Injured employees in the Washington D.C. area should partner with a local workers compensation lawyer for a variety of reasons. First, each step of the filing process has a distinct deadline. All of the paperwork required by the court at each deadline must be submitted on time in order to avoid losing your chance to claim compensation for your injury. Firms which represent injured workers also guide their clients in interaction with their employers. Employers tend to try to withhold benefits from the employee – benefits that you are entitled to! Even if it appears that your employer has fulfilled all of their responsibilities, a qualified workers’ comp representation firm will fight for every possible benefit to get you the best settlement available. Your employer doesn’t get to pick and choose which benefits you deserve; you are likely entitled to more than they initially offer!