As a police officer, firefighter, or EMS professional, you have likely seen or heard of co-workers injured in the line of duty. Tragically, someone you know may have sustained a career-ending injury, or even lost their life serving the public. We can help first responders navigate the complex workers’ compensation system to obtain all of the medical treatment, benefits, and compensation to which they are entitled. During the tragic instances where a first responders lose their life, we work with and support the family to ensure all appropriate benefits are received.

​

The complicated relationship between personal injury, workers’ compensation, and disability retirement.

When first responders are injured, they are frequently allowed to pursue both a personal injury and workers’ compensation claim. If your injury is severe, you may also be able to pursue a claim for disability retirement. The relationship between these areas of the law is extremely complex. For example, in many situations, a successful claim for disability retirement can be significantly higher than a claim for workers’ compensation, or might negatively impact recoveries in workers’ compensation or personal injury. This situation is further complicated by the fact that each of the government entities involved in determining compensation has its own set of rules.

 

Because a settlement or judgment in your personal injury case can have negative consequences on your workers’ compensation and/or disability retirement case or vice versa, it is important to evaluate and coordinate all of them within the same firm in order to maximize your recovery. James Wood is qualified to handle all three cases effectively. 

​

What if you don’t want to retire as a result of your injuries?

Many firefighters and police officers do not want to retire regardless of how much workers’ compensation or disability benefits they can obtain. Public safety isn’t just a job, it is a way of life, an integral part of your identity, and something you truly love. We understand this. We will work closely with you to ensure that you receive all the compensation to which you are entitled, but also assist you in returning to work.  With the proper medical care and legal counsel, most of our clients are able to return to their careers in public safety.

 

We will evaluate your case for free and you owe us nothing unless we obtain compensation on your behalf. We understand what you are going through during this difficult time.

​

You put your life on the line every day to serve our community. We believe in the sacred oath that if you are injured while protecting the public, you are entitled to reasonable medical treatment to get you better, and fair compensation if you do not fully recover.  We welcome the opportunity to be of service to you in return.

​

Please contact Attorney James Wood for more information. 

​

​

​