If you've been injured on the job, you may be worried about how you'll pay your bills, receive medical treatment, or support your family while you're unable to work. The Madison workers' compensation lawyers at Hawks Quindel help injured workers throughout Dane County and South Central Wisconsin pursue the benefits they deserve while standing up to employers and insurance companies when claims become complicated or disputed.
Wisconsin's workers' compensation system is designed to provide medical care and wage replacement after a work-related injury or occupational illness. Unfortunately, obtaining those benefits is not always straightforward.
Questions about whether an injury is work-related, disagreements over medical treatment, disputes over independent medical examinations (IMEs), and benefit denials can quickly become challenging for injured workers simply trying to recover.
For more than 60 years, the attorneys at Hawks Quindel have represented Wisconsin workers—not employers or insurance companies. Whether you were injured on a construction site, developed a repetitive stress injury after years of physical labor, or suffered an occupational illness, our team can explain your rights and pursue available benefits under Wisconsin law.
Why You Should Choose Hawks Quindel For Your Workers' Compensation Claim
After a workplace injury, choosing the right attorney means more than finding someone who knows Wisconsin workers' compensation law. You need a legal team that understands how every part of your situation fits together.
Many injured workers are simultaneously dealing with workers' compensation benefits, Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) protections, long term disability claims, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), or employment issues related to returning to work. Rather than sending clients to several law firms, the attorneys at Hawks Quindel collaborate across practice areas to develop a coordinated strategy tailored to each client's circumstances.
"We can take a holistic approach, because… we have all of it under one roof and we can get all of the attorneys on the case… together to figure out what's best for the client." ~ Attorney William Parsons, Hawks Quindel
That collaborative approach is one of the firm's greatest strengths. If your work injury affects multiple aspects of your employment or benefits, your legal team should be equipped to handle all of them—not just one claim in isolation.
The team at Hawks Quindel also brings decades of experience representing Wisconsin workers in administrative hearings, state courts, and appellate proceedings. Because we focus on representing employees and injured workers, our attorneys understand the challenges clients face when insurance companies delay benefits, question medical evidence, or dispute whether an injury is work-related.
Whether your claim is resolved through negotiation or requires litigation, our goal remains the same: helping you obtain the benefits and financial stability you need while you recover.
Understanding Wisconsin Workers' Compensation Benefits
Wisconsin’s workers' compensation laws are intended to provide financial and medical support when an employee suffers a work-related injury or develops an occupational disease. In most cases, workers' compensation is a no-fault system, meaning you generally do not need to prove your employer was negligent to qualify for benefits.
Depending on the circumstances of your injury, workers' compensation benefits may include:
- Payment for reasonable and necessary medical treatment
- Wage replacement while you are unable to work
- Compensation for permanent disabilities
- Vocational rehabilitation services
- Benefits for surviving family members after a fatal workplace accident
Unfortunately, disputes often arise over whether an injury is covered, what treatment is necessary, whether an employee can safely return to work, or the extent of any permanent disability. Having experienced legal guidance can make a meaningful difference if these disputes occur.
Hear From Our Clients
“happy with our settlement”
Bill Parsons and Brook Tylka and the rest of the staff from Hawks Quindel were very helpful with our case. They kept me up to date on the progress of my claim from the very beginning. After our first conciliation, we felt very confident we had the right attorney to...
