Question 1

How many Conference Rooms do you have at your office for Mediations?

Accepted Answer

We have four conference rooms available and one office for a total of 5 here at my office in downtown Pensacola. Out of town, we have court reporter offices we contract with to conduct mediations in all NW Florida cities.

Question 2

Is your availability calendar on-line to assist in scheduling?

Accepted Answer

Yes. My calendar can be accessed on this website for your convenience in scheduling.

Question 3

Can you conduct mediations remotely for some or all parties?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We utilize Zoom to accommodate our client’s wishes.

Question 4

What are your charges for conducting Mediations?

Accepted Answer

The charge is $275/hr. no matter how many parties are in the Mediation. I charge the same per hour for my time. For example, a Mediation with four parties that lasts 5 hours would cost $1375 to be paid $343.75 by each party, unless the parties agree otherwise.

Question 5

Do you charge for travel outside of Pensacola?

Accepted Answer

For mediations conducted outside of Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, I charge $100 per hour for travel time. However, in many cases, I have negotiated travel costs to the satisfaction of my mediation clients.

Question 6

Do I always need a lawyer to represent me against the employer and/or carrier?

Accepted Answer

You may not have any issues at the outset of your case, but you do need to know your rights and the responsibilities of the insurance company to you. If there are issues about lost wages or medical care, you do need an attorney. If there are no pending issues, an explanation of the workers’ compensation system is something you definitely need. There is no charge for any consultation with us. The insurance company pays the attorney fee.

Question 7

How long do I have to report my injury on the job to my employer?

Accepted Answer

There may be an exception, but the safe answer is you must report your accident and your injury(ies) to a supervisor within 30 days from the day you are hurt. However, the sooner, the better.

Question 8

Am I entitled to a lump sum settlement?

Accepted Answer

Only if the carrier and you agree to the terms of a settlement. .No judge can force a settlement on you or the carrier.  Insurance companies want to at least discuss a settlement. You should never negotiate a settlement with an adjuster without first talking with an experienced workers comp attorney. There is no charge for a consultation with us.

Question 9

Is it better after an accident to use my sick leave and health insurance rather than report a workers comp injury?

Accepted Answer

NO. If you do that, you will have to tell the doctors something other than the truth for health insurance to pay—that you were not hurt on the job. If over 30 days from the accident you change your mind, you may not be eligible for ANY workers comp benefits.