See the latest awards we have won on our Industry Awards page here

garlingandcolawyers logo
Call 02 8329 9500

09:00am-5:00pm

 Exit Search
Free Claim Check
Search Search

Workers Compensation Lawyers in Sydney and NSW

We specialise in helping people like you claim the worker’s compensation they deserve.

FIND OUT MORE

Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers Sydney

Injured in a Motor Vehicle accident? Understand your entitlements and how to make a compensation claim.

FIND OUT MORE

Medical Negligence Lawyers Sydney

Are you having to deal with an injury or illness caused by a negligent medical practitioner? You may be entitled to compensation.

FIND OUT MORE

Public Liability Lawyers

Injured because of another person's negligence? Understand your entitlement to compensation.

FIND OUT MORE

Superannuation and TPD Lawyers in Sydney and NSW

Does your Superannuation policy entitle you to be paid out for Total and Permanent Disablement?

FIND OUT MORE

See the latest awards we have won on our Industry Awards page here

☰
Search
Contact Us02 8329 9500

Last updated September 06, 2023

Big Firm vs Small Firm Compensation Lawyers

Slater and Gordon are a large publicly listed law firm. If you want the law firm representing you to be BIG and think that the name helps scare insurance companies into settlements, then this is the place for you.

The problem is that publicly listed companies only have one goal……… profit for the shareholders.

That’s it. The director’s duties are to the shareholders. Not to staff, the community or even their own customers.

That’s great if you are a shareholder in Slater and Gordon but not so great if you are not.

Big doesn’t always equal better and insurance companies couldn’t care less who is on the other side.

Scroll Down Arrow Read more
garling and co award winning personal injury lawyers big versus small

Finding an injury lawyer to represent you is difficult. Normally this is the only time in your life you need to talk to an injury lawyer. You must make sure you get the best lawyer you can. Price is never really a consideration as all firms offer No win No fee agreements.

Choosing your lawyer is the most important decision you can make in an injury claim.

You have two options available when it comes to lawyers;

1. Choose a large firm because you have heard the name such as Shine Lawyers or Slater and Gordon or;

2. Choose a specialist practitioner in a small firm – much like you would choose a specialist doctor for a complicated medical procedure.

They both have strengths and weaknesses which you should understand before deciding which lawyer is best for you.

Before we get to the strengths and weaknesses, the first thing to understand is that it is not the name of the law firm that matters, what matters is the lawyer who is handling your case on a day to day basis. If that lawyer is experienced and does a great job it really doesn’t matter what firm they belong to.

The best compensation lawyers in NSW are accredited by the Law Society of NSW. It is the individual lawyer who receives this accreditation not the law firm.

They are known as Accredited Specialists in Personal Injury Law.

Ask the lawyer if they are an Accredited Specialist in personal injury law.

If your lawyer is not accredited, then they are not the best lawyer you can find.

Big Firms like Slater and Gordon

Strengths

  • They are likely to have a location that is convenient.
  • They have many employed lawyers.
  • They have a large workforce which should help with running your claim.
  • They are good at marketing.

Weaknesses

  • Most of the time a junior lawyer will be appointed to handle your claim not an accredited specialist in personal injury law.
  • You will not have the best lawyer in the firm handling your claim.
  • You are one of many claims the lawyer is handling, they could have 200 + claims at any one time.
  • Your claim may be passed between many different lawyers during the life of the claim.
  • You may find it difficult to speak directly to your lawyer as they are very busy.
  • Legal costs are usually high and not negotiable.

Small Firms like Garling and Co

Strengths

  • The lawyers are usually all Accredited Specialists in Personal Injury Law.
  • The lawyers are usually very experienced (20 years plus)
  • They limit the number of claims they handle to a reasonable level.
  • You can talk directly to your lawyer and get to know them.
  • They are flexible with legal costs.

Weaknesses

  • They are usually found in the Sydney CBD only so you need to travel to visit.
  • They do the work on the claim themselves so can get busy.
  • They don’t have the resources to do some claims like Class Actions.

 

Once you know the difference you can make your own decision of which one you would prefer.

