Washington Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
Understanding Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation was introduced in America over a century ago to ensure medical care and regular paychecks for workers injured on the job while avoiding extended litigation—where the employee almost always came out on the losing end. While the workers’ compensation program has helped hundreds of thousands of injured workers, it remains a somewhat controversial system. Employers tend to believe workers’ compensation premiums are almost prohibitively expensive, while workers who are injured on the job and must file for workers’ compensation benefits could find the process filled with complexities.
Employers may even discourage employees injured on the job from filing a legitimate claim. Delays are common, and many workers on the lower end of the socio-economic scale may find they simply do not have the financial means to protest a system that leaves them injured and unable to support their families on the benefits provided. While every state in the U.S. has some form of workers’ compensation, the system does vary from state to state. Individual state laws determine which businesses must carry coverage, how much and how long they must pay an injured or ill employee, and what penalties are imposed if a company fails to comply.
An important aspect to consider is the role of legal assistance in these cases. Experienced workers’ compensation lawyers can provide crucial support and guidance, ensuring that all required paperwork is accurately completed and submitted within the state-mandated deadlines. They can also advocate on your behalf to resolve disputes with employers or insurance companies and maximize the benefits you receive.
For a FREE initial consultation with our Washington workers' compensation lawyers, call Palace Law at (253) 544-5935.
Top-Rated Personal Injury & Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Serving Washington & Oregon
For over 30 years, Palace Law has been the trusted partner for injured individuals and families across Washington and Oregon. As a top-rated personal injury and workers’ compensation law firm, we’ve recovered millions of dollars for families, securing life-changing results through unwavering dedication, compassion, and expertise.
At Palace Law, we’ve built a modern law firm for you. We’ve invested in the best tools, technology, and most importantly, our experts to ensure every client gets the representation and compensation they deserve. While big insurance companies focus on profits, we focus on justice. We know their tactics, cut through their intimidation, and fight relentlessly to protect your rights and your future.
Whether you are dealing with an auto accident, a wrongful death claim, a workers’ compensation issue, or any other type of personal injury claim, we will be in your corner, fighting for your rights and your future. If you’ve been injured on or off the job, trust the firm with a proven track record of delivering real results. Palace Law is ready to stand by your side and turn your fight into a victory.
Schedule your initial consultation through our online form or by calling us directly at (253) 544-5935 today.
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Thank you for taking time to come to this site to take care of yourself and your family. Thank you for finding out about your rights and your remedies. And, if you need more, I am always here. I wish you well and I wish you the best…more
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Meet Our Legal Team
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Moments That Matter
Stories From Those We've Had the Pleasure to Work With
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"Jodi encouraged Aaron to reach out to Palace Law after they heard about the firm through a friend. She knew he needed someone who truly understood what it was like to be a public servant and to carry the weight of those hard days. For Jodi, Palace Law was different."
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"In came the big guns or Marshall Dillon from Gun Smoke to fight off the bad guys at L&I. PALACE LAW! As we closed out our file with Palace Law today, I started to cry as I felt like I was losing a very close personal friend. That is how everyone at Palace Law made myself and Mel feel."
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We have helped thousands of injured workers win their cases. Because workers’ compensation claims can be complicated and confusing, navigating through government bureaucracy can be discouraging. Let us represent you to get all the benefits you’re entitled. Securing multi-million dollar Workers' Comp settlements since 1995
At Palace Personal Injury Group, we have been representing injured people who have been involved in personal injury cases for over 30 years. Let us represent you to get all the benefits you’re entitled to. Securing multi-million dollar Personal Injury settlements since 1995. Palace Law secured more than $16M for a family in a landmark wrongful death case.
How Long Do I Have to File My Washington Workers’ Compensation Claim?
While you should always file your workers’ compensation claim as quickly as possible, under Washington law, you have one year from the date of your work injury to file a claim with Loss and Injury or your self-insured employer and two years from the date of a doctor’s diagnosis for an occupational disease claim to file for workers’ compensation.
What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Are Available in Washington?
In the state of Washington, the program administrator for workers’ compensation is the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries. Any employer with one or more employees must provide workers’ compensation coverage (with standard exceptions). Employers must cover all reasonable medical treatments related to workplace injuries. Although employees are allowed to choose their own doctor for a first visit, after that, the employer can require the employee to stay in-network.
