Mesothelioma Litigation in Philadelphia: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome, readers! If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you’re likely facing a difficult time ahead. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos, and it can be devastating for those who are affected by it. In this article, we’ll be discussing mesothelioma litigation in Philadelphia, which is an important topic for anyone who has been diagnosed with this disease.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that affects the mesothelium, which is the thin layer of tissue that lines the lungs, heart, and other organs. This cancer is often caused by exposure to asbestos, which is a mineral that was used in many industries throughout the 20th century, including construction, shipbuilding, and automotive manufacturing.

Asbestos exposure can cause the development of mesothelioma years or even decades after the exposure occurred. Symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest pain, and a persistent cough. Unfortunately, there is no cure for mesothelioma, but there are treatments that can help prolong life and improve quality of life for those who are affected by it.

What is Mesothelioma Litigation?

Mesothelioma litigation is the process of seeking compensation for damages related to a diagnosis of mesothelioma. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Philadelphia is a hub for mesothelioma litigation, and there are many law firms that specialize in representing individuals who have been diagnosed with this disease.

The History of Mesothelioma Litigation in Philadelphia

Mesothelioma is a relatively rare cancer, but it has affected many people in Philadelphia and throughout the United States. The first mesothelioma lawsuit was filed in the 1960s, and since then, thousands of lawsuits have been filed against companies that exposed their employees to asbestos.

Mesothelioma litigation in Philadelphia has been particularly active due to the city’s history as a manufacturing and industrial center. Many companies that operated in Philadelphia used asbestos in their products or in the construction of their buildings, which put their employees at risk of developing mesothelioma.

The Process of Filing a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in Philadelphia

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma and you believe that exposure to asbestos is to blame, you may be able to file a lawsuit to seek compensation. The process of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit in Philadelphia typically involves the following steps:

Step 1: Choosing a Lawyer

The first step in filing a mesothelioma lawsuit is to choose a lawyer who has experience in this area of law. Look for a lawyer who specializes in mesothelioma litigation and has a good track record of success in these cases.

Step 2: Gathering Evidence

Your lawyer will work with you to gather evidence that supports your claim, such as medical records, work history, and testimony from witnesses who can attest to your exposure to asbestos.

Step 3: Filing a Complaint

Your lawyer will file a complaint with the court on your behalf, which will detail the damages you are seeking and the evidence to support your claim.

Step 4: Discovery

Discovery is the process of exchanging information between the parties involved in the lawsuit. Your lawyer will use this process to gather additional evidence and information that can support your claim.

Step 5: Settlement or Trial

After discovery is complete, your lawyer will attempt to negotiate a settlement with the defendant. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case will proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will decide the outcome of the case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mesothelioma Litigation in Philadelphia

Question	Answer
What is mesothelioma?	Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that affects the mesothelium, which is the thin layer of tissue that lines the lungs, heart, and other organs.
What causes mesothelioma?	Mesothelioma is often caused by exposure to asbestos, which is a mineral that was used in many industries throughout the 20th century.
What is mesothelioma litigation?	Mesothelioma litigation is the process of seeking compensation for damages related to a diagnosis of mesothelioma.
How common is mesothelioma litigation in Philadelphia?	Mesothelioma litigation is relatively common in Philadelphia due to the city’s history as a manufacturing and industrial center.
Can I file a mesothelioma lawsuit in Philadelphia?	If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma and you believe that exposure to asbestos is to blame, you may be able to file a lawsuit in Philadelphia to seek compensation.
What damages can I seek in a mesothelioma lawsuit?	You may be able to seek damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your mesothelioma diagnosis.
How long does it take to resolve a mesothelioma lawsuit?	The length of time it takes to resolve a mesothelioma lawsuit can vary, depending on the complexity of the case and whether a settlement can be reached.
Do I need a lawyer to file a mesothelioma lawsuit?	It is highly recommended that you work with a lawyer who has experience in mesothelioma litigation if you are filing a lawsuit.
What should I look for in a mesothelioma lawyer?	Look for a lawyer who specializes in mesothelioma litigation and has a good track record of success in these cases.
Can I afford to hire a mesothelioma lawyer?	Many mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means that you will not pay anything upfront and the lawyer will only be paid a percentage of the damages awarded if your case is successful.
What is a contingency fee?	A contingency fee is a fee that a lawyer charges only if the client wins the case. The fee is typically a percentage of the damages awarded.
What is the statute of limitations for mesothelioma lawsuits in Philadelphia?	The statute of limitations for mesothelioma lawsuits in Philadelphia is typically two years from the date of diagnosis.
What if I was exposed to asbestos at multiple jobs?	You may be able to file a lawsuit against multiple defendants if you were exposed to asbestos at multiple jobs.

Conclusion

Mesothelioma can be a devastating disease, but there are legal options available for those who have been diagnosed with it. If you or a loved one has been affected by mesothelioma, it’s important to seek out the help of an experienced mesothelioma lawyer who can guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit and seeking compensation. Philadelphia is a hub for mesothelioma litigation, and there are many law firms that specialize in representing individuals who have been diagnosed with this disease. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help!

Thank you for reading this comprehensive guide to mesothelioma litigation in Philadelphia. We hope that it has been helpful and informative. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a mesothelioma lawyer for more information.

Disclaimer

The content of this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. The information provided is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. The reader should not rely on the information presented here for any purpose without seeking legal advice from licensed counsel in the relevant jurisdiction.