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Washington’s Top-Rated Workers’ Comp Advocates

Emery | Reddy is Washington’s premier workers’ compensation law firm, with over 100 five-star reviews from satisfied clients. What’s our secret? Our clients get a dedicated legal team, not just an attorney. Together, we build customized strategies focused on securing the best possible outcome for each client.

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Joan L.
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Vine a Emery | Reddy en busca de un abogado laboral experimentado y pude recibir asesoramiento legal experto de Patrick y Karolina. Trabajé especialmente de cerca con Karolina, quien me ayudó durante todo el proceso de principio a fin.

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Destinee M.
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Tim y su equipo son más que fantásticos, trabajaron en mi caso y las palabras no pueden expresar lo agradecida que estoy con ellos. Extremadamente profesionales y muy conocedores, con una gran comunicación que resultó en una gran victoria para mi caso.

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Emily H.
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Tim y Emery | El equipo de Reddy me ha ayudado con un asunto laboral... y debo decir que no puedo decir lo suficiente lo agradecido y feliz que estoy con el servicio que he recibido. Fueron detallistas, atentos, puntuales en la comunicación y muy bien informados. ¡Muy, muy recomendable!

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Robin S.
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Trabajar con Tim y Patrick fue un placer absoluto. Ambos son profesionales de la más alta calidad y ayudaron a convertir un conjunto de circunstancias difíciles en un proceso claramente navegable que resultó en un resultado muy favorable.

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Oki
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Cuando buscas justicia, cuando quieres resultados y cuando se trata de defender a las personas, sin duda, recurres a Tim y al equipo de Emery | Reddy. En pocas palabras, están un nivel por encima del resto con su conocimiento, profesionalismo y transparencia.

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Istvan F.
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Trabajar con Tim y Patrick fue un placer absoluto. Ambos son profesionales de la más alta calidad y ayudaron a convertir un conjunto de circunstancias difíciles en un proceso claramente navegable que resultó en un resultado muy favorable.

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Manny T.
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No quedarás cegado por campanas y silbatos falsos que te distraigan, pero más aún, serás bienvenido bajo su cuidado y guía mientras invierten todas sus innumerables horas, conocimientos y recursos para ayudarte a superar tu difícil experiencia y garantizar que hayan agotado todo para asegurarnos de que lo atiendan en su máximo potencial

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Nathan A.
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Nunca he visto a una empresa luchar tan duro como lo hicieron ellos. Nos pusieron en una situación muy difícil, y Emery | Reddy trabajó día y noche para hacer el trabajo. Recibimos una compensación completa y más. No puedo recomendar a Emery Reddy lo suficiente.

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Dave V.
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No tengo más que elogios para el bufete de abogados Emery | Reddy. Cada persona con la que traté estaba más que dispuesta a dejar lo que estaba haciendo para ayudarme lo antes posible. No puedo agradecerles lo suficiente por su determinación en lograr que se realizaran las reparaciones justas a mi cuerpo.

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Mitch S.
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Muy rápido, comprensivo y Annie French fue de gran ayuda y me guió a través de todos los documentos necesarios para firmar

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Kyle B.
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Emery | Reddy hizo que una experiencia muy difícil fuera mejor de lo que esperaba. Mi liquidación estuvo cerca del máximo posible. Fueron amables, comprensivos y se mantuvieron en comunicación conmigo.

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J.
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Tuve una admisión con Kendra, ella fue increíblemente solidaria y me ayudó a guiarme a través de los pasos. ¡Altamente recomendado!

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Kristine
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El único abogado con el que debería trabajar en robo de salarios es Tim Emery de Emery | Reddy. ¡¡Tim y su equipo son de primera categoría!!

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James Bals
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La firma fue increíble en ayudarme con mi caso de L&I. Estoy muy feliz y agradecido por su arduo trabajo. Un agradecimiento especial al equipo K, Karolina y Kati, por su excelente trabajo en alcanzar un gran acuerdo.

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Erik S.
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odos en Emery | Reddy hicieron todo lo posible para ayudarme a superar un momento muy difícil lidiando con L&I. Si no fuera por ellos, no habría recibido todos los beneficios que necesitaba para mantener a mi familia durante mi lesión. Lucharon por mí en cada paso del camino.

