Celebrating 25 Years of Black & Jones: Our Most Popular Blogs
Looking for guidance on navigating workplace injuries and workers’ compensation in Illinois? In celebration of our 25th anniversary, here are our top 10 most-read blog posts—packed with practical tips, legal insights and answers to the questions we hear most from injured workers.
#1: Is a Slip & Fall In Employer’s Lot a Work-Related Injury?
In Flossmoor School District #161 v. Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission, the Appellate Court upheld a ruling that a school secretary who slipped on snow in the school parking lot sustained a compensable work-related injury. Despite the employer's claim that she should not have been at work at the time, the Court found no evidence she was instructed otherwise and confirmed she was performing her usual duties. Read more
#2: Why Does it Take So Long for Insurance to Approve Treatment?
Getting medical treatment for a work-related injury is often much slower than treatment through regular health insurance because of the extra steps required for approval. Your doctor must submit detailed reports directly to the workers’ compensation insurance adjuster, who must then preapprove the treatment—often causing delays. Having an experienced attorney on your side can help push for timely approvals, challenge denials and ensure you get the care you need. Read more
#3: What to Do When Workers’ Comp Denies the Treatment You Need
If you receive a denial letter from the workers’ compensation insurance company, don’t assume their decision is final—treatment is often denied due to missing medical records or incomplete documentation. Working with a firm like Black & Jones ensures that you have a trusted partner in your corner to make sure records are sent, received and documented properly. Read more
#4: Get to Know Attorney Tracy Jones
Meet Attorney Tracy Jones at Black & Jones Attorneys at Law, a Northern Illinois native who grew up in Rochelle, Illinois, and now dedicates her career to serving the people of the area. Read more
#5: Why You Should Choose a Local Lawyer for Your Legal Needs
Working with a local attorney offers key advantages, including deep knowledge of local laws and strong connections within the community—both of which can greatly benefit your case. You’ll receive more personalized attention, clear communication, a relationship built on trust and access to trusted professionals who can provide testimony to strengthen your case—making them a valuable ally throughout your legal journey. Read more
#6: I Have Heard of the “Heart and Lung Act,” but What is It?
Illinois does not have a separate heart and lung law, but first responders with at least five years of service can file for workers’ compensation if they develop certain conditions like heart or lung issues, cancer or hearing loss. Under Section 6(f) of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, these conditions are automatically presumed to be work related. Read more
#7: 10 Things to Know About Illinois Workers’ Compensation
If you're injured at work in Illinois, it's important to understand that the state’s no-fault workers’ compensation system allows you to receive benefits without proving employer negligence—as long as the injury occurred during the course of your job. Most cases settle without trial, benefits are tax-free and there are no upfront legal fees—making it crucial to work with an experienced attorney to protect your rights and navigate this complex process. Read more
#8: What Evidence Do I Need for an SSD Claim?
You can apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) at any time if you meet the eligibility requirements, even if you've been denied before. The process is complex, but working with experienced attorneys, like Black & Jones, can improve your chances of success. To build a strong case, you'll need solid medical evidence, detailed documentation of your symptoms and accurate reports from any required evaluations. Read more
#9: How Are Workers’ Compensation Benefits Paid Out?
A workplace injury can be overwhelming, especially if you're unable to work to support yourself. Ensuring you receive timely and fair compensation is crucial. At Black & Jones, our attorneys guide clients through the key aspects of workers’ compensation benefits: what types of benefits are owed, when they must be paid and how they are distributed. Read more
#10: 5 Tips to Increase Your Chances of Being Approved for Workers’ Compensation
Workers' compensation offers benefits to employees injured on the job or suffering from work-related illnesses, but these benefits aren’t automatic—you must file a valid claim and meet specific requirements. Key steps include timely reporting of your injury, getting proper medical care and keeping detailed records of your condition and treatments. Working with a trusted attorney can help protect your rights and avoid common pitfalls. Read more
If you’ve been injured at work, and you want the best chance possible of receiving maximum benefits, the team at Black & Jones is your trusted resource in the Rockford area. Contact us today! Fill out this form or give us a call at (815) 967-9000.