“a practice someone can trust”
Hawks and Quindel are an amazing law firm to deal with. It’s a scary time and everyone there puts you at rest that they have your best interest at heart. They never make you feel like you are bothering them and they kept me in the loop with answers before... “thoroughness, patience, and insight”
I can’t praise Aaron Halstead and Connor Clegg enough for their work on my legal matter. I especially appreciated their thoroughness, patience, and insight. They were always responsive to my questions. They helped me navigate a challenging workplace issue and obtain a good outcome. I would and do recommend them. “highly recommend seeking the services of this firm”
During this very difficult time, the staff at Hawks and Quindel kept me reassured and informed every step of the way. I had the pleasure of working with Attorneys Jessa Victor and Brook Tylka. Jessa, Brook, Matt, and Hadley, thank you for all of your hard work, professionalism and compassion!... “my case was won”
From our first phone call with Donnie Malchow, we knew we'd found the right person to help us. I had filed for disability and been denied. He was willing to walk beside us and thoroughly explain the entire process (lasted over a year and a half) and expectations (gave us... “I would wholeheartedly recommend HQ”
I had another law firm representing me on a non-compete, and when it became clear that I needed new representation, I reached out to Hawks Quindel. Aaron Bibb took my case and he represented me extremely well to an agreeable resolution of the case, and costs were extremely reasonable and... “went above and beyond”
Attorney Halstead and his team went above and beyond to not only win my case, but because of certain circumstances I had going on, they did everything they could to help and rush the settlement through. They were always quick at responding to emails and phone calls with questions I... “I highly suggest this firm”
I can't imagine using any other firm after having Hawks Quindel, they were so knowledgeable and experienced but yet so down to earth to talk with. They kept me informed every step of the way and always answered when I had a question. What a staff, so many great people,... “empathy, intelligence, and professionalism”
I reside in New Mexico but drove a semi-truck coast to coast for an unscrupulous trucking company out of Wisconsin. This logistics company harassed, bullied lied and discriminated against me, keeping my earned wages, and leaving me in a financial hole. Devastated I called and left a message for the... “people treat you like family”
Top notch law firm Jacob and Natalie were my 2 attorneys that represented me on both of my cases? They did a fantastic job. Speaking up for me as they do for thousands of people and especially the little guys down-to-earth, people treat you like family, these people are godsons. “Way beyond my expectations”
Many thanks from my family to all of you at the firm!!! Hawks Quindel, S.C. is the only place I would consider for LTD, disability, SSDI, ERISA, EEOC, DRoW legal help!! Jessa Victor and her team got me all the answers and results when I didn't think it was possible!!!... “His team were patient and professional”
I had the pleasure of being represented by Aaron N. Halstead, Shareholder, on my discrimination case. His team were patient and professional. I would highly recommend this firm for the professionalism and efficiency for working through my case. “If there were 10 stars”
If there were 10 stars I would give them that. There are not enough words to express my gratitude for Aaron, Ben and their team. I felt strong with them behind me. Exceeded expectations is an understatement. “wonderful to work with”
I had mauve she was wonderful to work with! She helped me with my long battle to get SSI and SSDI. Which thankfully I now have! She's a delight and really helps boost anyone's confidents. “Extremely knowledgeable”
I had an incredible experience regarding my workers compensation case with Jakob Feltham! It was my first workers compensation case (*or first case ever), and I didn't know anything about the legalities surrounding my issue, or what I was entitled to? Jake Feltham had ALL my answers, and made it... “I’m happy with the work they did”
They were extremely responsive and good at communication throughout the process. They were accommodating of my disability and explained things well, taking time to answer all my questions. I'm happy with the work they did. Felt like I really had people on my side during a confusing and difficult time. “consistently responsive and professional”
My recent experience with Hawk Quindel, and in particular with John Leppanen in the Milwaukee office. He, was extremely valuable. The support/intake staff responded quickly to my initial inquiry, and John was responsive and made time soon after our initial contact to begin work on my case. John was able... “the best lawyers, trustworthy”
Excellent people, the best lawyers, trustworthy, always seeking the best results in the shortest possible time. I highly recommend them. “Very Helpful”
Eze the intake coordinator was awesome, very helpful and connected me with the right people to help with my situation! Thank you Eze! “Had My Back”
In 2010, I returned home from my second deployment. In 2012, I was told by the VA I couldn’t return to the job I was working at. It is now 2019, and through 7 years of needing legal representation, Hawks had my back through 3 separate issues: short term disability,... “Best Decision”
I really don’t know how to put this in words to express how happy, satisfied, and really just overwhelmed with a sense of justice being handed out on my behalf. This big corporate work comp insurer treated me wrong, but before I decided to give up I contacted Hawks Quindel,... “Highly Recommend”
The attorneys at Hawks Quindel worked tirelessly on my behalf. They were transparent at every step of the way, and answered any questions I had directly and in ways that someone without a legal background could easily understand. Although I would highly recommend them to anyone who is potentially facing... Common Workplace Injuries We Help Madison Workers With
Workplace injuries can occur in virtually every industry throughout Madison and Dane County. While some accidents happen suddenly, other conditions develop gradually after months or years of repetitive physical demands.
