Greetings, dear readers! Mesothelioma is a devastating disease caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral widely used in construction and industry. Oregon has a significant history of asbestos exposure, which has endangered the health of many workers and their families. Fortunately, there are law firms in Oregon dedicated to helping mesothelioma victims seek justice and compensation. In this article, we will explore the top Oregon mesothelioma law firms, their services, and how they can assist you or your loved ones in your legal fight against asbestos companies. Let’s get started!
The Dangers of Asbestos Exposure in Oregon
Asbestos exposure occurs when microscopic fibers of the mineral are inhaled or ingested, usually in the workplace, but also in homes, schools, and public buildings. Asbestos was widely used in Oregon’s shipyards, power plants, paper mills, and construction sites until the 1970s, when its carcinogenic effects were better understood. Unfortunately, the latency period for mesothelioma can be up to 50 years, so many individuals are still being diagnosed with this deadly disease. According to the Oregon Health Authority, there were 341 mesothelioma deaths in Oregon between 2000 and 2016. This number is likely to increase in the future, as more cases are diagnosed and reported.
What Is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, or testicles. The only known cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, which damages the DNA of cells and triggers uncontrolled growth and division. Mesothelioma has a poor prognosis, with an average life expectancy of 12 to 21 months after diagnosis. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, but they can be expensive, painful, and have limited effectiveness.
The Top Mesothelioma Law Firms in Oregon
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is crucial to seek legal help as soon as possible. A skilled mesothelioma lawyer can investigate your case, identify the responsible parties, and negotiate a settlement or take your case to trial. Here are some of the best mesothelioma law firms in Oregon:
| Law Firm | Location | Practice Areas | Experience | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brayton Purcell LLP | Portland | Asbestos Litigation, Personal Injury, Wrongful Death | 35+ years | https://www.braytonlaw.com/ |
| Sokolove Law | Portland | Asbestos Exposure, Veterans Benefits, Social Security Disability | 45+ years | https://www.sokolovelaw.com/ |
| Bergman Draper Ladenburg LLP | Portland | Asbestos Exposure, Mesothelioma, Lung Cancer | 20+ years | https://www.bergmanlegal.com/ |
| Stoel Rives LLP | Portland | Environmental Law, Regulatory Compliance, Toxic Torts | 100+ years | https://www.stoel.com/ |
| Miller & Wagner LLP | Portland | Personal Injury, Wrongful Death, Product Liability | 30+ years | https://www.miller-wagner.com/ |
Brayton Purcell LLP
Brayton Purcell LLP is a nationally recognized law firm with offices in California, Utah, Oregon, and Washington. The firm has been representing mesothelioma victims and their families for over 35 years and has recovered billions of dollars in settlements and verdicts. Brayton Purcell’s Oregon lawyers have extensive experience in asbestos litigation, personal injury, wrongful death, and other related areas. They offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case.
Sokolove Law
Sokolove Law is a mesothelioma law firm that represents clients nationwide, including in Oregon. The firm was founded in 1979 and has over 45 years of experience in asbestos exposure, veterans benefits, social security disability, and other areas of law. Sokolove Law offers a free case review and takes cases on a contingency fee basis. The firm’s mesothelioma lawyers are available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide support.
Bergman Draper Ladenburg LLP
Bergman Draper Ladenburg LLP is a law firm based in Seattle, Washington, with a branch office in Portland, Oregon. The firm focuses exclusively on mesothelioma and asbestos-related cancer cases and has recovered over $700 million for its clients. Bergman Draper Ladenburg’s Oregon attorneys have over 20 years of experience in representing mesothelioma patients and their families. The firm offers a free consultation and works on a contingency fee basis.
Stoel Rives LLP
Stoel Rives LLP is a full-service law firm with over 350 attorneys in 10 offices across the United States, including one in Portland, Oregon. The firm’s environmental and natural resources group has extensive experience in handling toxic torts, regulatory compliance, and other environmental matters. Stoel Rives has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the best law firms in environmental law. The firm’s attorneys are committed to providing practical and cost-effective solutions to their clients’ legal problems.
