Mesothelioma is a cancer usually resulting from asbestos exposure. So if you have been diagnosed of having this cancer, it is essential that you immediately look for a lawyer specializing in cases such as mesothelioma. This is because a lot of states have limited statutes pertaining to cases like this that if you do not act quickly, you might not be able to get compensated at all. So the sooner you seek legal assistance, the better. As the only possible link to this cancer is asbestos exposure, asbestos companies and insurance firms responsible for your exposure should be held liable.
Since the 1970's, it has been a known fact that big corporations actively seek to cover up the potential fatal health risks posed by exposure to asbestos. The judicial system has recognized this and has laid a ruling in favor of the complainants.
You should know that you are completely entitled to seek compensation once a diagnosis of mesothelioma is confirmed. If you have been diagnosed with this cancer or a member of the family recently died because this grave illness resulting from exposure to asbestos, you will surely be able to extract the financial benefits due you by the help of an attorney who is expert in this area.
When looking for the right lawyer to handle your case, make sure to learn and evaluate the relevant experiences of your short listed lawyers, their knowledge regarding your state's statute of limitations on mesothelioma cases, and if they have previous dealings and agreements with companies manufacturing asbestos products. You need to verify too whether your case would be filed separately or as a part of a class-action lawsuit. Also, as much as possible, ask other clients whom the attorney has represented in mesothelioma cases.
Many law offices will not ask you to pay for an initial consultation. If a lawyer decides to handle your case, the law firm will most likely opt to extract their legal fees from the settlement you get. It most cases, the legal fees are based on a certain percentage of the financial awards granted; and this is usually about 35 %.
Whereas you might be eagerly awaiting your appearance in court, you should bear in mind corporations usually opt to settle cases like these outside the court to avoid controversies. If your lawyer is experienced enough to be able to develop a strong case, the settlement may be relatively high, which can reach up to hundreds of thousand dollars. Remember too that whereas these cases often times proceed rapidly, a case could also drag on for several months.
As there are a lot of attorneys specializing in mesothelioma cases, try to look around first for the right one to handle your case. You may have to exert more time and effort in consulting a number of law firms and look for a lawyer whom you feel you can trust and be comfortable working with. It goes without saying too that you choose the lawyer with an established track record of success in this area. Always remember that a good, well-experienced mesothelioma attorney will be able to build a strong case for you and enable you to earn the compensation that is rightfully yours.