Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive form of cancer primarily affecting the lining of the lungs (pleura), but it can also manifest in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) and heart (pericardium).
The disease’s cellular structure makes it distinct from other cancers, and, unfortunately, it’s often resistant to many conventional treatments.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral once praised for its heat resistance and insulation properties. However, when its fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the lining of the lungs or abdomen.
Over time, these embedded fibers can lead to cellular mutations, which in turn may develop into mesothelioma. The latency period, or time between asbestos exposure and diagnosis, can span decades. In part, this is due to the fact that mesothelioma symptoms often mirror those of less severe illnesses, such as the flu or pneumonia, making early diagnosis challenging.
Common symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, and unexplained weight loss. Recognizing and responding to these symptoms promptly, especially if there’s a known history of asbestos exposure, is vital for early intervention and better prognosis.
Armed with the knowledge that you have a diagnosis of mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure, you have every right to pursue the compensation you deserve from those who failed in their responsibility to prevent this illness from wreaking havoc on your life.
Our goal for each client is to provide them and their families with financial stability for future generations. A lawsuit and settlement will not cure mesothelioma or change the uncertainty a life-changing mesothelioma diagnosis brings. It can, however, help ease the financial burden on you or your loved ones.
Numerous companies are responsible for exposing employees to harmful, asbestos-ridden environments and products. With your help, Vogelzang Law can achieve justice for you and your loved ones and hold companies that use asbestos-related products accountable.
We understand the importance of being around family and friends during this stressful time. We will travel to your home to get to know you and learn about your case. On average, our mesothelioma lawsuits settle in 9 to 12 months.
For decades, many companies were aware of the harmful effects of asbestos but continued its use due to its cost-effectiveness and beneficial properties, such as fire resistance.
Internal documents from some of these companies have revealed a conscious decision to prioritize profits over the health and safety of their workers and the general public, leading to countless preventable illnesses.
Filing a lawsuit serves as a powerful tool for victims to seek redress for the injustices they’ve suffered. It not only provides potential financial relief but also delivers a message of accountability. By taking legal action, victims and their families can ensure that negligent companies face the consequences of their decisions and are deterred from making similarly harmful choices in the future.
As mesothelioma lawyers serving clients nationwide, we at Vogelzang Law are aware of the broader impact of these claims. Lawsuits serve as a public record, informing communities, regulators, and other stakeholders about companies’ harmful actions and pushing for necessary changes in industrial practices and health standards.
Most asbestos cases are settled out-of-court before they even come before a jury. Here are some conditions that may make it more likely you’ll settle:
Before delving into the complexities of a lawsuit, an initial consultation is a time for you to explore your options, ask questions, and feel at ease with your potential legal advocate. During this session, potential clients can discuss their history of asbestos exposure, medical diagnosis, and any other relevant information. This meeting provides the attorney with a foundation to evaluate the viability and potential strategies of the case.
A strong mesothelioma case is built on solid evidence, such as medical records, employment history, witness testimonies, and any other documentation that can establish a clear link between asbestos exposure and the resulting illness. An attorney with a strong background in these cases knows how to track your illness back to the initial exposure, relying on a network of medical experts specializing in mesothelioma and asbestos-related illnesses. This pool of knowledge ensures the case is backed by authoritative and compelling medical evidence.
At Vogelzang Law, we understand that coming to the decision to file a mesothelioma lawsuit may seem daunting. However, we’re here to ensure that the process is as seamless and rewarding for you as possible. Our attorneys realize that the stakes are high when it comes to securing financial compensation for this disease and that the steps you take in the present may have long-term effects on your family’s future. We’re committed to seeking justice for you and your loved ones and are prepared to offer you the full breadth of our experience and litigation skills.
The intricacies of asbestos-related cases require a unique blend of legal expertise and medical understanding. Selecting a law firm with a proven track record in asbestos litigation ensures that your case is handled with the precision and attention it deserves.
Such firms possess not only the necessary legal acumen but also a network of medical experts, researchers, and resources to bolster your case.
