After several months on the job without respiratory equipment he developed a cough and shortness of breath. He was examined by ‘company doctors’ and sent back to work. The symptoms got worse, and he went to his family doctor.

Once a case is settled – it can NOT be re-opened, even if new or worse injuries are discovered later. Being an experienced P.I. attorney, Rassias counseled the client to wait, just to be sure no further problems arose after the surgery.

Almost immediately after the witnessed incident, the employer fired him, alleging ‘quality control’ issues, that were never documented (and likely never existed) before he reported being hurt.

The claimant was injured while lifting a case of beverages to place on the shelves, when he felt a sharp pain in his back and fell. Despite the incident being witnessed by the store owner, the insurance company denied the claim.

Workers’ Compensation is one of the few fields of law that offer a Specialist Certification for lawyers who meet the strict requirements, which include years of practice dedicated to workers compensation claims, Continuing Legal Education and written testing.

The insurance company fought his right to any workers’ compensation benefits, and fired him for ‘made up’ reasons – but likely just because he sought to protect his rights. Attorney Schmidt was unconcerned, and fought – and WON the claim.

The insurance company defined his injury as a sprain or strain, but the real injury was more severe. Workers’ Compensation lawyer Mark R. Schmidt settled the claim successfully!

The injured worker was disabled for approximately 1 month, and had undergone a brief course of physical therapy. The insurance company denied his claim, alleging he did not suffer any injuries.