Employers generally cannot refuse your return to work if you have medical clearance. They must accommodate reasonable restrictions or provide valid reasons for refusal.
Returning to work after an injury can be challenging, especially if your employer is hesitant about your return. Understanding your rights and the legal implications in such situations is crucial. In Missouri, as in many other states, specific guidelines and protections ensure that injured workers are treated fairly.
30 YEARS EXPERIENCE
OVER $100 MILLION COLLECTED
ONLY WORK COMP
Attorney is the king of workers compensation. Nobody better!
Response from the owner: Thank you Dave. We recently finished an all day work comp hearing. Below is a summary:Claimant, a full-time carpenter for Employer, developed low back pain in September of 2017 making cabinets and displays for the Employer. Claimant’s job is physically demanding. Cabinets and displays can range from 60 to 500 lbs. Claimant job duties include lifting displays weighing up to 500 hundred pounds during the assembly process. Carts, each with 100 lbs of materials, are brought to Claimant who must lift the materials from each cart and assemble same. In October 2017, Claimant’s job duties caused his low back soreness to become severe pain with numbness down his right leg. At the final hearing, the Employer/Insurer produced no evidence of non-work activities that could have caused, or did cause, Claimant’s low back pain.When Claimant’s low back pain became severe in Oct. 2017, he sought treatment with a chiropractor, Dr. Lynch, on 10/17/20217. Claimant then, on 10/23/2017, reported to Employer a repetitive use work injury to his low back. He went sent to Concentra by the Employer but left due to delays in providing immediate treatment as he had severe pain and radiculopathy. He went immediately to an urgent care and returned to work with a light duty slip for 6 weeks for which the Employer complied. Despite asking the Employer for additional treatment during the next few months, none was offered. He kept the Employer informed of the treatment he was receiving on his own. IN December 2017, Claimant contacted attorney James Hoffmann who instructed Claimant to hand deliver a letter to the Employer making a written demand for treatment. Claimant delivered the letter in December 2017. At the hearing, Employer presented no evidence that it disputed the contents of the letter. Immediately after receiving the letter, the Employer contacted the Insurer which then sent medical authorizations to Claimant who signed and immediately returned same to the Insurer. The Insurer then obtained a statement from Claimant in Dec. 2017 where Claimant informed the adjuster of a repetitive use low back injury at work and need for treatment.After 6 weeks of light duty, Employer requested another light duty slip which Claimant provided. Claimant continued to work light duty until Feb. 15, 2018, when Employer informed Claimant there was no more light duty and sent Claimant home. In the meantime, neither the Employer nor the Insurer offered treatment. The Employer’s attorney was aware of Claimant’s treatment as he was sending copies of Claimant’s medical records to Claimant’s attorney received via the authorizations signed by Claimant.In Feb. 2018, Claimant’s attorney obtained a medical report from Dr. Armond Levy who related lumbar disc herniations and the necessity of surgery to Claimant’s work for Employer. Several demands were sent IN Feb. 2018 to the Employer for the surgery recommended by Dr. Levy and for TTD. At the hearing, Employer presented no evidence of any response to the demands for treatment and TTD made by Claimant’s attorney in February 2018. Claimant then underwent 2 surgeries on his own for his low back, the first being in March 2018 and the second in August 2018. During that time, no TTD or treatment was offered. When Claimant returned to work in November 2018, after recovering from the second surgery, he was informed by the Employer that he was fired. The Employer eventually sent Claimant to a physician, Dr. Bernardi, in November 2018, who is of the opinion that a person cannot suffer a repetitive use herniated disc. It is his opinion that herniated discs can only acute, and that any degenerative changes in the low back are genetic and cannot be caused by repetitive use occupations. In other words, Employer sent Claimant to a doctor who disagrees with Missouri law which specifically recognizes and accepts repetitive use injuries. Claimant had zero chance of a favorable opinion from Dr. Bernardi
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️This is the lawyer you want to hire! Just read the reviews. It is all true. Incredible! He will get you every dollar of lost wages, get you every ounce of medical treatment, and get you the highest possible award from the Division of Workers Compensation.
Response from the owner: Thanks Blair. We are preparing for another trial! Client worked as a carpenter and injured his L4-5 and L5-S1 discs from repetitive heavy lifting. We made several demands for treatment. We obtained an opinion from a neurosurgeon and an orthopedic surgeon that back surgery was necessary. The employer refused treatment so our client had surgery, a lumbar fusion, on his own. We are pursuing the employer/insurer for 6 months of wage loss, denied medical of $245,000, permanency, and future medical for life.Law Office of James M. Hoffmann2001 S. Hanley, suite 325St. Louis, MO 63144314 361 [email protected] Missouri workers comp and car accident attorney.
This laywer rocks!
Response from the owner: Thanks Justin. Happy to report another win a trial. Client injured his knee at work. He underwent a meniscus surgery. The doctor also "cleaned up" other degenerative changes in the knee. This is called a chondroplasty. After the surgery, client's knee go worse. The doctor blamed prior arthritis even though my client had no prior knee issues and no prior pain. Yes, at his age he had prior natural degenerative changes. We retained experts who testified that chondroplasty caused those areas top become inflamed and painful, thus causing the "arthritis." We argued that prior to the injury, there was no "itis", which means inflammation and pain. We argued that all of the "itis", and thus arthritis, was due to the surgery. The judge agreed and also awarded future medical for life which includes knee replacements. So, why did the doctor shave areas in the knee that were not symptomatic? Look at the bill: a meniscus surgery is onl $3000; but for every other area he "cleaned up", he gets $3000 for each area.Law Office of James Hoffmann314 361 [email protected] Missouri workers comp and car accident lawyer
Best you will find! This law firm is great for work injury claims. Tons of union members use him to file claims.