The only aspect which should not be negotiable is that the lawyer who is representing you on a day to day basis (i.e. doing the work on your file) is an Accredited Specialist in Personal Injury law.

If you would like to discuss your claim, please contact Matthew on (02) 8329 9500 or email mgarling@garlingandco.com.au.

Garling & Co Lawyers

Matthew Garling

Matthew Garling is an Accredited Specialist in Personal Injury Law approved by New South Wales Law Society. He is admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of NSW and the High Court of Australia. Matthew is also a member of...
Read more

You might also be interested in…

BACK TO BLOG

04/04/2023

Garling&Co Winner 2023 Client Choice Awards

The Client Choice Awards recognise best practice in the professional services sector and are based o...

READ POST

25/02/2016

Work Injury Damages

An employer can be found negligent if they have breached their duty to their employee to provide a r...

READ POST
sidney C.
02:14 05 Mar 26
From the Moment we seek out a lawyer all we expect from them is Honest,Efficient,Competentce,and Dedication.I Found All of That in These Lawers.
YKHADZ
00:11 25 Feb 26
I can’t thank Garling & Co lawyers enough!they turned what felt like an impossible situation into a life changing result.After my back injury forced me to stop working, I was terrified about how... I’d support my family.Kerry, Myriel and the team kept me updated every step without me having to chase. If you’re considering a TPD claim and feel like the insurer is making it deliberately hard, do yourself a favour and call these guys first. They know exactly what evidence matters and they fight hard without ever making you feel like just another file.Highly recommend worth every single star!!!Thanks again Kerry, Myriel & the team absolute legends 🙏read more
Howard P.
00:54 23 Feb 26
So thrilled with Garling & Co. Particularly Kerry Byrnes. Right from the first time I called for some advice to our favourable outcome she has had a listening ear, empathy and on the money with all... of her advice. I would gladly recommend their services.read more
Fiona C.
05:55 19 Feb 26
I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with this workers Compensation team. When I first reached out, I was completely overwhelmed and unsure about the process. I hit rock bottom - unable to... return to work, struggling emotionally, and feeling like I had no direction. From the very beginning, the solicitors were nothing short of amazing. They were patient, understanding and incredibly supportive at a time when I needed it most. They took the time to explain every step in a way I could understand, never making me feel rushed or alone. Their professionalism was matched only by their compassion and that combination made all the difference.Throughout the entire journey, I felt heard, respected and genuinely cared for. They fought for me when I didn’t have the strength to fight for myself and thanks to their dedication, I was able to get the outcome I needed to rebuild my life. If you’re unsure, scared or feeling lost like I was, I can confidently say you will be in the best hands with this team. They helped me through one of the hardest chapters of my life, and I am truly grateful. I can’t thank or recommend Garling & Co Lawyers enough.read more
E.B
01:02 04 Feb 26
We initially contacted Matthew after my husband’s injury, he was so helpful and gave us all the information about my husband’s workers comp situation, he took the time and explained where my husband... was at with his claim and what we needed to do moving forward. This was even before we became a client which was refreshing and honest… Navigating a workers compensation claim is hard and really confusing, the team at Garling and co are so helpful and professional they really make the process easy and smooth!! We knew we could always call or email and ask questions about anything at any time. My husband doesn’t speak English fluently and Allison and Matthew catered to that in any ways possible.My husband was happy with the outcome of his claim, and he felt like he ended up with best possible outcome thanks to Matthew and the team.Thankyou Garling and Coread more
Alyssa F
08:02 31 Dec 25
Matthew Garling and his team have provided incredible support and guidance throughout my MVA damages claim this year, and I can’t thank them enough for making this journey feel like such a breeze.... When I initially engaged Garling & co, I had no understanding of what was ahead. I was anxious and unsure about the process, while also navigating the physical challenges of my injuries. With assurance that my matter was being handled with high level of expertise, professionalism and integrity, I was able to focus on recovery instead. Throughout the process, Matthew and Allison have been honest, straightforward and efficient in all communication; being a supportive buffer in all dealings with the insurer, and consistently committed to a successful outcome. The outcome was excellent, and it is with huge relief and great thanks that I can put this matter behind me. I would highly recommend the services of Garling and co for any injury claims of a similar nature, and I’m forever grateful to Matthew and his team.read more
David Y
21:33 15 Dec 25
A big thank you to Matthew for his expertise, dedication, and genuine care in handling my matter. The outcome exceeded my expectations, and I am truly grateful for the excellent work of his entire... team. Outstanding results - highly recommended.read more
Richard R.
07:58 02 Dec 25
I needed urgent, clear advice regarding a Workers Compensation claim and "cold-called" Garling & Co.I was put through to Kerry Byrnes, and from that moment, my stress began to lift.I explained my... scenario which was causing me huge anxiety and Kerry listened intently. She provided simple, clear, and authoritative advice on my legal standing, the correct next steps, and what to realistically expect.Crucially, she reassured me that everything I had done to that point was correct.This initial consultation, which I later learned was provided at no cost, gave me perfect guidance and an immense sense of relief.There is truly no price you can put on that level of reassurance and peace of mind from an expert and Kerry delivered both instantly.Should my claim proceed and I need further legal insight, I will choose Kerry and the team at Garling & Co without hesitation.Their focus is clearly on the client and getting the right outcome.I recommend Kerry and the firm 100%.Thank you, Kerry!read more
Graeme M.
04:22 29 Oct 25
Matthew Garling and his team have been excellent in dealing with my case. I am very happy with the result and the process to guide me through everything over the last two years. Most importantly... happy with the payout. Highly recommend if you’re thinking of claiming for an injury caused by another party.read more
Melanie F.
00:20 18 Oct 25
3 years ago, I got injured at work and at first I was denied getting any help from a certain insurance company so I looked up lawyers that could possibly help me getting what I was entitled to and I... am so glad Garling and co took on that responsibility to help me,I still have some way to go but Kerry Byrnes and her team have gone above and beyond for me I am so grateful I had her in my corner,I highly recommend Garling and co I don’t know where I would be now if not for guidance and understanding THANKYOU Kerry and team I am 1 happy customerread more
READ ALL TESTIMONIALS