The workers’ comp attorneys at Hawks Quindel represent workers with many different types of work-related injuries and occupational illnesses, including:
- Back, neck, and spinal injuries
- Shoulder, knee, and joint injuries
- Repetitive stress injuries, including carpal tunnel syndrome
- Traumatic brain injuries and head injuries
- Fractures and crush injuries
- Burns and electrical injuries
- Occupational illnesses and toxic exposures
- Hearing loss and other cumulative trauma conditions
Not every injury results from a dramatic accident. Many workers develop disabling conditions after performing the same repetitive tasks for years or after repeated exposure to hazardous workplace conditions. Wisconsin workers' compensation law may provide benefits in those situations as well.
Workplace Injuries Can Affect Employees Across Madison's Economy
Madison is home to one of Wisconsin's most diverse economies. The work comp lawyers at Hawks Quindel represent workers employed in healthcare, higher education, biotechnology, manufacturing, construction, information technology, state government, hospitality, and many other industries. Regardless of where you work, a workplace injury can disrupt your health, income, and future career.
For example, a healthcare worker may suffer a serious lifting injury while assisting a patient. A construction worker may be injured in a fall from scaffolding. An office employee may develop repetitive stress injuries after years of computer work.
Although the circumstances differ, we believe each worker deserves a careful evaluation of their rights under Wisconsin's workers' compensation system.
What Should You Do After a Workplace Injury in Madison?
The actions you take in the hours and days following a workplace injury can significantly affect your workers' compensation claim. While every situation is different, there are several important steps that can help protect both your health and your legal rights.
- Report the injury promptly to your employer, even if it initially seems minor.
- Seek appropriate medical treatment and explain that the injury occurred while performing your job duties.
- Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations regarding treatment, work restrictions, and follow-up care.
- Document your symptoms and recovery, including any changes in your ability to perform your job.
- Consult our attorneys if your claim is denied, delayed, or disputed by the insurance company.
Taking these steps does not guarantee your claim will be approved, but they can help create a clearer record of how the injury occurred and how it has affected your ability to work.
Workers' Compensation Claims in Dane County Can Become More Complex Than Expected
Many workers expect the claims process to be straightforward. Unfortunately, disputes can arise even when an injury clearly occurred at work.
Insurance companies may question whether medical treatment is necessary, argue that a condition existed before the accident, rely on an independent medical examination (IME) that differs from your treating physician's opinion, or contend that you are able to return to work sooner than your doctor recommends.
These disagreements can quickly become stressful, especially when you are trying to recover physically while worrying about lost income and mounting medical bills.
The workers' compensation attorneys at Hawks Quindel help clients throughout Madison and Dane County resolve these challenges by gathering medical evidence, communicating with insurance carriers, preparing claims for hearings when necessary, and advocating for injured workers at every stage of the process.
Whether your case involves a straightforward injury or a complex dispute, obtaining knowledgeable legal guidance early can help you better understand your options and avoid mistakes that could affect your benefits.
Why Do Workers' Compensation Claims Get Denied?
Many injured workers assume that because Wisconsin has a no-fault workers' compensation system, benefits will be approved automatically after a workplace injury. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Insurance companies carefully review every claim and may deny or limit benefits for a variety of reasons.
Some of the most common disputes involve allegations that an injury was not work-related, disagreements about whether a medical condition existed before the accident, questions about the extent of an employee's disability, or conflicting medical opinions regarding when a worker can safely return to work.
One issue the attorneys at Hawks Quindel frequently encounter involves independent medical examinations, commonly known as IMEs. These evaluations are arranged by the workers' compensation insurance carrier and may produce conclusions that differ from those of your treating physician.
While an IME may become part of the evidence in your claim, it is not necessarily the final word. Understanding how these examinations work—and how they compare with opinions from your treating providers—can be critical when benefits are disputed.
Why Medical Evidence Can Make or Break Your Claim
Medical records are often the most important evidence in a workers' compensation case. They document not only your diagnosis, but also how your injury affects your ability to perform your job, what treatment you need, and whether you have permanent limitations.
Because of this, consistency in your medical care matters. Attending appointments, following treatment recommendations, and communicating openly with your healthcare providers can help ensure your records accurately reflect your condition.
According to Attorney William Parsons:
"The doctors, as I tell my clients, make or break the case. So be good to them, and avoid going to a medical provider that your employer recommends. Never do that. It's going to end badly for you."
