The Short Answer:
Workers’ compensation lawyers in Massachusetts are not paid hourly but instead work on a contingency fee basis, meaning their payment is a percentage of your settlement rather than an upfront cost. This percentage is limited by law and is determined by whether or not the insurance company accepts liability.
The contingency model helps ensure that injured workers can hire an attorney without worrying about costs to get started. Our Boston, Sharon, and Cambridge-area work injury attorneys explain the fee structure upfront so that our clients are never left in the dark about payment.
State Laws for Workers’ Comp Lawyer Fees
Workers’ compensation attorney fees in Massachusetts are regulated by M.G.L. Chapter 152, Section 13A to help ensure that injured workers have access to legal representation without paying upfront costs. Under this law, insurers are responsible for covering attorney fees in certain cases, depending on whether they accept or deny liability for the claim.
| Liability Status: | Maximum Attorney Fee: |
| Liability Accepted | No more than 20% of total settlement |
| Liability Not Accepted | No more than 15% of total settlement |
If an insurer delays or contests payment and later agrees to pay before a formal hearing, they must cover the worker’s attorney fees as required by law. In rare cases, the insurer can deduct attorney fees from the first 30 days of benefits, but the worker must still receive at least 78% of their total benefit amount.
We offer free consultations to help you learn more about your rights under Massachusetts law.
The Cost of Not Having a Lawyer
Filing a workers’ compensation claim without legal representation can put you at a significant disadvantage. While the system is designed to protect injured workers, insurance companies often prioritize minimizing payouts—which can leave you with less compensation than you may deserve.
What a Lawyer Can Do for You
✔ Maximize Your Benefits: A lawyer helps ensure you receive the full compensation you may be entitled to, including medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits.
✔ Handle Complex Paperwork: Workers’ comp claims involve strict deadlines and detailed forms—any mistakes could delay or reduce your benefits.
✔ Negotiate With Insurance Companies: Insurers may try to offer low settlements or deny valid claims; an attorney advocates for your best interests.
✔ Support in Appeals: If your claim is denied, an experienced lawyer can challenge the decision and fight for your rights.
The Risk of Going It Alone
Without legal guidance, you might:
❌ Accept a lower settlement than what you’re owed.
❌ Struggle to prove liability or the extent of your injury.
❌ Miss important deadlines, leading to a denied claim.
❌ Face delays and disputes with the insurance company.
Only Pay If You Win With Jim Glaser Law
At Jim Glaser Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay upfront costs. Our payment comes from a percentage of your settlement, and in most cases, insurance companies cover statutory attorney fees—not you.
This model ensures that everyone has access to quality legal representation, regardless of financial situation. If you’re facing a workers’ comp claim, a free case review can help you understand your options and the potential costs involved.
