Licensed for 38 years

State OH

Acquired 1985

Status
Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

James Paul Monast

Workers compensation Attorney at Columbus, OH

About
Contact
Reviews
Cost
Resume

Mr james monast

very helpful and friendly

About James

Learn James’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Workers compensation

95%

Jim Monast has over 32 years of experience fighting for the benefits employees deserve after an injury on the job in Ohio.
Employee benefits

5%

If an illness, debilitating injury, or other impairment prevents you from working and you've been denied long-term disability benefits you deserve, Jim can help you meet the restrictive standards set by ERISA to improve odds of a successful appeal.
... Read more

Well, it's not really about me at all, is it? If you've come to Avvo you are either starting your search for an attorney or you have heard about me and you wanted to check me out.

Either way, you are in the right place. We help injured workers make great decisions about their legal issues involving Ohio Workers’ Compensation claims. We don't need multi-million dollar TV advertising campaigns because our "tribe" of happy clients and others we have consulted with (but who didn't actually need an attorney) speak for us.

So, take some time and read the reviews. After all, anyone can say "we are aggressive;" or "no fee if no recovery;" or "we are the best."

We let our friends speak for us.

Give us a call. We'll try to help you.

I have a FREE guide for injured workers available on my website which is a great place to start if you are recently injured and looking for information.

Photos and videos

Contact James

Similar lawyers nearby

Monast Law Office

5000 Arlington Centre Blvd

Bldg 2, Ste 2117

Columbus, OH, 43220

Message Get Directions

Reviews

Write A Review

4.9 / 5.0

19 customer reviews

5 Star

95%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by Shaun | November 19, 2019

Mr james monast

Super great attorney, james worked hard and diligently to win my case. Went over and beyond the call of duty. His staff wilma todd n company best there is. They also fought hard and did not quit. Very nice humorous staff. Even the lady that did the medical was awsome. Highly reccommended. Very family oriented and understanding. A true one of a kind lawyers team.

Read less

Response from James Monast November 20, 2019

Thanks for the kind words, Shaun–glad we can help you and your family. Some companies seem to work overtime at trying to get you just to "throw in the towel". You keep hanging in there and we will too!!

Posted by lashana | February 4, 2019

very helpful and friendly

while I know the company I work for can be a pain in the rear when it comes to workers comp claims. Mr Monast was always very persistent , knowledgeable and professional. He and his staff kept me informed and continues to help me achieve the best results possible for my case.

Posted by Elena Webb | January 26, 2017

My experience

Mr. Monast went above my expectations. Has always made me feel at ease and explained what was going on. Whenever I have a question or a concern I can reach out to him or his office and get an answer.

Response from James Monast January 27, 2017

We are very fortunate to have you as a client, Elena--thank you so much for the kind words!!

Posted by anonymous | November 23, 2016

Peer

As a Workers' Compensation attorney myself, I have always been able to consult with Jim on legal issues for his expert opinion. He has always been willing to share his knowledge and lend sound recommendations which has helped my practice tremendously.

Response from James Monast January 27, 2017

Always happy to help a colleague, "Anonymous"! Others have helped me along the way over the years and we are all in the business of helping folks through this workers' comp process.

Posted by Mark | February 26, 2016

Bwc

Jim and Wilma have done a great job for me and I like the aggressive don't give up style. Thanks u guys for all u have done and will keep doing to help me through this process.

Posted by Jennifer | September 8, 2015

Amazing attorney and staff

I have had Jim as my attorney for 8 years. Jim knows exactly what I need and always remembers all of my cases and any appeal. I absolutely love his staff as well, I usually deal with things by humor and they have the BEST personalities. Jim's staff are extremely knowledgeable in everything worker's compensation. I have recommended him to a couple of people, and they love him as well.

