The litigation process over serious work-related injuries or illnesses generally requires legal representation. If you are injured, have contracted a work-related illness or believe you have been treated unfairly, contacting a workers’ compensation attorney is in your best interest. Even if you think you’re able to handle the situation on your own, a lawyer is there to help you 100 percent through your case and receives no payment until your case is won. When you have a lawyer, you do not speak to the insurance company—your lawyer handles that. The claims adjuster will probably set up an independent medical exam, which will be with a doctor paid by the insurance company. This doctor may downplay your injury or offer an alternate explanation for how it occurred. These appointments are mandatory and failure to attend could result in the loss of benefits. A workers’ compensation lawyer will walk you through the whole process and inform you of any important developments so that all your attention can be on recuperating. Even if your case is not before a judge, it may be wise to contact a workers’ compensation lawyer to help you navigate the difficult process of dealing with your employer and its insurance company.