Dallas, GA Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Based in Dallas, we represent injured workers across Paulding County, Hiram, Acworth, and West Georgia with experienced, hands-on workers’ compensation advocacy.
A Workers' Comp Attorney Who Knows How the Other Side Thinks
Attorney David Garner has spent more than 25 years guiding injured employees through Georgia workers' compensation law, from the first report of injury to final settlement. A substantial portion of that time was spent on the defense side — representing one of Georgia's largest workers' compensation defense firms — which means he knows exactly how insurers evaluate claims and where they look for reasons to pay less. He also serves as the Secretary of the Georgia Legal Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides legal assistance and Amicus support for other workers' compensation lawyers appearing before Georgia's Court of Appeals and Supreme Court.
As a workers' compensation lawyer Dallas GA workers trust, he understands how a job-related accident can affect your health, paycheck, and family. Our firm focuses on helping you secure medical care, wage benefits, and stability while you recover, whether your injury happened in a warehouse near Paulding's industrial parks, at a restaurant or store, on a construction site, or in an office building. When you need a Dallas workers comp attorney who knows the local employers, doctors, and courts, Garner Law Office is ready to stand in your corner.
Credentials That Set This Firm Apart
Member, Georgia Injured Workers Advocates (GIWA)
Member, Georgia Trial Lawyers Association (GTLA)
Member, Georgia Injured Workers Advocates (GIWA)
Secretary, Georgia Legal Foundation — providing Amicus support for workers' comp attorneys before Georgia's Court of Appeals and Supreme Court
Former defense counsel for one of Georgia's largest workers' compensation defense firms
25+ years representing injured workers in Paulding County and across West Georgia
Hear From Our Clients
Comprehensive Workers’ Compensation Services
01
Types of Work Injuries Covered
From sudden accidents like falls, equipment injuries, and vehicle crashes to repetitive stress and occupational disease, Georgia workers’ compensation can cover a wide range of on-the-job harm. We help injured workers in Dallas, Hiram, and surrounding communities understand whether their specific injury is covered and how to document it properly.
02
Workers’ Compensation Benefits Explained
Many people are unsure what benefits they can receive after a work injury, including medical treatment, weekly wage checks, and permanent disability payments. We break down Georgia workers compensation benefits in clear terms so you know what to expect and what an insurance company should be paying you.
03
Deadlines, Statutes, and Claim Filing
Missing a deadline can cost you your entire claim, which is why it’s critical to understand Georgia’s strict reporting and filing rules. We guide you through every step, from notifying your employer to submitting the WC-14 form and responding to denials.
04
Returning to Work After an Injury
Going back on light duty or full duty after time off can affect your weekly workers’ comp checks and long-term recovery. We advise you on job offers, work restrictions, and whether a proposed position is suitable under Georgia law so you don’t accidentally jeopardize your benefits.
05
Firing, Retaliation, and Job Protection Concerns
It is natural to worry that filing a claim could put your job at risk. We explain how Georgia’s at-will employment rules interact with workers’ comp protections and what to do if you suspect retaliation.
What We've Recovered for Injured Workers
See our case results for a full record of outcomes.
$285,000
trucking accident recovery
$150,000
workers' compensation eye injury
$215,000
negligent third-party injury to the knee
$125,000
workers' compensation bilateral hand injury
What to Expect in a Georgia Workers’ Comp Claim
A workers’ compensation case in Georgia follows a structured process, but small mistakes can have big consequences. Our goal is to guide you through each step clearly so you know what to do, when to do it, and how we can help protect your rights along the way.
- First,
report your injury within 30 days to a supervisor or designated manager, ideally in writing, so there is no dispute later about when and how you were hurt.
- Next, seek medical treatment from a doctor on your employer’s posted panel of physicians and tell every provider that your condition is work-related.
- Then,
file a claim within one year of the date of injury or last authorized treatment to preserve your right to workers’ compensation benefits in Georgia.
