Mesothelioma
For decades, employers and manufacturers have known of the risks caused by exposure to asbestos. Those with careers in construction, military work, or factory labor are at higher risk of dangerous levels of exposure. Some employers did what was necessary to protect employees, while others did not.
The results of mesothelioma are life-changing. Often, these cancers are aggressive, and the cost of treatment is great than those in high-exposure careers can bear. When a person receives a diagnosis of mesothelioma, they cannot wait on treatment. And to receive compensation, you must act quickly on your legal case. If you were put at risk, you deserve compensation to cover the cost of your care and the pain and suffering caused by your condition.
What causes Mesothelioma?
The only proven cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a light, fibrous material with excellent strength and heat resistance. The material was used extensively up to 1980 when it became regulated out of consumer goods and common construction materials. Because the fibers are so small, when asbestos is handled, bumped, torn off, or otherwise disturbed, particles disburse into the air. When inhaled, asbestos particles settle in the lungs, or if swallowed, the stomach, causing mesothelioma to develop.
Types of Mesothelioma
There are four common types of mesothelioma. The type is determined by the location of the tumor:
Pleural Mesothelioma
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Peritoneal Mesothelioma
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Pericardial Mesothelioma
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Testicular Mesothelioma
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What Symptoms Are Common with Mesothelioma?
Many of the symptoms of Mesothelioma are shared with chronic or other acute conditions. If you experience these symptoms, visit your doctor as soon as possible for testing, referrals to specialists, and treatment: Shortness of breath, Chest pain, Pressure around the lungs or heart, Abdominal swelling, Fluid buildup around the lungs or abdomen, Changes to bowel movements, Decreased appetite or weight loss, Fatigue, Hoarse voice, Persistent Cough, Wheezing, Anemia, Chills, Fever, or Lower back pain.
You Need a Skilled Mesothelioma Lawyer Now
Mesothelioma patients have a limited time to file for compensation.
Choosing a law firm to represent you can feel overwhelming. You need a lawyer as skilled in trial as they are at case assessment, investigation, and negotiation. Patients don’t have to settle for a first offer from a Mesothelioma fund. Your case is as unique as the circumstances in which you worked. Culpability for your exposure can be impacted by the available information at the time you were exposed, the steps the company took to provide personal protective equipment, the culture they created around safety compliance, and the notices they provided regarding risks and safety precautions for both materials and finished goods.
Your attorney must have strong investigative and research skills.
Your legal team will interview you, then research to identify how, when, and where you were exposed to asbestos. From the results of the investigation, your lawyer will build a case against the companies that hold culpability for your illness.
Your attorney must have a team approach
A successful case is based on experienced lawyers, investigators, and researchers capable of identifying responsible manufacturers and the circumstances of exposure, medical experts that can assess your case and testify when necessary, paralegals able to facilitate records, research, and filings, and a process that persistently and resolutely pursues just outcomes.
You are entitled to damages
Every case of mesothelioma deserves an evaluation. Courts have required manufacturers to set aside funds to treat and compensate victims of mesothelioma. Cases must be filed within six years of diagnosis. As soon as you receive a diagnosis you have two critical steps: start your care plan and treatment, and consult an experienced mesothelioma attorney.
Bringing a case
What does it take?
A legal team with knowledge of asbestos and mesothelioma case law
Even experienced litigators may not know the case law associated with mesothelioma litigation. In any legal matter, the standards set by prior cases determine what is within the norm, what expands the boundary of what is possible, and what is beyond scope at present.
Knowledge of the manufacturers and their uses of asbestos is also necessary to hold the right parties accountable. By knowing how and where you were exposed, an experienced legal team can identify the culpable parties and hold them to account.
What will I pay?
Mesothelioma patients will not pay anything out of pocket. Legal fees are contingent upon the result of your case. Your lawyer is paid a percentage of the money recovered by the outcome of your case, and if there is no recovery for you, you will not be asked to pay legal fees. That means you can focus on your family, medical visits, and life-extending treatments.
Start Your Mesothelioma Case Evaluation Today
The first step in pursuing a just outcome is to speak with an attorney at Thomas Keel & Laird. Our experienced litigators have the background, history, and focus to see your case from initial consult through to resolution, and we are concerned about you, your care, and your outcomes. We are known for our focus and drive to get results. With our team, you won’t be pushed off to junior lawyers and staff. Our experts will oversee your case every step of the way.