Injured at work? Get the benefits you're owed.
When you're hurt on the job, the insurance company already has adjusters and lawyers working to limit your claim. The Law Office of Michael Yap makes sure you have someone working just as hard for you — for your medical care, your lost wages, and a fair settlement.
How a workers' comp claim actually works
Four steps, in plain language. We handle the parts that trip people up — so a missed deadline or a wrong form never costs you your benefits.
Report the injury
Tell your employer in writing within 30 days. We make sure it's documented correctly from day one.
Get medical care
You're entitled to treatment. We help you reach the right doctors and avoid the insurer's delays.
File the claim
We prepare the DWC-1 and the paperwork so nothing important gets missed or denied on a technicality.
Resolve or appeal
We negotiate a fair settlement — or take a denial to trial before the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board.
What we handle
Every kind of California work injury — from a single accident to years of cumulative strain.
Workers' Compensation
The full claim, start to finish, for injured workers across San Diego.
InjuriesWorkplace Injuries
Back, neck, head, and injuries from unsafe conditions on the job.
Job sitesConstruction Accidents
Falls, equipment, and serious site injuries, including third-party claims.
Long-termCumulative Trauma
Repetitive-strain and continuous-trauma injuries that build over time.
MaritimeLongshore & Harbor Claims
Federal longshore claims for dock, shipyard, and harbor workers.
DisputesDenied & Delayed Claims
Told no, lowballed, or stalled? That's exactly when we step in.
An advocate who only represents workers.
Only injured workers
We never represent insurance companies or employers. Your side is the only side we're on.
At our best when you've been told no
A denied claim, delayed treatment, or a lowball offer is exactly where our work matters most.
Plain language, in English or Spanish
You'll always know where your case stands and what happens next — no jargon, no runaround.
The workers' comp system is built to minimize what it pays. You deserve someone who knows how to push back.
What injured workers ask first
What should I do right after a work injury?
Report it to your employer in writing as soon as you can, get medical attention, and keep records of everything. Then talk to an attorney before you sign anything from the insurance company — early mistakes are the hardest to undo.
Can I choose my own doctor?
In many cases, yes — and the right doctor makes an enormous difference to your treatment and your claim. We help you navigate medical provider networks, predesignation, and second opinions.
What if my claim was denied?
A denial is not the end of your case. We can appeal and present your claim before the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB), where many denials are overturned.
How much does a workers' comp lawyer cost?
Nothing up front. In California, workers' compensation attorney fees are set by the state and paid only out of a recovery — so there's no out-of-pocket cost to you to have us on your side.
Talk to a workers' comp attorney today.
Free consultation. No fee unless we recover for you.
Request a free consultation