Experiencing a work-related injury and going through a lengthy recovery takes a toll on your mind, body, and paycheck. If you encounter trouble during the workers' compensation process, an already-stressful situation becomes that much more taxing. This is where a workers' compensation lawyer comes in: to relieve you from the burden and to proactively work towards getting you the resources you need. But first, you have to find the right attorney.

3 Qualities to Look for in a Workers' Compensation Lawyer

1. Experience

First and foremost, you want the support of a legal professional who understands the workers' comp process. The field is extremely complex, so you should have the representation of someone who has spent significant time working in this area of the law. Find an attorney who has the background and education to look out for your best interests and to address any issues that may arise in your case.

2. Openness

Your workers' compensation lawyer should make you feel confident and comfortable. They should keep you informed of developments in your case, and they should actively engage with you and make you a part of your claim. In short, they should be open, approachable, and accessible to you. During your initial consultation, you will get an accurate picture of how an attorney operates. If you feel both empowered and at ease, you've likely found the right representation.

3. Trust

Workers' comp claims tend to involve very personal medical details—ones you will have to discuss with your attorney. Find a lawyer who inspires a high level of trust and reliability, someone with whom you have no issue sitting down and sharing confidential information. When you're in the lawyer's presence, do you feel respected and validated? If so, you can safely assume they are a trustworthy professional who will handle private matters with great care.

If you live in the Galesburg, Illinois, area, let Attorney Jim Skinner of Skinner & Associates, L.L.C., guide you through your claim. Since 2007, this workers' compensation lawyer and his team have been serving clients throughout Western Illinois. Call (309) 343-9964 or visit the firm online to arrange a free consultation today.