JMGJames Michael GallagherLaw & Associates

Minneapolis, MN · Free Consultation

Workers' Compensation Lawyer in Minneapolis, MN

Denied, delayed or underpaid benefits after a work injury? We fight for the wage loss, medical care and disability payments Minnesota law promises you.

Minnesota's workers' compensation system is supposed to be simple: you get hurt doing your job, and your employer's insurer pays your medical bills and part of your lost wages. In practice, injured workers in Minneapolis and across Hennepin County run into denied claims, independent medical exams that minimize their injuries, abrupt benefit terminations and settlement offers that don't reflect the real cost of their injury.

The insurance adjuster handling your claim works for the insurer, not for you. Our job is to level the field — to make sure every benefit you're entitled to under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 176 is pursued, documented and paid.

Common situations we handle

Your claim was denied

Insurers deny claims by arguing the injury didn't happen at work, was pre-existing or wasn't reported on time. A denial is not the final word — we file a Claim Petition and take the case before the Office of Administrative Hearings when necessary.

Your benefits were cut off

A Notice of Intention to Discontinue (NOID) can stop your wage-loss checks with little warning, often after an insurer-chosen doctor says you can return to work. We challenge discontinuances and request expedited hearings.

You were pressured back to work

Light-duty offers that ignore your restrictions, or a job that no longer exists, can jeopardize your benefits. We protect your rights to rehabilitation services and Qualified Rehabilitation Consultant (QRC) assistance.

You're being offered a settlement

A full and final settlement can close out future medical care. Before you sign, we evaluate your permanent partial disability rating, future treatment needs and long-term wage loss.

Facing one of these problems right now?

Deadlines can be short. A free consultation tells you where you stand.

How we approach your case

  1. 1

    Claim review

    We review the First Report of Injury, medical records and insurer correspondence to identify every benefit owed.

  2. 2

    Medical evidence

    We work with your treating physicians to document restrictions, causation and permanency ratings.

  3. 3

    Advocacy at every stage

    From mediation and conferences to formal hearings before a compensation judge, we handle the process so you can focus on recovery.

What we work to recover

  • Temporary total and temporary partial disability wage-loss benefits
  • Payment of medical bills, mileage and ongoing treatment
  • Permanent partial disability (PPD) compensation
  • Vocational rehabilitation and job placement services
  • Fair settlements that account for future needs

Serving Minneapolis and the south metro

Our office at 8100 Penn Ave South serves injured workers from Minneapolis, Bloomington, Richfield, Edina and Burnsville — warehouse staff along the I-494 corridor, healthcare workers at metro hospitals, delivery drivers, retail employees and manufacturing crews throughout the south metro.

Workers' Compensation FAQs

How long do I have to report a work injury in Minnesota?+

You should notify your employer as soon as possible. Minnesota law generally requires notice within 14 days for full protection, and claims reported after 180 days may be barred. Report in writing and keep a copy.

Can I choose my own doctor for a workers' comp injury?+

Yes. In Minnesota, injured workers can generally choose their treating doctor, though changes of physician after the initial choice may require approval. Your choice of doctor can significantly affect your claim.

How much does a workers' compensation lawyer cost in Minneapolis?+

Minnesota workers' comp attorney fees are regulated by statute and are typically contingent — paid as a percentage of benefits recovered. Your consultation with our office is free.

Can I be fired for filing a workers' comp claim?+

No. Minnesota Statutes §176.82 prohibits retaliation against employees who seek workers' compensation benefits. Retaliation may give rise to a separate claim.

This information is general and not legal advice. Every case depends on its facts.

Talk to a Workers' Compensation attorney today

Call James Michael Gallagher Law & Associates for a free, confidential consultation at our Minneapolis office.

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