Legal Question in Workers Comp in Illinois

I just signed on with a small W.C. firm in Illinois. When I started signing papers he came up with a power of attorney, I hesitated but signed anyway.

He said that when the time came this gave him power to take a settlement that was really good, that he could grab a good deal if he couldn't get a hold of me.

Hour by hour I feel more uneasy about this.

I have a back injury that may or may not prevent me from returning to the work that I was doing. The consequences could be devastating to me if he or someone else at the firm accepted something sub par or simply closed the case because there was too much work involved to get a better settlement. Or worse.

Is this a customary or unusual practice in W.C. cases or does this sound fishy and not in my best interest? Thank You!


Asked on 1/08/14, 4:29 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Nima Taradji Taradji Law Offices

If you feel uncomfortable about the power of attorney--which I agree it is a bit unusual, but not unheard of--you can go to his office and request that he give you the POA and destroy it. Or, you may write a letter, revoking the POA, and send it certified mail-with return receipt so you have a proof of it. Or, go get yourself another attorney with whom you feel more comfortable.

I hope this helps-

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Answered on 1/08/14, 6:52 pm


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