Experienced legal services in Southern, Southwest, and Central Ohio.

Spears & Marinakis, LLC, provides comprehensive legal services across Southwest Ohio, Central Ohio, Southern Ohio, and the surrounding tri-state areas. Our focus spans workers' compensation, personal injury, social security disability, estates and wills, and real estate matters.

Over 70 years of service with rootsSouthern Ohio.

Thousands of successful claims handled.

Experienced in multiple legal areas.

Over 70 years of service with rootsSouthern Ohio. Thousands of successful claims handled. Experienced in multiple legal areas.

Commitment to excellence and personalized services.

We pride ourselves on our deep understanding across multiple legal areas. Supported by decades of combined experience and a robust knowledge of Ohio law, our attorneys are dedicated to achieving successful results for our clients.

  • Our firm has a significant focus on Workers' Compensation law in Ohio. We expertly handle claims that arise from workplace injuries, including those involving third-party negligence. Our extensive experience allows us to navigate complex cases effectively, ensuring that injured workers receive the compensation and care they deserve.

  • Personal injury law is a critical area of our practice, especially when workplace accidents involve third-party liability. We represent clients injured due to others' negligence, from auto accidents to slip and fall incidents, ensuring they receive just compensation for their injuries and losses.

  • We provide comprehensive support in applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Our attorneys understand the complexities of the system and guide clients through the process, from initial applications to appeals, helping them secure their rightful benefits.

  • For clients who do not qualify for SSDI due to insufficient work credits, we offer assistance with Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims. Our firm helps individuals establish eligibility and navigate the claims process to obtain financial support and medical benefits.

  • Our expertise extends to estate planning, including the drafting of wills and managing estate proceedings. We ensure that our clients’ final wishes are honored and that their estates are managed efficiently, reducing the burden on their loved ones.

  • Our legal services include handling deeds—ensuring clear, legally binding transfer of property ownership. Whether it’s drafting new deeds or resolving issues with existing ones, our firm stands ready to assist with all real estate transfer needs.

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    Personal attention

    Every case is given meticulous attention, ensuring a comprehensive examination of all relevant details.

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    Client interests first

    We prioritize your needs, tailoring our strategies and approach with your best interests in mind.

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    Stress reduction

    Our team manages complex legalities, significantly reducing the stress you experience during legal proceedings.

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    Strong representation

    With decades of practice, we know how to navigate the challenges of the legal system to achieve the best outcomes.

Dedicated service in your community.

With offices located in Ironton, Portsmouth, and Waverly, we ensure comprehensive coverage and accessibility for all our clients in these regions. Our local presence and knowledge of regional legal environments enable us to effectively advocate for our clients' rights and interests across a wide geographic area.

Workers Comp Lawyer Coal Grove Ohio | Compassionate Support for Injured Workers

Injuries at work can leave you feeling lost and uncertain. The pain, the missed days, the worry about how to pay your bills—it’s a heavy burden to carry. If you’re searching for a workers comp lawyer Coal Grove Ohio, you’re not just looking for help with paperwork. You need someone who truly cares about your well-being.

An experienced attorney can help ease this stress, making sure you get the benefits you need to focus on recovery. Take a moment to learn how working with a compassionate attorney gives you clear guidance and helps you avoid costly mistakes.

Overview of Ohio’s Workers’ Compensation Laws

Ohio’s workers’ compensation system is a no-fault insurance program set by state law. It provides medical care and wage replacement for employees who are hurt or become ill because of their job. Almost every employer in Ohio, including those in Coal Grove, must carry this insurance for their workers.

If you are hurt at work, you do not have to prove your employer was at fault to get benefits. However, you generally cannot sue your employer for negligence—your claim must go through the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) or the Industrial Commission (IC).

To be eligible, your injury or illness must:

  • Occur while performing job duties, or
  • Be a direct result of your work.

Some exceptions apply. For example, injuries from fighting, violating company policy, being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or self-inflicted harm are not covered. Independent contractors, some self-employed people, and certain family farm workers may also be excluded unless they opt in.

Types of Benefits Available

  • Medical care: All necessary treatment, prescriptions, and rehabilitation related to your injury.
  • Temporary total disability (TTD): Partial wage replacement if you cannot work for more than seven days. For the first 12 weeks, you receive 72% of your full weekly wage; after 12 weeks, this drops to 66% of your average weekly wage.
  • Permanent partial disability (PPD): Benefits if you have a lasting impairment but can still work in some way.
  • Permanent total disability (PTD): Lifetime benefits if you cannot return to any work due to your injury.
  • Wage loss: Payments if you return to work but earn less because of your injury.
  • Scheduled loss: One-time payments for permanent loss of use of a body part.

