Hi there! If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. But navigating the legal system can be overwhelming, which is why it’s important to find a lawyer who specializes in mesothelioma cases. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of finding the best legal representation for your mesothelioma case.
Table of Contents
- What is Mesothelioma?
- What Causes Mesothelioma?
- Symptoms of Mesothelioma
- Diagnosing Mesothelioma
- Treatment Options for Mesothelioma
- Why You Need a Lawyer for Mesothelioma
- How to Find a Lawyer for Mesothelioma
- Questions to Ask a Lawyer for Mesothelioma
- How Much Does a Lawyer for Mesothelioma Cost?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Lawyers for Mesothelioma
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the thin layer of tissue that covers most of your internal organs (mesothelium). Most often, it affects the tissue that surrounds the lungs, but it can also occur in the tissue surrounding the heart, stomach, and other organs.
Mesothelioma is caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, which can become trapped in the lining of the lungs or abdomen and cause irritation and inflammation over time. The symptoms of mesothelioma can take decades to develop, which is why it is often diagnosed in its later stages.
How Common is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, with only about 3,000 cases diagnosed in the United States each year. However, it is also a deadly cancer, with a 5-year survival rate of only about 10%.
Who is at Risk for Mesothelioma?
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma, but the following groups are at especially high risk:
- Workers who were exposed to asbestos on the job, especially those in the construction, shipbuilding, and automotive industries
- Family members of workers who were exposed to asbestos, since asbestos fibers can be carried home on clothing and equipment
- Veterans who served in the Navy or other branches of the military, since asbestos was commonly used in shipbuilding and other military applications
What Causes Mesothelioma?
The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in construction and manufacturing in the United States until the 1970s, when its health risks became clearer. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can become embedded in the lining of the lungs or abdomen and cause irritation and inflammation, which can lead to cancer over time.
There is no safe level of asbestos exposure, and even brief exposure can increase the risk of mesothelioma.
Other Risk Factors for Mesothelioma
While exposure to asbestos is the primary cause of mesothelioma, there are other factors that can increase your risk of developing the disease:
- Gender: Men are more likely than women to develop mesothelioma, possibly because they were more likely to be exposed to asbestos in the workplace
- Age: Mesothelioma typically develops in people over the age of 60, although it can occur in younger people who have been exposed to asbestos
- Genetics: Some studies have suggested that certain gene mutations may increase the risk of developing mesothelioma in people who have been exposed to asbestos
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the location and stage of the cancer. In its early stages, mesothelioma may not cause any symptoms at all. As the cancer progresses, however, the following symptoms may develop:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Night sweats
- Fever
- Swelling in the abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
If you have been exposed to asbestos and experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away.
Diagnosing Mesothelioma
The diagnosis of mesothelioma usually involves a combination of imaging tests, such as X-rays and CT scans, and a biopsy, which involves removing a small piece of tissue for examination. If mesothelioma is suspected, your doctor may refer you to a specialist, such as an oncologist or a pulmonologist, for further evaluation.
Types of Mesothelioma
There are several different types of mesothelioma, depending on where the cancer occurs in the body:
- Pleural mesothelioma: the most common type, which affects the lining of the lungs
- Peritoneal mesothelioma: which affects the lining of the abdomen
- Pericardial mesothelioma: which affects the lining of the heart
- Testicular mesothelioma: which affects the lining of the testicles (extremely rare)
Stages of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is also classified by its stage, which refers to how advanced the cancer is at the time of diagnosis. There are four stages of mesothelioma:
- Stage I: the cancer is localized to one area of the body
- Stage II: the cancer has begun to spread to nearby lymph nodes
- Stage III: the cancer has spread to other organs or tissues in the body
- Stage IV: the cancer has spread to distant organs or tissues and is considered advanced
Treatment Options for Mesothelioma
The treatment options for mesothelioma depend on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences. Treatment may involve one or more of the following:
- Surgery: the goal of surgery is to remove as much of the cancer as possible, either by removing a portion of the affected organ or tissue, or by removing the entire organ (such as a lung). Surgery is most effective in early-stage mesothelioma before the cancer has spread.