Response from the owner: Thanks Katie. We also help families through car accidents and slip/falls. We recently recovered $500,000 for a client who fell at service station!James Hoffmann314 361 [email protected]
Mr Hoffmann is a lawyer who is skilled, trained and smart. He explains the workers compensation process and your treatment, pay and award rights. He also tells you your rights if they do not. If the work injury adjuster declines treatment or pay while injured, he will enforce it with the judge. If they do not pay a final award, he will litigate it and get you an award by court order. This is a great lawyer.
Response from the owner: Thanks Jacob. Just had a long deposition today of my medical expert having him explain a lumbar disc extrusion, a posterior and anterior fusion surgery, comminuted pelvic fracture, comminuted heel and ankle fracture requiring 4 surgeries, and a shattered elbow. We discussed permanent and total disability, plus future medical care for life. He is just one of several experts I retained to fight for my client. Law Office of James Hoffmann2001 S. Hanley, suite 325 63144314 361 [email protected]
Several of the big TV law firms advertised for workers compensation. Called them but was not impressed. Then I called attorney Hoffman because of his reviews and am so glad we did. Night and day difference. Extremely competent lawyer!
Response from the owner: Thank you Zach. I represent injured Missouri workers from St. Louis to Kansas City and all throughout Missouri: Springfield, Cage Girardeau, Hannibal, Rolla, Columbia. Ozarks. Kennett, Poplar Bluff, etc. We fight hard for every client and do not have monthly settlement quotas like the big advertisers do to pay for all of their advertising!Law Office of James Hoffmann314 361 [email protected]
Love my workers compensation law firm. Highest work injury awards in St Louis. The reviews are 100% correct.
Response from the owner: Falls at work are not compensable under Missouri work comp unless it is shown that something specific at work caused the fall. Just walking and stumbling for no reason is not work comp. Walking, and carrying a box, which causes you to stumble because you can't see your feet is work comp. Falling down stairs because you missed your step is not compensable unless you missed the step because you were in a hurry for a work issue; or you were carrying work items and that affected your line of sight. Having to wear certain shoes is work specific if the shoes are awkward and contributed to your fall. James Hoffmann attorneySt. Louis workers comp and car accident lawyer314 361 [email protected]
And used Mr Hoffman's Law Firm for a workers compensation claim. All the firefighters use him said he gets the highest work in injury Awards.
Response from the owner: Thanks JerryI have represented numerous first responders in Missouri workers comp and car accidents. Heavy ambulance doors have caused severe post concussion syndrome and TBI's. Lifting victims has caused herniated discs requiring cervical and lumbar fusion surgeries. Glad to help our hero's.Law Office of James Hoffmann2001 S. Hanley, Suite 325 St. Louis, MO 63144314 361 [email protected]
This lawyers is simply the best you will find for work injury claims. Best choice for workers compensation attorneys.
Response from the owner: An important case for injured Missouri workers where the insurance doctors blame non-symptomatic prior degenerative changes:TILLOTSON SUMMARY 2024Per Tillotson v. St. Joseph Medical Center 347 731 3d 511 (Mo App 2011)1. The review of the ALJ decision in Tillotson notes that Tillotson was a poor historian. They noted contradictions including inability to recall specific date of injury, inability to remember within a month of accuracy her first date of treatment, inaccurate information and incident reports that she prepared in reference to doctors to following at the time of the accident, which she denied at the hearing. Denial of having arthritis which her long-term family doctor treated and referenced throughout her records. In other words, her records showed that she had pretty significant arthritis as of the date of the injury. Per the Court of Appeals opinion, it is noted that “He noted that a tear of the lateral meniscus would normally be repaired by arthroscopic surgery. However, arthroscopic surgery is not recommended for patients with severe arthritis.”Tillotson analysis was as follows:1. It must be determined first whether the employee sustained a compensable injury by accident arising out of and in the course of employee’s employment.2. Tillotson sustained a compensable accident and injury as the doctors agree she tore the lateral meniscus.3. Once it is found that she suffered a compensable injury, the legal standard for determining employer’s obligation to afford medical care as per 287.140 which requires the employer to provide treatment reasonably required to cure and relieve the effects of the injury. The prevailing factor standard no longer applies.4. Further, it is immaterial that treatment may have been required because of the complication of a pre-existing condition or that treatment will benefit both the compensable injury and a pre-existing condition.5. The fact that medical treatment may also benefit a non-compensable earlier injury or condition is irrelevant. 6. Tillotson cites 2 cases – Bauers and Stevens. There were knee injuries. There was significant pre-existing conditions and knee replacements were still required.7. Tillotson goes on to say whether or not claimant may have needed future treatment even if the injury did not occur is irrelevant to the analysis of whether future medical care flows from the injury actually occurred. 8. With respect to permanent partial disability it is immaterial in the manner in which Tillotson’s permanent partial disability should or could be allocated between her torn lateral meniscus and the total knee replacement, as Tillotson is entitled to compensation for disability rising out of the medical treatment reasonably required by Section 287.140.1 to treat a compensable injury. Cited Martin case.9. “As we have discussed, these disabilities coalesce, and were not required to be allocated in this case. Tillotson is entitled to award for permanent partial disability.”10. With respect to future medical benefits, the claimant need only show reasonable probability because of the work-related injury, future medical treatment will be required. A claimant need not show evidence of the specific nature of the treatment required.11. Even though she started out at trial with denying that she had prior arthritic conditions and it is throughout her records, she still got a knee replacement.
