Permanent Disability
Attorney in California

Maximum compensation for permanent impairment ratings. Our experienced attorneys have recovered over $150 million for injured workers and accident victims across California. Free consultation — no fee unless we win.

What You Need to Know About Permanent Disability

If you've suffered a permanent disability injury, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, permanent disability, and more. California law protects injured workers, but insurance companies routinely deny or undervalue legitimate claims.

At Nordanyan Law, we specialize in fighting for the maximum compensation our clients deserve. With a 99.9% win rate and over $150 million recovered, we have the experience and track record to handle even the most complex cases.

“Every injured worker deserves the same quality of legal representation as any corporation. That is the principle this firm was built on.”

How We Help

From the moment you contact us, we take over every aspect of your case so you can focus on recovery:

Filing and managing all paperwork and deadlines
Communicating with insurance companies on your behalf
Finding the best doctors for your treatment
Documenting your injuries for maximum compensation
Negotiating settlements or taking your case to trial
Ensuring you receive all benefits you're entitled to

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront and nothing unless we win your case. Our success is directly tied to yours.

Cases We Have Won

$2,245,000
Workers' Compensation
$2,200,000
Workers' Compensation
$1,495,206
Workers' Compensation
$750,000
Personal Injury

Frequently Asked Questions

How is permanent disability rated in California?+
California uses the Permanent Disability Rating Schedule (PDRS) updated in 2005, based on the AMA Guides 5th Edition. The rating is calculated from your Whole Person Impairment percentage, modified by your age, occupation, and the diminished future earning capacity (DFEC) factor. The final percentage determines weekly PD payments and the total award amount. Higher ratings produce dramatically higher awards — a 70% PD often pays 6–8× a 30% PD.
What's the difference between Permanent Partial and Permanent Total Disability?+
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): rated 1–99%, paid as a fixed weekly amount over a calculated number of weeks. Permanent Total Disability (PTD): 100% rating, paid as lifetime weekly benefits at the temporary disability rate. PTD is awarded when the worker is unable to engage in any substantial gainful employment — often due to severe spinal cord, brain, vision, or amputation injuries, or specific cumulative restrictions.
Can I work and still receive permanent disability?+
Yes — PD is paid regardless of return-to-work status (unlike temporary disability). You can return to your old job, take a different job, or remain off work and still receive your PD payments through the scheduled weeks. PTD recipients can also work in some cases without losing benefits, depending on whether the work is consistent with their restrictions.
How can I challenge a low PD rating?+
Low ratings are challenged through (1) requesting a panel QME re-evaluation, (2) supplemental medical reports, (3) deposition of the rating physician, and (4) raising apportionment, DFEC, and occupational adjustment errors. We frequently increase ratings 20–40% by litigating the rating components. Don't accept the first rating without an attorney review — a 5% rating swing on a serious injury can change the award by tens of thousands.
Can I lump-sum my permanent disability award?+
Yes — through a Compromise & Release (C&R) settlement, where the carrier pays a lump sum in exchange for closing out future benefits. C&Rs are appropriate for some clients (younger workers wanting a clean break, those who don't anticipate future medical care). They're inappropriate for others (older workers, severe injuries with ongoing medical needs). We discuss the trade-offs with every client before settlement.

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Lead Attorney
David Abrahamian
David Abrahamian
Senior Partner
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Client Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

“

I had a workers compensation case while working as a motorcycle mechanic, attorney Minas and the rest of his staff were helpful guiding me through the entire process. The pile of paperwork seemed endless. They helped find me Doctors for treatment and got me a nice settlement in the end. Will definitely recommend to others.

Edgar M.
Workers' Compensation
“

I highly recommend Nordanyan Law they are very professional. Katy and Sandra Are very accurate when it comes to communication, they answer your question pretty quickly. They strive to reserve your case quick. Outstanding service I'm very happy with this Law firm.

Ivonne F.
Workers' Compensation
“

I'm incredibly grateful to the entire staff at Nordanyan Law firm for their outstanding work on my family's automobile injury case. From the beginning, the attorney David showed compassion, dedication, and professionalism. Thanks to David and the staff for their hard work and expertise that reached a favorable outcome.

Edo M.
Personal Injury — Automobile
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Need a Permanent Disability Attorney?

Free consultation. No fee unless we win. Call now.

Call (818) 525-1700