Asbestosis
Lawsuits
Asbestosis is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that is caused only if you get exposed for a long period of time to asbestos. Even if it's not a type of cancer, asbestosis can still threaten your life because it can lead to lung cancer or even mesothelioma. An asbestosis attorney can help you file a claim and obtain a substantial compensation for your case.
Will I get compensated for my asbestos exposure?
Because asbestos manufacturers knew from the 1920s about the dangers of asbestos but didn't inform the people that worked there nor stop using it, a lot of them were sued and considered responsible for the diseases and death that resulted. Substantial sums of money, billions actually, were set aside in bankruptcy trusts for the future claimants. Because asbestos litigation is very expensive, the trust claim process is the only reasonable method of getting compensated for all non-cancer claims.
How many years of exposure do I need to make an asbestos claim?
Usually, a claimant must prove 5 years of asbestos exposure prior to November 30, 1980. The work experience at one of the hundred sites known for exposing workers is the best evidence of asbestos exposure.
Will I be forced to go to court?
Asbestosis cases are usually resolved through the asbestos bankruptcy trust process. Each trust is carried out based on a set of rules that must be followed in order to qualify for the trust payment. An asbestos lawyer will help you gather the necessary documents to win the trust claims.
How long does the asbestos claims process take?
The claims process can take several years. First, your asbestos lawyer will have to gather work history, causation letters, and medical records. Then he will analyze your work history and secure your signature on work history affidavits. After the analysis is complete the lawyer will present all of the proof to the multiple trusts. Some trusts will handle the claims very fast.
What happens if I die before filing a claim?
If you die before filing a claim your family will be able to file a claim on your behalf. The surviving members of the family are allowed to get compensated, but there are some proof requirements. The co-workers need to be identified and contacted to provide the lawyer with the information needed. According to state law, the proceeds for the deceased victims are distributed to successors.
Mesothelioma
Lawsuits
Mesothelioma is an asbestos-related type of cancer that forms on the protective tissues that cover the lungs and abdomen. Most of the mesothelioma cases and a few lung cancer cases are filed and handled as lawsuits and bankruptcy trust claims. Sometimes even a filed lawsuit won't mean that the case and claimant will end up in a courtroom.
Will I get compensated for developing mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure?
Definitely! There are many types of compensation for mesothelioma victims such as bankruptcy trust funds, settlements and trial verdicts. Compensations amounts will vary for each mesothelioma claim. It can be hard to predict the amount of compensation for each case or how will the case end. It can range from small sums to millions of dollars. A mesothelioma lawsuit will help people take care of medical bills and loss of income.
What should I expect when filing a lawsuit?
In a mesothelioma lawsuit, the attorney will handle the actual filing of the case and then all the other related aspects. Most mesothelioma lawsuits never end up to trial because they are settled out of court before the trial takes place.
Will I be forced to go to court?
Most mesothelioma lawsuits never go to trial because they are resolved out of court before the trial takes place. However, if your case ends up in court your lawyer will help you choose the most favorable court for your case. It may be required to file outside the state where you live.
How long does the mesothelioma process take?
If your health is very poor, as most of the medical situations in asbestos-related cases, the entire legal process can be accelerated. If there is no pressure, the process could take several months or longer. In any case, the defendant will probably try to drag out the process. Your mesothelioma lawyer will work to resolve your case as quickly as possible so you can focus more on your health.
What happens if I die after filing a lawsuit?
If a mesothelioma victim files a lawsuit but dies before it's settled, their loved ones may be able to step in as plaintiffs. There are cases in which families file their own wrongful death lawsuits, that can help provide compensation to assist with medical bills, loss of income and funeral expenses. In other cases, families can also obtain monetary awards for their emotional suffering.