In the past, it was common for workers who had sustained a job-related illness or injury to initiate the workers' compensation claim process on their own, without additional legal guidance or advice. However, today, this situation has changed significantly, and it is increasingly common for injured workers to contract the services of a workers' compensation lawyer soon after sustaining an on-the-job illness or injury. In part, this is due to the growing complexity of the workers' compensation claims process in many states. In addition, it is now widely recognized that workers who are represented by a qualified workers' compensation lawyer often have better luck when it comes to reaching a speedy resolution of their case and receiving a suitable and timely financial settlement. Because more workers' compensation lawyers are now taking cases on a contingency basis, this option is increasingly available even to those of limited means. Check with your union or a local workers' rights organization to find out more about qualified workers' compensation lawyers in your area.