Common Workplace Injuries and What’s Covered

In 2023, Ohio employers reported over 84,000 nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses. The most common include:

  • Slips, trips, and falls: Nearly one-third of lost-time claims.
  • Overexertion: Common in warehouses, factories, and healthcare.
  • Auto accidents and machinery incidents: Especially for driving or equipment jobs.
  • Repetitive motion injuries: Like carpal tunnel from typing.
  • Toxic exposure: Illness from chemicals, fumes, or dust.

What Should You Do After a Workplace Injury in Coal Grove, Ohio?

  • Get medical help right away.
  • Report the injury to your employer promptly.
  • Document everything: Dates, witnesses, records, and communication.
  • File a First Report of Injury (FROI) with the BWC or MCO.
  • Follow your doctor’s instructions and attend all appointments.
  • Stay in touch with your employer and the BWC.

In Ohio, you usually have one year from the date of injury to file a claim. Sooner is better.

Common Reasons for Workers’ Compensation Claim Denials or Delays in Ohio

  • Missed Deadlines: Claims must be filed within one year.
  • Incomplete Paperwork: Missing or inaccurate forms can lead to denial.
  • Disputed Employment Status: Only employees are covered.
  • Pre-Existing Conditions: Must prove work worsened or caused the issue.
  • Injury Not Work-Related: Lack of witnesses or unclear details can hurt your claim.

Strategies for Appealing Denied Claims

  1. File an Appeal: Within 14 days of denial notice.
  2. District Hearing Officer (DHO): Hearing usually within 45 days.
  3. Staff Hearing Officer (SHO): Appeal within 14 days if denied again.
  4. Industrial Commission Review: May or may not be granted.
  5. Court Appeal: File in the Ohio Court of Common Pleas within 60 days if all else fails.

How a Coal Grove Workers Comp Lawyer Can Help Overcome Obstacles

  • Paperwork and Deadlines: Correct and timely filing.
  • Gathering Evidence: Medical records, witnesses, and documents.
  • Dealing with Employer Disputes: Legal arguments and representation.
  • Preparing for Hearings: Guidance and cross-examination support.
  • Appeals: Navigating every step with a strong case.
  • Maximizing Benefits: Ensuring you receive all you are entitled to.

Has Your Employer Questioned Your Work Injury? Contact Our Workers Comp Lawyer Now!

Facing questions from your employer about your work injury can be stressful and confusing. Spears & Marinakis, LLC is ready to stand by your side and help you secure the benefits you deserve. Serving Southwest Ohio, Central Ohio, Southern Ohio, and the tri-state area.

Why Work With Us?

  • Thousands of successful claims managed
  • Over 70 years of service rooted in Southern Ohio
  • Deep experience in multiple legal fields
  • Commitment to personalized service and excellence

We also provide services like:

  • Personal Injury
  • Social Security Disability
  • Supplemental Security Income
  • Estates and Wills
  • Deeds and Real Estate

Contact us today to connect with a workers comp lawyer who will fight for your rights and guide you every step of the way.

About Coal Grove, Ohio and Its Community

Coal Grove is a welcoming village in Lawrence County, Ohio, nestled along the banks of the Ohio River. With a population of around 1,889 as of the 2020 census, Coal Grove offers a small-town feel while being closely connected to larger communities nearby.

The village borders the city of Ironton to the north and sits just across the river from Ashland, Kentucky, connected by the Ben Williamson and Simeon Willis Memorial Bridges. This location places Coal Grove within the Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH Metropolitan Statistical Area, making it part of a vibrant tri-state region.

Community and Neighborhoods

Coal Grove is known for its friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community. The village is managed by a mayor and council, and local events often bring neighbors together. The Dawson-Bryant Local School District serves the area, with schools named after local World War I veterans, reflecting the community’s pride in its history.

Nearby neighborhoods and towns include:

  • Ironton, Ohio (about 3 miles northwest)
  • Ashland, Kentucky (less than 2 miles south)
  • Westwood, Kentucky (about 2 miles southwest)
  • Russell, Kentucky (about 3 miles west)
  • South Point, Ohio (about 7 miles southeast)

Life in Coal Grove

Residents enjoy a mix of quiet residential streets and easy access to larger towns. The median age is around 44, and most people own their homes. The village has a high rate of homeownership and a strong tradition of families living in the area for generations. Local schools, parks, and a new community building provide gathering spaces for events and activities.

Contact us today for a free consultation.

Whether you’re dealing with a new legal issue or require ongoing support, our team is prepared to help you secure the best possible outcomes for your case.

Fill out our online form or give us a call at 740-532-6913 to get started.