Are you or a loved one suffering from mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure? If you live in Texas, you need to know your legal rights and options. Mesothelioma is a rare and deadly form of cancer caused by inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers. Unfortunately, many Texans have been exposed to asbestos in the workplace, home, or environment. However, you don’t have to suffer in silence or pay for the negligence of others. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. The first step is to find the right mesothelioma attorney in Texas who can help you pursue justice and compensation.
What Is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells, which are the protective linings of the internal organs. The most common form of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lungs and chest cavity. Other forms include peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the abdomen, and pericardial mesothelioma, which affects the heart. Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction, insulation, manufacturing, and other industries in the 20th century. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can get stuck in the mesothelial cells and cause inflammation, scarring, and mutations that lead to cancer. The symptoms of mesothelioma can take decades to develop and may include coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, weight loss, and other signs of respiratory or digestive problems. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is often diagnosed in advanced stages when it is harder to treat and cure.
Why Do You Need a Mesothelioma Attorney in Texas?
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may feel overwhelmed, depressed, and angry. You may wonder how this could happen to you and who is responsible. You may also worry about your health, finances, and future. These are all valid concerns, and you should not underestimate the complex and challenging nature of mesothelioma lawsuits. Mesothelioma cases require extensive knowledge, skills, and resources in the fields of asbestos exposure, medical science, and litigation. You need an experienced and compassionate mesothelioma attorney in Texas who can guide you through the legal process, investigate your case, gather evidence, build a strong argument, negotiate with the defendants or insurers, and represent you in court if necessary. Your mesothelioma attorney can also help you access medical care and support services, connect with other mesothelioma patients and advocates, and handle the paperwork, deadlines, and nuances of your case. Your mesothelioma attorney should be your ally, your counselor, and your fighter.
How to Choose the Right Mesothelioma Attorney in Texas?
Choosing the right mesothelioma attorney in Texas can be a daunting task, especially if you have never worked with a lawyer before or if you are not familiar with the legal system. However, the following tips can help you narrow down your choices and find the best mesothelioma attorney for your needs:
1. Look for a mesothelioma attorney who specializes in asbestos exposure cases.
Not all personal injury lawyers are created equal. Some focus on car accidents, slip and fall injuries, or medical malpractice, while others specialize in mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. You want to work with a mesothelioma attorney who has a track record of success in handling mesothelioma cases and who understands the nuances of this complex area of law. You also want to work with a mesothelioma attorney who is familiar with the Texas legal system, courts, and judges, and who can navigate the local rules and procedures with ease. A mesothelioma attorney who specializes in asbestos exposure cases will have the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to maximize your chances of winning or settling your case.
2. Check the mesothelioma attorney’s credentials and experience.
Before you hire a mesothelioma attorney in Texas, you should research their background, education, certifications, and awards. You can visit their website, read their bio, and check their LinkedIn profile, Avvo rating, or Martindale-Hubbell rating. You should also ask the mesothelioma attorney about their experience in handling cases similar to yours, their success rate, and their strategy. You want to work with a mesothelioma attorney who has a deep understanding of the medical, scientific, and legal aspects of mesothelioma, and who can explain them to you in plain language. You also want to work with a mesothelioma attorney who is empathetic, responsive, and transparent.
3. Schedule a free consultation with the mesothelioma attorney.
Most mesothelioma attorneys in Texas offer a free initial consultation, either in person, over the phone, or online. This is your chance to ask them questions, share your story, and get a sense of their personality, communication style, and approach. You should prepare a list of questions ahead of time, such as:
| What is your experience in handling mesothelioma cases? | What is your success rate? | What is your fee structure? |
|---|---|---|
| How long will my case take? | What damages can I recover? | Will you handle my case personally or delegate it to someone else? |
| What is your strategy for my case? | How will you keep me informed about the progress of my case? | What are the potential risks and obstacles in my case? |
During the consultation, you should also pay attention to the mesothelioma attorney’s listening skills, empathy, and honesty. You want to work with a mesothelioma attorney who genuinely cares about your well-being and who is transparent about the strengths and weaknesses of your case. You also want to work with a mesothelioma attorney who respects your decisions, values your input, and communicates clearly and respectfully.
4. Get referrals and references from trusted sources.
Another way to find a reliable and competent mesothelioma attorney in Texas is to ask for recommendations from people you trust, such as your family, friends, coworkers, or healthcare providers. You can also ask mesothelioma support groups, advocacy organizations, or online forums for their suggestions. Additionally, you can check the mesothelioma attorney’s website or social media pages for testimonials, reviews, or case results. You want to work with a mesothelioma attorney who has a good reputation in their community and who has earned the trust and respect of their clients and peers.
5. Don’t hesitate to ask for a contingency fee agreement.
One of the major concerns of mesothelioma patients and their families is the cost of hiring a mesothelioma attorney. Fortunately, most mesothelioma attorneys in Texas work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t have to pay upfront fees or out-of-pocket expenses. Instead, your mesothelioma attorney will receive a percentage of your compensation if and when you win or settle your case. This arrangement allows you to focus on your health and recovery without worrying about the financial burden of pursuing a legal claim. However, you should discuss the contingency fee agreement with your mesothelioma attorney in advance and make sure you understand the terms and conditions. You should also ask about any additional costs or deductions that may apply to your case.