Exceeded our expectation. Incredible lawyer for work injury claims he will file and litigate the workers compensation claim walk you through the process and fight for treatment and the final award gold medal effort.
Response from the owner: Thanks Jessica. Missouri injury claims are a battleground. Whether its a wrongful death claim, herniated disc, lumbar or cervical fusion, strain/sprain, shoulder surgery, knee surgery, amputation, concussion, dog bite, workers comp, and other injuries, the bottom line is that insurance companies don't want to pay fair and reasonable damages, they want to as little as possible and delay the case so payment is delayed. Attorneys from across Missouri from St. Louis to Kansas City to Springfield, Columbia, Cape Girardeau, etc. need to ready for a fight. Money needs to be spent on experts and the attorney needs to go to trial when the offer is too low. The big law firm advertisers settle everything they can for cheap to meet advertising budgets and attorney quotas. Law Office of James HoffmannSt. Louis personal injury and work comp lawyer.314 361 [email protected]
You are a great attorney! Thank you.
Response from the owner: Worsening of prior conditions are a valid Missouri work comp claim:Per Tillotson v. St. Joseph Med. Ctr., 347 S.W. 3d 511 (Mo. App. W.D. 2011) to determine need for treatment, surgery, and treatment after surgery. Treatment need only be reasonably required to cure and relieve the effects of the injury. Id. Section 287.140.1 RSMo states in pertinent part that the Employer shall provide such medical as may “reasonably be required.To be entitled to future medical care the employee must establish that there is a reasonable probability that he will need future medical care. Forshee v. Landmark Exc. & Equip., 165 S.W. 3d 533 (Mo.App. E.D. 2005) An [Employee] does not have to provide evidence of specific medical treatments or procedures which will be necessary in the future in order to receive an award of future medical care. See Chatmon v. St. Charles County Ambulance, 55 S.W.3d 451, 459 (Mo.App. E.D. 2001). Employee has already satisfied the burden of proving a compensable injury. Here, defense's authorized Dr. Spears on 4/26/2010 opined "if she doesn't get improvement in her radicular pain, then the next step is going to be a microscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion to remove the foraminal stenosis." He went on to state the January 2010 incident was a "fall (that) aggravated significantly a pre-existing condition". This is enough under Tillotson, Forshee, and, Chatmon (supra) to award further treatment.Please also see Maness v. City of De Soto, 421 S.W.3d 532 (Mo. App. 2014). The court rejects Employer's contention that the mere existence of degenerative disc disease in the cervical spine and neck symptoms prior to the work accident requires a determination that Claimant's injury is not compensable. See also the following in support:If the evidence establishes that an accident caused adisability or aggravated a preexisting condition or infirmity of an employee,which produces a condition that would not have resulted in a normal, healthyindividual, an award is authorized. Fogelsong v. Banquet Foods Corp. 526S.W.2d 886 (Mo. App., K.C.D. 1975)An aggravation of an existing infirmity caused by an accident or occupationalexposure arising out of and in the course of employment is compensable underChapter 287, RSMo, even if the particular accident (occupational injury) wouldnot have produced such result in a normal and healthy individual. Mashburn v.Chevrolet-Kansas City Division, General Motors Corp., 397 S.W.2d 23 (Mo.App., K.C.D. 1965)
Bunch of Ford employees recommended Mr Hoffmann for workers compensation claims. Said he handles all the union workers who get injured at the plant.
Response from the owner: Thank you Steve. I wish I handled all of the work comp claims, but I do represent many. Whether it's large employers like Boeing, Ford, Emerson, Anheuser Busch, BJC, or smaller employers, we fight hard for injured workers in Missouri. 30 years of experience. 1000's represented. Over $100,000,000 recovered and the battles rage on. We also had personal injury claims as well. We recently recovered $450,000 for an injured worker who was bit by a dog.Law Office of James M. Hoffmann2001 S. HanleySt. Louis, MO 63144314 361 [email protected]
My cousin was injured in a work accident so we had to interview all the “top workers compensation lawyers” in Saint Louis. This lawyer was clearly on another level.
Response from the owner: Thanks James. Workers' comp, or workman's comp as some say, lawyers need to hire experts such as pain management doctors, or orthopedic doctors who specialize in back surgery, shoulder surgery, knee surgery, neurologists, concussion specialists, and psychiatrists. The political environment in Missouri now favors insurance companies. Work comp claim are no longer simple and informal. They are a jury trial but without a jury. Lawyers need to know how to depose doctors and try a case. Every day we fight for our clients injured at work, injured in car accidents, injured by dog bites, injured medical negligence, and more.James M Hoffmann, attorney2001 S. Hanley, suite 325 St. Louis, MO 63144314 361 [email protected]
This workers compensation lawyer gets a perfect 10. Fights hard for injured workers and he wins. Walks you through the entire process. He is also a great person.
