There are many misconceptions when it comes to hiring a lawyer. At one point or another, someone has probably told you not to bother because “lawyers are expensive, unnecessary and stubborn”. While this is sometimes true, we believe that it’s important to hire a lawyer. In fact, hiring a lawyer often saves time and money – especially in matters involving a Total Permanent Disability (TPD) claim for a serious injury or illness. We do understand, however, that when you are sick or injured, it can difficult to choose representation when you have a myriad of different lawyers and law firms available, all making promises about how they can help you. It’s important to choose the right lawyer and it can be pretty hard to know what to look for. So, with this in mind, we thought it necessary to discuss how to choose the right lawyer to assist with your TPD claim.

The need for experience & reliability

There are several reasons why it is difficult to make a TPD claim without an engaging and highly experienced lawyer. Different super funds and insurance providers have different definitions of TPD, so this means that requirements will vary depending on who you are with. Under one fund, you may need to prove that it is “unlikely” you will be able to work again. However, a different fund may require evidence that you are “unable” to work again for your claim to be successful. It is these sorts of intricacies that require an experienced lawyer. It’s also super important to have a lawyer who understands both sides of the matter. For example, our Principal Warren Bennett, is a very experienced TPD and Superannuation Lawyer who has previously worked in private practice and for big Insurers. Warren has a critical advantage because he has worked on both sides of the fence and really understands both sides of the claims process intimately.

The need for availability & flexibility

While you are sick or injured, the last thing you should have to worry about is whether or not your lawyer is going to return your call, or even how you are going to make it into your lawyer’s office for that meeting you have scheduled. WKB Lawyers offers a same day call back to your initial enquiry, and if you are a client of ours, we make sure we regularly keep you updated and involved in your case. We also make sure to work around you and your routine – we can come to your home if need be, even if that means after hours. Having a lawyer who is available to meet your needs is important. You don’t work for us – we work for you!

The need for empathy & understanding

You need to find a lawyer who sees your legal battle through your eyes. A lawyer who isn’t sympathetic, but empathetic. By standing in your shoes, your lawyer can assist you in a way that anticipates concerns and makes your experience as frictionless as possible. Coping with a serious injury or illness is never easy, especially when medical bills are piling up and you are unable to work. At WKB Lawyers, we understand the traditional law firm model is quickly becoming outdated, and we decided to start our own law firm, so our clients can benefit from a more cost-effective model. We have a No Win, No Fee Guarantee policy and we can assure you that there are no hidden costs, no 25% uplift fee and no expenses for photocopy, printing or faxing.

If you’re considering pursuing a TPD claim through your superannuation fund, securing the best possible legal advice and representation is critical, so please contact Warren Bennett for a free consultation about your case on (02) 9893-1832 or email on warrenbennett@wkblawyers.com.au.