Ellicott City Mesothelioma Lawyers: Fighting for Justice

Introduction

Welcome to our article on Ellicott City Mesothelioma Lawyers. Mesothelioma is a rare but deadly cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. The disease can take years to manifest, and by the time it is diagnosed, it is often too late for treatment. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s vital to know your legal options. In this article, we’ll discuss what mesothelioma is, how it’s treated, and most importantly, how an Ellicott City mesothelioma lawyer can help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral used in many products like insulation, roofing, and flooring. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, leading to mesothelioma. It can take 20 to 50 years for symptoms to appear, and by then, the disease is often in an advanced stage.

Symptoms of mesothelioma can include:

Common Symptoms	Less Common Symptoms
Shortness of breath	Lumps under the skin in the chest or abdomen
Chest pain	Blood clots
Persistent cough	Abdominal swelling
Loss of appetite or weight loss	Fever or night sweats

How is Mesothelioma Treated?

Treatment options for mesothelioma depend on the stage of the disease and can include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Unfortunately, there is no cure for mesothelioma, and the prognosis is often poor. The five-year survival rate is less than 10%.

How Can an Ellicott City Mesothelioma Lawyer Help?

An Ellicott City mesothelioma lawyer can help you navigate the legal process of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A mesothelioma lawyer can also help you identify who is responsible for your exposure to asbestos and hold them accountable for their actions.

What to Look for in an Ellicott City Mesothelioma Lawyer

When seeking legal representation for your mesothelioma case, it’s essential to choose a lawyer with experience in asbestos litigation. Look for a lawyer who has a track record of success in mesothelioma cases and who is familiar with the laws specific to Ellicott City. A good mesothelioma lawyer should also be compassionate and supportive, understanding the impact this disease can have on you and your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to file a mesothelioma lawsuit in Ellicott City?

A: The statute of limitations for mesothelioma lawsuits varies by state. In Maryland, you have three years from the date of diagnosis to file a lawsuit.

Q: How much does it cost to hire an Ellicott City mesothelioma lawyer?

A: Most mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you receive compensation. The percentage they receive can vary, but it’s usually between 25% and 40% of your settlement or verdict.

Q: Can I file a mesothelioma lawsuit if the company responsible for my exposure is no longer in business?

A: Yes, you can still file a mesothelioma lawsuit if the company responsible for your exposure is no longer in business. There are bankruptcy trusts set up for many companies that have gone bankrupt due to asbestos-related lawsuits.

Q: What if I was exposed to asbestos on the job, but I don’t want to sue my employer?

A: You don’t have to sue your employer to receive compensation for mesothelioma. In many cases, a trust fund has been set up for employees who were exposed to asbestos on the job.

Q: Can family members sue for mesothelioma if their loved one has passed away?

A: Yes, family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of their loved one who passed away from mesothelioma.

Q: Is there financial assistance available for mesothelioma patients?

A: Yes, there are financial assistance programs available for mesothelioma patients, including Social Security Disability, workers’ compensation, and veterans’ benefits.

Q: What if I was exposed to asbestos outside of work?

A: If you were exposed to asbestos outside of work, you may still be able to file a lawsuit against the responsible party. A mesothelioma lawyer can help you determine your legal options.

Q: How long does a mesothelioma lawsuit take to resolve?

A: The length of time it takes to resolve a mesothelioma lawsuit varies depending on the circumstances of the case. Some cases settle quickly, while others can take years to resolve.

Q: Do I have to travel to Ellicott City to meet with a mesothelioma lawyer?

A: No, you don’t have to travel to Ellicott City to meet with a mesothelioma lawyer. Many lawyers are willing to travel to meet with clients, and consultations can also be conducted over the phone or video conference.

Q: Can I still file a mesothelioma lawsuit if I smoked cigarettes?

A: Yes, you can still file a mesothelioma lawsuit if you smoked cigarettes. However, smoking can weaken your case, so it’s essential to be transparent with your lawyer about your smoking history.

Q: What if I don’t know where I was exposed to asbestos?

A: If you don’t know where you were exposed to asbestos, a mesothelioma lawyer can help you investigate and determine who may be responsible for your exposure.

Q: Can I file a mesothelioma lawsuit even if I live in a different state than where the exposure occurred?

A: Yes, you can file a mesothelioma lawsuit in the state where you currently reside, even if the exposure occurred in a different state.

Q: What if I can’t afford medical treatment for mesothelioma?

A: There are financial assistance programs available for mesothelioma patients who can’t afford treatment, including government-sponsored programs and non-profit organizations. Your mesothelioma lawyer can help you identify these resources.

Q: Can I file a mesothelioma lawsuit on behalf of a deceased loved one?

A: Yes, you can file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of a loved one who passed away from mesothelioma.

Q: Do I have to go to court for a mesothelioma lawsuit?

A: It’s possible to settle a mesothelioma lawsuit out of court, but in some cases, a trial may be necessary. Your mesothelioma lawyer can help you determine the best course of action for your specific case.

Conclusion

Dealing with mesothelioma can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. An Ellicott City mesothelioma lawyer can help you understand your legal options and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mesothelioma lawyer today.

Remember, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of diagnosis, so time is of the essence. Don’t let the responsible party get away with putting you and your loved ones at risk. Take action and contact a mesothelioma lawyer today.

Closing

Thank you for reading our article on Ellicott City Mesothelioma Lawyers. We hope it has been informative and helpful. Remember, mesothelioma is a serious disease caused by the negligence of others, and you deserve justice and compensation for your suffering. If you have any questions or would like to speak with a mesothelioma lawyer, please don’t hesitate to reach out.