New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
New Jersey workers’ compensation is governed by the New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Act. The Garden State is unusual in that the employer’s insurer typically controls your choice of treating physician. At Siddons Law Firm we push back against that control whenever it harms your recovery.
Benefits Framework in New Jersey
Most NJ employees are covered from day one. The maximum weekly wage-loss benefit is capped at 75% of the statewide average weekly wage. The employer’s insurer generally controls your treating physician throughout the claim, which often requires legal pressure to change. Mandatory mediation is required before trial.
Deadlines That Can Destroy Your Claim
Notice to employer: as soon as practicable, no later than 14 days. Claim petition: two years from the date of last medical treatment or last compensation payment, whichever is later. Death benefits: two years from date of death.
Permanent Disability & Impairment
NJ does not use the Impairment Rating Evaluation system. Instead, permanent partial disability is paid as a schedule award based on loss of function, with payments ranging from weeks to years depending on the affected body part.
Retaliatory Discharge Protections
NJ has strong protections against retaliatory discharge. Workers fired in retaliation for filing claims may recover punitive damages in addition to wage loss.
Third-Party Claims
A workers’ compensation claim covers medical care and two-thirds of lost wages, but not pain and suffering or the full amount of lost wages. If a third party (a negligent contractor, a defective-equipment manufacturer, a property owner) caused or contributed to your injury, you may bring a separate personal injury lawsuit against that party. We coordinate both claims so the workers’ comp insurer’s subrogation lien is properly managed and your net recovery is maximized.
What to Do Right Now
- Report the injury to your supervisor in writing.
- Get medical care (follow your state’s rules on panel providers).
- Keep copies of every email, text, and document involving your injury.
- Do not give a recorded statement to the carrier without counsel.
- Call Siddons Law Firm for a free case review.
Why Siddons Law Firm
We handle workers’ compensation claims across PA, NJ, NY, and MD. We know the judges, the defense firms, and the repeat IME doctors in each jurisdiction. Our contingency-fee structure means you pay nothing unless we recover for you. Contact us for a free consultation.