Have you suffered a serious injury?

We specialise in helping people recover compensation for serious injuries. To see if your case qualifies, please complete our Confidential Free Claim Check. Our experienced lawyers will review your information and contact you the next business day if we can help.

Call now to start your claim 02 8329 9500

No Win No Fee

You won’t be required to pay any fees until we win your case.

Industry Experts

We’re industry experts with over 20 years of experience.

Maximum Compensation

Our team of expert injury lawyers will help you get maximum compensation.

sidney C.
02:14 05 Mar 26
From the Moment we seek out a lawyer all we expect from them is Honest,Efficient,Competentce,and Dedication.I Found All of That in These Lawers.
YKHADZ
00:11 25 Feb 26
I can’t thank Garling & Co lawyers enough!they turned what felt like an impossible situation into a life changing result.After my back injury forced me to stop working, I was terrified about how... I’d support my family.Kerry, Myriel and the team kept me updated every step without me having to chase. If you’re considering a TPD claim and feel like the insurer is making it deliberately hard, do yourself a favour and call these guys first. They know exactly what evidence matters and they fight hard without ever making you feel like just another file.Highly recommend worth every single star!!!Thanks again Kerry, Myriel & the team absolute legends 🙏read more
Howard P.
00:54 23 Feb 26
So thrilled with Garling & Co. Particularly Kerry Byrnes. Right from the first time I called for some advice to our favourable outcome she has had a listening ear, empathy and on the money with all... of her advice. I would gladly recommend their services.read more
Fiona C.
05:55 19 Feb 26
I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with this workers Compensation team. When I first reached out, I was completely overwhelmed and unsure about the process. I hit rock bottom - unable to... return to work, struggling emotionally, and feeling like I had no direction. From the very beginning, the solicitors were nothing short of amazing. They were patient, understanding and incredibly supportive at a time when I needed it most. They took the time to explain every step in a way I could understand, never making me feel rushed or alone. Their professionalism was matched only by their compassion and that combination made all the difference.Throughout the entire journey, I felt heard, respected and genuinely cared for. They fought for me when I didn’t have the strength to fight for myself and thanks to their dedication, I was able to get the outcome I needed to rebuild my life. If you’re unsure, scared or feeling lost like I was, I can confidently say you will be in the best hands with this team. They helped me through one of the hardest chapters of my life, and I am truly grateful. I can’t thank or recommend Garling & Co Lawyers enough.read more
E.B
01:02 04 Feb 26
We initially contacted Matthew after my husband’s injury, he was so helpful and gave us all the information about my husband’s workers comp situation, he took the time and explained where my husband... was at with his claim and what we needed to do moving forward. This was even before we became a client which was refreshing and honest… Navigating a workers compensation claim is hard and really confusing, the team at Garling and co are so helpful and professional they really make the process easy and smooth!! We knew we could always call or email and ask questions about anything at any time. My husband doesn’t speak English fluently and Allison and Matthew catered to that in any ways possible.My husband was happy with the outcome of his claim, and he felt like he ended up with best possible outcome thanks to Matthew and the team.Thankyou Garling and Coread more