Response from the owner: Thanks Eric. Workers comp insurance doctors love to blame ongoing pain on pre-existing arthritis even though all of the employee's pain started with the work injury and prior to the work injury the employer had no pain and had never been diagnosed with arthritis. The insurance doctors always refer to prior, non-symptomatic degenerative changes in a joint as being "arthritis." "Itis" means inflammation and pain. The itis is usually due to the joint becoming inflamed and painful from the work injury and surgery. Thus, the "arthritis" is due to the injury and not because a person has prior naturally occurring non-symptomatic degenerative changes. Ask the work comp doc: "you agree that 60 year old tonsils probably have degenerative changes. Would you call 60 year old non-symptomatic tonsils "tonsilitis": NO!; would you call a 60 year old non-symptomatic appendix "appendicitis":NO!; would you call a 60 year non-symptomatic bursa "bursitis": NO!.. that's because the "itis" means inflammation and pain, non of which I had until the work injury!!! I see this all the time with neck injuries, low back injuries, disc herniations, rotator cuff tears, meniscus tears: doctors do surgery under workmans comp and then blame ongoing pain on a made up pre-existing condition.James HoffmannYour Missouri workers comp and car accident attorney314 361 [email protected]
I agree with the reviews. This lawyer is in a different league from other workman’s compensation lawyers. He does all the massive injury cases in Missouri.
Response from the owner: Thank you Jennifer. We just went to trial for a disputed total knee replacement. The work comp doctors always allege the knee replacement is due to pre-existing arthritis yet my client has no prior knee pain, no prior limitations, no prior treatment. He had a 60 year old knee that had natural degenerative changes, but he was pain free. In the word "arthritis", itis means inflammation and pain, neither of which my client had before the injury. The itis started with the work injury. It takes 90 days for a ruling. Law Office of James M. HoffmannSt. Louis, MO car accident and workers compensation lawyer314 361 4300
Phenomenal experience with the Law Office of James Hoffmann. He is know as the best in workman’s compensation and I can tell you he is. Great team. Answered all questions, was available and is brilliant.
Response from the owner: Thanks Payton. Call it work comp, or workers comp, or workman's compensation, it's all the same. A current battle with a work comp insurer concerns "natural consequences." My client had a L5-S1 fusion under work comp. She has at home transitioning from a walker to a cane, per doctor's orders, when she fell fracturing her elbow and damaging her lumbar fusion. The injuries from the fall are part of the work injury as someone falling, due to balance issues from the surgery, while rehabbing is a known and accepted consequence. Of course the work comp insurer is fighting us arguing that her home rehab should only have been indoors and not outdoors where she fell...absurd! The doctor placer no restrictions on where to practice transitioning. She now has a three level lumbar fusion from L3-4. L4-5. and L5-S1. We'll go to trial if not accepted.Glad to fight for the injured worker in Missouri.Law Office of James M. HoffmannSt. Louis, Missouri workers comp, car accident, injury attorney.314 361 [email protected]
5 StarsThese reviews are correct. This attorney is incredible. He knows workmans compensation, fights for denied treatment and wages, and gets your on the job injury rated by the best doctors. I will be using him from here on our great experience.
Response from the owner: Thanks Joshua. Unlike the big firms that advertise on TV which have monthly settlement quotas for their attorneys, I spend my money on experts such as orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, pain management doctors, vocational experts, and life care plans. These experts are necessary to prove the permanent damage and wage loss caused by back injuries such as paralysis, disc herniations, disc protrusions, and fractured vertebrae, or shoulder injuries such as rotator cuff tears, labral tears, shoulder replacement surgeries and frozen shoulders; or fractured hips and pelvises that require plates, screws, or hip replacement surgery; or TBI's, traumatic brain injuries, also called concussions, PCS, or post concussion syndrome; ankle fusions; ankle joint replacements; knee joint replacements, PTSD from the injury, and depression and anxiety from chronic pain.It does not take a large law firm to fight an insurance company. It takes a good lawyer. There's a reason why injured insurance adjusters and injured insurance doctors call me to represent them. They know I fight and will not back down.Law Office of James M. HoffmannSt. Louis, MO workers comp and auto accident attorney314 361 [email protected]
Great person. Even better lawyer. Thank you Mr. Hoffmann for being so good at workers compensation. Getting hurt at work is frightening. That went away as soon as we spoke. Bless you!
