Working as a security guard in D.C. is a physically demanding job. Many security guards have to pass physical fitness tests, qualify at the range, and be licensed to carry a firearm. They must be certified in CPR and able to handle almost any emergency that arises.

Santiago was a security guard who worked part-time on weekends for a business in D.C. and also worked construction during the week.

Many security guards work for private companies and protect federal government property, private businesses, schools, and other facilities in Washington, D.C. Their jobs can be dangerous.

One night, when a fight broke out while Santiago was on duty, he ran toward the chaos and started separating people—trying to keep customers and employees safe and contain the damage. As others piled on and joined the fight, he was knocked down a flight of stairs and seriously injured.

After getting out of the hospital, he called us to make sure he received the workers’ compensation benefits and medical treatment he needed. Like a lot of people, he was working two jobs at the time—so we combined the wages he made from both jobs and had his benefits paid based on his total earnings. That’s called wage stacking, and it’s something many lawyers in Washington, D.C. don’t understand. That’s one reason why it’s so important to have the right lawyer for your workers’ compensation case.

We’re happy to report that we helped Santiago receive a significant workers’ compensation settlement for his injuries, and he’s doing well.