- Chemotherapy: the use of drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Chemotherapy is often used in combination with surgery to increase the effectiveness of treatment.
- Radiation therapy: the use of high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be used before or after surgery, or as the primary treatment for mesothelioma.
There are also clinical trials and experimental treatments available for mesothelioma, which may be an option for some patients. Your doctor can help you decide on the best treatment plan for your individual case.
Why You Need a Lawyer for Mesothelioma
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to consult with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible. Mesothelioma cases can be complex, and there are many legal and financial issues that need to be addressed.
A mesothelioma lawyer can help you:
- Determine whether you are eligible for compensation from asbestos trust funds or other sources
- File a lawsuit against the companies responsible for your asbestos exposure
- Navigate the legal system and ensure that your rights are protected
- Negotiate with insurance companies and other parties to reach a fair settlement
- Advocate for your best interests throughout the legal process
When choosing a mesothelioma lawyer, it is important to find someone who has experience and expertise in handling mesothelioma cases specifically.
How to Find a Lawyer for Mesothelioma
Finding the right lawyer for your mesothelioma case can be a daunting task, but there are several resources available to help you:
- The American Bar Association: the ABA has a referral service that can help you connect with lawyers in your area who specialize in mesothelioma cases.
- The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation: this nonprofit organization has a directory of mesothelioma lawyers who have been vetted for their experience and reputation.
- Your State Bar Association: many State Bar Associations have a referral service that can connect you with lawyers in your area who specialize in mesothelioma cases.
Researching Mesothelioma Lawyers
Once you have a list of potential mesothelioma lawyers, it’s important to do your research to find the best fit for your case. Some things to consider when evaluating a lawyer include:
- Experience: look for a lawyer who has handled many mesothelioma cases and has a track record of success.
- Expertise: mesothelioma cases are complex and require specialized knowledge; look for a lawyer who has experience specifically with mesothelioma cases.
- Reputation: read reviews and testimonials from past clients to get a sense of the lawyer’s reputation.
- Communication: a good mesothelioma lawyer should be responsive, easy to communicate with, and able to explain the legal process in clear terms.
- Fees: mesothelioma lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you receive compensation. Make sure you understand the lawyer’s fees and how they will be paid before you sign a contract.
Questions to Ask a Lawyer for Mesothelioma
When you meet with a mesothelioma lawyer for the first time, there are several questions you should ask to help you evaluate their experience and expertise. Some questions to consider include:
- How many mesothelioma cases have you handled?
- What is your success rate in mesothelioma cases?
- What is your approach to handling mesothelioma cases?
- Do you have experience negotiating with asbestos trust funds?
- How will you communicate with me throughout the legal process?
- What are your fees and how are they structured?
A good mesothelioma lawyer should be happy to answer these and any other questions you may have.
How Much Does a Lawyer for Mesothelioma Cost?
Many mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you receive compensation. Typically, the contingency fee is around 33% of the total award or settlement.
Some lawyers may also charge an hourly rate or a flat fee, depending on the complexity of the case and their level of experience. Before you sign a contract with a mesothelioma lawyer, make sure you understand their fees and how they will be paid.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lawyers for Mesothelioma
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What should I look for in a mesothelioma lawyer? | You should look for a lawyer who has experience and expertise specifically in mesothelioma cases, a good reputation, and clear communication skills. |
| How much does a mesothelioma lawyer cost? | Many mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you receive compensation. Typically, the contingency fee is around 33% of the total award or settlement. |
| Can a mesothelioma lawsuit be settled out of court? | Yes, many mesothelioma lawsuits are settled out of court through negotiations with the defendants or their insurers. |
| What types of compensation can I receive for my mesothelioma case? | You may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your mesothelioma diagnosis. |
| How long does a mesothelioma lawsuit take? | The length of a mesothelioma lawsuit can vary depending on the complexity of the case, but it typically takes several months to several years to reach a settlement or go to trial. |
Conclusion
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important to find a lawyer who can help you navigate the legal system and get the compensation you deserve. By doing your research, asking the right questions, and finding a lawyer with experience and expertise in mesothelioma cases, you can ensure that your rights are protected and your case is handled with care.