Read less

Posted by Amy | September 4, 2015

Excellent Service

Mr. Monast has represented me for 6+ years. I am very happy with the service I received. I was always treated very well. The personal attention I was given by Mr. Monast and his office staff was excellent. They were great about providing updates and follow-up. His office was always available to answer my questions, no matter how trivial. Thanks so much to Mr. Monast and his legal assistant Wilma and the rest of the office. You all are the best!

Read less

Posted by Vickie | September 2, 2015

Outstanding and caring

Jim Monast has been representing me for more than 14 years. He has fought and won my injured worker's cases due to his persistence and effective presentation of facts to prove my claims. His friendly and caring staff keeps me informed. I have recommended him to others by letting them know that we are more than just a case file, we are people with injuries that matter and he will go the distance to prove it.

Read less

Posted by Kenny | August 29, 2015

Greatest Attorney Ever!!!!

As my attorney for the past twelve years Janes Monast has been the most passionate and caring individual you would want to meet. He not only was my attorney but became my friend. No matter what problem came around he tackled it like a pro. He never gave up on me or my case I would suggest to anyone that needed a good and knowledgable lawyer to contact James Monast as I think he's the man for the job. Thank you James Monast for winning my workers comp case.

Read less

Posted by Roger | August 28, 2015

James monast

Mr Monast is a very good attorney. He and his staff are so very helpful and have accomplished quite a lot of positive things in the cases that he has handled for me. I would recommend his law firm to anyone seeking legal help.

Posted by RaeLynn | August 28, 2015

The magician

I have been a client of James Monast's for 8 years. From day one Mr. Monast and Wilma have made me feel like family. I truly believe the success of Mr. Monast and his staff stems from their compassion. They see that you are a real person, with real problems, instead of a walking pay check. I have never lost a hearing with Jim by my side. In fact, I once had a Dr ask who my attorney is. When I told him, he said "they call him the magician, because he never loses!" I honestly believe he always wins because he truly cares about his clients. If you're looking for a BWC attorney look no further! I have referred others, that have referred others! As unpleasant as BWC can be, you will find comfort in James Monast and his staff. They are friendly, knowledgeable, and intelligent. I love everyone in his office, and you will too!

Read less

Posted by George | August 28, 2015

Great lawyer

Jim is a very good lawyer and a very personable guy. He doesn't talk over your head or make you feel unimportant or that he doesn't have time to listen to you. He has kept work and their minions off my back and made sure I was getting every thing I was untitled to with out being harassed. He got me awarded money for a minor injury that I had forgot about and didn't think was anything. He has been by my side since 2012 since my major injury and has went to battle at industrial commission hearings and got me the treatment I deserved. Can't forget his great staff epically miss Wilma she calls or emails when you need to do something or be somewhere. She is easy to reach by phone or email and doesn't have a problem answering your questions. Very pleased and have referred other satisfied clients.

Read less

Posted by Kyle H. | August 28, 2015

LIFESAVER

When I hurt my back at work- the BWC put up roadblocks at every turn. I was unable to get the testing I needed in order to get the correct diagnosis. So I went for almost a year w/o the proper treatment. Jim went to bat for me like a warrior. He represented me at the hearing and made me feel like I finally had someone who understood. I was approved for all the testing !!! WOW he did what no one else had been able to. I am still dealing with the BWC and it has been 1 yr and 3 mos now - and he has been with me all the way, along with his absolutely AMAZING supportive staff - they are incredible. Together they are fighting to help me get the right treatment I need to eventually get better. I can not recommend him HIGHLY enough!

Read less

Posted by Peggy | August 28, 2015

A team you can count on.

I was referred to Jim and his team by a friend, shortly after my on-the-job injury. I knew, from talking to this friend and knowing what he'd been through with his employer, that I was definitely going to need an attorney to fight for me and my rights. Jim and Wilma, and the team of course, have been nothing short of amazing. I have learned a lot from them as we've gone through this process together. Wilma has the patience of a saint (and I know with me and my questions and impatience it's not easy). Whenever I've had a question or concern, I've reached out to them and I never have to wait long for an answer. I would and have recommended him to ANYONE who has been injured on the job because one thing I know for sure, your employer is not going to "play fair." You need someone on your side to guide you through the process and protect your rights. Jim, Wilma and the team, are the best! You can't go wrong with them.