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Mac M.
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Tim y Patrick son los mejores en el negocio. Realmente se preocupan por ayudar a los trabajadores a obtener hasta el último centavo que merecen. ¡El personal es increíble también!

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Chris S.
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Recientemente tuve el privilegio de trabajar con Emery | Reddy, y no puedo expresar lo impresionado que estoy con su experiencia legal y dedicación para lograr un resultado positivo. De principio a fin, mi experiencia con este bufete de abogados fue excepcional.

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Erin K.
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La experiencia que tuve al trabajar con los abogados y el personal de Emery | Reddy fue maravillosa. Me sentía intimidado por mi problema legal, pero una vez que me reuní con mi abogada, supe que podía confiar en ella. Recomendaría altamente a Emery | Reddy y los volveré a utilizar en el futuro.

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Eli P.
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¡Espectacular! Soy un hombre de pocas palabras, pero ¿para qué hablar cuando tienes a los mejores a tu disposición para representarte? No hay nadie mejor. A cualquiera que tenga un problema legal y necesite resultados, le recomiendo encarecidamente que los contacte sin dudar ni un momento. ¡Llámelos, es la elección correcta!

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J.J.
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Estoy tan agradecido de haber pedido su ayuda y le diría a cualquiera que se encuentre en una situación similar que los consulte para su representación. Las situaciones de indemnización laboral son estresantes y bastante difíciles como para enfrentarlas solo. ¡No lo hagas solo!

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Shelley M.
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Mi esposo ha estado luchando para obtener la atención médica que necesita y a la que tiene derecho. Emery | Reddy nos ha dado esperanza nuevamente.

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Amy G.
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¡Karolina es la mejor, simplemente la amo! ¡Me entiende y va más allá sin juzgar! Recomendaría esta empresa a cualquiera. Gracias chicos por sus servicios y gracias Karolina por ser simplemente tú ♥️

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Khasha M.
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No puedo recomendarlos lo suficiente. Reflexivo, informativo y extremadamente diligente. Sus abogados y su personal son extremadamente competentes y prestan atención a cada detalle. ¡No te decepcionarás!

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Jennifer D.
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Cuando solicité asesoría legal por un problema laboral que tenía, Emery | Reddy fue una de las tres empresas con las que hablé y la elección clara para mí. Si me encuentro en la desafortunada situación de necesitar orientación legal nuevamente, no dudaré en contactar a Emery | Reddy

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Erin K.
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The experience I had working with the attorneys and the staff at Emery | Reddy was wonderful. I was intimidated by my legal issue, but once I met with my attorney I knew I could trust her. I would highly recommend Emery | Reddy and will use them again in the future!

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Nathan A.
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I have never seen a company fight as hard as these guys did. We were put in a very difficult situation, and Emery | Reddy worked night and day to get the job done. We received full compensation and some. I cannot recommend Emery ready enough.

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Kimberly U.
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I highly recommend Emery | Reddy, PC. The staff there are simply amazing and dedicated to their clients. There are no other attorneys that will work as hard for you as Tim Emery does. I could not have been happier with his representation and outcome of my case and will never go anywhere else.

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Mac M.
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Tim and Patrick are the best in the business. They genuinely care about helping workers get every penny you deserve. Amazing staff, too!

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James Bals
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The firm was super in helping me with my L&I case. I am very happy and grateful for their hard work. Special thanks to the K team, Karolina and Kati for excellent work in reaching a great settlement.

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Shadow S.
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If you need an Attorney that will win, pick Emery | Reddy. They did everything they could to get us a win and they sure did! Weekly I was emailed with new information regarding the case. Very professional!

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Greg C.
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I don’t even know where to start in telling you how amazing this law firm is. If you truly need a friend in a fight then these guys are who you’re looking for.

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Joan L.
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I came to Emery | Reddy in search of an experienced employment lawyer and was able to receive expert legal advice from Patrick and Karolina. I worked especially closely with Karolina who helped me through the entire process from beginning to end.