Response from the owner: It's scary because there are employers who go the attack when an employee gets hurt. There are insurance adjusters who deny claims and create hardships. There are insurance doctors who blame pre-existing arthritis even though you had no or little prior issues.If the doctor says that you suffered a compensable injury by accident, then the legal standard for determining employer’s obligation to afford medical care under the Missouri workmans comp law requires the employer to provide treatment reasonably required to cure and relieve the effects of the injury. The prevailing factor standard no longer applies.Further, it is immaterial that treatment may have been required because of the complication of a pre-existing condition or that treatment will benefit both the compensable injury and a pre-existing condition.The fact that medical treatment may also benefit a non-compensable earlier injury or condition is irrelevant. Whether or not claimant may have needed future treatment even if the injury did not occur is irrelevant to the analysis of whether future medical care flows from the injury actually occurred. With respect to permanent partial disability it is immaterial that the employee had a prior condition as an employee is entitled to compensation for disability rising out of the medical treatment reasonably required to treat the injury. With respect to future medical benefits, the claimant need only show reasonable probability because of the work-related injury, future medical treatment will be required. A claimant need not show evidence of the specific nature of the treatment required.In other words, prior conditions, such as arthritis, is irrelevant if the doctor says you suffered a work injury. The employer/insurer must treat both.James HoffmannSt. Louis, Missouri workers comp and car accident lawyer.314 361 [email protected]
Re: Law Office of James M. HoffmanThe Law Office of James M Hoffmann was referred to me from a previous client, that was extremely impressed, with his service and outcome.I met with Jim Hoffmann to discuss a car accident. Three cars were involved, my car was totaled, and I was seriously injured. After meeting with Jim the very first time, I immediately felt comfortable, and knew that he would have my back, and would fight for me.Throughout my journey, I dealt with a lot of pain and several issues that lasted for years. During this time I had to contact Jim and Jamie (Jim’s wonderful assistant) many times. Every time I sent an email with questions, I received feedback extremely quickly!I feel Jim negotiated a great settlement for me!The Law Office of James Hoffman will be the first place I contact if I ever need his help again!Suzanne Charles
Response from the owner: Thanks Suzanne. Over the past 25 years, we are proud to help families through injuries from car accidents and work accidents in Missouri. James HoffmannSt. Louis, MO auto accident and workers compensation lawyer314 361 4300
This law firm handles the biggest workers compensation cases. Biggest cases require the best. This is it in St Louis. Everyone you call says the same thing that Jim Hoffmann is the best in Missouri and consistently beats the biggest defense lawyers and defense doctors and gets the highest awards.
Response from the owner: Thanks Cassie. Although the workers compensation statute in Missouri mandates that the process be simple, informal, and summary, it is anything but. Your attorney should use experts such as orthopedic surgeons for shoulder, hip, hand, and knee injuries, or neurosurgeons for herniated discs and other spine injuries, vocational rehabilitation experts to prove permanent and total disability, and pain management doctors to prove the need for future medical care for life. These experts are expensive, but I risk my money as we need them be successful whether at trial or to get a good settlement. Glad to fight for the injured Missouri worker and those injured on car accidents.James HoffmannMissouri personal injury attorney314 361 [email protected],
The workers compensation doctor said to hire this attorney because he is the best to put towards the task of making sure I’m accurately represented and assured he would not give up in my time of need. This attorney is great and I would recommend them to any and everybody.
Response from the owner: Thanks Shane. I have fought for 1000's of injured Missouri workers and car accident victims. Workers compensation doctors and insurance adjusters have hired me to represent them, all saying "you fight for your clients." I hire experts. I take depositions. I try cases. The insurance adjusters know who settles cheap to meet big advertising bills and who fights for their clients. Glad to say I am a fighter.Jim HoffmannMissouri workers compensation and car accident attorney314 361 4300St. Louis, MO
Workers comp claim in the Missouri division of WorkersCompensation? Get this lawyer. Simply better than all the rest.
Response from the owner: Thanks Austyn. We represent workers all across the state of Missouri. We've won numerous permanent and total disability trials. We've won numerous hardship trials either for additional treatment and/or wage loss, known as TTD. We've helped construction workers, police officers, warehouse workers, production workers, firemen, workers compensation doctors and insurance adjusters have hired us when they get hurt, salesmen, nurses, and numerous others. Across Missouri from St. Louis , Kansas City, Springfield, Kirksville, Milan, Rolla, St. Joseph, Branson, Kennett, Cape Girardeau and other cities, we have helped people recover damages for auto accidents and Missouri workers compensation injuries.James Hoffmann314 361 [email protected]
Higher this workers compensation lawyer. no question about it top notch.
Response from the owner: Thanks Alex. Recently won a hardship where the work comp adjuster and insurance doctor denied treatment for knee injury. My experts convinced the judge that the injury caused meniscus tears, cartilage damage, and traumatic arthritis, thus leading to the need for a knee replacement. My client's knee is now covered for life by workers compensation and all back pay, or TTD, was recovered too.James HoffmannMissouri workers compensation and auto accident lawyer314 361 [email protected]
Every lawyer we spoke to said call this law firm for very serious worker’s compensation claims. They do the biggest workplace injury and death cases.
Response from the owner: Thanks Dylan. Here are a few things injured Missouri workers should immediately after the injury: report the injury in writing; if the employer says that he/she will fill it out and refuses to let you fill out the injury report, you can prepare a letter about what happened and give it to your boss (keep copies and date it!); ask for treatment: just telling your boss that your back is hurting isn't good enough; say "my back is hurting from breaking up concrete and I'd like to see a work comp doctor:; if your boss refuses, give your boss a letter confirming that you reported a back injury, asked for treatment, and it was refused; when you see the work comp doctor and the front desk gives you intake sheets that don't ask all of the necessary questions about what happened and only what x's and o's: just write anything anywhere you want to so that you explain how you go hurt and what body parts are hurting; on the body chart, circle your low back and write "back pain that shoots down my right leg"; if your employer gives you work that exceeds the light duty restrictions, refuse to do that work and give your boss a letter confirming what has transpired (date it and keep copies); when the work comp doc releases you in pain and blames a pre-existing condition even though you had no prior pain, no prior treatment and no prior limitations; give that doctor a letter :"Dr. No: to confirm, I am very upset that you are releasing me and sending back full duty despite ongoing pain from my work injury. My back pain is still a 4-7/10; it wakes me at night; and light duty was making it worse. You said I've healed from my injury and any ongoing issues are due to pre-existing arthritis. I told you I had no prior pain; no prior treatment; and no prior limitations. All of my pain, treatment, and limitations started with my work injury and have never resolved. If my back gets worse at work working full duty, I will hold you personally responsible."
