60 S. State Route 157
Mailbox 8
Edwardsville, IL 62025

Richard F. Sharrard, Sr.
Attorney At Law

 Phone: 618-655-9601
Fax:     618-655-9644
Toll Free: 1-866-655-9601
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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay for the initial conversation with my attorney?
No, the first meeting is free of charge. What are my rights for an on the job injury? Most employers do not tell you what your rights are under the Worker's Compensation Act or the Federal Employers Liability Act. The law is complicated at times, but everyone should know their rights. You have options about whether to treat with your doctor or in the insurance company's doctor. You have options if you can't go back to your old job or if you can't work again. You have options if you are fired for exercising your rights. We can explain all these rights and more when you contact us.

How does the lawyer get paid?
All cases are handled on a contingency fee contract. This means we are paid a percentage of what we recover for you. In Illinois the percentage on a worker's compensation case is set at 20% of the recovery. No fee is taken on benefits such as temporary disability or medical where the company has voluntarily paid them as they are supposed to. Clients do not pay a retainer or any other money up front. If we don't win your case, you pay nothing. Claims for injuries in railroad employment and for social security or railroad retirement disability claims are taken on 25% contingency fee. All other personal injury claims are taken on one third contingency fee.

What about the cost of preparing the case?
Reasonable expenses of the case, such as paying for medical records and depositions of doctors are advanced by the firm and recovered from the settlement or award when the case is concluded.

How are cases resolved?
Most cases are resolved by a settlement an insurance company. Some cases go to arbitration or trial. We will take your case to trial whenever that may be necessary and we will handle any appeals that may come from going to trial.

Can my attorney handle my case even if I live far away?
Yes. We handle worker's compensation and personal injury claims throughout the state of Illinois, before the Industrial Commission and in all state or federal courts. The law on railroad claims and disability claims is the same everywhere and those cases can be handled in any state where they occur. Other types of cases from out of state will be taken depending on various factors that will be discussed in the first consultation.

{Sharrard Law} {Credentials} {Legal Dictionary} {Judgements/Verdicts} {Did You Know That?}
{Do I Need A Lawyer} {Questions & Answers} {Contact Richard F. Sharrard}

Disclaimer:
All contents copyright 2001-2008 by Richard F. Sharrard, Sr. Attorney at Law. All legal rights reserved. The information contained on this website is not and should not be treated as legal advice or counsel. You should consult an attorney for questions involving your particular legal issues. The content of this site may only be used for your personal use, not for commercial distribution and any duplication must contain the copyright notice.

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