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Kathleen O.
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If it was possible to give a 10 star rating here, I most definitely would! Thank You Emery | Reddy staff for your commitment to injured workers like me who are struggling through this system! I cannot recommend you highly enough!

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Paula H.
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I cannot thank Emery | Reddy enough for their willingness to take on my case and fight for the “little guy”. I was frustrated and overwhelmed dealing with L&I on my own. If not for Emery | Reddy, I probably would have just given up.

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J. N.
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People and companies are hard to find like this anymore. If you need help, give them a call. It is well worth it!

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Brandon S.
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After being unexpectedly laid off, I had thousands of questions and fears running through my mind. After talking with friends, I decided to explore my options and obtain legal advice. I was pointed in the direction of Karolina Arthur and let me tell you, she is an absolute joy and nothing short of a miracle.

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Anya B.
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I’m very satisfied the way Timothy and team handled our case. Very informative of what was going on, answered any and all questions, and was easy to talk to. I would recommend Timothy and his team to everyone!!!

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Kimberly L.
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For me, I found L&I to be intimidating and unscrupulous in how they obtain outcomes that favored denying my claim. Don't waste the time like I did following L&I protocol only to end up with over $9,000 to pay back. Get on the phone and call Emery | Reddy now.

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Jon M.
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Very helpful. Stayed in contact and gave frequent updates. Amazing team to have on your side.

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Tabitha G.
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Working with Tim and his team was an absolute pleasure. They are incredibly knowledgeable, helpful, and have their client's best interests at heart. I highly recommend them!

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Erik S.
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Everyone at Emery | Reddy went above and beyond to help me through a very tough time dealing with L&I. If it wasn't for them, I would not have received all the benefits I needed to support my family during my injury. They fought for me every step of the way.

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Chris S.
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I recently had the privilege of working with Emery | Reddy, and I cannot express enough how impressed I am with their legal expertise and dedication to achieving a positive outcome. From start to finish, my experience with this legal firm was nothing short of exceptional.

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Kristina M.
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Tim and team were fantastic! You want a team that is dedicated, smart, responsive and listens....Emery | Reddy is the team you need. I am so glad they took my case!! Best decision I made!!

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Susan H.
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Emery | Reddy attorneys helped me recoup fees for pain and suffering following an on the job accident I had in August 2020. These are the best L&I attorneys in Washington state.

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Dillen
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Tim and his team worked the hardest they could for months to make sure I was taken care of properly and solve my case in an expeditious matter. I would absolutely hire this firm again if needed.

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Nicole G.
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Really awesome experience working with this company. Always responsive and always kept me and my people in the loop on what to expect next. I would recommend them to anyone I know going forward.

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Alyson F.
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When I required legal counsel for an employment issue I was having, Emery | Reddy was one of three firms I spoke with and the clear choice for me. Should I be in the unfortunate position to need legal guidance again, I won't hesitate to contact Emery | Reddy.

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Manny T.
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You won't be blinded by any fake bells and whistles to distract you but more so be welcomed under their care and guidance while they invest all their countless hours, knowledge and resources to get you through your tough ordeal to ensure they've exhausted everything to make sure you're taken care of to their fullest potential.

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Elvis C.
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Emery | Reddy represented myself & my co-workers to the fullest. I feel that Emery | Reddy got us what we were owed and then some. In reality, to my surprise, I really thought that nothing was ever going to be done. I really have Emery | Reddy everything to thank for. Thank You, Emery | Reddy!

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Shelley M.
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My husband has been struggling with getting the medical attention that he needs and has been entitled to. Emery | Reddy has given us hope again.

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Jade G.
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I highly recommend Paul, Tim, and Kendra, who were outstanding to work with. From my initial contact with the firm to litigating a successful outcome, the team was there every step of the way. They truly eased my stress with their exceptionally professional and promptly responsive approach throughout the entire process. I am incredibly grateful for their dedication and hard work. Their timely responses and attention to detail were exceptional. I couldn't have asked for a better team.

