Receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis can be an incredibly daunting experience. You may find yourself with numerous questions for your doctor about treatment options, prognosis, and other related topics. As you delve deeper into understanding mesothelioma, you might discover that your inquiries extend beyond just medical concerns. Mesothelioma is solely caused by exposure to asbestos, and the companies that manufactured and distributed asbestos-containing products were aware of the associated health risks but chose not to disclose them. This failure to warn is one of the reasons individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma can seek compensation from the corporations that endangered their health. However, knowing where to seek legal assistance can be a challenge. If you are considering filing a mesothelioma compensation claim, how can you determine which law firm or attorney is best suited to handle your case? It’s completely reasonable—and encouraged—to prepare a list of questions for your primary care physician or mesothelioma specialist. Similarly, top law firms welcome you to do the same when searching for a mesothelioma attorney. Here are eight essential questions to ask each lawyer you consult to help you find the right fit for your case.
Why Should I Choose an Attorney Specializing in Mesothelioma and Asbestos Claims?
Mesothelioma cases differ significantly from other personal injury or wrongful death claims. This rare cancer, caused by asbestos exposure, can take 20 to 50 years to develop after initial exposure. Given the lengthy period between exposure and the onset of cancer, it’s crucial to have a legal expert who can investigate your history to identify specific instances of asbestos exposure, often linked to your employment or the products you used. Mesothelioma attorneys have access to comprehensive databases that provide detailed information about asbestos products and the manufacturers responsible for them. A specialized mesothelioma lawyer will also be familiar with the types of compensation claims relevant to your situation. In some instances, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the companies accountable for your mesothelioma, while in other cases, those companies may have declared bankruptcy and established an asbestos trust fund for quicker compensation. Choosing an attorney who does not specialize in mesothelioma and asbestos claims may not be the best option, as they may lack the necessary knowledge of the complexities involved.
5 Questions to Ask a Mesothelioma Attorney During
Your initial consultation with a mesothelioma attorney, you’ll have the chance to inquire about their experience with asbestos lawsuits and their approach to your case. Having a list of questions ready for this meeting is beneficial, and a competent mesothelioma lawyer will take the time to address all of your concerns. “Every case is unique, but until you consult someone knowledgeable about mesothelioma and its implications, you haven’t fully explored your options as a patient.” – Bonnie, Mesothelioma Survivor & Firm Client Make sure to ask any attorney you meet the following questions to gauge their style and determine if they are the right fit for your case.
- How Long Have You Been Handling Mesothelioma Cases? Simmons Hanly Conroy has been advocating for mesothelioma patients and their families for over 20 years, helping them seek justice and compensation. Founded in 1999 by Chairman John Simmons, the firm is dedicated to supporting those affected by asbestos-related diseases. To date, we have secured over $9.6 billion in mesothelioma compensation for families nationwide.
- What Are Your Past Results for Mesothelioma Cases? Our firm has a proven track record of successfully obtaining compensation for clients, including the largest mesothelioma verdict against a single defendant in asbestos litigation history—$250 million. Recently, our trial teams have taken 12 asbestos cases to court, resulting in over $234 million in verdicts for our clients. Some notable settlements include: – $60 million for a New York laborer – $34 million for a California mechanic – $40 million for a U.S. Navy veteran in Washington – $3.8 million for a laborer with peritoneal mesothelioma – $15 million for the family of a construction worker – $4 million for an electrician in Illinois – $13.1 million for a carpenter with mesothelioma – $2.53 million for the family of a Michigan maintenance worker – $20 million for a Missouri mechanic – $4.25 million for a U.S. Air Force veteran and welder in Indiana – $30 million for a construction supervisor and his wife While results vary, our attorneys have the expertise and resources to fight for maximum compensation.
- Do You Focus Exclusively on Asbestos Litigation? Selecting a lawyer who specializes solely in asbestos litigation increases your chances of receiving the most compensation in the shortest time frame. Our mesothelioma attorneys have extensive experience in this area. “When we take on a new client, we can hit the ground running. We know the products, the manufacturers, the science, and the medicine. We don’t have to start from scratch.” – Nick Angelides, Chair of the Asbestos Department
- How Much Will It Cost to Hire You? There are no hourly fees or upfront costs when working with our mesothelioma lawyers. We only receive payment if we secure compensation for you. Our attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we take a percentage of any recovery on your behalf, eliminating financial risk for our clients.
- What Resources Do You Have to Prove My Asbestos Exposure? Every mesothelioma case requires a thorough investigation into the victim’s background to identify how, when, and where they were exposed to asbestos. Our lawyers have compiled crucial information about various job sites and products containing asbestos, as well as the companies involved in their production and distribution. “We have an extensive database of documents collected over 25 years. By utilizing this resource, we can help our clients obtain the compensation they deserve.” – Lisa Nathanson Busch, Chair of the Bankruptcy Department Contact us today to see if we can leverage our resources to build a strong case on your behalf. It’s likely we’ve already represented clients from similar workplaces as yours.
How Do I Choose the Best Mesothelioma Attorney?
When seeking legal representation for a mesothelioma case, it’s essential to find the best asbestos attorney available. Look for qualities such as experience, knowledge, adequate resources, and compassion. Mesothelioma cases differ from other personal injury or product liability cases due to their unique laws and statutes of limitations. Seek a lawyer who specializes in asbestos-related cases and has a successful track record of obtaining compensation for clients. A strong history of handling these cases is crucial, as mesothelioma cases involve complex legal and medical issues. A knowledgeable attorney will understand the nuances of asbestos exposure, medical treatments, and legal processes. Additionally, a reputable lawyer or law firm should have the necessary resources to conduct a thorough investigation, including access to medical experts and asbestos databases. Finally, a mesothelioma lawyer should demonstrate compassion, as dealing with this diagnosis is emotionally taxing. A supportive lawyer will provide legal guidance while offering empathy during this challenging time.
