Workers’ Compensation provides cash and medical benefits to people injured at work. This includes occupational diseases — illnesses, diseases, or conditions caused by work such as repetitive motion injuries, exposure to chemicals or fumes, and back problems caused by repeated lifting. Most on-the-job injuries are covered regardless of who was at fault.
Our practice is dedicated exclusively to representing injured workers before the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board. Our role is to help you receive all the benefits you’re entitled to, guide you through the complexities of the Workers’ Compensation system, and advocate for you both in and out of the courtroom. By working closely with you and keeping you informed, our goal is to help your case proceed as smoothly as possible—reducing the need for frequent court appearances.
Attorney Christopher “Kip” Wilson
I have over 20 years of experience representing injured workers before the Workers’ Compensation Board.
I grew up in Syracuse. I received his BA in Chemistry from Wesleyan University in 1996 and a MS in Chemistry in 1997. I graduated from Cornell Law School in 2001. After Law School, I worked as an Assistant District Attorney in the Manhattan District Attorney’s office.
For the past 20+ years I have lived in Oneonta, NY with a practice focusing on assisting injured workers navigate the Workers’ Compensation system.
Why You Should Hire Us To Represent You
Individualized Attention
At many law firms, clients are treated like case numbers—and rarely speak to an actual attorney. At Rothermel & Wilson, PLLC, that’s not how we operate. I make it a priority to meet with every new client face-to-face, so we can build trust and understanding from day one.
Unlike firms where your case is mostly handled by paralegals, I personally oversee the majority of my clients’ claims. If you ever have questions or want to talk, you’re welcome to email me directly or call to schedule a phone or in-office appointment. You deserve real access to your attorney—and that’s exactly what you’ll get here.
Better Prepared
Whenever a hearing is scheduled in your case, I personally prepare every detail. I’ll provide you with a clear letter explanation outlining the issues to be addressed, what to expect during the hearing, and the steps we need to take to be fully prepared.
I make it a priority to speak with or meet each client well before the hearing date. If you’re scheduled to testify, I’ll meet with you face-to-face to walk you through the process and make sure you’re fully prepared and confident. You won’t face this alone—I’ll be with you every step of the way.
Fighting Harder For You
At Rothermel & Wilson, PLLC, we don’t back down. We fight with unwavering dedication, skill, and integrity to protect our clients’ rights. From the very start of your workers’ compensation claim, our mission is clear: to secure the maximum compensation you deserve. We’ll help get your medical treatment approved, navigate the complexities of the workers’ compensation system, and stand by your side—every step of the way. Your fight is our fight, and we’re in it to win.
How Are Attorneys Paid?
Attorneys’ in NY Workers’ Compensation claims are paid on a contingency fee basis. This means that there will only be a fee if there is money moving to you. Fees for NYS Comp are set by statute at 15% of any retroactive or lump sum payment, 1/3 of a single weeks payments if there is a hearing, or 15 weeks of benefits when you are found to have a permanent disability, payable at some small amount per week. All fees must be approved by a Workers’ Compensation Law Judge. Although fees come out of your award, they are paid directly by the insurance company, so you never pay directly. Clients are responsible for the cost “out of pocket disbursements,” such as cost obtaining of medical records.