Sarasota Workers’ Compensation Lawyers | Berlin Law Firm

Sarasota Workers’ Compensation Attorneys

Berlin Law Firm Sarasota Workers Comp Law Firm

When you are injured on the job, workers’ compensation is supposed to provide benefits such as medical treatment, lost wages, and permanent disability payments. In return, the employee cannot sue the employer for personal injury. However, you need your own lawyer who protects your rights and advocates for you, especially if your benefits are denied or delayed.

If you have been injured at work, contact our experienced lawyers at Berlin Law Firm in Sarasota. Our dedicated team specializes in workman’s compensation claims and was founded by Stephen Berlin, who has over 30 years of experience in this complex field.

Our firm was designed to help the workers of Florida through fair representation, honest work, and relentless pursuit of bettering this community. As a result, we are among the highest esteemed workers’ compensation lawyers in Florida. Our Sarasota office is located at 200 N. Washington Blvd and is open 24 hours.

If you’ve suffered work injuries, we want to hear from you. Give us a call at (941)-777-7000 to learn how we can help. Hablamos Español.

What Our Clients Have to Say

Sarasota is home to the first Berlin Law Firm location, with a second office in Tampa. We are honored to serve our local workers who help build and contribute to the quality of life that our city provides. Read some of our client reviews to see what the residents in and around Sarasota have to say about our work.

“When I got injured on the job it was very overwhelming. I didn’t know much about workers Comp. It was suggested to me to retain an attorney. I called Berlin Law Firm. They took care of everything right from the beginning. Amanda was my Attorney and I can’t say enough good things about her and her assistant Sydney. I was extremely happy with the outcome. Do yourself a favor if you are injured on the job call Berlin Law. I don’t recommend going through this process alone. You will be glad that you did.” – Donald D.

“Mr. Berlin and his team worked hard to make sure I was cared for the way I should have been and deserved. They were very approachable and always willing to listen and help in every way they could. 1-10 they are a definite 100! Would recommend them ANY day!  Thanks, Berlin & Team!” – Jaclyn Fisher

“De verdad que estoy muy contenta con el servicio y el trato que recibi de Berlin Law Firm, y Carol muchas gracias por siempre estar hay para Mi en tododo momento desde el primer dia cuando llame para una orientacion. Sydney y todo el personal Thanks so much.” – Mayra R.

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Meet Our Florida Workers’ Compensation Lawyers

We are among the top workers’ compensation lawyers in Sarasota and the state of Florida. Our attorneys genuinely care about each client. We understand the physical and emotional challenges that stem from your injury and the financial issues if you are forced to miss work.

Our lawyers include Stephen Berlin, who started and managed the in-house legal operation for a major Florida workers’ compensation carrier for 17 years prior to founding Berlin Law Firm. Our firm also boasts Thomas Scully, a workers’ compensation attorney for over 20 years and a renowned specialist in this field. Amanda Annunciata attended Stetson University College of Law, graduated cum laude, and became an Assistant State Attorney in the Twelfth Judicial Circuit, where she litigated criminal cases. She is a tireless advocate for victims and will work relentlessly to resolve your claim. Carol Bello is a legal assistant from Columbia and speaks fluent Spanish. She is a graduate of Florida State University, and her passion for helping others is unmatched.

We are proud of everyone on our team, which includes many talented and dedicated professionals—and we are here to help you obtain the maximum benefits if you’ve been injured on the job in Sarasota.

 

Who May Be Eligible for Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Florida?

Are you eligible for workers’ compensation in Florida? The answer largely depends upon your answers to the following questions:

Are you an employee? Most Florida businesses are required to carry workers’ compensation coverage for their employees, including full-time, part-time, temporary, and seasonal workers. This requirement does not extend to independent contractors.

If you are employed at the place where you were injured, you likely qualify for benefits. If you are classified as an independent contractor, there is a chance you do qualify, but only in the event the company you work for misclassified you. In such a situation, your eligibility depends upon a number of factors, including the industry you work in, the responsibilities you have, and the manner in which you are paid.

Was your injury job-related? In order to qualify you for workers’ compensation benefits, your injury must have been caused by activities related to your employment. If you were working when you suffered your injury, you likely meet this qualification. If you were driving as a function of your job—making deliveries, for instance—while you were injured, you likely qualify for benefits.

If you were driving to or from work, however, when the accident occurred, you likely do not qualify. Injuries resulting from horseplay, substance abuse and illegal activity generally do not qualify.

Did you report your injury on time? In Florida, you have 30 days to report your injury to your employer and two years to file a workers’ compensation claim. If you miss these crucial deadlines, you may have lost your chance to obtain the benefits you need.

By contacting a workers’ compensation lawyer as soon as possible after your accident, you can rest assured that you are meeting all deadlines and filing requirements.

If you have questions about whether or not you qualify for workers’ comp benefits in Florida, talk with an experienced attorney before making any important decisions. Even if you think you are not eligible, a closer look at your situation may reveal otherwise.

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Workers’ Comp Benefits

A work injury can leave you with large medical bills and prevent you from working—a financially devastating situation for most Florida workers. Workers’ compensation benefits are designed to help you overcome these financial hardships by providing you with:

  • Medical benefits: Workers’ comp covers all medical expenses arising from a work-related injury, including ER and ambulance care, surgeries, medications and physical therapy.
  • Vocational training: If your injury leaves you unable to perform your usual job duties, but you are well enough to work in another position, workers’ comp will pay for the training this transition requires.
  • Lost wages: These benefits may be temporary or permanent, depending upon the severity of the injury and the extent of disability suffered by the injured worker.
  • Death benefits: Tragically, some workers do not survive their on-the-job injuries. In such cases, family members may pursue benefits that include lost wages, funeral expenses and educational training for a surviving spouse.

The amount of benefits you receive depends upon a number of factors, including the nature and severity of your injury, and the timeline of your recovery. After thoroughly reviewing your situation, an experienced Sarasota workers’ compensation lawyer can help you better understand the benefits you are likely entitled to.

Common Work Injuries Our Firm Handles

With a work-related injury, it is essential that you receive an evaluation and treatment from qualified doctors. The employer’s insurance company will send you only to its approved doctors and will work to deny the severity of your claim. However, we will work harder to advocate for you.

Our areas of practice include:

We also cover catastrophic injuries and work-related fatalities. You can depend on our compassion and tenacity as we negotiate the largest possible damages award for you and your family.

Let Us Secure Your Benefits So You Can Heal

Why You May Need a Sarasota Workers’ Comp Lawyer

You may be legally entitled to worker’s compensation benefits, but obtaining the full amount you are owed is another matter. Your employer may claim you do not deserve the benefits you seek. They may argue that your injury was not job-related or not as severe as you claim.

A skilled attorney can address these common tactics while guiding you through all stages of the workers’ comp process. A good lawyer will handle all aspects of your claim, including communications with the workers’ comp insurer, and compiling the evidence you need for a successful claim, such as medical records and testimony from people who witnessed your accident.

If your employer denies your claim, a knowledgeable lawyer can represent you in the Florida workers’ comp appeals process. You do not have to and should not face this process alone. With an experienced attorney on your side, you stand a much better chance of obtaining a successful result.

Contact Berlin Law Firm

If you or someone you know was seriously injured in a work accident, contact our team at Berlin Law Firm today at (941)-777-7000 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We will answer all of your questions and advise you of your options. There is no fee unless you receive compensation.

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