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Tami F.
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I highly recommend Paul, Tim, and Kendra, who were outstanding to work with. From my initial contact with the firm to litigating a successful outcome, the team was there every step of the way. They truly eased my stress with their exceptionally professional and promptly responsive approach throughout the entire process. I am incredibly grateful for their dedication and hard work. Their timely responses and attention to detail were exceptional. I couldn't have asked for a better team.

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Stephanie E.
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I have recently retained Emery | Reddy for an L and I and employment case. I have been dealing with Kendra and she has been awesome, kind and caring while helping me navigate the intake process. My experience so far has been a 10 out of 10!!! Thank you Kendra!!!

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Ancient E.
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I am so impressed by this firm, they are absolutely amazing. They always get back to me quickly, take the time to answer my questions, and have been so helpful. I can highly recommend them as being the best of the best.

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Destinee M.
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Tim and his team is beyond fantastic, they worked on my case and words can not express how grateful I am for them! Extremely professional and very knowledgeable with great communication that ended in a great win for my case.

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Mitch S.
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Very prompt, understanding, and, Annie French was very helpful and walked me through all documents needed to be signed.

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J.
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Did an intake with Kendra, she was awesome very supportive and helped guide me through steps! Highly recommend.

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Dave V.
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I have nothing but praise for the Emery | Reddy law firm. Every individual that I dealt with was more than willing to drop what they were doing and assist me ASAP. I cannot thank them enough for their determination in getting me the just repairs done to my body.

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Kyle B.
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Emery | Reddy made a very difficult experience better than I hoped for. My settlement was near the max possible. They were kind, understanding and stayed in communication with me.

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Emily H.
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Tim and the Emery | Reddy team has helped me with an employment matter…and I must say, I can't say enough how grateful and happy I am with the service I have received. They were detail-oriented, attentive, on time with communication, and very knowledgeable. Highly, highly recommend!

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Istvan F.
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Working with Tim and Patrick was an absolute pleasure. They are both professionals of the highest caliber, and they helped turn a difficult set of circumstances into a clearly navigable process that resulted in a very favorable outcome.

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J.J.
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I am so thankful I reached out for their help and would say to anyone that finds themselves in a similar situation to inquire with them for representation! Worker’s Comp situations are stressful and hard enough as it is — don’t walk it alone!

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Sarah E.
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I worked with Tim and the firm's wonderful paralegals on a misclassification case. It's always scary to stand up for yourself, particularly to a corporation; however, Tim and his team explained every step and made sure to give me honest advice about the case.

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Oki
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When you want justice, when you want results delivered and when it comes to advocacy for the people without a doubt, you look to Tim and the team at Emery | Reddy. Simply put, they are a class above the rest with their knowledge, professionalism, and transparency.

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Robin S.
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Karolina Arthur at Emery | Reddy is simply a phenomenal person, she gave me a beacon of hope at a time when my options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed almost impossible. Not only did she go above and beyond for me, but she did it so quickly and efficiently that it was amazing!

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Eli P.
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Spectacular! I am a man of few words, but why speak when you have the very best at your disposal to represent you. There is no finer. Anyone who has a legal issue and needs results, I highly recommend that you contact them without hesitation nor mental reservation. Call them, it's the right choice!

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Joseph B.
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Emery | Reddy knows how employers manipulate the system and patiently analyze the entire situation and manage the processes in great detail and defensively. They are the best because they care for their clients, and take your life situation personally, as if your family.

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Michael M.
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I would highly recommend Emery | Reddy law firm for personal injury, also dealing with L&I. Not only was pace of communication quick, but they were excellent in explaining intricacies of the case. I was very thankful I had been directed to this firm.

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Steve M.
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Working with Tim and his team was an absolute pleasure. They are incredibly knowledgeable, helpful, and have their client's best interests at heart. I highly recommend them!

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Jennifer I.
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Words cannot express how grateful I am for this respectful, professional and diligent group of workers here. I am truly in awe of this company, my L&I case would have dragged on for much longer had it not been for them. They honestly gave me my life back…

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Bret P.
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Tim Emery is fantastic! He is easy to work with and keeps you updated in a timely manner! His friendly personality makes it easy to ask him any question! Utilize Tim if you want to win your case! Thanks a lot Tim! It was a pleasure working with you to settle my case!