Miller & Wagner LLP
Miller & Wagner LLP is a boutique litigation firm located in Portland, Oregon. The firm’s attorneys have over 30 years of experience in handling complex personal injury and product liability cases, including mesothelioma and asbestos-related claims. Miller & Wagner’s lawyers have a reputation for being aggressive and tenacious in pursuing their clients’ rights, both in and out of court. The firm offers a free initial consultation and takes cases on a contingency fee basis.
FAQs About Oregon Mesothelioma Law Firms
Q1: What should I look for in a mesothelioma law firm?
A1: To choose the best mesothelioma law firm for your case, you should consider several factors, such as their experience, reputation, success rate, resources, and fees. You should also check if the firm has handled cases similar to yours and if their lawyers are licensed to practice in your state. Finally, you should feel comfortable and confident with the firm’s communication, responsiveness, and empathy towards you and your family.
Q2: How can a mesothelioma law firm help me?
A2: A mesothelioma law firm can help you in several ways, such as:
- Investigating your asbestos exposure history and identifying the responsible parties
- Filing a lawsuit or claim against the liable companies, trusts, or insurers
- Negotiating a settlement or taking your case to trial
- Maximizing your compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages
- Providing emotional support and guidance during the legal process
Q3: How long does it take to settle a mesothelioma lawsuit?
A3: The duration of a mesothelioma lawsuit can vary widely, depending on several factors, such as:
- The complexity of your case
- The number of defendants and their willingness to negotiate
- The court’s schedule and backlog of cases
- The laws and procedures of your state and federal courts
- Your medical condition and prognosis
Typically, mesothelioma lawsuits can take several months to several years to resolve. However, some cases may settle more quickly or go to trial.
Q4: Do I need to go to court to get compensation for mesothelioma?
A4: Not necessarily. Most mesothelioma cases are settled out of court, either through negotiations or alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation or arbitration. However, if a settlement cannot be reached, your case may go to trial, where a judge or jury will decide the outcome. A skilled mesothelioma attorney can advise you on the best strategy for your particular case and maximize your chances of success.
Q5: How much compensation can I receive for mesothelioma?
A5: The amount of compensation you can receive for mesothelioma depends on various factors, such as:
- Your medical expenses and future care costs
- Your lost income and earning capacity
- The severity and duration of your pain and suffering
- Your age, life expectancy, and other personal factors
- The liability and insurance coverage of the defendants
A skilled mesothelioma lawyer can calculate your damages and negotiate a fair and just settlement for you.
Q6: Can I still file a mesothelioma lawsuit if the responsible company is bankrupt?
A6: Yes, in many cases. Mesothelioma victims and their families can still pursue compensation even if the responsible company has filed for bankruptcy or established a trust fund. A mesothelioma attorney can help you navigate the complex bankruptcy laws and procedures and seek compensation from all available sources.
Q7: How can I afford a mesothelioma law firm?
A7: Most mesothelioma law firms work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case or receive a settlement. The fee usually ranges from 25% to 40% of the compensation you recover, plus expenses. If you don’t win, you don’t owe anything to the firm. This arrangement allows mesothelioma victims and their families to hire quality legal representation without paying upfront costs or taking financial risks.
Conclusion: Get the Help You Need and Deserve
We hope this article has been informative and helpful in shedding light on the critical issue of mesothelioma and asbestos exposure in Oregon. If you or a loved one has been affected by this disease, don’t wait to seek legal assistance from one of the top mesothelioma law firms we have listed above. Time may be running out for you to file a lawsuit or claim, and the sooner you act, the better your chances of receiving the compensation and justice you need and deserve. Remember, you are not alone in this fight, and there are people who can help you navigate the legal and medical systems with care and compassion. Thank you for reading, and we wish you all the best.
Resources:
- Oregon Mesothelioma Surveillance Report, 2019
- CDC’s Mesothelioma Statistics
- Mesothelioma Lawyer Center
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney or physician for specific questions and concerns.
