Virginia’s Go To Lawyers – Workers’ Comp Law: Michele S. Lewane

Michele S. Lewane
Injured Workers Law Firm
Richmond

Education

BA, University of Virginia
JD, University of Richmond, T.C. Williams School of Law

Best known for:

I only represent claimants in workers’ compensation claims

Signature case:

I handle many catastrophic injury cases. Recently, I have handled several COVID-19 cases which are hotly contested. I settled a COVID-19 case for $390,000 where a nurse contracted COVID and suffered hypoxic brain injury.

Most satisfying:

The workers’ compensation system is sometimes flawed and is complicated for an injured worker. Helping individuals through this process is extremely rewarding, since I am making a positive difference in their lives.

Working with clients:

I believe that an educated client is the best and happiest client. I wrote a book called “The Ultimate Guide to Workers Compensation in Virginia”. It is not for lawyers, but to help all injured workers navigate the workers compensation system. While I still advise them specifically about the issues in their case, it helps them understand many workers compensation issues before they actually occur in their case, so they are better prepared when it does happen to them.

What is the best career advice you’ve received?

Love what you do for your career, then it will never feel like work. I have been blessed that I love my job.

Looking ahead:

Recently, the legislature passed a law covering health care workers and first responders to receive workers’ compensation benefits if they are disabled or die due to COVID-19. The law covers the time period from March 12, 2020, until Dec. 31, 2021. However, the bill did not become law until July 1, 2021. Since this makes the law retroactive, I believe many insurance carriers will be litigating its constitutionality.