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Isidro C.
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In months of despair and the empty feeling of not being heard, Emery | Reddy answered my prayers. I stood up to a company that did not treat me or my co-workers fairly. Godspeed to Emery | Reddy for having my back! Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.

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Amy G.
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Karolina is the best I just love her! She understands me and goes above and beyond without judgment! I would recommend this firm to anyone. Thank you guys for your services and thank you Karolina for just being you ♥️

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Zolleen W.
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This firm kept complete openness and honesty. They informed me when anything was changing or proceeding forward and gave constant updates on time lines. They are (an) all around great firm to have defending you.

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James B.
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Relentless and persistent. Without Emery | Reddy, none of us would have seen what was owed to us.

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Ken A.
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They were great to work with! Very communicative and made the process easy.

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Roxanne W.
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The team was easy to work with and made a stressful situation seamless.

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Michelle D.
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Tim is an amazing attorney. If you're looking for justice or restitution, Tim is your man!

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Laura S.
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I found them helpful, this team is smart and efficient. They know their stuff and you can tell they really care about your case!

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Brian C.
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They were communicative, helpful, honest, and direct. And when things got rough and emotions were high, they helped me move through it. I can't say enough good things about this team. Thank you!

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John B.
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Excellent help and dedication. Thank you for standing up for those that get taken advantage of. It matters.

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S.M.
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Working with Tim and his team was an absolute pleasure. They are incredibly knowledgeable, helpful, and have their client's best interests at heart. I highly recommend them!

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Louisa B.
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In need of a good law firm, I was lucky and found Emery | Reddy. From the start, Patrick Reddy and his colleagues were extremely attentive, helpful, transparent, and professional. They are easy to work with, responsive and hard-working. Could not be happier with the experience. Great people! Great firm!

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Kristine
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The only lawyer you should be working with in wage theft is Tim Emery at Emery | Reddy. Tim and his team are top notch!!

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Khasha M.
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I can't recommend them highly enough. Thoughtful, informative, and extremely diligent. Their attorneys and their staff are extremely competent and they pay attention to every detail. You will not be disappointed!

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Workers' Compensation Resources

To help you better understand your rights and options under Washington State’s workers’ compensation laws, we’ve compiled a collection of valuable resources. Whether you’re just beginning the claims process, dealing with a denied claim, or wondering what benefits you’re entitled to, the links below offer clear guidance and practical information. You’ll also find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we hear from injured workers across the state.

How Workers’ Compensation Works in Washington State

Washington is unique in that workers’ compensation benefits are administered through a state‑run system rather than private insurance. The L&I State Fund covers most workers, while others work for self‑insured employers.

Workers’ compensation is generally a no‑fault system, meaning employees do not need to prove employer negligence to receive benefits. In exchange, workers typically cannot sue their employer for workplace injuries, with limited exceptions.

Labor and Industries (L&I) FAQs

Navigating an L&I claim in Washington state can be extremely complex and time-consuming. If you aren’t sure where to start, watch our videos explainers from Emery | Reddy L&I Attorney Patrick B. Reddy and read our Workers’ Compensation FAQ that has the answers to your most common questions regarding the L&I process.

Workers Compensation 101:

A Complete Video Guide to the L&I Claim Process

Learn More

Workers Compensation FAQ:

Common Workers’ Compensation Questions

Learn More

L&I Benefits for Injured Washington Workers
What Types of Injuries Are Covered?
What Is an Independent Medical Examination?
Will I Get a Settlement from L&I?
How to File an L&I Claim in Washington State
Do You Independent Contractors Need Workers’ Compensation?
Self-Insured Employer Claims vs. L&I Claims
How Much Is a Washington L&I Claim Worth?

L&I Benefits for Injured Washington Workers

L&I has a range of benefits at its disposal to help injured workers recover from an injury or occupational disease, including the following:

Death Benefits

A workplace injury or occupational disease that results in death entitles the injured worker’s spouse and dependents to L&I death benefits, also known as L&I survivor pensions. These can include a one-time lump sum payment to the deceased’s spouse or registered domestic partner, burial reimbursements, or monthly survivor pensions.

