If you work with asbestos on the job, its effects may not manifest for 10 to 30 years. A persistent cough, shortness of breath, or weight loss may signal that you have mesothelioma or an asbestos-related disease.
That is why contacting a mesothelioma lawyer is important to receive maximum compensation. This type of specialized legal representation is vital if you want the best outcome.
Union Members at Risk
In the past, asbestos was present in thousands of items at U.S. job sites. Some of the union workers included bricklayers, steelworkers, cement masons, and carpenters.
Military veterans also encountered exposure to the material. When older buildings were destroyed or burned, workers, like firefighters, may also have been exposed to asbestos.
Bankrupt asbestos companies established trust funds that represent billions of dollars to support victims with asbestos-related diseases. Again, you need to contact a mesothelioma lawyer with access to these resources.
Some union members eligible for asbestos funds and/or can file a personal injury lawsuit include carpenters, industrial workers, electrical workers, firefighters, UAW furniture manufacturers, and woodworkers.
A small sampling of unions include:
- AFL-CIO
- Boeing-Aero Mechanics
- Carpenters Local organizations
- Electrical Workers’ Union local organizations
- UAW Furniture Manufacturing
- Amalgamated Clothing & Textile Workers Union
- International Union of Elevator Constructors
- Plumbers and Pipefitters local organizations
- International Longshoremen’s Association
- Bricklayers Union local organizations
- International Woodworkers Union
- Iron Workers Local organizations
- Steelworkers Local organizations
- Roofers Union
- Teamsters Local organizations
- United Mine Workers
- Insulators Union Local organizations
Why You Should Count on the Services of a Mesothelioma Lawyer
If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you need to make sure you receive the care you need and that your loved ones have what they need financially. That is why you need to consult with a mesothelioma attorney.
An attorney can support you in the following ways:
Specialized Legal Knowledge
Mesothelioma attorneys have specialized knowledge, focusing primarily on asbestos-related cases. This gives them in-depth knowledge of the relevant laws, precedents, and regulations. Therefore, they have the practical insights they can use to strategize your case for maximum compensation.
An Understanding of the Medical Aspects of the Disease
A mesothelioma lawyer works with medical professionals and has the resources to back a compelling case.
A Knowledge of Asbestos Companies and Products
Mesothelioma attorneys are well acquainted with the various asbestos industries and can identify potential defendants. They also know the history of asbestos claims.
Free Initial Consultation and Case Review
Most mesothelioma attorneys offer a free initial consultation and case review. This case review includes copies of medical records, work history, and potential asbestos sources of exposure.
Case Assessment and Strategic Development of Your Case
A mesothelioma will scrutinize your case and establish a legal strategy.
Gathering and Preserving Evidence
Building a strong mesothelioma case requires substantial evidence.
Your lawyer will:
- Collect Medical Records: Your attorney will gather and organize all relevant medical documentation to establish your diagnosis and its connection to asbestos exposure.
- Document Work History: Your mesothelioma lawyer will help reconstruct your employment history, focusing on potential asbestos exposure sites.
- Obtain Witness Statements: An attorney may interview coworkers, family members, or others who can corroborate your asbestos exposure.
- Secure Expert Testimony: Mesothelioma lawyers have access to medical professionals, occupational health specialists, and other professionals who can provide testimony to support your case.
- Preserve Evidence: Attorneys ensure that all evidence is properly preserved and admissible in court.
Managing Difficult Legal Procedures
Mesothelioma lawsuits involve intricate legal procedures.
Your attorney will guide you through:
- Filing the Lawsuit: They will prepare and file all necessary legal documents to initiate your lawsuit within the required timeframes.
- Statute of Limitations: Mesothelioma lawyers are well-versed in the statutes of limitations for asbestos-related claims, which vary by state. They will ensure your case meets all deadlines.
- Jurisdictional Issues: Attorneys will determine the most appropriate jurisdiction for filing your lawsuit to maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.
- Discovery Process: Your lawyer will handle the exchange of information with the defendants, including interrogatories, depositions, and document requests.
- Pretrial Motions: They will file and respond to various pretrial motions that may affect your case.
Negotiating Settlements
Many mesothelioma cases resolve through settlements.
Your attorney will support you by:
- Evaluating Settlement Offers: They will evaluate settlement offers to ensure you receive adequate compensation for your damages.
- Negotiating: Using their experience and negotiation skills, mesothelioma attorneys will work to secure the best possible settlement for you.
- Advising on Settlement Decisions: Your lawyer will advise you on whether to accept a settlement or proceed to trial, explaining the pros and cons of each option.
Trial Representation
If your case goes to trial, your mesothelioma lawyer will represent you by:
- Preparing Your Case for Court: Your lawyer will develop a comprehensive trial strategy, preparing all necessary documents and exhibits.
- Presenting Your Case: Your attorney will argue your case before the judge and jury, presenting evidence and examining witnesses. They will use the evidence they collect to persuade the judge and jury. The presentation of a case is as crucial as the supporting factors themselves. Your attorney’s methods of persuasion are therefore important – ensuring you receive a settlement that is both fair and equitable.
- Cross-examining Defense Witnesses: Attorneys will skillfully question the defendants’ witnesses to strengthen your case.
- Making Convincing Opening and Closing Statements: Your lawyer will present compelling arguments to the jury at the beginning and end of the trial.
Accessing Asbestos Trust Funds
Many companies responsible for asbestos exposure have established trust funds to compensate victims.
Your lawyer can:
- Identify the Relevant Trust Funds: A lawyer will determine which trust funds may apply to your claim.
- Prepare Trust Fund Claims: Your attorney will handle the paperwork and documentation required for claims.
- Maximizing Trust Fund Compensation: Your lawyer will work to ensure you receive the maximum possible compensation from each relevant fund.
Emotional Support and Client Care
Beyond legal representation, mesothelioma lawyers often provide:
- Compassionate Communications: The right attorney understands the emotional toll of a mesothelioma diagnosis and provides empathetic, clear communication throughout the legal process.
- Regular Updates: Your lawyer will keep you informed about the progress of your case and explain confusing legal concepts in understandable terms.
- Access to Referrals: Mesothelioma attorneys can connect you with support groups, counseling services, or other resources to support you as you cope with your diagnosis.
Exploring All Compensation Options
A skilled mesothelioma lawyer will investigate all potential sources of compensation, including:
- Personal Injury Lawsuits: Filing against companies responsible for your asbestos exposure.
- Wrongful Death Claims: If filing on behalf of a deceased family member.
- Veterans’ Benefits: Assisting veterans accessing VA benefits related to service-connected asbestos exposure.
- Workers’ Compensation: Exploring potential workers’ compensation claims for occupational asbestos exposure.
- Social Security Disability: Helping you understand and apply for Social Security Disability benefits if eligible.
The Next Step: Contact a Mesothelioma Attorney Now
At Vogelzang Law choosing the right mesothelioma lawyer is a major decision. With the right legal support, you can face the challenges of a mesothelioma diagnosis with renewed assurance. Learn more about your rights today. Contact a mesothelioma attorney for your free consultation and case review now.
