Paterson Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Q: How long does it take to resolve a workers’ compensation claim?

Some claims resolve in a few months, while others—especially those involving disputes—can take longer. An attorney can help move your case forward efficiently.

Ewing Township Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

If you got hurt at work in Paterson and you’re trying to figure out what comes next, we can help.

At Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman, we’ve handled these cases for decades. We’ll explain what benefits you might be entitled to, help deal with your employer or their insurance company, and walk you through each step without the runaround. You won’t be passed off to a case manager, and we don’t charge anything unless we recover for you.

Call (609) 520-0900 or contact us online to talk with us directly.

How Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman Can Help Injured Workers in Paterson, NJ

When you’re hurt on the job, you need someone who knows how the system works and won’t waste your time. At Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman, we start by listening to what happened, then we help gather medical records, make sure all paperwork is filed on time, and deal directly with the insurance company so you don’t have to. Because we’ve handled workers’ comp cases throughout New Jersey—including right here in Paterson—we know how to spot delays or tactics used to deny claims.

You’ll speak with an actual attorney, not a case manager, and we’ll keep you in the loop from start to finish. Whether your case is straightforward or complicated by a denied claim, we’re prepared to fight for the benefits you’re owed. If it can’t be resolved fairly, we’re ready to take the next step.

We Handle All Workers’ Compensation Claims in Paterson

We represent injured workers in Paterson across a wide range of job-related accidents. Whether your injury happened suddenly or developed over time, we know how to help with:

Slip and Falls in the Workplace
Machinery and Equipment Accidents
Falls from Heights
Vehicle-Related Workplace Accidents
Electrocutions
Construction Site Accidents
Exposure to Toxic Substances
Overexertion and Lifting Injuries

Our Workers’ Compensation Attorneys

Managing Partner

Gary E. Adams

Workers’ Compensation, Employment & Labor, Personal Injury

Biography & contact information

Jeffrey S. Monaghan

Workers' Compensation

Biography & contact information

Roberto J. Benites

Workers' Compensation

Biography & contact information

Steps to Filing a Permanent Disability Benefits Claim in Lawrence Township, New Jersey

Why You Need a Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Getting hurt at work can turn your life upside down, and the claims process isn’t always as straightforward as it should be. Insurance companies may delay your benefits, deny your claim, or offer less than you deserve. That’s why having a workers’ compensation attorney matters. With legal guidance, you’re more likely to receive the full benefits you’re entitled to.

An experienced attorney can help gather medical records, handle communications with insurers, and ensure all deadlines are met. If disputes arise, your lawyer can represent you at hearings or appeals. You don’t have to figure it out alone—having someone who knows the system means you’re not guessing your way through it, and you’re not giving up rights without realizing it.

Compensation and Benefits Available to Injury Victims

Workers’ Compensation Benefits Available to Injured Workers in New Jersey

If you’re injured on the job in New Jersey, you may qualify for several types of workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits are meant to cover your immediate and long-term needs.

Medical Benefits

All necessary and reasonable medical treatment related to the injury should be covered, including doctor visits, prescriptions, surgeries, and rehabilitation.

Temporary Disability Benefits

If you’re unable to work while recovering, you may receive wage replacement equal to 70% of your average weekly wages, up to a state maximum.

Permanent Disability Benefits

If your injury causes lasting impairment, you may be entitled to permanent partial or total disability benefits based on your condition.

Death Benefits

If a worker dies from a job-related injury, surviving dependents may be eligible for ongoing support and funeral expenses under New Jersey law.

Can You Sue Your Employer or a Third Party for Work-Related Injuries?

In New Jersey, workers’ compensation is generally the exclusive remedy against your employer, which means you usually can’t sue them directly. However, if a third party, such as a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner, contributed to your injury, you may have the right to file a separate personal injury lawsuit. This can allow you to seek additional compensation beyond what workers’ comp provides, including pain and suffering, which is not covered under the standard benefits.

