One thing you should do when setting up an appointment with an Indiana mesothelioma lawyer is to have all relevant information and questions ready so that you can make an informed decision about whether to hire the law firm. During the consultation, you’ll need to address some critical issues, and what you ask can help you decide on your choice of lawyer and teach you about your legal rights.
Questions to Ask Your Mesothelioma Lawyer
You should consult a mesothelioma lawyer to both comprehend the legal process better and learn more about their background. Therefore, the following questions are vital to consider.
Experience and Qualifications:
- How long have you been practicing mesothelioma and asbestos-related law?
- How many mesothelioma cases have you handled, and what are your success rates?
- What is your specific experience in dealing with cases similar to mine?
Legal Strategy and Approach:
- What legal strategy do you recommend for my case, and why?
- Will you handle my case personally, or will it be assigned to other attorneys or paralegals?
- How do you plan to gather and present evidence to support my case?
Potential Compensation:
- Based on the information I have provided, what potential compensation can I expect?
- What damages can be included in a mesothelioma claim (medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, etc.)?
- How do you determine the value of a mesothelioma case? (Many cases average $1 million.)
Statute of Limitations and Deadlines:
- What is the statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma claim in my state?
- Are there any critical deadlines or time constraints I should know?
Legal Fees and Costs:
- How do you structure your legal fees for mesothelioma cases (contingency fee, hourly rate, etc.)?
- What additional costs or expenses should I expect during the legal process?
- Do you offer any payment plans or financial assistance options?
Communication and Updates:
- How will you communicate with me throughout the legal process, and how often can I expect updates?
- Will I have direct access to you or primarily communicate with a paralegal or other staff members?
Legal Team and Resources:
- What is the size of your legal team, and what specific roles do they play in mesothelioma cases?
- Do you work with medical experts, investigators, or other professionals to support mesothelioma cases?
Case Resolution and Timeline:
- What is the typical timeline for resolving mesothelioma cases, from filing to potential settlement or trial?
- What factors will influence the duration of my case?
Success Stories and References:
- Can you provide examples of successful mesothelioma cases you have handled and the compensation obtained for your clients?
- Can you provide references or testimonials from previous clients?
What Case Details You’ll Need to Share with a Mesothelioma Attorney
Once you retain the services of a mesothelioma attorney, you’ll need to share the following information.
- Asbestos Exposure History: To build a strong case for your mesothelioma lawyer, you’ll need to provide in-depth details regarding your asbestos exposure history. Note: Most patients are diagnosed, on average, with pleural mesothelioma, which affects the chest, at 72 years old. The cancer has a long latency time frame and often emerges 20 to 50 years after exposure.
- Employment History: You’ll need to share your employers and workplaces where you have been exposed to asbestos. You’ll also need to provide information about your job duties, tasks related to asbestos-containing materials, and duration of employment.
- In addition, if available, you’ll want to supply any documents, such as employment records or company memos that mention asbestos exposure.
- Secondhand Exposure: Your mesothelioma lawyer may ask whether you ever came in contact with someone who worked around asbestos or if you lived near an area contaminated by asbestos.
- Military Service: Let your attorney know if you have served in any branch of military service and whether you might have been exposed while performing military duties. Some facilities and equipment used by soldiers were constructed or manufactured using asbestos-containing substances.
- Additional Exposure Sources: Talk about other possible ways where you could have been exposed to asbestos through home improvements, construction works, or recreational activities.
- Medical History and Records: For your attorney to evaluate your case correctly and put forward solid arguments for your claim, they’ll need access to your medical reports and the following info:
- Diagnosis: Such as type of asbestos disease, stage & date diagnosed
- Contacts: The names and contacts of health professionals who established this diagnosis
- Medical Treatment: Surgeries, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy
- Medical Records: Gather all relevant medical files, including diagnostic test results, Hospital admission info, and discharge summaries, among other documents related to your condition
- Caregiver Support: Any health caregivers who took part in caring for you should be known
- Personal and Family Information: Your mesothelioma lawyer will use this information to assess how the illness affects you and estimate potential damages. Below are some details that they need to know:
- Personal Details: Basic personal information such as age, marital status, family situation, and occupation.
- Family Support and Personal Relationships: Share caregiver information with your lawyer or any family members who take care of you. Describe how your disease has affected personal relationships and professional associations.
- Additional Documents and Copies Supporting Information: Your mesothelioma lawyer may request additional documents or information to support your case during the consultation. Be prepared to provide the following, if available:
- Asbestos Product Identification: Provide any information or documentation about the specific asbestos-containing products or materials you were exposed to, such as product names, manufacturers, or labels.
- Witness Statements: Provide potential witnesses’ names and contact information, such as former coworkers or family members, who can corroborate your asbestos exposure.
- Personal Records: Bring any relevant personal records, such as photographs, journal entries, or correspondence that document your asbestos exposure or health condition.
- Financial records: Obtain financial records, such as salary slips, tax forms, and medical accounts, to back up your claim for lost income and health care costs.
Arrange a Consultation with a Mesothelioma Lawyer Today
Seeking help for your medical and living expenses is easier when you have legal help. Schedule a free consultation and case review now, and contact a mesothelioma and asbestos law firm now.