This law firm does Workers Compensation. The head lawyers, James and Remy, really know their stuff on workplace injuries due to a work accident on the job. Injured employees is all they represent.
Response from the owner: Thank you Heather. We represent injured workers and injuries due to car accidents. We frequently retain experts, such as orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, pain management doctors, vocational experts, life care planners, and others to fight for our clients as expert witnesses in court.We represent people across the entire state of Missouri from St. Louis to Kansas City, from Joplin to Kirksville, from Columbia to Kennett. Neck fusions, lumbar fusions, cervical disc replacements, lumbar disc replacements, shoulder replacements, knee replacements, meniscus tears, rotator cuff tears, ankle fusions, loss of limb, paralysis, and death, we have helped many workers and families recover compensation either by settlement or by trial.James Hoffmann, attorney2001 S. Hanley, suite 325St. Louis, Mo 63144314 361 4300
This lawyer is a workers compensation machine. Fights for injured workers hurt on the job and denied medical after a work accident.
Response from the owner: LexiWriting a proposed award for an upcoming work comp trial for an injured Missouri worker. L4-S1 lumbar fusion with plates and screws. Pursuing permanent and total disability plus denied medical. Here is the case law on denied medical in MO workers compensation:The employer is held liable for medical treatment procured by the employee only when the employer has notice that the employee needs treatment, or a demand is made on the employer to furnish medical treatment, and the employer refuses or fails to provide the needed treatment. Hawkins v. Emerson Electric Co., 676 S.W.2d 872, 880 (Mo.App.1984).The courts have consistently held that an award of past medical expenses is supported when the employee provides (1) the bills themselves; (2) the medical record reflecting the treatment giving rise to the bill; and (3) testimony identifying the bills. Martin v. Mid-America Farm Lines, Inc., 769 S.W.2d 105, 111-12 (Mo. 1989). The pertinent case law requires employee to prove that the past medical expenses were “due” to support an award of interest. McCormack v. Stewart Enters., 956 S.W.2d 310, 314 (Mo. App. 1997). As explained in McCormack, this means employee must show that he actually paid the bills, or received demands that he pay interest on the bills, or suffered some other loss, such as a doctor refusing to provide additional treatment until employee paid his bill. Id.
Great attorney to work with. Work injuries and workers compensation is his specialty. Known as “the best” and that is 100% accurate.
Response from the owner: Thanks DJ. When the workers comp doctor treats you for an on the job injury, releases you still in pain, and then blames pre-existing arthritis as the cause of your ongoing knee, hip, shoulder, or back pain, make that doctor answer these questions: Please explain why you allege pre-existing arthritis when, before the injury, I had no knee/neck/shoulder pain; I had no limitations at work; I sought no treatment; I enjoyed xyz activities. All of my pain, my limitations, my need for treatment. started with the work injury and my pain has never stopped. Then say "let's look up the definition of arthritis": arthr means joint and itis means inflammation and pain... I had no inflammation or pain before the work injury. I may have had natural degenerative changes in my joints, but I had no pain, no limitation, no treatment. All of my pain and inflammation started with the work injury.
Found this workers comp attorney on Google for a friend in St. Louis. Great reviews. This lawyer was by far much better than the others we interviewed. This was a bad injury and Mr. Hoffmann got him payments for life.
Response from the owner: Missouri work comp law mandates compensation for either partial disability (PPD) or permanent total disability ( PTD). Employees who can no longer work seek PTD which is either a lump sum by settlement or, if the parties cannot settle, then a trial a weekly check for life is sought, plus back pay and future medical care.
This lawyer does complex workplace injury cases resulting in total disability. If badly hurt at work, this is the attorney to hire for your workers compensation claim. You don’t get a second chance! Hire James!
Response from the owner: Thanks Angela. You are correct. You get one chance to win. Injured workers from across Missouri have hire me to represent them. Joplin, Springfield, Cape Girardeau, Kennett, Fenton, Kansas City, Poplar Bluff, St. Louis, Moberly, Kirksville, Columbia, Chillicothe, Sedalia, Moberly, St. Joseph, Nevada, Neosho, West Plan, Sikeston and other Missouri residents have hired me for their work comp or car accident case. Permanent total disability claims are life changing. Your attorney needs to hire experts and be thoroughly prepared for trial. Law Office of James M. Hoffmann314 361 4300
Great workers comp lawyer. I recommend this lawyer for anyone injured at work and having to file a Work Comp claim. He is in St Louis and does cases all over Missouri. He fights for you and Workers Comp claims are a fight.
Response from the owner: Thanks Leisa. We are proud to fight for injured Missouri workers. Our clients have required neck and low back fusions, shoulder replacements; knee replacements; carpal tunnel surgery; amputations, disc replacements, and other various injuries. We fight for future medical care as well as either perm partial or perm total benefits.James Hoffmann, attorney314 361 [email protected]
A workers compensation judge told me to hire this lawyer for a relatives work comp claim. He was right, this lawyer is great.
