Jackson Workers’ Compensation Appeals Lawyer
While workers’ comp appeals may not be the most common way to obtain benefits, statistics from the Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission (MWCC) reveal that the appellate process is still an important part of the system. Of the 5,300 total controverted claims before the MWCC every year, more than 30 are resolved by appealing a denied workers’ comp claim. If you are currently struggling through the process, these figures are proof that it is worth pursuing all options and taking essential legal action to enforce your rights.
At Keith B. French Law, our attorneys are prepared to fight to get the workers’ comp benefits you are entitled to by law. We are experienced in all stages of the process, including appeals proceedings before the MWCC and in civil court. Please contact our office today to set up a free case review with a Jackson workers’ comp appeals lawyer who can provide details. Some basic information on the appeals process may also be helpful.
How Workers’ Comp Appeals Work in Mississippi
The initial step in the workers’ comp process is filing a claim with your employer’s insurance company. All Mississippi employers are required to carry insurance if they have more than five employees. However, dealing with the insurer can be challenging. The company may deny your claim or pay an inadequate amount of monetary damages, such as by alleging that:
- You are not a covered employee, but rather an independent contractor;
- Your injuries are not work-related; or
- Your injuries were not severe enough to warrant treatment.
When your employer’s insurance company denies or offers a lowball amount for your claim, it may be time to take the next steps through a workers’ compensation appeal.
Overview of the Appellate Process
If you are moving into the next phase of your workers’ comp claim, the first step is requesting a hearing before MWCC. The proceedings start with a pre-hearing conference that is presided over by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), in which parties must supply a statement regarding the dispute, legal arguments, witnesses, and evidence. Once the pre-hearing process is complete, the ALJ will conduct the full hearing. At the conclusion, the ALJ will enter an official determination regarding your claim. There is still the option of requesting an additional review by the entire MWCC if you are dissatisfied with the results.
Our Jackson workers’ compensation lawyer at Keith B. French Law will be at your side throughout the pre-hearing and hearing phases. We are experienced in investigations and gathering evidence, as well as preparing written statements for the proceedings. At the hearing, we are adept at presenting arguments, testimony, and evidence to ensure you get proper workers’ comp benefits.
You Can Rely on a Jackson Workers’ Compensation Appeals Attorney for Assistance
The Mississippi workers’ comp process is already complicated, but appealing a denial adds further complexities. To ensure you get the benefits you deserve, please contact the Jackson office of Keith B. French Law at 601-983-2667 or via our website. We can schedule a free consultation with a member of our team who can advise you on your rights.