- Throughout the process, keep copies of wage records, medical bills, and communication from the insurance company so we can build a strong evidentiary record.
- If you receive a denial, low-ball offer, or pressure to return to work before you are ready, we step in to negotiate, request hearings, and present your case to the State Board.
- At every stage,
if you're worried about retaliation or feel your employer is treating you differently because you filed a claim, we help you understand your options and document what is happening.
- For some injuries caused by third parties, we may also evaluate related
personal injury cases to pursue compensation beyond workers’ comp benefits.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Common Questions About Georgia Workers' Compensation
Do I need a lawyer for my workers' compensation claim in Georgia?
You are not legally required to hire an attorney, but the insurance company will have experienced professionals working to limit what they pay. A workers' comp attorney can help you understand your rights, document your injury properly, and push back against denials or premature benefit cutoffs. For injured workers with serious injuries or disputed claims, legal representation consistently produces better outcomes. A free consultation can help you decide whether you can safely handle the claim on your own.
How long do I have to report a work injury in Georgia?
In most cases, you must report your injury to your employer within 30 days of the accident or from the date you realized your condition is work-related. You also generally have one year from the date of injury or last authorized medical treatment to file a formal claim with the State Board of Workers' Compensation. Because these deadlines are strict and missing them can cost you the entire claim, speak with an attorney as early as possible.
What benefits can I receive under Georgia workers' compensation?
Georgia workers' compensation can cover all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your work injury, including doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, and surgery. If you cannot work, you may receive weekly wage benefits — temporary total disability (TTD) or temporary partial disability (TPD). A lasting impairment may entitle you to permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits. If a worker dies from a job-related injury, certain family members may qualify for death benefits and funeral expenses.
Can I choose my own doctor for a work injury in Georgia?
Under Georgia workers' compensation law, your employer must post a panel of physicians. In most cases, you must choose a doctor from that panel for treatment to be covered, though you may switch once within the panel if you are dissatisfied with your first choice. If no valid panel is posted or the employer failed to follow the rules, you may have more freedom in selecting your own provider. An attorney can review your situation and determine whether your employer complied with the law.
Will my job be protected while I'm on workers' comp?
Georgia is an at-will employment state, and employers can generally terminate employees for many reasons. However, it is unlawful for an employer to fire or retaliate against you solely because you filed a legitimate workers' compensation claim. Timing, documentation, and the stated reason for termination all matter in these situations. If you are concerned about your job security after filing a claim, get legal advice before making any major decisions.
Where are workers' compensation hearings held for Paulding County cases?
Workers' compensation hearings for Paulding County claimants are typically conducted through the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation. Depending on the nature of the hearing, proceedings may take place at the State Board's offices or via remote appearance. David Garner is familiar with the State Board process and regularly represents Paulding County workers through every stage — from initial filings to contested hearings and appeals.
More Ways Our Firm Can Help
1. Personal Injury
If your work accident involved a negligent driver, unsafe property, or defective product, you may have a personal injury claim in addition to workers’ compensation. We evaluate these cases carefully to help injured people pursue full compensation for pain, suffering, and future losses.
2. Wrongful Death
When a job-related incident leads to the tragic loss of a loved one, families may face both workers’ compensation issues and potential wrongful death claims. Our firm provides compassionate guidance while protecting your right to financial support under Georgia law.
3. DUI & Criminal Defense
Some injuries and employment issues intersect with criminal charges, such as DUI or traffic offenses that occur while driving for work. We offer experienced defense representation to help protect your record, license, and future opportunities.
Ready to Talk About Your Work Injury?
We proudly represent injured workers in Dallas, Hiram, Acworth, Carrollton, Douglasville, Marietta, Cartersville, Rome, Paulding County, and communities across West Georgia who need clear answers and strong advocacy. If you have questions about workers’ compensation Georgia law or want a Dallas workers’ compensation attorney to review your claim, we are here to help.