Did a workplace accident leave you with injuries in Des Moines? Have you been diagnosed with an occupational disease after having been exposed to fumes, dust, or other risks for years? If so, you might be able to receiver workers’ compensation benefits. While the laws vary from one state to another, most employers in the U.S. are required to maintain the coverage for their employees. Workers’ compensation offers medical benefits and covers a portion of the worker’s lost wages. Of course, some states might require additional benefits to be offered. How Many Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Are in Des Moines? There are probably more attorneys than listed in the Avvo directory for the field, but as of May 2018 Avvo reported that Des Moines had 139 workers’ compensation attorneys. When you hire a lawyer, you want one that is licensed to practice in the state where your claim will be filed so you can have representation in the courtroom should your case advance to that level. A local lawyer is also familiar with state and local laws. What Can A Des Moines Workers’ Compensation Attorney Do For My Claim? If you have been injured on the job, don’t think you will automatically be awarded the benefits that you are entitled to receive. There are many times that benefits are started, then stopped suddenly. At other times, benefits are outright denied even if there was proof of a workplace accident. As an example, you were working at the factory when a case of supplies fell and hit your back and shoulder knocking you to the ground. You file a claim, but after learning you had a previous surgery on your back after a car accident, your claim is denied. Your employer’s insurance company alleges that your injuries are pre-existing from the previous accident and surgery. Your attorney will appeal that decision by providing supporting documents and evidence to show that your other injury had healed and that this current injury is much different. Without a lawyer, an appeal or getting benefits reinstated would be next to impossible. Where Are the Courthouses in Des Moines? There are several different courts. Not all claims are pursued in the same court. Where the accident occurred, where your employer is located, where you live, and the kind of claim all play a role in determining where the case is heard. Here are some Des Moines area courthouses. Polk County Courthouse 500 Mulberry Street Des Moines, IA 50309 Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Polk County Small Claims Court 222 5th Avenue Des Moines, IA 50309 Iowa Court of Appeals Iowa Judicial Branch Building 1111 E Court Avenue Des Moines, IA 50309 Your attorney will make sure your claim is filed in the proper court. You don’t want time or resources wasted. Consult With A Workers’ Compensation Attorney If you have been hurt on the job, time is of the essence when it comes to pursuing a claim. The statute of limitations for pursuing a claim in Iowa is within two years of the date of injury or within three years of the date compensation was last paid. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form today so you can get your claim on track! Additional Resources Workers' Comp Denial in Iowa Workers' Compensation in Iowa
