Los Angeles Workers Compensation Lawyer
Workers’ compensation filing periods depend on the claim and may run from more than one statutory trigger. Filing the claim form can toll the limitations period. Because deadlines are fact-specific, do not rely on a single ‘one year from injury’ date; promptly confirm the applicable deadline. Workers’ compensation covers medical treatment, temporary disability payments, permanent disability, and in some cases retraining, regardless of who was at fault.
What benefits are you actually entitled to?
Medical care for the injury, temporary disability while you cannot work, a permanent disability award once you reach maximum medical improvement, and a supplemental job displacement voucher if you cannot return to your old job.
Your permanent disability rating is what drives the value of the case. It usually comes out of an AME or QME report, which is why that evaluation is not a routine appointment.
If your claim was denied or delayed
Denials are common and they are not the end. A denial can be challenged before the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board, and delayed treatment authorization can be pushed through utilization review and independent medical review.
Retaliating against you for filing a claim is separately unlawful under Labor Code section 132a.
Working with a workers' compensation lawyer in Los Angeles
Our office is at 10850 Wilshire Blvd # 375 in Westwood, just off the 405 and a short drive from West LA, Brentwood, Santa Monica, Century City, and Beverly Hills. Sam Schmuel handles cases throughout Los Angeles County.
We work on a contingency fee, which means you pay nothing up front and nothing at all unless we recover money for you. We speak English and Spanish, and we can come to you if you are still in the hospital or recovering at home.
If you're not sure where to start, just call us at (310) 601-7289. The consultation is free, and there's no fee unless we win your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to report a work injury in California?
Tell your employer within 30 days. Workers’ compensation filing periods depend on the claim and may run from more than one statutory trigger. Filing the claim form can toll the limitations period. Because deadlines are fact-specific, do not rely on a single ‘one year from injury’ date; promptly confirm the applicable deadline.
Can I be fired for filing a workers comp claim?
Retaliating against an employee for filing a claim is unlawful under Labor Code section 132a and may also support a separate employment claim.
Can undocumented workers file a claim?
Yes. California workers’ compensation covers employees regardless of immigration status, which is protected under Labor Code section 1171.5.
What is an AME or QME?
An Agreed Medical Examiner is a doctor both sides agree on. A Qualified Medical Evaluator comes from a state panel when they do not. Their report drives your disability rating.