Q: I injured myself on the job and was put back to work in the same area, what type of lawyer would be best to consult with

A: If your employer prepared a "first report of injury" form and has taken responsibility for your medical care, there is no need for you to immediately seek the assistance of an attorney. If your employer is not taking responsibility for your injury, you are not covered by any health insurance or Medicaid, or your injury is likely to keep you off work for an extended period of time, then you would contact a Worker's Compensation attorney. Another situation where you may need an attorney is where your doctor places restrictions on you but your employer refuses to observe them.

You have not told us the nature of your injury, nor have you told us whether you have sought any medical care, or whether any medical provider has imposed any restrictions on your activity so it is impossible to answer your question with any greater specificity.

Unlike Illinois and many other states, where the claim is accepted, an attorney has very little to do with getting you more money for your injury in Indiana. In Indiana, your treating physician assigns a PPI (permanent partial impairment rating) once you have reached maximum medical improvement. Once that has been done, the value of your claim is determined arithmetically, from the values set forth in the Indiana Worker's Compensation Act. Indiana has a good website for Worker's Compensation and there are knowledgeable ombudsmen on staff (see website) to answer any general questions that you may have. Good luck.