Average Percentage Mesothelioma Lawyers Charge: What You Need to Know

Dealing with mesothelioma can be both physically and emotionally taxing. However, if your mesothelioma is a result of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Hiring a mesothelioma lawyer is often the first step in pursuing a claim. But how much should you expect to pay your attorney? In this article, we’ll dive into the average percentage mesothelioma lawyers charge and what factors affect their fees.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was commonly used in construction and industrial settings until the 1970s. Asbestos is now recognized as a hazardous material that can cause serious health problems, including mesothelioma.

The Importance of Hiring a Mesothelioma Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s crucial to seek legal help. A mesothelioma lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and pursue compensation from the companies responsible for your exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma cases can be complex, and having an experienced attorney on your side can increase your chances of success.

Factors that Affect Mesothelioma Lawyer Fees

Now that you understand the importance of hiring a mesothelioma lawyer, let’s discuss their fees. Mesothelioma lawyers typically charge a contingency fee, which means they only receive payment if they win your case. The amount they charge as a percentage of your settlement or verdict can vary, depending on several factors:

Factors Impact on Lawyer Fees
Experience and Reputation of the Lawyer Experienced and reputable lawyers often charge higher fees.
Complexity of the Case More complex cases may require more time and resources, resulting in higher fees.
Location of the Lawyer Lawyers in larger cities or more expensive regions may charge higher fees.
Type of Compensation If your case involves multiple types of compensation (e.g., medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering), the lawyer may charge a higher percentage.

FAQs:

1. Can I Afford a Mesothelioma Lawyer?

Yes, most mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if you win your case. It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront and make sure you understand all the terms of your agreement.

2. What Percentage Do Mesothelioma Lawyers Charge?

The average percentage mesothelioma lawyers charge ranges from 25% to 40% of your settlement or verdict. However, this can vary depending on the factors discussed earlier.

3. Are There Any Upfront Costs of Hiring a Mesothelioma Lawyer?

Typically, no. Mesothelioma lawyers often cover upfront costs such as court fees, expert witness fees, and travel expenses. These costs are typically deducted from your settlement or verdict.

4. Will I Receive Less Compensation if I Hire a Mesothelioma Lawyer?

No. In fact, studies have shown that mesothelioma victims who hire a lawyer receive more compensation than those who don’t. This is because lawyers have the knowledge and experience to negotiate higher settlements and verdicts.

5. How Do I Find a Mesothelioma Lawyer?

You can start by researching mesothelioma lawyers online or asking for referrals from other mesothelioma patients or advocacy groups. It’s important to choose a lawyer with experience in mesothelioma cases and who you feel comfortable working with.

6. Can I File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit Even if I Don’t Know Where I Was Exposed to Asbestos?

Yes. A mesothelioma lawyer can help you investigate your exposure history and identify the responsible parties.

7. Can I Still File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit if the Company Responsible for My Exposure is No Longer in Business?

Yes. A mesothelioma lawyer can help you navigate legal options for pursuing compensation from bankrupt companies or asbestos trust funds.

8. What Should I Look for in a Mesothelioma Lawyer?

You should look for a lawyer with experience in mesothelioma cases, a proven track record of success, and who you feel comfortable working with. It’s also important to discuss fees and payment terms upfront.

9. How Long Will it Take to Receive Compensation from a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?

It can vary, but mesothelioma lawsuits can take anywhere from several months to several years to resolve. Your lawyer can give you a better idea of what to expect for your specific case.

10. What Should I Do if I’m Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?

If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention. You should also consider reaching out to a mesothelioma lawyer to discuss your legal options.

11. What Types of Compensation can I Receive for Mesothelioma?

Victims of mesothelioma may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Your lawyer can help you understand what types of compensation you may be eligible for in your specific case.

12. Can My Family File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit if I Pass Away from the Disease?

Yes. If you pass away from mesothelioma, your family may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit on your behalf.

13. How Long Do I Have to File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?

The statute of limitations for mesothelioma lawsuits varies by state but is typically between one and five years from the date of diagnosis. It’s important to speak with a mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.

Conclusion

Dealing with mesothelioma can be overwhelming, but hiring a mesothelioma lawyer can help ease some of the burden. While it’s natural to be concerned about legal fees, most mesothelioma attorneys only charge if they win your case. By understanding the average percentage mesothelioma lawyers charge and what factors affect their fees, you can make an informed decision about which attorney to hire.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to a mesothelioma lawyer if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with this devastating disease. They can help you navigate the legal process, pursue compensation, and hold the responsible parties accountable.

Closing and Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. If you are considering filing a mesothelioma lawsuit, it’s important to speak with a reputable attorney who can provide guidance tailored to your specific circumstances. Additionally, while we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the information contained in this article.