Business Details
23 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Workers' Compensation Attorneys in San Francisco
Smith & Baltaxe has dedicated its practice to advocating for injured workers in California since 2003. Our attorneys specialize exclusively in workers' compensation law, combining decades of collective experience with board-certified expertise to navigate complex claims. We provide personalized legal representation, prioritizing client needs through free consultations and contingency fee arrangements. Our team actively engages in legislative advocacy while maintaining a client-centric approach that emphasizes transparency and timely communication.With a focus on maximizing compensation for workplace injuries, we serve clients across San Francisco and surrounding areas, offering home and hospital visits for convenience. Our practice is built on a foundation of proven results in cases involving construction accidents, electrical injuries, and traumatic brain injuries, among others.
Services
Workers' Compensation Claims
Construction Accident Cases
Electrical Injury Claims
Slip and Fall Injuries
Third-Party Claims
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Burn Injuries
Repetitive Stress Claims
Death Benefit Claims
Vocational Retraining
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- Exclusive focus on workers' compensation law since 2003
- Attorneys certified as Workers' Compensation Specialists
- Over 10 years of combined experience handling complex claims
- Personalized service with home and hospital visit options
- Contingency fee basis - no payment unless we win
Associations and certifications
- The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization
What people say
Helpful and timely responses
Client-focused approach
Dedicated to maximizing benefits
Certified specialists
Aggressive representation
Services
Workers' Compensation Claims
We specialize in helping injured workers secure rightful compensation for workplace injuries. Our attorneys guide clients through the entire claims process, from initial filing to appeals, ensuring proper documentation and representation. With deep knowledge of California's workers' compensation laws, we advocate for maximum benefits covering medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term care needs.
Construction Accident Cases
Our firm handles complex construction site injury claims involving falls, equipment malfunctions, and hazardous conditions. We work with industry experts to document injuries and prove liability, ensuring clients receive compensation for medical treatment, vocational retraining, and permanent disability benefits when applicable.
Electrical Injury Claims
We represent workers suffering from electrical injuries including burns, nerve damage, and electrocution. Our attorneys understand the unique challenges in these cases, working with medical experts to demonstrate long-term impacts and secure comprehensive compensation for ongoing care and lost earning capacity.
Slip and Fall Injuries
We help workers injured from slips, trips, and falls on job sites or during work-related activities. Our team documents environmental hazards and medical consequences to build strong cases for medical expense coverage, temporary disability payments, and permanent injury compensation.
Third-Party Claims
When workplace injuries involve third-party negligence, we coordinate personal injury claims alongside workers' compensation cases. Our attorneys identify liable parties such as equipment manufacturers or property owners to pursue additional compensation for clients' injuries and losses.
People
Bernhard Baltaxe
Attorney
Certified workers' compensation specialist with 20+ years of experience. Former civil litigation attorney who opened his own practice in 2003 focusing exclusively on workers' rights. Graduated with distinction from McGeorge School of Law.
Byron Smith
Attorney
Certified workers' compensation specialist with 25+ years of experience. Began helping injured workers while in law school. Former managing partner at multiple firms before joining Smith & Baltaxe. Focuses on maximizing client compensation through aggressive representation.
Questions
What should I do immediately after a workplace injury?
Seek emergency medical care, report the injury to your employer within 30 days, and consult a workers' compensation attorney to ensure proper documentation and benefits.
How long do I have to file a workers' compensation claim?
You should report injuries promptly, as claims must be filed within specific timeframes. Consult an attorney immediately to avoid missing critical deadlines for benefits eligibility.
Can I choose my own doctor for treatment?
Initially, you must use employer-designated physicians, but after 30 days you can select from their Medical Provider Network. Attorneys can help navigate this process for appropriate care.
What if my workers' compensation claim gets denied?
Appeal the decision with legal assistance. Our attorneys challenge denials by gathering evidence, securing independent medical evaluations, and representing clients at hearings to fight for rightful benefits.
How are permanent disability benefits calculated?
Benefits depend on whole person impairment percentages determined by medical evaluations. Our attorneys explain California's rating system and fight for accurate assessments of long-term impacts.
Can I work while receiving workers' compensation benefits?
Yes, temporary disability payments stop when you return to work. Permanent disability benefits continue regardless of employment status, compensating for lasting physical impairments affecting earning capacity.
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