👉 Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lungs and abdomen. It is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was commonly used in construction and manufacturing until the late 1970s. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is often not diagnosed until the later stages when treatment options are limited, and many people who are diagnosed with mesothelioma will eventually pass away from the disease. If you have lost a loved one to mesothelioma, you may be entitled to compensation. In this article, we will discuss how to find a mesothelioma lawyer to help you navigate the legal process and get the compensation you deserve.
Introduction
👉 Before we dive into how to find a mesothelioma lawyer for a deceased person, let’s start by understanding what mesothelioma is, how it is caused, and what the legal options are for those who have been affected by it.
What is Mesothelioma?
👉 Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelium, which is a protective lining that covers many of the body’s internal organs. The most common type of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs. However, it can also affect the lining of the abdomen, heart, and testicles.
What Causes Mesothelioma?
👉 Mesothelioma is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was commonly used in a variety of industries, including construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the lining of the lungs, where they can cause inflammation and scarring. Over time, this can lead to the development of cancerous cells.
Legal Options for Those Affected by Mesothelioma
👉 If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be entitled to compensation. The two most common types of compensation for mesothelioma victims are settlements and lawsuits.
👉 A settlement is a financial award that is negotiated outside of court between the victim (or their family) and the party responsible for their exposure to asbestos.
👉 A lawsuit, on the other hand, is a legal action that is filed in court against the party responsible for the victim’s exposure to asbestos. A successful lawsuit can result in a larger financial award than a settlement, but it can also take longer to resolve and be more emotionally taxing for the victim and their family.
Why You Need a Mesothelioma Lawyer
👉 Mesothelioma cases can be complex and challenging to navigate, especially if you are dealing with the loss of a loved one. A mesothelioma lawyer can help you understand your legal options, file a claim or lawsuit on your behalf, and work to get you the compensation you deserve.
When to Contact a Mesothelioma Lawyer
👉 If you are considering filing a mesothelioma claim or lawsuit, it is essential to contact a mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible. This is because there are strict time limits (known as statutes of limitations) for filing these types of cases. If you miss the deadline for filing, you may lose your right to compensation.
What to Look for in a Mesothelioma Lawyer
👉 When choosing a mesothelioma lawyer, there are several factors to consider:
| Factor | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Experience | Look for a lawyer who has experience handling mesothelioma cases and a track record of success. |
| Compassion | A good mesothelioma lawyer should be compassionate and understanding, as these cases can be emotionally challenging. |
| Transparency | Choose a lawyer who is transparent about their fees and will keep you updated throughout the legal process. |
| Resources | Mesothelioma cases can require a lot of resources, so look for a lawyer who has the necessary staff, technology, and expertise to handle your case effectively. |
Where to Find a Mesothelioma Lawyer
👉 There are several resources you can use to find a mesothelioma lawyer:
- Referrals from friends, family, or other lawyers
- Online directories, such as the American Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral Directory
- Mesothelioma-specific legal organizations, such as the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation
Questions to Ask a Mesothelioma Lawyer
👉 To help you find the right mesothelioma lawyer for your case, here are some questions to ask during your initial consultation:
- How many mesothelioma cases have you handled?
- What is your success rate in mesothelioma cases?
- How do you charge for your services?
- What is your strategy for handling my case?
- How will you keep me updated on the progress of my case?
How to Find a Mesothelioma Lawyer for a Deceased Person
Step 1: Gather Information
👉 Before you begin your search for a mesothelioma lawyer, it is essential to gather as much information as possible about your loved one’s exposure to asbestos. This might include:
- The company or companies your loved one worked for
- The specific products or materials they worked with
- The dates and locations of their exposure
- Their medical records and diagnosis
Step 2: Choose Your Search Method
👉 There are several ways you can search for a mesothelioma lawyer:
- Search online using keywords like “mesothelioma lawyer” or “asbestos attorney.”
- Use a legal directory like the American Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral Directory or Avvo.
- Contact a mesothelioma-specific legal organization, such as the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, for a referral.
Step 3: Schedule Consultations
👉 Once you have a list of potential lawyers, it is essential to schedule consultations with each one. During the consultation, you can ask questions, discuss your case, and get a sense of whether the lawyer is a good fit for you.
Step 4: Choose Your Lawyer
👉 After you have met with several lawyers, it is time to choose the one you want to work with. Consider factors like experience, compassion, transparency, and resources, as well as your own personal comfort level with the lawyer.
FAQs
1. What is the average mesothelioma settlement?
👉 The average mesothelioma settlement is around $1 million. However, this can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances of your case.
2. How long does a mesothelioma lawsuit take?
👉 Mesothelioma lawsuits can take anywhere from a few months to several years to resolve, depending on the complexity of the case and the court system where the case is filed.
3. Can I file a mesothelioma lawsuit if my loved one has already passed away?
👉 Yes, you can typically still file a mesothelioma lawsuit if your loved one has passed away. However, the laws around these cases can be complex, so it is essential to work with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer.
4. Will I have to go to court for my mesothelioma case?
👉 It is possible that you may need to testify in court during your mesothelioma case, but many cases are resolved through settlements or other means outside of court.
5. Can I file a mesothelioma claim if I was exposed to asbestos outside of work?
👉 Yes, you may still be able to file a mesothelioma claim if you were exposed to asbestos outside of work, such as through a product you used or in your home.
6. How much does it cost to hire a mesothelioma lawyer?
👉 Mesothelioma lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case. The standard contingency fee is around 30% of the settlement or award.
7. Can I file a mesothelioma claim if I don’t know where I was exposed to asbestos?
👉 Yes, you can still file a mesothelioma claim even if you don’t know where you were exposed to asbestos. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can help you investigate and identify potential sources of exposure.
Conclusion
👉 Losing a loved one to mesothelioma can be devastating. However, working with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve and hold the responsible parties accountable. Remember to gather information, choose your search method, schedule consultations, and choose your lawyer carefully. With the right legal help, you can get justice for your loved one and move forward with your life.
Take Action Now
👉 If you are ready to take action and find a mesothelioma lawyer for your case, start by gathering information and reaching out to potential lawyers. Remember to ask questions, consider your options carefully, and choose a lawyer who has the experience, compassion, and resources to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Closing and Disclaimer
👉 The information provided in this article is intended to be a general guide and should not be taken as legal advice. Every mesothelioma case is different, and you should always consult with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer before making any legal decisions. Remember that there are strict time limits for filing mesothelioma claims and lawsuits, so be sure to act quickly if you believe you may be entitled to compensation.
