News and commentary regarding workers’ compensation issues in Michigan.
The week of Thanksgiving is slow because defense attorneys are taking a break from shattering lives and overbilling their clients. Just kidding – please forgive the unnecessary snark.
We are dedicating this blog post to miscellaneous odds & ends that could affect your case in the new year. We have pulled this information from the section newsletter published by the State Bar of Michigan. Included is our usual rambling commentary.
Finding a lawyer is getting harder
Did you know that Michigan has 40,467 active lawyers? Only 707 actually belong to the workers’ compensation section. This means your chance of finding an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer could be as low as 1.75%.
Watch out for lawyers who make promises they cannot keep. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own merits. This requires a review of medical records and an honest discussion of your situation.
Scheduling orders are coming
One of the biggest complaints about workers’ compensation is that it takes too long for a case to be resolved. Administrative rules are coming in 2015 that will require magistrates to use a scheduling order for various deadlines.
A scheduling order sounds good in theory but we have real concerns about practice. It is no secret that the current administration has a pro business and insurance agenda. We anticipate more roadblocks for injured workers.
Magistrate terms are expiring
Terms for seven of fifteen magistrates will expire on January 26, 2015. Hearing locations affected will include Detroit, Flint, Saginaw, Dimondale, Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo.
House Bill 5002 abolished the experience requirement and makes the selection of magistrates a political decision. Term limits were also eliminated so new magistrates can serve indefinitely and at the discretion of the governor. We hope the governor makes wise decisions when making these appointments. Experience, impartiality and fairness matter!
Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers never charges a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation today.
Related information:
Our 2 cents on workers’ compensation reform
Photo courtesy of Creative Commons, by houstondwi_photos.