Firefighter Benefits

Washington state firefighters receive special protections that can make the success of a Washington State L&I claim far more likely. For example, firefighters who have had their claim denied can then take that claim directly to the Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals (BIIA). Washington state is also one of the only states that will reimburse attorney fees if a firefighter wins their appeal.

Loss of Earning Power (LEP) Benefits

In Washington state, an injured worker can return to work and be entitled to Loss of Earning Power (LEP) benefits with a doctor’s medical certification. You must be undergoing treatment, and your wages must be greater than 5% less than what you were earning on the date of injury.

Medical Benefits

If an L&I claim is accepted, medical treatment that is reasonable and necessary for the work‑related condition is generally covered. This may include doctor visits, hospital care, prescription medication, physical therapy, and other approved treatments.

Disputes often arise when L&I questions whether treatment is necessary or whether a condition is work‑related, which can result in treatment being denied or cut off.

Property Reimbursement

Property reimbursement (also known as expense reimbursement) is a minor benefit that covers a limited range of items including clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE), prescription eyeglasses or contacts, and shoes or boots.

Seattle Paid Sick and Safe Time (PSST)

Seattle PSST is a law that requires employers to provide paid leave to injured workers that can be used for medical reasons or domestic assault situations. The law was originally passed in 2012 and has evolved to include different types of Washington workers and uses. Seattle PSST is available to any employee who works in Seattle, Washington and does not already receive paid time off benefits from their employer.

Time-Loss Compensation and Wage-Replacement Benefits

When an injury prevents a worker from performing their job, L&I may provide time‑loss compensation, also known as wage-replacement, which replaces a portion of lost wages during recovery. These benefits are based on the worker’s wages at the time of injury and may be adjusted based on dependents.

Delays or termination of time‑loss benefits are common sources of claim disputes.

Travel Reimbursement

Travel reimbursement for mileage, parking fees (over $10), tolls, food, lodging, and lost wages could be paid in connection with medical treatment if they are pre-authorized by L&I or the self-insured employer (SIE).

Vocational Rehabilitation

L&I may provide vocational rehabilitation services to help injured workers return to employment. However, disputes frequently arise over retraining eligibility, employability determinations, and claim closure decisions tied to vocational findings.

Vocational decisions can significantly affect whether a claim closes with a PPD award, settlement, or pension consideration.

What Types of Injuries Are Covered?

Workers’ compensation may cover both occupational injuries and occupational illnesses. Occupational injuries usually result from a specific event, such as a fall, lifting injury, or machinery accident. Occupational diseases develop over time due to workplace conditions, such as repetitive stress injuries or occupational exposure. Correctly classifying a claim is critical, as filing deadlines and medical requirements differ.

What Is an Independent Medical Examination?

Many workers’ compensation disputes stem from Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs) ordered by L&I or self‑insured employers. IME opinions often influence benefit eligibility, treatment approval, and claim closure decisions.

IME reports frequently contain errors or conclusions that conflict with treating physicians.

When Can an Independent Medical Examination Be Ordered?

There are specific circumstances in which you might be ordered to attend an Independent Medical Exam (IME). The Washington State Legislature has outlined IME guidelines about the requirements for attendance.

An IME does not constitute medical treatment; rather the purpose of an IME is to help the insurance company determine the reality and extent of your injury by:

  • Gathering information on your condition.
  • Determining maximum medical improvement (MMI) 20.01002.
  • Deciding if your condition is, in fact, directly related to your workplace injury or occupational disease and then denying or awarding L&I benefits.
  • Ending your medical care.
  • Closing your L&I claim.
Are Independent Medical Examinations Biased?

Unfortunately, IMEs can be problematic. For one, in Washington state, the injured worker does not usually get a say in who conducts their IME. What’s more, L&I doctors are rarely neutral or objective. They tend to be more loyal to the insurance company that hired them, and, in many cases, their reports and assessments will try to make the case that an injured worker is fine.

How Are IME Doctors Selected?

