Los Angeles, CA asked in Workers' Compensation and Social Security for California

Q: Can I hire a pro bono lawyer who is experienced with WC to take over my current misrepresented WC case?

It turns out my current lawyer is not acting for my best interest at all and is intentionally misleading and misrepresenting me. Other WC lawyers won’t take my case because they would do more work and get paid less. This is why I thought maybe I should look for pro bono lawyers who are looking for clients. How would I go about finding one?

2 Lawyer Answers
Dennis Dascanio
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Answered

A: Dear injured worker,

I am sorry that you have encountered difficulties with the attorney you hired. You have two options available to you if you cannot find another attorney to take the case. The first is to contact your local Bar Association and ask for the Lawyer Referral service. Many attorneys on the Lawyer Referral services are well aware of these situations and are there to help. You’re other option is to use the Information and Assistance officer at your local WCAB. He will not advocate for you but will be clear and concise in helping get the matter resolved.

I hope this helps and I wish you the very best holidays.

Sincerely,

Dennis A. Dascanio

Tim Akpinar agrees with this answer

James L. Arrasmith
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A: Finding a pro bono workers' compensation lawyer in California can be challenging, as these cases typically operate on a contingency fee basis rather than pro bono arrangements. Your situation with lawyer misconduct is serious, and you have options to protect your rights.

You can file a complaint with the State Bar of California if you believe your current lawyer is engaging in misconduct or misrepresentation. Additionally, you might want to contact the California Workers' Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB) to discuss your concerns about representation and explore your options for changing attorneys.

Consider reaching out to legal aid organizations in your area, such as Legal Aid at Work or your local bar association's lawyer referral service. While pro bono representation for workers' compensation cases is rare, these organizations might be able to connect you with resources or attorneys who handle cases involving lawyer misconduct. You could also contact law school clinics in your area, as some provide free legal assistance through their student programs under the supervision of experienced attorneys.

Tim Akpinar agrees with this answer

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