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Michigan Workers' Compensation Attorneys

At DearLegal, we connect you with experienced Michigan workers' comp attorneys who handle claims before the Michigan Workers' Disability Compensation Agency. From the Big Three auto plants and tier-one suppliers in Detroit, Flint, Lansing, and Saginaw, to manufacturing across western Michigan, to healthcare and trades statewide, we'll match you with the right attorney at no cost to get started.

Notice to the employer within 90 days under MCL 418.381, and the formal application must be filed within 2 years of injury or worker's knowledge that the condition was work-related.
The employer for the first 28 days under MCL 418.315. After 28 days, the worker can switch to a physician of their own choice with notice to the employer.
Michigan workers' comp attorney fees are governed by Agency rule and Magistrate approval — typically around 30% on contested past-due benefits and a lower percentage on ongoing benefits, with statutory caps. Third-party tort claims run on standard 33%–40% contingency outside the comp system.
Generally no — exclusive remedy under MCL 418.131. Narrow exception for intentional torts under § 131(1) ('specific intent to injure'). Third-party claims against non-employers are not barred.
Michigan calculates TTD as 80% of after-tax average weekly wage under MCL 418.371, not 66 2/3% of gross like most states. The math is more favorable to high-tax brackets but capped at 90% of the state AWW. Many workers end up with a higher net check than they'd get under a 66 2/3% gross rule.
Medical treatment, weekly wage-loss benefits at 80% of after-tax AWW, specific-loss benefits for amputation and loss of use, vocational rehabilitation, and death benefits.
Michigan recognizes a retaliation claim under MCL 418.301(13) for terminating an employee for filing a workers' comp claim. Damages outside comp can include back pay and reinstatement.

Why Do You Need a Workers' Compensation Attorney in Michigan?

Michigan's Worker's Disability Compensation Act (MCL 418.101 et seq.) is administered by the Workers' Disability Compensation Agency. Michigan pays 80% of after-tax average weekly wages under MCL 418.371 — higher net than most states' 66 2/3% of gross. The employer picks the treating physician for the first 28 days under § 418.315, after which the worker can switch. Michigan's auto industry (Ford, GM, Stellantis, plus tier-one suppliers like Magna, Lear, Adient) drives an enormous claim volume — particularly cumulative-trauma and ergonomic injuries from assembly-line work. Attorney fees are governed by Agency rule. An experienced Michigan attorney secures the right wage rate, contests authorized-care releases at day 29, and preserves third-party claims.

When Do You Need a Workers' Compensation Attorney in Michigan?

Our network includes Michigan workers' compensation attorneys who handle every kind of case, including:

Types of Workers' Compensation Cases in Michigan

From the moment you connect with a Michigan workers' compensation attorney, they go to work protecting your claim. The most common case types we handle:

Missing the 90-day notice or 2-year filing deadline under § 418.381
Staying with the employer's doctor past day 28 when you can switch under § 418.315
Accepting an 80%-after-tax wage rate without auditing the math (dependency exemptions, tax brackets)
Settling before reaching MMI and addressing future medical needs
Refusing reasonable light-duty without medical documentation
Missing a § 418.827 third-party claim against equipment makers, contractors, or at-fault drivers

Common Michigan Workers' Compensation Mistakes

Even a small misstep can hurt your case. Here’s what to avoid:

How Much Do Michigan Workers' Compensation Attorneys Cost?

30%

Typical starting contingency fee — you pay nothing unless your attorney recovers compensation for you.

Michigan workers' comp attorney fees are governed by Workers' Disability Compensation Agency rule and Magistrate approval — typically around 30% on contested past-due benefits and a lower percentage on ongoing weekly benefits, with statutory caps. Third-party tort claims (motor vehicle, product liability, contractor) run outside the comp system on standard 33%–40% personal-injury contingency.

What Can Your Michigan Workers' Compensation Compensation Include?

Medical Benefits
Reasonable and necessary medical treatment under MCL 418.315, including future medical when needed for the work injury.
Wage-Loss Benefits (TTD/TPD)
80% of after-tax average weekly wage under MCL 418.371, capped at 90% of the state AWW.
Specific Loss Benefits
Scheduled benefits under MCL 418.361 for amputation and total loss of use of body parts, paid for fixed weeks regardless of return to work.
Total and Permanent Disability
Lifetime wage-loss benefits for the specific conditions listed in MCL 418.361(3) (loss of both hands, loss of both legs, etc.) or for total industrial disability.
Vocational Rehabilitation
Available under MCL 418.319 for workers unable to return to their previous job.
Death Benefits
Weekly benefits to surviving spouse and dependents under MCL 418.321, plus burial expenses.
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