you.