Jackson Law Enforcement & Police Officer Injury Lawyer
Mississippi law enforcement and police officers put their lives on the line daily to combat crime and protect the public, so it is not surprising to learn that job-related medical conditions are common. These government employees encounter unique risks, prompting lawmakers to enact legislation that specifically addresses them. Police are covered by the Mississippi First Responders Health and Safety Act, which provides protections for certain workers who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. You may be able to take advantage of a legal presumption to streamline the workers’ compensation process, as well as other options.
However, despite gaining an edge, law enforcement officers still face an uphill battle when trying to obtain workers’ comp benefits. Instead of putting your rights at risk, trust Keith B. French Law to assist with your claim and the legal presumptions that apply. Please contact our office today to schedule a no-cost consultation with a Jackson law enforcement & police officer injury lawyer who can provide details. An overview may also be helpful.
Mississippi Workers’ Comp for LEOs and Police
Like other workers, officers can claim workers’ comp benefits if they suffer from a job-related injury or illness. It is not necessary to show fault, but you do need to prove that your medical condition is directly related to job tasks or factors present in the workplace. Injuries acquired when apprehending a suspect, making an arrest, managing crowds, or monitoring traffic will typically qualify.
Still, law enforcement and police may be exposed to extreme conditions when performing their duties as first responders. In such a situation, you do not need to show that certain occupational illnesses are directly linked to your job. Mississippi workers’ comp laws allow you a legal presumption, so:
- Your occupational disease must be one listed by the statute, which generally covers disorders resulting from exposure to hazardous substances or the stress of the job.
- You must have worked as a law enforcement officer for at least 10 years.
- The legal presumption can be rebutted by evidence showing that your ailment was not related to your position as a police officer.
Claims Process for Workers’ Comp Benefits
Whether you are filing a claim for injuries or want to pursue your options under presumptive disability for Mississippi first responders, Keith B. French Law will handle the complicated process. Our Jackson law enforcement and police officer injuries lawyer work to obtain benefits for:
- The costs of medical care;
- Wage replacement;
- The presumptive disability benefit, which could be up to $35,000 lump sum;
- Amounts for a total or partial disability, paid on a permanent or temporary basis; and
- Death benefits for surviving family members who lost a loved one.
Discuss Strategy with a Jackson Law Enforcement and Police Officer Injury Attorney
A legal summary is helpful, but it is no replacement for retaining experienced legal counsel to pursue your workers’ comp claim. For more information, please contact Keith B. French Law at 601-983-2667 or via our website. We can schedule a free consultation to assess your circumstances and advise you on the process.