Alyssa F
08:02 31 Dec 25
Matthew Garling and his team have provided incredible support and guidance throughout my MVA damages claim this year, and I can’t thank them enough for making this journey feel like such a breeze.... When I initially engaged Garling & co, I had no understanding of what was ahead. I was anxious and unsure about the process, while also navigating the physical challenges of my injuries. With assurance that my matter was being handled with high level of expertise, professionalism and integrity, I was able to focus on recovery instead. Throughout the process, Matthew and Allison have been honest, straightforward and efficient in all communication; being a supportive buffer in all dealings with the insurer, and consistently committed to a successful outcome. The outcome was excellent, and it is with huge relief and great thanks that I can put this matter behind me. I would highly recommend the services of Garling and co for any injury claims of a similar nature, and I’m forever grateful to Matthew and his team.read more
David Y
21:33 15 Dec 25
A big thank you to Matthew for his expertise, dedication, and genuine care in handling my matter. The outcome exceeded my expectations, and I am truly grateful for the excellent work of his entire... team. Outstanding results - highly recommended.read more
Richard R.
07:58 02 Dec 25
I needed urgent, clear advice regarding a Workers Compensation claim and "cold-called" Garling & Co.I was put through to Kerry Byrnes, and from that moment, my stress began to lift.I explained my... scenario which was causing me huge anxiety and Kerry listened intently. She provided simple, clear, and authoritative advice on my legal standing, the correct next steps, and what to realistically expect.Crucially, she reassured me that everything I had done to that point was correct.This initial consultation, which I later learned was provided at no cost, gave me perfect guidance and an immense sense of relief.There is truly no price you can put on that level of reassurance and peace of mind from an expert and Kerry delivered both instantly.Should my claim proceed and I need further legal insight, I will choose Kerry and the team at Garling & Co without hesitation.Their focus is clearly on the client and getting the right outcome.I recommend Kerry and the firm 100%.Thank you, Kerry!read more
Graeme M.
04:22 29 Oct 25
Matthew Garling and his team have been excellent in dealing with my case. I am very happy with the result and the process to guide me through everything over the last two years. Most importantly... happy with the payout. Highly recommend if you’re thinking of claiming for an injury caused by another party.read more
Melanie F.
00:20 18 Oct 25
3 years ago, I got injured at work and at first I was denied getting any help from a certain insurance company so I looked up lawyers that could possibly help me getting what I was entitled to and I... am so glad Garling and co took on that responsibility to help me,I still have some way to go but Kerry Byrnes and her team have gone above and beyond for me I am so grateful I had her in my corner,I highly recommend Garling and co I don’t know where I would be now if not for guidance and understanding THANKYOU Kerry and team I am 1 happy customerread more
University of Technology, Sydney
Member of Law Society of New South Wales
Law Society of NSW Specialist Accreditation
University of Sydney
Legal Profession Admission Board of New South Wales
The law society of nsw professional standards scheme logo.
University of Technology, Sydney
Member of Law Society of New South Wales
Law Society of NSW Specialist Accreditation
University of Sydney
Legal Profession Admission Board of New South Wales
The law society of nsw professional standards scheme logo.
Google Rating
4.9