In Washington state, an IME must be provided by an L&I-approved provider. These doctors are paid by L&I or the self-insured employer (SIEs), and their main goal is to give you an unfavorable report. These providers are seen as experts, and their opinions are given significant weight — so the doctor chosen for your IME will greatly influence your case.

Scheduling an Independent Medical Exam

L&I and self-insured employers (SIEs) usually determine the date and time of an IME evaluation. If you need to reschedule your IME, contact your L&I Claims Manager immediately. If you have a conflict with the scheduled date, notify your Claims Manager as soon as possible so they can reschedule the exam. The L&I Claims Manager will most likely accommodate reasonable requests and arrange for the exam to be conducted on a different date.

Will I Get a Settlement from L&I?

In Washington state, the money awarded to an injured worker is determined by numerous factors, making it difficult to provide an accurateL&I settlement calculator. Factors that determine an award or settlement amount include the date the injury occurred, the severity of the injury, and the steps the injured worker takes to receive the compensation they need. 

Claim Resolution Settlement Agreements (CRSAs)

Some L&I claims may be resolved through a Claim Resolution Settlement Agreement (CRSA), which allows a claim to be closed in exchange for a negotiated payment. Settlements can have long‑term consequences and are not appropriate for every claim.

Understanding whether a settlement reflects the true value of a claim requires careful analysis.

L&I Disability Pension

Workers who are permanently and totally disabled and unable to return to any gainful employment may qualify for an L&I disability pension, which provides monthly, non‑taxable payments for life.

Pension claims are heavily contested and require substantial medical and vocational evidence.

Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) Award

If a worker reaches maximum medical improvement (MMI) and is left with permanent impairment, L&I may issue a Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) award. PPD awards are calculated using statutory schedules that consider the body part affected, the severity of impairment, and the date of injury.

PPD awards are often paid when a claim closes and may represent a significant portion of a claim’s overall value.

The Seriousness of Your Disability

During the course of your workers’ compensation claim, you may be required to complete one or more Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs) conducted by a doctor other than your primary provider. The purpose of this exam is for L&I to have indisputable facts as to why treatment is needed regarding your medical condition. Your injury is rated as a percentage in its category and given a value of 1 – 9. Typically, the higher the number, the more significant your injury is. Your PPD award is calculated from those numbers before your case is closed. The most recent permanent partial disability L&I settlement calculator is the PPD Schedule 2025.

What You’ve Done to Help Yourself

Allowing Labor and Industries (L&I) to decide what is fair is not in your best interest. The L&I Claims Manager assigned to your case has a lot of discretion to categorize the severity of your work injury or industrial disease, which determines how much L&I will compensate. Since the Claims Manager’s job is to minimize costs, few Washington state injured workers ever get back everything they lose after sustaining a disability. The only way to ensure that you aren’t shorted by the system and get your maximum award is to hire an experienced Seattle L&I attorney to help fight for your interests. 

How to File an L&I Claim in Washington State

In order to receive benefits from L&I there are two very important things that you must do right away, even before a claim is filed:

  • Get medical help.
  • Tell your employer.

If you are injured at work, you have three options to file a Washington state L&I claim:<

Note that if you work with a self-insured employer (SIE), you must file your claim with them. Contact your employer’s human resources department for help.

To file an L&I claim in Washington state, you must provide the following:

  • The location where the injury occurred
  • Contact information for any witnesses to the injury
  • Employer information
  • Wage information
  • If you have already seen a doctor:
    • Your doctor’s first and last name
    • The hospital or clinic where you received treatment

If you are eligible for time-loss benefits and no further information is needed, L&I or your self-insured employer will send the first benefit check within 7 days of receiving the report. If your doctor is one of the many healthcare providers that do not handle workers’ compensation claim cases, you can find an L&I-approved doctor on the L&I website. If your L&I claim is approved, the State will cover the initial visit even if it wasn’t with one of their approved doctors.

L&I or your self-insured employer must receive your Report of Accident within 1 year of your injury date to file a claim. Occupational disease claims must be received within two years of the date that your doctor notified you in writing that your injury is work-related.

Do You Independent Contractors Need Workers’ Compensation?

