What Questions Should You Ask a Mesothelioma Lawyer?

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer, one that’s primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. About 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma in the United States every year, and roughly 80% of these cases report asbestos exposure, according to the American Lung Association.

Making one’s way from diagnosis to treatment and its repercussions can be an overwhelming experience, and then having to navigate the complexities of taking legal action to get fair compensation can add another layer of difficulty and frustration.

This is where a specialized mesothelioma lawyer becomes invaluable.

On our blog, we’ve previously shared how our state has 70 asbestos superfund sites dotted across it. Given how many of those sites are currently or were formerly asbestos sites, you may find yourself needing legal counsel to hold those who exposed you to this carcinogen liable. Having the right mesothelioma lawyer can significantly impact your ability to receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages related to asbestos exposure.

View other resources on our site to learn more about mesothelioma, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Continue reading below for questions you should ask a mesothelioma lawyer.

Topics To Address When Consulting With a Mesothelioma Attorney

It’s important to make sure you have the best possible legal representation for your case, so it’s crucial to ask the right questions during the initial consultation with a lawyer

Here are some questions to consider:

What Is Your Experience Handling Mesothelioma Cases?

Understanding the level of experience that your lawyer has with mesothelioma cases is critical.

You’ll want to ask about their track record of successful verdicts, as well as settlements they’ve achieved for previous mesothelioma clients. A lawyer with experience in asbestos litigation should have specialized knowledge and insights that can be crucial to winning your case.

How Will You Handle My Case?

It’s also essential to know how an attorney plans to approach your case. Of course, no lawyer is going to have an exact plan before they have a chance to gather and review evidence, but they should be able to discuss the basic legal strategies they might employ, including whether they anticipate settling or think you may have to go to trial.

Understanding their anticipated approach can give you insight into their strategy and commitment to pursuing maximum compensation on your behalf.

Who Will Work on My Case Personally?

If you’re working with a larger law firm, cases are often handled by a team of lawyers and paralegals.

Be sure to clarify who’ll be primarily responsible for your case and how to contact them. Also, ask about their experience and qualifications. You need to feel comfortable with the entire team that will be working on your claim.

What Costs and Fees Should I Expect?

Mesothelioma cases can be expensive to litigate. Make sure that you discuss the lawyer’s fee structure upfront. Confirm if they work on a contingency basis (fees are only paid if you receive compensation) and what percentage of your final compensation that will be.

Be sure to ask about any potential costs you might be responsible for during the legal process, as well.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim?

Every state has its own statute of limitations that dictates how long you have to file a mesothelioma lawsuit after diagnosis or death. The Illinois statute of limitations for personal injury, for example, is two years from the date of the injury or discovery of illness.

Because symptoms can resemble those of other less serious conditions, and its extended latency (30 to 40 years), mesothelioma is often not diagnosed until it has reached an advanced stage.

Your attorney should be well-versed in the statutes that apply to your case and able to ensure that important deadlines that could affect your claim are met.

Can You Provide References or Client Testimonials?

A reputable mesothelioma lawyer or firm will be able to provide references or client testimonials that highlight their abilities and dedication. By hearing from past clients, you can get valuable insights into your potential lawyer’s ability to handle your cases effectively and professionally.

How Will You Keep Me Informed About My Case?

Communication is the key during any legal proceeding.

Ask how often you’ll get updates on your case and how (phone calls, emails, meetings, etc.)

Employing a lawyer who keeps you informed and is quick to address concerns and answer questions, is vital in helping avoid some of the stress that’s often associated with litigation.

What Compensation Can I Realistically Expect?

Of course, no lawyer can guarantee a specific outcome in advance, but an experienced mesothelioma attorney should be able to give you a realistic idea of the range of compensation you can expect based on their review and consideration of your specific case.

Ask them to explain the types of damages you can pursue (both economic and non-economic), such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.

An experienced mesothelioma lawyer will understand the damages you can claim and to what extent and will strive to maximize your compensation either by negotiating settlements or by pursuing litigation before a judge.

Your lawyer’s goal is to make sure that, when all is said and done, you have the financial support that you and your family need to cover medical treatments and secure your future.

How Long Will the Legal Process Take?

The length of mesothelioma lawsuits can vary based on factors like the complexity of the case, the defendant’s willingness to settle, and local court schedules.

Your lawyer should be able to provide you with a rough timeline of how long they think your case should take to resolve, as well as any factors that they think could potentially impact that timeline.

Do You Have Access to Medical Experts and Resources?

Asbestos and mesothelioma lawsuits often require medical evidence to support any claims of exposure and resulting illness. Ask about your lawyer’s access to medical experts who specialize in mesothelioma and asbestos-related illnesses.

Their ability to offer compelling medical evidence in your favor can greatly strengthen your case.

Why Hire a Mesothelioma Lawyer

Mesothelioma lawyers should possess the most current and in-depth knowledge of asbestos-related laws and regulations, focusing specifically on the complexities of asbestos exposure and its consequences.

This specialized knowledge and experience is what makes them able to build strong, successful cases by linking exposure to the development of mesothelioma.

A qualified mesothelioma lawyer can guide you through these legal hurdles and make sure that all paperwork is error-free and submitted within your state’s legal deadlines. Their expertise in this specific area of law reduces the risk of errors or delays that might otherwise jeopardize your case.

Choosing the right mesothelioma lawyer can be the single most important decision you make in ensuring that you get justice and maximum compensation for your present and future losses. By asking the right questions and carefully weighing the answers, you can make a more informed choice, one that improves your chances for success.

Remember, a qualified personal injury lawyer who specializes in mesothelioma and asbestos cases will not only advocate for your rights but also partner with you by providing invaluable support and guidance throughout the entire legal process.

If you or a loved one has questions or concerns about a mesothelioma lawsuit, our expert attorneys at Schweickert Ganassin Krzak Rundio, LLP, are here to get you answers and help you seek justice and fair compensation for your losses.

Contact us today for a free consultation.