workmans comp lawyers only handle cases that occured in their state?

California has liberal jurisdiction rules. However, the answer is: it depends. Where is your employer located? If your employer is in California, then there is jurisdiction in California, and California workers' comp laws will apply. If the employer is outside of California, jurisdiction depends on where the contract of employment was made; if it was made in California, then California laws will apply. Please note, however, that just because California workers' comp applies, that does NOT mean that other states may have jurisdiction, as well. For example, because the accident occurred in Connecticut, that state's laws may apply. I would check with both a California attorney and a Connecticut attorney to see which state's workers' comp system is better for you.