Self-employed individuals and independent contractors without employees are not required to purchase workers’ compensation in Washington state. However, you can still purchase workers’ compensation for yourself to cover medical expenses and wage replacement.

Any employee you hire, including any part-time employees, is entitled to workers’ compensation. Independent contractors are an exception since they are not considered employees; however, employers should be careful not to misclassify employees as independent contractors, or they may face penalties and fines for failing to provide workers’ compensation insurance. Refer to the criteria outlined in the Washington State Industrial Insurance Act to determine if an employee is correctly classified as an independent contractor.

Self-Insured Employer Claims vs. L&I Claims

Self-insured employer claims can sometimes work differently from Labor and Industries (L&I) state-funded claims, making it more difficult to get the compensation to which you are entitled. Self-insured employers will do everything in their power to deny your compensation.

If you disagree with their decision, you have the right to report your problem directly to L&I and to protest or appeal with the help of an experienced Washington State L&I lawyer.

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How Much Is a Washington L&I Claim Worth?

There is no single average value or settlement calculator for a workers’ compensation claim. Claim value depends on medical recovery, wage loss, permanent impairment, and vocational outcomes.

Your Washington State L&I Claim Is Worth More If You Also Have an Employment Claim

A significant number of Washington state L&I claims often involve additional legal claims, such as employment or third-party claims. Many people file their claims without seeking representation from an experienced Seattle L&I attorney and thus never discover that, in addition to their Washington state L&I claim, they may be missing out on the ability to file an employment claim or a third-party claim. Pursuing additional legal action with the help of an experienced Seattle workers’ compensation and L&I attorney has the potential to significantly increase a claim’s overall compensation. At Emery | Reddy, our experienced Attorneys practice both Employment and Labor Law as well as Workers’ Compensation Law, which means we will investigate all aspects of your claim to make sure you aren’t missing out on any potential benefits.

What Is an Employment Claim?

Many injured workers find that their employer has taken, or plans to take, adverse action against them because they filed an L&I claim or they are out of work. You can file a lawsuit against your employer for several reasons, including retaliationwrongful terminationdiscrimination, or unpaid wages. An L&I attorney who is experienced in both L&I — Workers’ Compensation Law and Employment and Labor Law can help you with your Washington state L&I claim while simultaneously filing a federal or state law claim for the violation of workers’ rights by your employer.

What Is a Third-Party Claim?

third-party claim is one in which someone other than your employer or co-worker is responsible for your injury. If you have been injured on the job due to someone else’s actions or negligence, you may be entitled to additional compensation through a third-party claim, which combines your Washington state L&I claim with a personal injury claim using the same facts.

Unlike workers’ compensation payments, there is no limit to the amount of compensation an injured worker may seek in third-party damages. Third-party claims are private matters and are typically litigated directly with the Washington State Superior Court.

Who Is at Fault for a Workplace Injury?

L&I is a no-fault system, ensuring compensation for any industrial disease. However, if a third party is involved in causing your illness, you may be able to pursue legal action against them for additional compensation under third-party claims.

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Proven Results, Maximum Compensation

With over $200 million recovered and a 98% success rate, we don’t just settle; we fight for every dollar our clients are owed.

Settlement

$21,000,000

In re Arthur J. Gallagher Data Breach Litig.

Settlement

$11,500,000

In re Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center Data Breach Litig.

Settlement

$8,500,000

In re Sequoia Benefits and Insurance Data Breach Litig.

Settlement

$7,250,000

Cordell v. Patelco Credit Union

Settlement

$6,500,000

Pace v. Omni Family Health

When to Speak With a Washington Workers’ Compensation Attorney

If you are concerned that your L&I claim has been undervalued, closed too early, or denied important benefits, speaking with a workers’ compensation attorney can help clarify your options. Emery | Reddy represents injured workers throughout Washington State in L&I claims involving benefit disputes, PPD ratings, vocational issues, settlements, and disability pensions.

Call today for a Free Case Review. No fee unless we recover for you.

"Very friendly interview and intake process. I was informed thoroughly about the processes in obtaining a lawyer and was given ample time to make a decision on representation. I’m thankful for everyone’s help and looking forward to working with this Firm on my worker’s compensation claim."

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