Are you a resident of Chesapeake, VA, who suffered an injury while on the job? Has ongoing exposure to toxins or dust led to the diagnosis of an occupational disease? If either is the case, you might be eligible to recover workers’ compensation benefits. Most employers must keep workers’ compensation coverage for their employees to protect themselves and their workers in the event of a workplace injury or illness. However, every state sets its own workers’ compensation laws, so benefits may vary, but the standard benefits that are included include medical benefits and covering a portion of the worker’s lost wages. How Many Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Are in Chesapeake, VA? As of May 2018, Avvo reported that there were 34 workers’ compensation lawyers practicing in Chesapeake. That number was probably off slightly, as there could be more lawyers helping injured workers in the area. When you hire an attorney, make sure you choose one licensed in the state where the accident took place so he or she can represent you in court. Also, a local lawyer is familiar with the state laws that apply. What Can A Chesapeake Workers’ Compensation Attorney Do For My Claim? While some workers’ compensation claims might seem like definite approvals, many are denied. Sometimes benefits are just stopped. For example, you were working on the sales floor in a retail establishment when you tripped over a clothing rack base. When you fell onto the floor, you suffered a shoulder and elbow injury. When your employer learned you had prior elbow and shoulder surgery, your claim was denied, and they chalked it up as being pre-existing. Your attorney will gather evidence and documentation to support your claim. Without a lawyer, the odds of a successful appeal or having benefits reinstated are slim. Your lawyer will get the accident report, medical records, and even talk to witnesses to the accident. Your odds of getting your benefits increase significantly with a workers’ comp lawyer on your side. Where Are Courthouses in Chesapeake, VA? Not all claims are pursued in the same court. Where the accident took place, where your employer is located, where you live, and the kind of accident and injury all play a role. Here are some Chesapeake area courthouses. Chesapeake Circuit Court 307 Albemarle Drive Chesapeake, VA 23322 Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Portsmouth Judicial Center 1345 Court Street Portsmouth, VA 23704 Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Court of Appeals 307 Albemarle Drive Chesapeake, VA 23322 Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Time and resources are valuable. Your workers’ compensation attorney will make sure your claim is filed in the right court. Consult With A Workers’ Compensation Attorney In Virginia, you have two years from the date of the injury to pursue a workers’ compensation claim. There are no extensions offered if the illness or injury was discovered after the claim deadline. Don’t wait until it is too late to file a claim. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form today to get your claim on track. Additional Resources Workers' Compensation Attorneys in Virginia Denied Workers' Compensation in Virginia?
