Legislation drafted with the help of Levinson Axelrod, P.A. Partner Richard J. Marcolus was recently signed into law. Senate, No. 2145, referred to as the Voluntary Tender Bill, was signed by Governor Phil Murphy in October.
The amendment to the New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Act helps workers who suffer injuries and illnesses on the job retain legal counsel without the interference of insurance companies. It revokes benefits afforded to worker’s comp insurers which previously allowed them to undermine injured workers’ ability to obtain representation, and puts an end to an unfair practice. Rich helped draft the bill and testified in Trenton, NJ in support of the new law.
Though this is a victory many would be satisfied to have been a part of, Attorney Marcolus is continuing his efforts to prompt more needed changes to New Jersey’s workers’ compensation laws. Rich’s next goal is to rally support and have Governor Murphy sign the Hand and Foot Bill (S-782). Should it become law, the measure would significantly increase compensation benefits for injured workers who suffer serious hand and foot injuries. The bill would also require a study to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of the state’s workers’ comp system. Rich testified before the Senate and Assembly Labor Committees in support of the Hand and Foot Bill.
A former carpenter, union worker (and current member), and a Board Certified Workers’ Compensation Lawyer by the Supreme Court of New Jersey, Attorney Rich Marcolus has dedicated his professional life to supporting fellow laborers and protecting their rights in a complex and unfamiliar legal process. His work throughout the years has enabled our team to recover millions of dollars in compensation for clients, including Levinson Axelrod, P.A.’s recovery of more than $350 million in verdicts and settlements within the past 5 years alone.
In addition to fighting on behalf of injured workers and families in a range of workers’ compensation cases, Rich is also actively involved in drafting and supporting important legislative measures that expand the rights of workers and bring desperately needed changes to the New Jersey workers’ comp system. This includes other laws Rich is currently working on, including the Canzanella First Responders Bill, the Special Adjustment Bill, and the Collection Practices Bill.
Rich’s passion for helping his clients and their families is matched only by his desire to improve the lives of all workers in New Jersey, and to ensure our laws reflect the importance of prioritizing hard-working men and women rather than powerful corporations and insurance companies. You can learn more about our workers’ compensation services on our website, or learn more about your rights and potential case by calling (732) 440-3089 for a free consultation.