Workers’ Compensation Attorneys in the United States

Are You a Veterans Administration Employee?

Those who work for the United States Veterans Administration have a crucial job—caring for our nation’s veterans and ensuring they have the resources they need. In a similar way, Aumiller Lomax is committed to giving VA employees the support they deserve. Workplace injuries can happen in any setting, including office buildings, and no matter the nature of your injury, you may be entitled to compensation. Federal employees must follow different channels to be compensated for their injuries, but our team is well-versed in all the regulations surrounding the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA). We work with clients from all over the United States, so there’s no reason not to give us a call after an injury.

How FECA Can Benefit You

FECA outlines the process by which Veterans Administration employees and other federal workers can file for compensation after a workplace injury. If you’re eligible for compensation under this law, you might receive wage replacement compensation benefits, medical benefits, or a schedule award (also known as a permanency benefit). FECA does not involve the traditional court system, judges, or juries. Instead, FECA benefits are given after presenting adequate evidence to the United States Department of Labor, Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP).  Though this system is described as “non-adversarial” and designed for claimants, it can still be difficult and complex.

Understanding the Claims Process

Although you won’t need to go to court, filing a claim under FECA can still be quite complicated and confusing. Fortunately, Aumiller Lomax is here to ensure that you understand the process and don’t have to shoulder the burden of building your own case alone. The FECA claims process happens as follows:

• Gathering Evidence: First, the injured person (claimant) and their attorney must gather any evidence that pertains to their case. Typically, the claimant has the burden of proof.
• Submitting a Claim: Rather than filing your claim with the court, claims are handled by the Department of Labor’s Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP). An adjudicator from this organization will determine whether you win or lose your claim. If you win, this opens up the core three benefits of wage compensation, medical benefits, and, in some cases, a schedule award.
• Appealing a Claim (If Necessary): Often claims (or certain issues) are denied by the OWCP. Appealing a claim or issue may be necessary by requesting reconsideration, requesting review by the Branch of Hearings and Review (BHR), or by appeal to the Employees’ Compensation Appeals Board (ECAB).
• Completing Your Case: FECA claims do not end in a settlement. There is no negotiation, and the OWCP decides whether you’ll receive compensation. Different cases take on a life of their own and the context of each case can be somewhat unique to you. The primary goal of the program is to pay you wage compensation and take care of medical expenses until you can return to your regular job. In some cases, you might be eligible for a schedule award (permanent injury award).  In other cases, you may not be able to return to your regular job. How a case is “completed” depends very much on how you recover from your injury or illness and how the law applies to your particular situation.
• Reopening the Claim: Since there is no real settlement under FECA, cases can always be reopened in appropriate circumstances. Be sure to consult with Aumiller Lomax if you’d like to reopen an old claim—there is no time limit on when you can do so.

Why It’s Crucial to Consult an Attorney

If you believe you have a claim under FECA, hiring an experienced federal workers’ compensation attorney is vital. Even though you won’t need to deal with a traditional court system, there are still lots of details to consider as you build a case. Working with an attorney is often a great aid in making sure you get the benefits that are available in the FECA system. Our clients benefit from our counsel in the following ways:

• Help with gathering and organizing crucial evidence
• Peace of mind that the proper paperwork has been filed
• Staying on top of deadlines
• A better understanding of FECA regulations
• Ability to focus on their own recovery rather than legal proceedings

Consult with a Federal Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today

Veterans Administration employees deserve experienced, capable, and competent legal services. At Aumiller Lomax, we’re proud to have helped so many VA workers get the compensation they need after a workplace injury. We understand the culture at so many government agencies, and we’ll handle your case with care and compassion. Don’t struggle through an injury (and the legal process) on your own. Our attorneys are here to offer support and ensure you follow FECA regulations to the letter. Get in touch with our team today to schedule a consultation or learn more about your rights.