It is an unfortunate fact that many employers, though covered by workers compensation insurance, resist worker injury claims. Employers typically fear an increase in insurance premiums after a claim is made (which commonly happens in some states, including Missouri). To this end, many companies are quick to suggest that the injury is not serious, or that it is due to an activity occurring outside the workplace. Fortunately, however, an injured employee can retain a workers compensation attorney in Missouri, to counter such denials.

As any employer should know, it is illogical for an employee to attempt a fraudulent claim, as the punishments for doing so are significant. It is a class D felony, and fines can be $10,000 or double the value of the fraud — whichever is greater.

It makes sense for a sick or injured worker to hire a Springfield, Missouri workers compensation attorney, when facing a claim denial. The process for resolving disputes over benefits, in accordance with the Missouri Department of Labor & Industrial Relations, is complicated for an individual without legal training. It involves the following steps:

• File an official claim
• Conference with an administrative law judge
• Work with the dispute management services provided by the department

While it is possible to undertake these steps without legal assistance, claimants are generally more successful when helped by qualified legal counsel with experience in workers compensation issues. The Ryan E. Murphy Law Firm LLC in Springfield works to ensure that workers get the full benefits to which they are entitled.