Read less

Posted by Danielle | December 6, 2013

Best Lawyer Ever!!

Jim has been my lawyer for 13 years. I have had a very long "battle" with my employer pertaining to my Worker's Comp Claim. He is AWESOME!! I have won ALL of my hearings. He and Wilma have taken very good care of me and I'm grateful for that. I have recommended him to several friends and family and he has also taken excellent care of my referrals. He really cares about his clients and they definitely know their stuff!! 5 stars !! Great people!!

Read less

Posted by BRUCE | December 6, 2013

BEST LAWYER IN TOWN

Mr. James Paul Monast is a very intelligent lawyer he has been my lawyer for 8 years. He treats me as an individual not just as a client his staff is the best there is always friendly and responsive to my problems.I have always followed his directions and it has always been the right decision for my case.i would and have recommend him to anyone that is having trouble with there employers. Thank you for your support and excellent work.

Read less

Posted by Clayton | October 30, 2013

Clayton Leach 8/11/2002 to date

Aug 11,2002 I contacted James Paul Monast Law office. I had the first hearing with BWC and the employer. . At this meeting the employer was deceitful and lied about my well being. I knew I was over my head.. What I needed was a shield between me and the system. Mr Monast and his wonderful staff have a finger on the pulse of my situation. "Well this is normal for you to have a first meeting and the employer will appeal, if its not in their favor", twice actually count on it. So 4 to 6 weeks later another hearing like clock work. I remember James apologizing that this is what they do and shake his head in discussed. Mr. Monast was forth coming with the truth, warning, and advice " hang in there" I had no idea we would become like family. I have been through so much with this office if I felt alone and abandoned its because I didn't call and talk to an associate. The associates and staff understand that my frustration and questions are valid. Even when we won and I was still mad after the third hearing I didn't realize my next step was scheduling the surgery. Mr Monast said to me " Clayton we won, Today was a good day." I remember getting a call from Mr. Monast about a hearing I could not attend because I was recovering in the hospital. I felt very warm because I did not have to go to battle that day. Mr. Monast and associates have been in my corner from the start. Sometimes he had to reel me in a little. The system has flaws for sure. I am very great full having Jim and Wilma helping me through this journey. Many Thanks to you Mr. James (Jim) Monast Special thanks to Wilma

Read less

Posted by Helen | September 20, 2013

Monast Law is more than I had expected

I was referred to Monast Law by several friends, and I am forever grateful. Mr. Monast has made sure that I receive everything I am legally entitled to, and often surprises me, by informing me of rights and compensation that I was not even aware of. My knowledge of Workers compensation is nonexistent and I have often hesitated to call/email with what I consider "silly" questions, but Wilma Samms (legal assistant) is always so helpful, she answers every question and makes me feel at ease.

Read less

Posted by Becky | August 28, 2015

Excellent Comp Lawyer & Great Staff

Jim has represented me on three different worker's comp cases and has done a fantastic job! After having to contact him on my first injury I have never hesitated to call him when unfortunately the other two injuries occurred. He has taken great care of me, my job and my right's as an employee hurt performing my job! Staff in the office keeps me informed and answers all my questions when I call or e-mail them with a problem.

Read less

View all reviews

View less reviews

Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.9 (Superb)

Work Experience

Sole Practitioner, Workers' Compensation Specialist
Monast Law Office, LLC
2013 - Present

Partner
Marchese and Monast
1998 - 2013

Associate
Marchese and Associates
1990 - 1998

Associate
Fullerton Law Office
1988 - 1990

Associate
Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation
1985 - 1988

Clerk
Columbus City Attorney Greg Lashutka
1981 - 1985

View all work experience

Education

Ohio State University
JD - Juris Doctor
1985

Ohio State University
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1981

Legal Cases

State of Ohio ex rel. YRC, Inc., Relator, v. George D. Hood and Industrial Commission of Ohio, Respondents.
Successful outcome in favor of respondent. Magistrate's decides that the court deny relator's request for a writ of mandamus.

