Like Father Like Son: An Interview With Workers’ Compensation Attorney Bernard Nomberg

The law has been a part of Bernard Nomberg’s life from an early age when, as a boy, he had the pleasure of watching his father, a practicing attorney in Dothan, Alabama, make a real difference in the lives of his clients. After talking with Bernard, we have a feeling his father is proud of the attorney and person he’s become.

Beginnings

Growing up in Alabama, Bernard Nomberg hung around the law office where his father practiced. Even at a young age, Bernard was able to see the positive impact his father had on people’s lives.

“Whether it was a workers’ compensation case, a divorce, or a car accident, dad was able to provide answers to his clients, which, in turn, reassured them that their lives would improve.”

Understanding the power of the law, Bernard enrolled in law school at Thomas Goode Jones School of Law in Montgomery, Alabama. Although many students were intimidated by law school and resorted to needless squabbles, Bernard took the opportunity to befriend as many classmates as possible.

“I figured our paths would cross again, so I did not want to burn bridges. This has served me very well during my career.”

Career

Following law school, Bernard worked at a large firm but quickly realized he could do more good for his clients in a smaller firm. In 2004, he teamed up with his brother, David Nomberg, and founded Nomberg Law Firm. His practice concentrates on workers’ compensation, Social Security disability and personal injury claims.

Bernard’s days start early and run late, but seeing the improvement in his clients’ lives is more than sufficient fuel.

“The most rewarding part of practicing law is when a client shares with me that I made a positive difference in their life. Sometimes it’s about money or employment stability, but most of the time it’s the communication aspect of reassuring them that things will be okay at the end of the process.”

There is one case in particular that has stuck with him for more than 2 decades. The case involved a serious collision between an 18-wheeler and a car carrying a family of 5. The family members survived, but some were left with lifelong injuries. Bernard was able to help them through that difficult time and remains good friends with all of the family members to this day.

Although Bernard has never once considered leaving the law, there are moments of frustration. Alabama’s workers’ compensation laws haven’t changed much in 35 years, and this means he often has to have difficult conversations with clients about how the law works and what they might be entitled to at the end of their case.

Life outside of work

Although Bernard finds that modern technology means you’re never really off the clock, he manages to find some time for hobbies, which include hiking, playing sports, attending sporting events, collecting baseball cards, traveling and—most importantly—spending time with his family.

What potential clients should know

The internet can make searching for an attorney seem overwhelming. With thousands of attorneys to choose from, Bernard stresses the importance of finding an attorney who has experience litigating your specific type of case. Once you’ve done that, read the available reviews and take the time to meet with the attorney before committing.

Nomberg Law offers free initial consultations.