How Much Money Have Lawyers Made from Mesothelioma for Themselves?

Welcome to our comprehensive article on how much money lawyers have made from mesothelioma cases for themselves. As you may know, mesothelioma is a rare and fatal form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure, and many individuals have filed lawsuits against companies responsible for their exposure. In this article, we will dive into the details of how much money lawyers have made from mesothelioma cases for themselves and provide you with all the information you need to know.

Introduction

Mesothelioma is a disease that has affected many individuals due to exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was widely used in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing for its fire-resistant properties. However, it was later discovered that exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma, a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, and heart.

Many individuals who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma have filed lawsuits against the companies responsible for their exposure. These lawsuits have resulted in substantial settlements and verdicts, with some individuals receiving millions of dollars in compensation.

However, what many people do not know is that lawyers representing these individuals also receive a portion of the settlement or verdict amount as their fee. In this article, we will explore how much money lawyers have made from mesothelioma cases for themselves.

What is Mesothelioma?

As mentioned earlier, mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. It takes a long time for mesothelioma to develop, and symptoms may not appear until several years after exposure. These symptoms may include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.

Mesothelioma is a very serious disease, and there is currently no cure for it. Treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, but the prognosis for mesothelioma patients is generally poor.

How Do Mesothelioma Lawsuits Work?

Individuals who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma as a result of asbestos exposure may file a lawsuit against the companies responsible for their exposure. These lawsuits are typically filed as personal injury lawsuits or wrongful death lawsuits if the individual has passed away due to mesothelioma.

The lawsuits allege that the companies were negligent in their use and handling of asbestos and failed to warn individuals of the dangers of asbestos exposure. In most cases, the lawsuits are settled out of court, and the individuals receive compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How Much Money Have Lawyers Made from Mesothelioma Cases?

Lawyers representing individuals in mesothelioma cases work on a contingency fee basis. This means that they only receive payment if they win the case or reach a settlement. The fee is typically a percentage of the settlement or verdict amount, and it can range from 25% to 40%.

In mesothelioma cases, the settlement or verdict amounts can be quite substantial. Some individuals have received millions of dollars in compensation, and lawyers representing them have made significant amounts of money as well.

Factors Affecting Lawyer Fees in Mesothelioma Cases

The fee that lawyers receive in mesothelioma cases can vary depending on several factors. Some of these factors include:

Factor	Explanation
Settlement Amount	Lawyers receive a percentage of the settlement amount, so the higher the settlement, the more they will make.
Contingency Fee Percentage	The percentage of the settlement that lawyers receive can vary depending on the agreement with their clients.
Case Complexity	Some mesothelioma cases can be more complex and require more work from lawyers, which can increase their fees.
Court Decisions	If the case goes to trial, the court’s decision can affect the settlement amount and, consequently, the lawyer’s fee.

Examples of Lawyer Fees in Mesothelioma Cases

While lawyer fees in mesothelioma cases can vary, here are a few examples of lawyers’ fees in some high-profile mesothelioma cases:

– In 2010, a California jury awarded a former construction worker with mesothelioma $48 million in damages. The lawyer representing him received a $16 million fee.

– In 2012, a Florida jury awarded a former Navy worker with mesothelioma $13 million in damages. The lawyer representing him received a $5.2 million fee.

– In 2019, a New York Supreme Court judge awarded a former electrician with mesothelioma $60 million in damages. The lawyer representing him received a $24 million fee.

FAQs

Q1: Do all lawyers receive the same percentage of the settlement or verdict amount?

No, lawyers’ contingency fee percentage can vary depending on the agreement with their clients.

Q2: How much money have individuals received in mesothelioma settlements?

Mesothelioma settlements can range from hundreds of thousands of dollars to millions of dollars, depending on the severity of the illness and other factors.

Q3: Are all mesothelioma cases settled out of court?

No, some mesothelioma cases go to trial, and the court decides the settlement amount.

Q4: Can mesothelioma cases be filed against companies that no longer exist?

Yes, mesothelioma cases can be filed against the companies responsible for asbestos exposure, even if they no longer exist.

Q5: Can I file a mesothelioma lawsuit if I was exposed to asbestos at more than one company?

Yes, individuals who were exposed to asbestos at multiple companies can file a mesothelioma lawsuit against all the companies responsible for their exposure.

Q6: How do I find a lawyer for my mesothelioma case?

You can find a lawyer for your mesothelioma case by contacting a mesothelioma law firm or using the American Bar Association’s lawyer referral service.

Q7: How long do mesothelioma lawsuits typically take to resolve?

Mesothelioma lawsuits can take several months to several years to resolve, depending on various factors such as the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lawyers representing individuals in mesothelioma cases have made substantial amounts of money from the settlements and verdicts. The fee that they receive is typically a percentage of the settlement or verdict amount, which can range from 25% to 40%. However, it is important to note that the individuals affected by mesothelioma deserve compensation for their pain, suffering, and medical expenses.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is essential to seek legal advice from an experienced and reputable mesothelioma lawyer. They can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

Take Action

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact a mesothelioma law firm today to schedule a free consultation. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information contained in this article is not intended to create an attorney-client relationship, and readers should not act upon this information without seeking professional legal advice.