The STATE ex rel. OSCO INDUSTRIES, INC., Appellant, v. INDUSTRIAL COMMISSION OF OHIO et al., Appellees.
Successfully advocated for the Supreme Court to affirm the judgment of the court of appeals.

State ex rel. Navistar Internatl. Transp. Corp. v. Indus. Comm., 1998-Ohio-360, 84 Ohio St.3d 115, 702 N.E.2d 80 (Ohio 1998)
Favorable outcome, Supreme Court of Ohio reversed the judgment of the court of appeals

Associations

Workers' Injury Law & Advocacy Group
Member
2017 - Present

Ohio Association for Justice
Attorney Member
1987 - Present

Columbus Bar Association
Attorney Member
1987 - Present

Ohio State Bar Association
Certified Specialist: Workers' Compensation Law
1985 - Present

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Client Champion Platinum
Martindale-Hubbell®
2022

Client Champion Silver
Martindale-Hubbell®
2021

Peer Reviewed
Martindale-Hubbell®
2020

Best Workers Compensation Attorney in Columbus
Expertise
2020

Client Champion Silver
Martindale-Hubbell®
2020

Client Champion Silver
Martindale-Hubbell®
2019

Client Champion Silver
Martindale-Hubbell®
2018

2016 Top Lawyers
Columbus CEO Magazine
2016

Top Lawyers
Columbus C.E.O. Magazine
2015

Super Lawyer
SuperLawyers
2012

Super Lawyer
SuperLawyers
2011

Super Lawyer
SuperLawyers
2010

Super Lawyer
SuperLawyers
2009

Super Lawyer
SuperLawyers
2008

Super Lawyer
SuperLawyers
2006

Super Lawyer
SuperLawyers
2005

Super Lawyer
SuperLawyers
2004

Certified Specialist - Workers' Compensation Law
Ohio State Bar Association
1985

View all awards

Publications

Monthly Client Newsletter
Workers’ COMPanion
2022

WILG Blog
Ohio First Responders May Soon Get Workers' Comp For Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
2020

Monast Law Office
Don’t Go It Alone: How Insurance Companies Sabotage Disability Claims
2019

Word Association Publishers
The Workers Guide to Injury Compensation in Ohio
2017

View all publications

Speaking Engagements

Lawrence Negotiations Moot Court Competition
Judging Moot Court Competitions
2016

Lawrence Negotiations Moot Court Competition
Judging Moot Court Competitions
2015

Moot Court Competition
Law School Mediation
2014

Attorney endorsements

Received (14)

Given (33)

Endorse James

James Abrenio

Workers compensation Attorney | Dec 21
Relationship: Friend

"I endorse this lawyer. James is a hard working attorney that cares for his clients. His compassion and empathy are invaluable to his service to his clients. If I were hurt, I'd be lucky to have him."

Joseph Yolofsky

Workers compensation Attorney | Oct 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jim is one of the most caring, personable attorneys you'll ever meet. Because his practice focuses on helping people who have been injured at their job, these characteristics are especially important. Don't let his kind midwestern demeanor fool you though - Jim is relentless in his advocacy for his clients. By combining his experience, knowledge of Ohio's worker's compensation law, with his trial and negotiation skills, the result is that you will have a strong advocate on your side. While there are many choices for attorneys, Jim is who I would want handling a case for one of my family members if they were ever hurt at their place of work."