Medical evidence often carries more weight than a worker's own description of their symptoms. When disputes arise, clear opinions from treating physicians regarding your work restrictions, prognosis, and functional limitations can play an important role in resolving the claim.
How Workers' Compensation May Affect Other Benefits
A serious workplace injury can create legal and financial issues that extend well beyond a workers' compensation claim. Some injured workers may also qualify for long term disability benefits, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) protections, or other employment-related benefits.
These programs do not always operate independently. In some situations, receiving one benefit may affect another through statutory offsets or policy provisions. Timing also matters. Applying for one benefit too early—or too late—may affect the amount ultimately available.
This is one of the reasons the attorneys at Hawks Quindel take a coordinated approach when representing injured workers.
"There's also a lot that goes into sequencing in those kinds of cases. We… coordinate the benefits so that they pay out the most because there are offsets between workers' compensation and Social Security… and long-term disability." ~ Attorney William Parsons, Hawks Quindel
Because our team represents clients in workers' compensation, disability, employment, and employee benefits matters, our attorneys can evaluate how these different systems interact and help develop a strategy that considers the whole picture rather than a single claim in isolation.
What Happens If Your Workers' Compensation Claim Is Disputed?
Not every workers' compensation disagreement can be resolved through discussions with the insurance company. When disputes arise over compensability, medical treatment, disability ratings, or ongoing benefits, additional legal proceedings may become necessary.
Depending on the issues involved, a disputed claim may require:
- Additional medical evaluations.
- Depositions of physicians or other witnesses.
- Mediation or settlement negotiations.
- Hearings before the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.
- Appeals before the Labor and Industry Review Commission (LIRC).
Although many claims are resolved before reaching a formal hearing, we prepare every case thoroughly from the beginning to put our clients in a stronger position during negotiations. If litigation becomes necessary, we are prepared to advocate for your interests throughout the administrative process.
We are Proudly Representing Injured Workers Throughout Madison and Dane County
From the Capitol Square to neighborhoods throughout Madison and surrounding communities, the attorneys at Hawks Quindel proudly represent injured workers across Dane County. We regularly assist clients from Middleton, Fitchburg, Sun Prairie, Monona, Verona, Waunakee, McFarland, Stoughton, and communities throughout South Central Wisconsin.
Our Madison office represents workers employed in healthcare, education, construction, manufacturing, government, technology, transportation, hospitality, retail, and many other industries. No matter where you work, you deserve experienced legal guidance when a workplace injury threatens your health and financial security.
Frequently Asked Questions About Madison Workers’ Compensation Claims
Can I choose my own doctor for a workers' compensation injury?
Wisconsin law gives injured workers important rights regarding medical treatment. Depending on your circumstances, you may have the right to select your own treating physician rather than relying solely on a provider chosen by the insurance company or employer. Understanding those rights early can affect both your medical care and your claim.
What happens if no one witnessed my workplace accident?
A lack of witnesses does not automatically prevent you from receiving workers' compensation benefits. Medical records, prompt reporting, workplace documentation, and other evidence may help establish how the injury occurred.
Will I have to attend an independent medical examination?
Possibly. Insurance companies frequently request IMEs when evaluating disputed claims. Because the physician conducting the examination is selected by the insurer, it is important to understand the purpose of the examination and how it may affect your case.
Should I hire a lawyer if my benefits have not been denied yet?
Many workers can benefit from speaking with our attorneys before significant problems arise. Early legal guidance can help you understand your rights, avoid common mistakes, and respond appropriately if questions or disputes develop during the claims process.
Speak With a Madison Workers' Compensation Lawyer at Hawks Quindel Today
A workplace injury can affect nearly every part of your life—from your health and ability to earn a living to your family's financial security. While Wisconsin's workers' compensation system exists to protect injured employees, obtaining the full benefits you deserve is not always easy.
The workers’ comp attorneys at Hawks Quindel have spent more than six decades standing up for Wisconsin workers. Whether you are filing an initial claim, responding to an insurance company dispute, preparing for an independent medical examination, or appealing a denied claim, our team is ready to help you understand your rights and pursue the benefits available under Wisconsin law.
Contact Hawks Quindel today by calling our Madison office at (608) 257-0040 or fill out our confidential contact form to discuss your workers' compensation claim.