Temporary total disability benefits are equal to 60-75 percent of the regular monthly wages, depending on the worker's number of dependents and the current average weekly wage in the state ($1,190 as of 2018). Workers must wait three days for benefits, and those benefits will be paid until the worker is able to return to work or has reached “maximum medical improvement.”
Temporary partial disability benefits in Washington are equal to 80 percent of the employee’s pre-injury wages minus post-injury wages. Permanent partial disability benefits will vary according to the severity of the injury (as rated by a qualified doctor). Permanent and totally disabled workers are eligible for a monthly pension, with the amount being dependent on pre-injury wages, the average state wages at the time of your injury, marital status, number of dependent children, Social Security benefits, and health-care benefits. Survivors may also receive a monthly pension at 120 percent of the statewide average wage for the year prior to the award. Domestic partners and spouses are also eligible for a one-time immediate death and burial benefit.
In addition to these core benefits, Washington also provides retraining programs for those who are unable to return to their previous job due to the severity of their injuries. These programs focus on equipping workers with skills needed for alternate employment, aiming to facilitate their reintegration into the workforce. Legal professionals can assist in navigating these benefits, ensuring that all eligible support options are fully utilized.
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- Former Client
They are an amazing team and made my case an easy process to cope with. They stayed in great communication with me every step of the way and fought to maximize my profit. Palace Law is hands down THE BEST law firm I’ve dealt with. Attorney John H and assistant Hailey make an amazing team.
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- Jacob H.
They have been entirely helpful since they accepted my case. Thorough and informative every step of the way. When I had an IME and no gas in my car they arranged for a ride to and from. After fighting tooth and nail myself with little to no results Palace Law stepped in and immediately Sedgwick stopped dragging me through the mud.
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- Former Client
Just when you feel like giving up and do not where to turn for legal advice. Call them, they are experienced, knowledgeable, caring and responsive.
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If you're in need of an attorney, please call here first. You'll be glad you did.- Aislyn R.
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- John A.
I’ve spent the last 7 years working with them and it hasn’t been a easy ride but they work very hard to get the best outcome for there clients. Sandra has done an outstanding job keeping me informed of the process and keeping me feel safe and secure with my future. I couldn’t of asked for a better person and team to help me during this stressful time and working hard to get me what I deserved.
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I will recommend Palace Law Group to anyone. They care about their clients and also their family. Fully committed. Also they listen to their clients. They are professional. If you need an attorney contact Palace Law. They are outstanding fighters . Don't take the law in your own hands let the Palace Law Group put the law to work for you. Edward Spencer- Edward S.
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- Sharon R.
I highly recommend Palace Law for your work place injury. I would definitely use them again but hopefully I won’t have to.
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- Natalie W.
I have worked with PALACE law for the last five years. On several occasions, my lawyer without her knowledge, has talk me off the edge when I was ready to give up. This company not only did they have my best interest, but also my well-being. I can not say enough positive things about my lawyer, Stefanie Carlton, she is always going above and beyond!
Frequently Asked Questions
After you have been injured in an accident, whether on the road, in your workplace, or in a public place, you likely have a number of questions. We’ve taken the time to answer your most common questions and are ready to help you today, so you can focus on what is most important, healing.
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What Should I Do After A Car Collision?
When personal injury strikes, there are a number of things you should and shouldn’t do to protect your rights. You want to be sure you are covered and compensated for all the damages, both personal and emotional, that you have suffered.
Most importantly, you should follow these key rules:
- Be careful what you say to insurance companies and opposing attorneys. Don’t answer any questions without your attorney present.
- Tell your doctor or healthcare provider about all your symptoms. Doctor’s records and reports are very important when evaluating your claim. Be thorough in relaying your symptoms, including any pain you may be experiencing. Be sure to follow up with any additional medical appointments and recommended treatments.
- Don’t settle without consulting with your doctor. You may get pressured by insurance adjusters to settle your injury claim prematurely, but first, consult your doctor. Only settle when you and your doctor can safely predict your future medical needs and expenses.
- Consult your attorney before signing a release. A release ends your claims with the insurance company, and you cannot file additional expenses or claims once you have signed it.
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How Do I Handle My Medical Needs During The Personal Injury Claims Process?We work with you on your case, we will contact the insurance companies and determine what coverage and benefits are available to you. This may also involve working with Medicare, L&I, DSHS and other agencies to be sure that you continue to receive appropriate payments. Once all available insurance coverages and other benefits have been determined, your attorney will then communicate with your healthcare providers and coordinate all benefits during the claims process.
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