Response from the owner: Thanks Hadleigh. I've handled 100 plus trials and 1000's of injury claims for injured workers over the past 25 years across the entire state of Missouri. Unlike these large law firms with their silly ads and their monthly settlement quotas, I hire experts and try cases. I've represented Missouri workers comp claim adjusters and insurance company doctors because they know I fight for injured workers.Gold blessJames Hoffmann, attorney314 361 4300
Work injury cases need a great lawyer who will fight to get treatment and pay. This lawyer does it. Most do not. He also gets you rated. Most lawyers do not. Best lawyer for Workers Comp in St. Louis.
Response from the owner: I appreciate your kind words ReAnna. I do not hesitate to hire experts for reports from pain management doctors, shoulder specialists, back specialists and life care plans for catastrophic injuries. If a biased work comp doctor releases my client too early and my client wants more treatment, we send the injured worker to our docs for opinions on additional treatment. Whether the injuries are work comp or a car accident, we spend a lot of money on expert witnesses.Law Office of James M HoffmannSt. louis, MO injury attorney314 361 4300
Great service use Hoffman a few back
Response from the owner: Proud to be representing injured Missouri workers and car accident victims for over 25 years. The law firms advertising bigger is better is a bunch of crap. Being in Missouri courts for 25 years, trying cases for 25 years, and taking 1000's of expert depositions for 25 years makes you a good lawyer.James HoffmannMissouri personal injury and workers comp lawyer.314 361 4300
James Hoffman has done a great deal of work for me since my accident and he's been working very hard to get me back on my feet he fights for his clients and I very well appreciate him.
Response from the owner: Thank you Gladys. It is my passion to fight for the injured in Missouri. You suffered severe injuries requiring surgery. Insurance companies think injury claims are a game but its not. People have bills to pay and family to provide for. Unlike the "big" law firms that settle cheap to pay for advertising costs, I hire experts and try cases. God bless.
Mr. Jim Hoffman is the best Lawyer in Mo, If I just can give him a 10 star out of 5 I will give him a 10 star, They are the greatest.
Response from the owner: Very kind of you Sonya. Both workers comp and car accident insurance companies like to play the game of blaming pre-existing degenerative changes even though someone had no prior pain, no prior limitations, and no prior treatment to the body part at issue. This happens a lot with back injuries such as herniated or ruptured lumbar and cervical discs that require a fusion or disc replacement surgery. I have developed an extensive cross examination of the insurance company experts to expose their flawed opinions. Glad to fight for the injured.Jim HoffmannSt. Louis injury attorney314 361 4300
amazing service, got my speeding ticket (which was over 40) down to a parking violation.
Response from the owner: Car accidents, work comp, and other injury claims in Missouri are my specialty. But, glad to help anyone in need. If I don't practice in the area, such as discrimination or medical malpractice, I will refer only to the best attorney's who I know and trust.
Does great with Workers Compensation cases in Saint Louis, MO area.
Response from the owner: Work comp and car accident cases in Missouri for over 25 years. We have sued trucking companies for wrongful death. Our clients have undergone lumbar/cervical fusions, shoulder surgeries,knee surgeries, hip replacements, carpal tunnel, ankle replacements.. we know injuries. We hire experts. We try cases.ThanksLaw Office of James M Hoffmann314 361 4300
Jim is the one you should choose if you are looking for a good relationship with your attorney. He is there to answer questions and gets you what your case is worth.
Response from the owner: Thank you Edward. Missouri workers compensation has become a battle ground. The insurance companies have taken over Jeff City and the laws are become more employer/insurer friendly. We hire experts, take a lot of depos, and try cases every year. Missouri injury claims are our speciality. Jim Hoffmann
Everyone on staff is incredibly polite and always ready and willing to help. I had several questions along the way through out my case and Jamie was always there to get my questions answered. With the efforts of Mr. Hoffmann and his staff I had a very favorable result and they took great care of my case. I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Hoffmann and he truly is a "salt of the earth" kind of guy. 10/10 Would recommend to anyone in need of these services!
Response from the owner: Thanks Danielle. Whether a work comp case or a car accident injury, people need an injury lawyer to battle the insurance companies. Adjusters claim they are not trained to deny claims, but when deposed they admit to profit sharing retirement plans: more they deny means more profits they share. Thank you for your confidence in my practice. Glad to help those injured in Missouri.Jim Hoffmann
James law office he is a good lawyer to represent you when you need a lawyer when you get hurt on the job. Jamie his secretary does an outstanding job for his to anybody.
Response from the owner: Fighting insurance companies for injured workers is our passion. Across the state of Missouri, we represent those hurt on the job. Work comp insurance companies are nothing but bullies to injured employees. Thank you for the kind words Jerry!
I was injured at work, Mr. Hoffman and his team handled my case. I was very pleased with them. Very nice, when I called I always got help or a call back with answers to my questions. I also meet Mr. Hoffman, it wasn’t an associate. He greeted me on my first visit and when I went to receive my settlement, he talked with me, and thanked me.
Response from the owner: Missouri workers compensation recognizes both acute and repetitive use on the job work injuries. And, even if you have prior degeneration in a joint, that doesn't mean that the joint cannot be hurt. Be clear with the work comp doc if you had no prior issues and that all of your pain started with your job duties.
Excellent attorney and his staff is amazing. They listen, communicate very well, and are patient, kind, extremely knowledgeable, and understanding. Best of all, they get things done!! Highly recommend for anyone dealing with a worker's comp case.
Response from the owner: Thank you. It's our passion to fight for the injured Missouri worker. Across Missouri we have helped 1000's of employees injured on the job in areas such including Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, Cape Girardeau, and Hannibal. Work comp and car/truck accidents are our specialty.Law Office of James Hoffmann2001 S. Hanley 63144314 361 4300
Jim has represented me and my son. We were extremely pleased with the entire experience and outcome.
