Highlighting Results: Selected Case Outcomes at Prior, Criner & Edwards PLLC
Prior, Criner & Edwards PLLC, known as the Workers’ Compensation Law Firm, has spent our careers fighting for injured men and women throughout the Carolinas. Our team-Frank Prior, Sherman Lee Criner, and Ashley M. Edwards-has successfully represented clients in cases involving workers’ compensation, personal injury, and auto accidents many thousands of times over. This page offers a sampling of relevant case previews that showcase our commitment to our clients, our legal skill, and tenacity in the pursuit of claims. These cases emphasize our steadfast focus on a customized strategy for each claim and fierce advocacy on behalf of our clients, allowing injured individuals and families to start anew in the face of severe challenges.
A Construction Worker Injured On the Job Wins Lifelong Medical Benefits In His Case
Our client, a 42-year-old construction foreman, suffered a severe spinal cord injury in a fall from the scaffolding he was supervising in Wilmington. His claim for workers’ compensation benefits was initially denied by the employer’s insurance carrier. With significant medical expenses not covered, our client faced an uncertain future. Our team, headed by Frank Prior, conducted an extensive investigation, secured the testimony of medical experts, and established that this was a work-related, permanent, and disabling injury. Through extensive pre-trial negotiation and ultimately, through a successful mediation, we secured the client lifetime medical benefits, full wage replacement benefits, and a significant lump-sum settlement. Not only did this resolution provide for our client’s long-term care and future security, but it also established guidelines for fair treatment of all injured workers in the commercial construction industry.
Obtaining Justice From A Local Truck Company After A Fatal Crash
One of our most heart-wrenching cases began with the tragic loss of a young mother in a multi-vehicle crash on I-40. Her family enlisted our help after an out-of-state commercial truck driver’s negligence caused the accident, resulting in the death of his wife and primary caregiver of their two children. Through the hard work of Sherman Lee Criner, our team conducted a complex accident reconstruction, coordinated with some of the nation’s leading trucking experts, identified violations of federal safety regulations, and filed a wrongful death claim. After aggressive litigation, we reached a seven-figure settlement for the family-money that provided not only coverage for medical bills and funeral expenses, but also long-term educational and financial assistance for the children. The result helped to bring justice and closure for a grieving family.
A Nurse’s Victory Over Denial Of Occupational Disease Benefit
A Registered Nurse employed by a Charlotte hospital developed occupational asthma following years of exposure to chemical cleaners. The claim was denied on the basis that the disease was not work-related. She called our office. Ashley M. Edwards worked to gather detailed workers’ compensation records of workplace exposures at the hospital, expert medical analysis, and eyewitness statements from co-workers. Through skillful advocacy and mediation, we were able to overturn the denial, obtain workers’ compensation benefits, and have our client approved for future medical treatment and vocational retraining. The case highlights our ability to prevail in complex occupational disease cases, and protects healthcare workers across the Carolinas.
Resolving a Complicated Workers’ Compensation Case That Spanned Multiple States
When a traveling sales representative residing in the Myrtle Beach, SC area was injured while working in North Carolina, his workers’ compensation claim was initially hampered by jurisdictional arguments. The employer carrier took the position that benefits must be limited by the differing laws of the state involved. Utilizing dual licensure, mediation certifications, and combined experience in both jurisdictions, our lawyers successfully argued that North Carolina laws should apply. The client was awarded full medical and wage-loss benefits for his claim, and was also paid reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses. This is a prime example of our unique cross-state skills, and focus in providing effective and compassionate representation to all clients across both Carolinas.
A Repetitive Stress Injury Victim Gets Life-Altering Results
A 54-year-old assembly line worker from Fayetteville was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome after years of repetitive hand activity. Her employer claimed she had pre-existing conditions and would not pay compensation. Our firm meticulously combed through work records, medical reports, and ergonomic tests. Following a contested proceeding, we obtained a victory finding full workers’ compensation liability for the injury, including surgery, therapy, and lost wages due to time away from work. This meant our client could heal and get back to her position, albeit with concessions by the employer, demonstrating that we are always here to protect a long-term employee’s right to continue working in a safe environment.
Winning Justice For An Injured Delivery Driver
An on-the-road delivery driver from Raleigh was hit by another car while working, incurring multiple fractures and a traumatic brain injury. The carrier tried to limit the claim to just partial compensation. Our firm took a holistic approach: working with medical providers, reconstructing the accident, and calculating future lost income. Through mediation and eventually jury verdict, we recovered a high six-figure jury verdict including medical costs, lost wages, and future medical treatment. Client satisfaction: “[Attorney’s name] was there for me the entire way. He was always so concerned for my well-being.”
The Difference We Make: Client Stories
The measure of our firm’s success is in the way we change the lives of our clients. Time and again, clients express gratitude for our compassionate counsel and dogged advocacy. One recent client stated following a life-changing injury, “From the moment I called, I felt like my case was their top priority. The attorneys at Prior, Criner & Edwards treated me with dignity and answered every question. Their expertise brought me peace of mind, and ultimately, the compensation I needed to move forward.” Such stories are exactly what keep us motivated day after day to continue serving injured men, women, and children across the Carolinas.
You Matter To Us: Why Clients Choose Prior, Criner & Edwards PLLC
Everything is personal to us. The lawyers at Prior, Criner & Edwards PLLC are known for their personalized service, effective communication, and attention to detail. We never view clients as a number. We spend time learning each situation, explaining every process, and formulating a custom legal solution for your problem. We are set apart by our peer-reviewed excellence, industry awards, and decades of trial and mediation experience. From denied claims to settlements and from dispute resolutions to litigation, we have the knowledge, skill, and caring to advocate for you. To learn more about our team and approach, visit our About Us page.
Contact Our Firm: Protect Your Rights and Your Future
If you or someone you love has been hurt on the job, in an injury accident, or while driving a motor vehicle in one of the Carolinas, reach out to Prior, Criner & Edwards PLLC today at (910) 341-3202 or (910) 251-0004 for a free and confidential case review. We’re located at 508 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401 and serve victims and their families throughout North Carolina and South Carolina. Of course, you can also fill out the form found on this page, and a member of our legal staff will be in touch. Schedule a meeting with Frank, Sherman, or Ashley now to review your case, evaluate your options, and determine the right next steps. Simply put: let our experience and skills go to work for you – so you can focus on healing while we work to get you the compensation you need. It’s that simple. For more information or to reach us online, visit our Contact Us page.