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Workers' Comp

How Long Will It Take to Receive My Workers' Compensation Claim?

After a workplace injury, one of the first concerns many people have is how long it will take to receive their workers’ compensation benefits. The process can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with the stress of recovery and financial uncertainty. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, understanding the steps involved and the potential timeline can help you set realistic expectations.

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Police & Fire

How the Heart & Lung Act Protects You

As a first responder—whether you’re a firefighter, paramedic or EMT—you face unique risks that can lead to serious health conditions like heart disease or lung damage. But did you know that there isn’t actually a separate law called the “Heart & Lung Act”? Instead, the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act offers special protections under Section 6(f). This section grants essential benefits for first responders diagnosed with specific conditions due to the nature of their job.

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Document titled "Social Security Disability", individual holding a pen placed on the document.

Social Security

The Guide to Applying for Social Security Benefits

Applying for Social Security benefits can be a daunting process, especially when you’re dealing with the physical and emotional toll of a disability. However, understanding the steps involved can help ease the stress. At Black & Jones Attorneys at Law in Rockford, IL, we are experienced in guiding clients through this process. In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials of applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to help you get started on the right track.

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Construction worker with yellow helmet filling out a form at a table in an indoor factory setting.

Workers' Comp

3 Documents to Bring to Your Free Workers' Compensation Consultation

When you’ve been injured at work, your next steps can feel overwhelming. One of the first and most important things you can do is schedule a free consultation with a workers’ compensation attorney. This meeting is crucial in determining the best way to move forward with your claim, and the more prepared you are, the better. At Black & Jones Attorneys at Law in Rockford, IL, we aim to make your consultation as smooth and productive as possible. To help, here are three essential documents you should bring to your consultation to set your case off on the right track.

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Workers' Comp, Local Representation

Black & Jones Forces Employer to Pay Compensation to Burned Worker Despite Lack of Insurance Coverage

Almost every employer in the State of Illinois is required to have workers’ compensation insurance coverage if they have even a single employee. Unfortunately, some employers refuse to adhere to this law in attempt to save themselves money. But they do so at the risk of not only their finances but, more importantly, their employees. Black & Jones was contacted by a client who worked at a restaurant. While working, he sustained severe burns to his foot while working in the kitchen. The injuries were so severe that he was taken by ambulance to the emergency room and underwent months of treatment that ultimately left significant scarring. Not only did he incur significant medical bills and visible scarring on his foot, but he also missed time from work when he was unable to be on his feet or wear shoes. When he tried to talk to his employer about covering the cost of the medical bills, he was ignored. So he sought the assistance of our attorneys at Black & Jones!

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Three individuals, one in a wheelchair, discussing information on documents at an office desk.

Social Security

Can I Work and Receive Social Security Disability Benefits?

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be complex, especially when it comes to understanding how employment may impact your benefits. Many people wonder if they can work while receiving SSDI benefits, and the answer is nuanced. Yes, you are allowed to work some hours if you are pursuing or receiving Social Security Disability benefits. However, there are important considerations and limitations to keep in mind. At Black & Jones Attorneys at Law, we’re here to help you understand how to balance work and SSDI, ensuring you make the best decisions for your unique situation.

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