Bob Battle

Workers compensation Attorney | Oct 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"If you are injured at work, you may think that any "injury lawyer" would do to handle your case. You would be wrong. Injured workers’ sole remedy is usually filing a claim with the Workers' Compensation system of their state. There are separate laws, procedures and judges in this system. You need a specialist and I could not recommend any higher to those injured in Ohio the services of Jim Monast. Jim has been getting outstanding results for injured workers in Ohio for over three decades. Plus, he is extremely empathetic and personable and will be your priceless ally throughout the entire process."

Adam Rossen

Workers compensation Attorney | Oct 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I've known Jim for the last few years and I cannot think of another Workers Compensation lawyer I would rather have for myself or a family member. He genuinely cares about his clients and is a skilled lawyer who obtains the best settlements for his injured clients."

Carol Herdman

Workers compensation Attorney | Jul 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James has always been a great resource for other workers' compensation attorneys. He has a full understanding of the nuances of the Ohio Workers' Compensation system and clearly provides wonderful representation for his clients."

Paul Tafelski

Workers compensation Attorney | Dec 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse James. He's a very smart lawyer who fights hard for his clients and is dedicated to staying on top of the law in workers compensation."

Sue Wetzel

Workers compensation Attorney | Jul 07
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Jim is a passionate workers' compensation attorney that truly cares about his clients. His dedication to his clients does not stop after the hearing ends. He is always working to achieve the best, possible outcome for his clients. When I am cross the table from Jim, I know I am up for a challenge!"

Benjamin Glass

Workers compensation Attorney | May 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jim is a very smart lawyer. He's got a great back story (ask him when you meet him).. best of all, he has terrific information at his website. If you have been injured on the job, check him out!"

Charles Irvin

Workers compensation Attorney | May 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jimmy is a true class act. He is warm and authentic. I am a better attorney because of time spent with him. He has the experience and trust of his clients, because he is more than willing to go through any extra steps necessary to take care and nurture to the clients case. You are in capable hands with Jimmy."

Nicole Hunter

Workers compensation Attorney | May 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jim cares about his clients and works hard on their behalf. Over the years, he has been a formidable opponent, and I always enjoy cases with him. I would highly recommend his work."

Brant Rhoad

Workers compensation Attorney | Apr 24
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse Jim as a workers compensation attorney. He has been opposing counsel on a number of cases and always does an excellent job. He always represents his clients with class and effectiveness."

Sara Rose

Workers compensation Attorney | Apr 21
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Jim is an experienced professional. He takes his clients and cases seriously, yet works well with opposing counsel - which is important when you go up against the same people over and over. Jim keeps up with technology and is always looking for ways to better serve his clients. I endorse Jim."

Corie Marty

Workers compensation Attorney | Apr 10
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Jim extends professional courtesy to opposing counsel while representing his clients competently and zealously."

Ronald Koltak

Workers compensation Attorney | Jan 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

View more endorsements

Criminal defense

DUI and DWI

Business

Employee benefits

Manuel "Manny" Serra-Jovenich

Insurance

Criminal defense

Workers compensation

Estate planning

Workers compensation

Car accident

Car accident

Criminal defense

Social Security & Disability

Criminal defense

Workers compensation

Workers compensation

Workers compensation

Workers compensation

Workers compensation

Car accident

Avvo Contributions

85 Legal Answers 0 Legal Guides

Q&A
If I have a case?
02 Apr 2023
Q&A
Should i need an attorney?
04 Apr 2022
Q&A
I was awarded workers compensation in September of 1987 for a severe head laceration and broken orbital bone.
22 Feb 2022

View more legal answers

See more legal answers

James Paul Monast

About James

Learn James’s areas of practice.

Photos and videos

Photos and videos

Contact James

Similar lawyers nearby

Reviews

Cost

Resume

Avvo Rating

What determines Avvo Rating?

Experience & background

Legal community recognition

Legal thought leadership

Discipline

Avvo Rating levels

Work Experience

Education

Legal Cases

Associations

Languages Spoken

Honors and Awards

Publications

Speaking Engagements

Attorney endorsements

Avvo Contributions