Business Details
31 Years
experience
Your Trusted Workers' Compensation Legal Team in Santa Rosa
Kneisler & Schondel has been dedicated to advocating for injured workers in California since 1995. Founded by Matthew A. Schondel, a certified specialist in workers' compensation law with over 31 years of experience, our firm combines deep legal expertise with a commitment to client-centered representation. We specialize in navigating the complexities of workers' compensation claims, including denied claims, disability benefits, and qualified medical evaluations.Our team prioritizes transparency, personalized guidance, and proactive communication to ensure clients understand their rights and receive the full benefits they deserve. With offices in Santa Rosa and serving Northern California, we provide tailored legal solutions to help injured workers secure fair compensation and medical care.
Services
Workers' Compensation
Denied Claim Appeals
Disability Benefits
QME Help
Third-Party Claims
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- Certified Specialist in Workers' Compensation Law by the State Bar of California
- Over 31 years of experience handling complex workers' comp cases
- Personalized legal strategies tailored to each client's unique needs
- Proven track record of successfully appealing denied claims
- Comprehensive support through every step of the claims process
Associations and certifications
- California Board of Legal Specialization
What people say
Experienced WC attorney
Kept me updated
Timely communication
Secured needed treatments
Helped with denied claims
Services
Workers' Compensation
We specialize in representing injured workers to secure medical treatment, disability benefits, and compensation for workplace injuries. Our team ensures compliance with California's complex workers' compensation laws while advocating for clients' rights. With decades of experience, we handle all aspects of claims, from initial filings to appeals, ensuring clients receive fair treatment and maximum benefits.
Denied Claim Appeals
When insurance companies deny valid claims, we fight to reverse decisions through legal appeals. Our attorneys leverage deep knowledge of workers' compensation law to challenge denials based on insufficient evidence or misinterpretation of policy. We prepare compelling cases with medical documentation and legal arguments to secure the benefits clients deserve.
Disability Benefits
We guide clients through securing temporary and permanent disability benefits after workplace injuries. Our team ensures accurate documentation of medical impairments and calculates fair compensation based on California's rating systems. We negotiate with insurers to maximize benefits while protecting clients' rights to ongoing support and medical care.
QME Help
Navigating qualified medical evaluator (QME) processes requires expertise to avoid biased outcomes. We assist clients in selecting impartial QMEs and prepare them for evaluations to ensure accurate assessments of work-related injuries. Our goal is to prevent insurers from exploiting the process to minimize benefits while safeguarding clients' medical and financial interests.
Third-Party Claims
When workplace injuries involve third parties, we explore additional legal avenues beyond workers' compensation. Our attorneys identify liable parties, such as equipment manufacturers or contractors, and pursue personal injury claims to recover full damages. This includes compensation for pain, suffering, and losses not covered by standard workers' comp benefits.
People
Matthew A. Schondel
Attorney
Matthew A. Schondel is a certified workers' compensation specialist with over 31 years of experience. A former San Diego police officer, he founded Kneisler & Schondel in 1995 to advocate for injured workers. He holds a law degree from Western State University College of Law and is a member of the California Applicants Attorneys Association.
Grisel Sandoval
Case Manager
Grisel Sandoval has served as Office Manager and Legal Assistant at Kneisler & Schondel since 2003. She specializes in case management and supports Spanish-speaking clients. Grisel graduated from Empire College with an Associates Degree in Legal Office Administration and brings a client-focused approach to her role.
Joe Arcangelini
Paralegal
Joe Arcangelini has been a workers' compensation paralegal since 1994 and joined Kneisler & Schondel in 1999. He assists clients with navigating the workers' comp system and preparing for hearings. Joe graduated from College of the Redwoods with a certificate in Paralegal Studies and brings decades of hands-on experience to his role.
Questions
What are the attorney fees for workers' compensation cases?
Fees are typically 9-15% of the settlement or award, contingent on recovery. No fees if we don't win.
How can I handle a denied workers' comp claim?
We'll appeal the decision, challenge insurer arguments, and present evidence to secure your benefits.
What should I do if the insurance company delays my claim?
Apply for State Disability Insurance benefits immediately and contact us to expedite your case.
How does the QME process work?
If disputes arise, we'll help you select a qualified medical examiner within 10 days to avoid insurer-favorable choices.
Can I sue my employer for a work-related injury?
Most cases are handled through workers' comp, but third-party claims may be possible for external negligence.
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