Do you need a lawyer for a workers' comp settlement?


In Texas, an employee is not eligible for a true “settlement” of a workers’ compensation case. All cases are required to have medical coverage for life for the compensable injury. However, disputes frequently come into play over the extent and duration of the injury, including entitlement to income benefits and medical care. These issues can be compromised in a written agreement with the insurance company, approved by the state workers’ comp office. It is a wise decision to have an attorney for this process to explain the legal ramifications of agreeing that certain diagnoses or body parts are not injured, or to limit the monetary benefits payable. If you do not have an attorney, you can get free assistance from a non-attorney employee of the state Office of Injured Employee counsel. These “ombudsmen” cannot give legal advice, file suit, or represent you. They can assist you in representing yourself against the attorneys hired by the insurance company.