Response from the owner: Thank you Dave. Glad to help anytime!JimLaw Office of James M. HoffmannBrentwood, MOPersonal Injury and Work Comp
You’re not a number, you’re a person.Jim treats you like family. He doesn’t treat you like a paycheck.There’s a reason why he’s so highly rated.
Response from the owner: Thank you Mike. I don't like insurance companies. They bully people in an effort to pay as little as possible. Glad to lead the fight. Injuries can be life changing and fair compensation should be paid.
If you're looking for a good lawyer who knows what he's doing and has many years experience in workers comp, Jim is the lawyer you want to hire. I've dealt with him for many many years and he is a good person
Response from the owner: Thank you. It's our job to fight the workers comp adjusters for injured workers across Missouri. 100% you need a work comp attorney as the employer/insurer have a lawyer from day one.Law Office of James M Hoffmann314 361 4300
Love this lawyer. Great for work injuries if you file a workers comp case in St. Louis.
Response from the owner: Thanks Sophia and apologies for the late reply. This just popped on my screen to reply to. Injured workers need a lawyer. Fighting alone against an insurance company, the insurance company lawyer, the employer, and the insurance company doctors is an impossible battle for an injured employee. The insurance company will schedule FCE, functional capacity evals, which are not allowed. The adjuster will schedule neuropsych evals which are not allowed. Insurance doctors will blame ongoing pain and limitations on pre-existing arthritis even though the patient had no prior issues. I am glad to lead the way and will fight the insurance companies with my experts and my trial experience.Jim Hoffmann
This is a very good lawyer for St. Louis workers compensation cases.
Response from the owner: Thank you Sofia. A work comp insurer refused to pay for medical care that was ordered per a trial award I won for an injured client. I then went back to court for a second trial and the court "commuted" the future medical award to a lump sum of $800,000. These work comp adjusters simply don't care. Workers' compensation attorneys need to hire experts and go to trial so a message is sent.God bless,James Hoffmann314 361 4300St. Louis, Mo work comp lawyer
Understanding Your Rights
Firstly, knowing that your employer cannot arbitrarily refuse to let you return to work after an injury is important. If your healthcare provider has cleared you to return to work, whether to your regular or light duty, your employer must accommodate this within reason. Here are some key points to consider:
- Medical Clearance: Your return to work primarily depends on medical clearance from your healthcare provider. This clearance may have certain restrictions or limitations based on your injury and recovery progress.
- Reasonable Accommodation: Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. This could include modified duties, adjusted work hours, or even temporary reassignment to a different position that matches your capabilities during your recovery period.
- Workers’ Compensation Laws: Missouri’s workers’ compensation laws provide further protection for injured workers. If you have been injured and receive workers’ compensation benefits, your employer must comply with the state’s regulations regarding your return to work.
When an Employer Refuses
While your employer generally cannot refuse your return to work without valid reasons, there are some circumstances where refusal might be justified:
- Inability to Accommodate Restrictions: If your employer can demonstrate that they cannot reasonably accommodate your medical restrictions without causing undue hardship to the business, they may be justified in refusing your return to your original position. However, they should explore all possible accommodations first.
- Safety Concerns: If returning to work poses a significant safety risk to you or your coworkers, your employer might have grounds to delay your return until it’s safe. This should be based on objective safety assessments and not subjective judgments.
- Lack of Medical Clearance: If you have not yet received medical clearance or your healthcare provider has not approved your return to work, your employer is within their rights to require you to stay off work until you are medically fit to return.
The Importance of Consulting an Attorney Early
One of the most crucial steps you can take after a workplace injury is to speak with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney as early as possible. Here’s why this is so important:
- Understanding Your Rights: An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and obligations, ensuring you are fully informed about your situation.
- Navigating Complex Legal Processes: Workers’ compensation laws and regulations can be complex. An attorney can guide you through the process, helping you complete necessary paperwork, meet deadlines, and avoid common pitfalls.
- Advocacy and Representation: If your employer is reluctant to accommodate your return to work, an attorney can advocate, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive fair treatment.
- Resolving Disputes: If disputes arise regarding your return to work, medical clearance, or any accommodations, having an attorney on your side can be invaluable. They can negotiate with your employer or represent you in legal proceedings if necessary.
What to Do If Your Employer Refuses
If you believe your employer is unjustly refusing to let you return to work, there are steps you can take:
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all communications with your employer regarding your injury and return to work. This includes emails, letters, and notes from meetings or phone calls.
- Consult an Attorney: An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand your rights and navigate the legal complexities. They can also represent you in disputes with your employer, ensuring you receive fair treatment.
- Contact the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation: If you are facing issues related to workers’ compensation, you can contact the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation for assistance and to file a complaint if necessary.
Missouri Workers Compensation Lawyer
Navigating the return to work after an injury can be complex, especially if your employer is resistant. Understanding your rights and the legal framework surrounding workers’ compensation and disability accommodations is crucial. If you face any challenges, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice to ensure your rights are protected.
For further guidance and support, speak with an experienced Missouri workers’ compensation attorney at the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann. With over 30 years of experience in workers’ compensation cases, we can help you understand your rights and take the necessary steps to ensure a smooth return to work after an injury. Call us today for a consultation.