Whether you will be out of work temporarily or permanently, you may have to file a worker's compensation claim to gain some compensation so you can make ends meet. Whether you are applying for the first time or appealing your worker's compensation claim, it is always a good idea to work with an attorney. Here are a few questions that should be asked when choosing a worker's compensation lawyer to work with:

What Kinds are Cases Have Been Taken On?

It is important to find out what kinds of cases a worker's compensation attorney has taken on in the past before deciding whether to hire them. The more types of cases they have worked on in the past, the more understanding you can expect them to have of the worker's compensation system overall than if they have experience with just one type of case. Look for a lawyer who has worked on cases such as:

• Neck and Back Injuries
• Amputations
• Carpel Tunnel
• Burns
• Asbestos Exposure

Ideally, the attorney you ultimately decide to hire will have experience with the type of worker's compensation case you are personally going through.

What Services are Included?

You should also find out what kinds of services are included in the case work your lawyer will be managing for you. Will they fill out the worker's compensation paperwork and submit everything to the court, or will you be expected to do so? Will they request medical records and communicate with your workplace or will you have to do it? Find out what services they will provide you with and which tasks they expect you to take care of. Make sure you get the services that will be done for you in writing so there are no misunderstandings or problems as your case unfolds.

What Kinds of Payment Options are Available?

Another thing to straighten out before hiring a worker's compensation lawyer is the payment options that are available to you. Will you be charged by the hour or for each individual service? Or will you be charged a flat fee for the services? Are you expected to pay upfront, as the case unfolds, or when the case has been resolved? Is the service provider willing to work on a contingency fee basis?

Getting the answers to these questions will help ensure that you are financially prepared and will not end up facing any detrimental surprises. You should be able to work out an exact payment plan before your attorney starts working on your case for peace of mind and to ensure that your case moves along as planned.