Frequently Asked Questions
At Prior, Criner & Edwards PLLC d/b/a Workers’ Compensation Law Firm, we understand how confusing the legal process can be for both injured workers and vehicle accident victims. Below, our North Carolina workers’ compensation and personal injury lawyers answer some of the common questions we receive regarding workers’ compensation, auto accident and vehicle wreck claims in North and South Carolina.
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1. What do I do after a work injury?
Seek medical attention and notify your employer of the injury immediately. Document everything and call our office so colleague can get you in right away for a free consultation. This helps ensure that you reserve and protect your rights, and makes sure that your claim is handled correctly.
2. Do I need an attorney to represent me in my Worker’s Comp or Personal Injury case?
You do not have to have an attorney but you will be better off with one advocating and representing your best interests every step of the way. Our attorneys walk you through every stage—handling the paperwork, negotiations, and litigation if necessary—so you can focus on healing and moving forward with your life.
3. How do you charge for services?
We offer free initial consultations to all new clients, and handle most injury cases on a contingency basis, meaning you owe us nothing unless we recover money for you. Therefore we cover costs up front, charging a percentage of any settlement or verdict we win. Every case is different so we discuss all fee agreements thoroughly with you from the beginning.
4. What happens if my claim is denied?
Your claim being denied does not have to be your last word. Even a denied workers’ compensation claim can be fought successfully, and we have decades of experience pushing back against denied claims and aggressive employers. Call us right away so we can review your case.
5. Why hire Prior, Criner & Edwards, PLLC?
Our firm has been awarded Peer Review Rated® status by Martindale-Hubbell®, honored by clients with superb ratings, and recognized by their legal peers as having the highest ethical standards together with exceptional skill in their practice areas. We also pride ourselves on delivering caring service to each client. We help clients throughout North Carolina and South Carolina from our Wilmington office with personal service from start to finish.
What will happen during my first meeting?
A free, no-obligation consultation. One of our lawyers–Frank Prior, Sherman Lee Criner or Ashley M. Edwards–will personally review your case and respond to your inquiries regarding your options. All information is kept confidential.
Who will be handling my case?
One of our skilled attorneys, not a paralegal or associate. We’ll take an individual approach to your case from start to finish.
I’m concerned about the cost–how do you charge fees?
Most of our cases are on a contingency fee basis. That means there are no attorney fees until we obtain compensation for you. We’ll go over all details openly and thoroughly before proceeding.
I’ve already had a claim denied—can you help?
Yes, we’ve had great success appealing denied claims and obtaining benefits for clients who have already been denied. Don’t get discouraged—contact us so that we can assess your options.
Why do clients recommend your firm?
Clients rave about our thorough experience, compassionate service, and ability to produce positive results. Our lawyers have mediated thousands of cases and have been honored by Martindale-Hubbell, Super Lawyers and other groups for their excellence and professionalism.
How do I get started?
Just call (910) 341-3202, or fill out our online contact form. We’ll get you into the office for a free, no-obligation consultation, listen to your story, outline what rights you have, and discuss how you should proceed.
Still have questions?
Have other questions? Call (910) 341-3202 or fill out our online form to hear back shortly with trusted legal answers and individual attention.