Common Types of Workplace Injuries

Workplace injuries can range from mild to life-altering, depending on the job and environment. These injuries may lead to temporary disability, long-term treatment, or permanent loss:

Back and Neck Injuries
Repetitive Stress Injuries
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Broken Bones and Fractures
Occupational Illnesses
Burns and Chemical Exposure
Amputations
Hearing Loss and Vision Damage

Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Paterson

If you’re injured on the job in Paterson, you have the legal right to pursue workers’ compensation benefits. This system exists to protect employees, regardless of who caused the accident. As long as the injury happened during the course of your employment, you may be eligible for medical coverage, lost wages, and other benefits under New Jersey law.

Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Paterson

What to Do if Your Workers’ Comp Claim Is Denied in Paterson

If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, you still have options—and it’s important not to give up. You can file a formal claim petition or request a hearing through the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation. Acting quickly is essential, as there are time limits for appeals. Working with an experienced attorney will ensure your rights are protected throughout the entire process.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’ve been hurt on the job, it’s natural to have questions about what comes next. Here are answers to some of the most common concerns we hear from injured workers in Paterson.

What should I do immediately after being injured at work?

Report the injury to your employer right away, seek medical treatment, and make sure the details are documented. Don’t wait or assume someone else will report it.

Will filing a workers’ compensation claim affect my job or get me fired?

It’s illegal for an employer to retaliate against you for filing a valid workers’ comp claim. If that happens, you may have additional legal options.

How much does it cost to hire a workers’ compensation lawyer?

You don’t pay anything upfront. Most workers’ compensation lawyers only collect a fee if they help you secure benefits, and that fee is capped by law.

Can I receive workers’ compensation if the accident was my fault?

Yes. Workers’ comp is a no-fault system, so benefits are available even if your mistake contributed to the injury, unless it involved intentional misconduct.

How long does it take to resolve a workers’ compensation claim?

Some claims resolve in a few months, while others, especially those involving disputes, can take longer. An attorney can help move your case forward efficiently.

What should I do if my employer refuses to file my injury report?

You can take action on your own by filing a claim directly with the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation. A lawyer can assist with this.

Is there a workers’ compensation attorney near me in Paterson?

Yes. Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman handles workers’ compensation cases throughout Paterson and nearby areas. We’re available to discuss your case and explain your options.

Steps to Take After a Workplace Injury in Paterson, NJ

Acting quickly after a workplace injury helps protect your health, your job, and your right to workers’ compensation:

Report the injury to your supervisor as soon as possible
Ask for medical care through your employer’s workers’ comp insurance
Get your injury documented by the treating physician
Keep records of missed work and medical visits
Follow all treatment instructions
Avoid giving recorded statements without legal advice
Contact a workers’ comp lawyer if benefits are delayed or denied

Contact Our Paterson Workers’ Compensation Lawyers for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been hurt on the job, you deserve clear answers and experienced help.

At Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman, we take the time to understand what happened, explain your rights, and help you push back if you’re being treated unfairly. We’ve handled workers’ compensation claims across New Jersey for decades—including in Paterson—and we don’t back down.

To speak directly with an attorney, call (609) 520-0900 or contact us online for a free consultation.

105

Combined Years Experience of Lawyers

100%

Kinds Of Comp Cases We Handle

Certified Workers’ Compensation Law Attorneys

We have won thousands of cases over the years and many of those matters have shaped case law and expanded workers’ rights. Our reputation and successes are why four out of every five of our clients are recommended by friends, family members, coworkers, union members, and even other lawyers.

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Our Victories

$315K

COVID-19 Workers’ Compensation Settlement – $315,598.50 Award for Permanent Partial Disability

Our firm successfully represented a New Jersey worker in a workers’ compensation claim involving a COVID-19 diagnosis that was contracted through exposure to a coworker in November 2020. The claimant tested positive and was hospitalized in December 2020 for pulmonary complications related to the virus. He has since received ongoing pulmonary, neurological, and psychiatric treatment,

$400K

$400,000+ for Prevailing Wage Violations Affecting Union Electricians

When a major utility company failed to comply with state-mandated journeyman-to-apprentice ratios and misclassified contracted electricians, we pursued legal action on behalf of the affected union workers. These wage laws are clear and binding—especially for large employers. We fought aggressively and secured the maximum possible recovery for our clients.