FAQs About Mesothelioma Attorney Texas
1. What Does a Mesothelioma Attorney in Texas Do?
A mesothelioma attorney in Texas handles legal claims and lawsuits on behalf of people who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases due to exposure to asbestos. The mesothelioma attorney investigates the cause and extent of the exposure, identifies the responsible parties, evaluates the damages, negotiates with the defendants or insurers, and represents the client in court if necessary. A mesothelioma attorney also helps the client access medical care, support services, and financial assistance, and advises them on their legal rights and options. The goal of a mesothelioma attorney is to obtain compensation for the client’s medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages, and to hold the negligent parties accountable.
2. How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Mesothelioma Attorney in Texas?
Most mesothelioma attorneys in Texas work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t have to pay any fees upfront or out of pocket. Instead, your mesothelioma attorney will receive a percentage of your compensation if and when you win or settle your case. The percentage may vary depending on the complexity and risk of your case, but typically ranges from 30% to 40%. You should discuss the contingency fee agreement with your mesothelioma attorney in advance and make sure you understand the terms and conditions. You should also ask about any additional costs or deductions that may apply to your case, such as court fees, expert fees, or medical record fees.
3. How Long Does It Take to Settle a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in Texas?
The time it takes to settle a mesothelioma lawsuit in Texas depends on several factors, such as the complexity of the case, the number of defendants, the strength of the evidence, and the willingness to negotiate. Some mesothelioma lawsuits can be settled within a few months, while others may take several years. Generally, the settlement process involves several stages, such as filing a complaint, conducting discovery, exchanging evidence, deposing witnesses, negotiating a settlement, and signing a release. Your mesothelioma attorney can estimate the timeline and milestones of your case based on their experience and knowledge, but no attorney can guarantee a certain outcome or deadline.
4. Can I File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in Texas If I Live in Another State?
Yes, you can file a mesothelioma lawsuit in Texas even if you live in another state or country. Texas is a popular venue for mesothelioma lawsuits because of its friendly laws and juries, its history of asbestos use, and its large and diverse population. However, you should consult a mesothelioma attorney who is licensed and experienced in Texas law and who can advise you on the pros and cons of filing your case in Texas or in your home state. You should also consider the cost and inconvenience of traveling to Texas for depositions, hearings, and trials, and the impact of different state laws on your compensation and recovery.
5. What Damages Can I Recover in a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in Texas?
If you file a mesothelioma lawsuit in Texas and win or settle your case, you may be entitled to several types of damages, such as:
- Medical expenses, including past and future costs of diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation;
- Lost income, including past and future wages, benefits, and opportunities;
- Pain and suffering, including physical, emotional, and mental anguish;
- Loss of consortium, including damages to the relationship with your spouse or partner;
- Punitive damages, in rare cases where the defendant’s behavior was willful or reckless.
The amount and scope of your damages depend on the specifics of your case, such as the severity and stage of your mesothelioma, the duration and intensity of your asbestos exposure, the degree of the defendants’ liability, and the skill of your mesothelioma attorney. Your mesothelioma attorney can evaluate your damages and advocate for your rights and interests.
6. Do I Need to Go to Court If I File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in Texas?
Not necessarily. Most mesothelioma lawsuits in Texas are settled out of court, either through negotiations between the parties or with the help of a mediator or arbitrator. Settling a mesothelioma lawsuit out of court can save time, money, and stress for both sides, and can provide a more predictable and satisfactory outcome. However, in some cases, the defendants or insurers may refuse to offer a fair and reasonable settlement, or they may deny their liability altogether. In these situations, your mesothelioma attorney may advise you to pursue your case in court, where a judge or jury can hear the evidence, weigh the arguments, and render a verdict. Going to court can be more complex, costly, and risky than settling out of court, but it can also lead to a higher award and a stronger sense of justice.
7. How Can I Find a Support Group for Mesothelioma Patients and Families in Texas?
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or if you are a caregiver or family member of a mesothelioma patient, you may benefit from joining a support group in Texas. A support group can provide emotional, social, and practical support, as well as information, resources, and advocacy. Some of the mesothelioma support groups in Texas are:
- The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (Meso Foundation) – Houston Support Group
- The Lung Cancer Alliance – Dallas Support Group
- The American Cancer Society – Austin Support Group
- The Cancer Support Community – San Antonio Support Group
- The Mesothelioma Center at Asbestos.com – Virtual Support Group
You can also ask your mesothelioma attorney for recommendations, or search for online forums, blogs, or social media pages that cater to mesothelioma patients and families.
Conclusion
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure in Texas, you need to take action and seek legal help. The mesothelioma attorney in Texas can guide you through the legal process, fight for your rights, and secure the compensation and justice you deserve. You should not delay or hesitate to reach out to a mesothelioma attorney because of the complexity, cost, or uncertainty of your case. Mesothelioma attorneys in Texas work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t have to pay anything upfront or out-of-pocket. You only pay if and when you win or settle your case. Moreover, mesothelioma attorneys in Texas can offer you a free consultation, where you can ask questions, share your concerns, and get a sense of their expertise and personality. You owe it to yourself and your family to explore your legal options and assert your rights in the face of mesothelioma.
Don’t let mesothelioma define your life. Fight back with the help of a mesothelioma attorney in Texas. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Closing Disclaimer
The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice or representation for a mesothelioma case in Texas, you should consult a mesothelioma attorney who is licensed and experienced in Texas law and who can evaluate your specific situation. The use of this article or any communication with the author or publisher does not establish an attorney-client relationship. The author and publisher disclaim any liability or responsibility for any errors or omissions in this article or for any action or inaction taken in reliance on its contents. The mesothelioma attorney you choose is an important decision that should not be based solely on advertisements or self-proclaimed expertise. Before hiring a mesothelioma attorney, you should research their background, education, experience, and reputation, and have a face-to-face consultation.
