Illinois workers' compensation attorney fees can't exceed 20%
Whenever a caller already has an attorney we encourage them to stick it out if possible. That said, if the relationship is broken or the attorney just isn't doing their job (not calling you back, not taking your case to hearing, rude behavior, etc.) then it's probably time to switch.
Some callers who are frustrated with their current attorney don't want to switch because they don't want to pay more than one lawyer. FYI, that is never a reason not to switch. Whether you have hired one firm, two, five or ten, the total attorney fees for your case can't exceed 20% of what is recovered for you in the end.
It is up to the first lawyer and second lawyer to work out this issue and if they can't an arbitrator will do it for them. Not a penny more will come out of your pocket over this. If a settlement offer was made before you switched attorneys, the 20% from the offer will typically go to the first attorney and the new attorney will get 20% of what they recover in excess of that amount.
So stick with your lawyer if you can, but don't do it just because you think you can't afford it.
We are workers' compensation attorneys that help people with Illinois work injuries anywhere in IL via our statewide network of attorneys. Contact Us and we will answer your questions or find the right lawyer for your situation.