Experience in handling mesothelioma cases is invaluable. Firms that have navigated the complexities of these lawsuits time and time again are adept at anticipating challenges, strategizing effectively, and securing the best outcomes for their clients.
Our history of successful verdicts and settlements speaks volumes about our firm’s capabilities and dedication to achieving justice for mesothelioma victims.
Beyond legal prowess, it’s essential to choose a firm that understands the emotional and physical toll of a mesothelioma diagnosis. Our compassionate attorneys ensure that clients and their families are treated with utmost care, respect, and sensitivity throughout the litigation process.
The right law firm for your case offers not just legal representation but also holistic support, guiding victims and families through medical queries, emotional challenges, and financial decisions with empathy and understanding.
Facing a diagnosis of mesothelioma is undeniably overwhelming, but taking legal action offers victims and their families a chance to reclaim some control. Pursuing a lawsuit is not just about seeking financial reparation; it’s a statement that negligent parties cannot rob individuals of their health without consequence.
Every mesothelioma lawsuit contributes to a broader narrative. It emphasizes the dangers of asbestos, highlights company negligence, and reinforces the need for stricter regulations. By standing up for their rights, victims play an integral role in protecting future generations from similar exposure and potential harm.
At Vogelzang Law, we understand the profound impact mesothelioma has on individuals and their loved ones. Our dedication goes beyond legal representation; we strive to be pillars of support, compassion, and advocacy. Our commitment is to champion the rights of mesothelioma victims, ensuring they receive the justice they deserve while providing guidance every step of the way.
Determining the exact location of asbestos exposure can be a challenging process, especially if you’ve worked in multiple places where exposure was possible. Experienced mesothelioma attorneys typically conduct a thorough investigation, reviewing your employment history, interviewing co-workers, and researching known asbestos-containing products or materials used in those workplaces. With this methodical approach, they can often pinpoint or narrow down the most likely sources of exposure.
The compensation from a mesothelioma lawsuit varies based on several factors, including the severity of the illness, the extent of negligence by the responsible parties, and the economic and non-economic damages you’ve suffered. Compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and even punitive damages in some cases. Past mesothelioma lawsuits have seen a range of compensation amounts, from tens of thousands to several million dollars. Your attorney can provide a more specific estimate based on the details of your case.
If you can’t recall the details of your asbestos exposure, or if the company responsible has since gone out of business, it doesn’t necessarily preclude you from seeking compensation. Law firms specializing in asbestos litigation often have extensive databases and resources to track down historical asbestos use, and they’re adept at uncovering evidence of exposure. Furthermore, many companies that used asbestos have established trust funds specifically for victims of asbestos-related diseases, ensuring compensation even if the company has declared bankruptcy or gone out of business.
Filing a lawsuit involves taking legal action against the parties deemed responsible for the asbestos exposure, with the aim of obtaining compensation through a court verdict or settlement. An asbestos trust fund, on the other hand, is a financial reserve established by companies that have admitted liability for asbestos-related harms. These trusts are designed to compensate present and future victims.
Claiming from a trust is typically a less adversarial process than a lawsuit and might be resolved more quickly. However, the compensation amount might be predetermined and may differ from what one could obtain through litigation. Regardless of which option benefits you the most, our law firm can direct your case through the appropriate channels and work with you to ensure that compensation is obtained.
Yes, family members can often file what is known as a “wrongful death” lawsuit if their loved one died from mesothelioma without initiating legal action. This lawsuit seeks compensation for damages such as loss of consortium, companionship, potential earnings, and medical and funeral expenses. The eligibility to file and the specifics of the process can vary by jurisdiction, so you must consult with an attorney experienced in asbestos litigation.
Typically, to file a lawsuit for asbestos exposure, you need to have a diagnosable injury or illness directly related to the exposure, such as mesothelioma or asbestosis. Simply being exposed without a resulting health issue usually doesn’t provide grounds for a lawsuit. However, if you’ve been exposed, it’s crucial to have regular medical check-ups to detect any potential asbestos-related illnesses early. If you’re diagnosed in the future, you may then have grounds for legal action. Always consult with an experienced attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
