Q: How can i get answers?
I tore cartilage in my knee at work back in July by stepping down off of a ladder wrong. I went to occupation health doctor, was then referred to a surgeon. Surgeon said I would need surgery but released me to go back to work. Took the release to my employer and they wouldn't let me return and told me I needed a second opinion before I could return. Now workmans comp benefits have ended and am just getting a different answer from everyone. I have an attorney and have called multiple times. I can never get an answer or a call back. I just need answers. What can I do?
A:
You just posted this in AVVO. I responded:
There are many red flags here. You don't tear your meniscus by "stepping wrong," it requires a twisting motion. WC benefits do not "end" in Illinois. They can be paid for an indefinite period. It doesn't make any sense for a surgeon to say that you need surgery but you can work full-duty.
Your benefits were terminated because you were released to return to work.
There is some disconnect with your employer. Your attorney needs to get to the bottom of it. If you cannot schedule an appointment with your attorney, go to his office. You need answers and you cannot live without money. If your attorney refuses to help you, then seek alternate counsel. As Mr. Hoffman wisely counseled you, changing lawyers does guarantee some degree of delay and should be a last resort.
A: I believe you posted this on AVVO. If you have an attorney who has actually entered an appearance, nobody can discuss case details with you. You NEED to meet with your attorney, face to face. If your attorney refuses to meet with you, memorialize that in emails or letters BEFORE you fire him. Then, find another attorney ASAP.
Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