$700K

Labor Arbitration Results in Over $700,000 in Back Wages

Following multiple hearing dates and formal arbitration proceedings, our legal team secured an Arbitration Award directing more than $700,000 in back wages to be paid to Trane employees represented by IUE/CWA Local 81455. The arbitrator ruled in favor of the union after a comprehensive presentation of evidence and argument against the employer.

$165K

$165,300 Permanent Partial Disability Award + Lifetime Medical Care – Work Injury as X-Ray Technician

Client, an x-ray technician at a hospital, sustained a serious neck injury while lifting an obese patient to position an x-ray plate. She ultimately required cervical fusion surgery and ongoing prescription pain management to continue working. On 5/9/25, we secured a $165,300 award for permanent partial disability, plus lifetime pain management treatment through the workers’

Retail Department Store Employee Covered for Degenerative Knee Condition

After years of standing on her feet serving customers, our client’s knees gave out – one and then the other – and the doctor recommended knee replacement surgery to alleviate the pain.

Workers’ Compensation Medical and Disability Benefits for Life from Mesothelioma Exposure at Out-of-Business Employer

A union electrician employed by an electrical contractor from 1952 through 1980, developed malignant mesothelioma, which is a rare form of cancer frequently associated with asbestos exposure. Our attorneys filed a workers’ compensation claim, but faced the challenge that our client’s employer had gone out of business several years earlier.

$185K

$185,000 (Partial Settlement) to Electrician for Asbestos-related Cancer

When a union electrician was diagnosed with a type of cancer related to asbestos exposure, our attorneys were able to prove he had, in fact, been exposed at his job sites to sufficient amounts of asbestos to contribute to the cancer.

Work-at-Home “Telecommuter” Recovers on Auto Accident

Although her primary workplace was at home, our lawyers made the case that our client was traveling on business and that she was not commuting; therefore, our client’s auto injuries were covered under workers’ compensation law.

Salesman Between Appointments Covered By Workers’ Compensation for Auto Accident Injuries

While driving between client appointments, a salesman suffered injuries in an auto accident that landed him in the hospital and led to several procedures and physical therapy. While the damage to his car was covered by his auto insurance, the primary coverage for his injuries were paid by his employer’s workers’ compensation insurance.

Benefits Recovered for Repetitive Motion Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Office Worker

When our client was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, she was not aware that the repetitive motion of keyboarding on her computer at the office every day over a period of years could be the cause – and that she had the right to workers’ compensation benefits – until a friend convinced her to contact us.

I came to PRA with my workmen compensation case . Gary Adams represented me . Gary was recommended to me by a friend and I in turn recommended Gary to another friend. Gary and his paralegal Jennifer are very good with communication and keeping me well informed in regards to my case : answering emails & returning my calls . I have and I will continue to recommend Gary and his staff to my friends .

My experience with Pellettien Rabstein & Altman was a great one! Every step of the way they were there with me, they made sure I got the justice I deserved. Whenever I called there was someone to answer the questions I had, the receptionist and secretary were friendly and very polite. Anytime, any day, I will recommend Counselor Gary Adams to represent any of my family or friends.

I have dealt with this firm for over 7 years on a very complicated Workmans Compensation case.
I have dealt with a myriad of legal firms throughout the country for over 30 years in my positions of CEO. And this firm is by far, the best firm I have ever dealt with.

My attorney at Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman was amazing and I can’t thank the firm enough for their insights and assistance! I would highly recommend them!

It was a very long and arduous time (13 years to bring this before a Judge). Living out of state made it particularly hard. Attorney Monaghan of Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman in New Jersey was diligent in helping through the morass of a very difficult workers’ comp claim resultant from an assault on a flight over international waters. I am permanently disabled from this assault and appreciate PR&A’s help.

Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman has very knowledgeable attorneys who are responsive and professional. Jeff Monaghan is an excellent example of this.

Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman listened to my needs and helped me get a larger settlement than I expected. They were very attentive and kind.

Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman is an outstanding firm.

1-800-432-LAWS