Mesothelioma is a fatal malignancy that results from asbestos exposure on the worksite. In the past, insulation products often contained asbestos. Many countries have banned asbestos-containing products, but some companies are still using them secretly. Thus, they are playing with the lives of the workers and their loved ones. Resultantly, the victim is eligible to file a claim against the producers and suppliers of asbestos-containing products for causing injury to them.
Most victims don’t know what they can get out of a mesothelioma claim, which in reality, results in compensation that can make up for the victim’s expenses. Thus, it becomes imperative to consult a mesothelioma lawyer to explore your options.
Filing a lawsuit and going through a legal claim can be tiring, especially for a sick person, so a lawyer to support you in these times can be a big relief. They know the nitty-gritty of paperwork, making negotiations on behalf of their client and the like. However, finding the right lawyer in the pool of self-acclaimed lawyers can be daunting. You have to find someone who can retrieve the best compensation amount to manage your financial struggles.
To help you get started, we have listed some factors you must look at when finding a lawyer.
Settlement amount they have received so far
Some lawyers have retrieved billions of dollars in compensation money for their clients. You can also ask your prospective lawyer how much settlement amount you can get by pursuing this case. A quick location-specific independent background check can also bear fruits. For instance, a Pennsylvania mesothelioma lawyer working under a renowned firm has been able to get $120 million for families and victims so far. The more proficient they are in negotiation, the more are your chances to receive an amount that solves many of your issues.
Years of experience handling the cases
The experience of working and handling mesothelioma cases is one of the important factors to consider when finding a lawyer. You may ask about the number of years they have been working as a mesothelioma lawyer, their success rate so far, and if mesothelioma cases are their sole area of work. These questions can gauge their suitability as your mesothelioma lawyer. Most suitable attorneys have years of experience handling such cases. Unlike others, they don’t take other personal injury suits. Hence, they can provide you with the most focused service.
Professional databases and resources available to them
Seasoned mesothelioma attorneys have professional databases and resources to help them find the culprits. Since the latency period of mesothelioma can be as long as ten to fifteen years, you may not know who caused you this harm. Mesothelioma lawyers have resources such as the names of asbestos manufacturers, suppliers and the users, and medical data. They can investigate the matter, collect evidence, and develop a strong case that helps you win.
What are your options?
You must ask your mesothelioma lawyer about the options available to you. A mesothelioma claim can help you get compensation through a settlement or a court verdict when a case is settled outside of court, with the perpetrators offering compensation to the victims and their families.
A settlement case is much shorter than a court verdict. In the latter option, the case is presented to judges and juries that settle the case. A court verdict is a little risky due to the understanding of the judge or the jury. So, asking your lawyer about your options helps gauge your chances and how long it will take to get compensation.
Contact a few and compare their behavior towards your case.
It is not wise to settle with the first lawyer you meet. You have to find one that makes you comfortable and gives you hope in the process. The victims and their families are already going through a tough period in their lives; they cannot tolerate someone who is condescending, belittling, and does not regard their sufferings. Therefore, when finding a mesothelioma lawyer, find one who can be compassionate, understanding, and respectful towards the families and the victims. The hope you get from working with such people is that you will do something for your family after you are gone.
Can they travel on your behalf?
Filing a mesothelioma case in a state or area depends on the statute of limitations. If you do not fulfill the requirements in your state, you may have to travel to another state and file your case there. But traveling can be a burden for the patient and the families, especially when they have kids to look after.
For the victim of mesothelioma, fatigue is a natural result of their illness. So, often they can’t travel. Ask the prospective lawyer to pursue the legal proceeding without needing them to travel. Can they make up for their absence with their strong argument? Or else, you can also inquire about the number of cases where the victim was not present in the court but could still win the case. Enquiring such matters help you gauge how tiring this whole process can be.
Cost of the legal proceeding
Mesothelioma leads to loss of income because patients cannot continue working. So, asking about the cost of filing the case and the entire legal proceeding. Some legal firms work on contingency fee plans. In that, they don’t ask for any upfront cost. Instead, they get a small percentage from the total money received. The fee percentage varies depending on the type of your case. For instance, the contingency fee is 33% to 40% of the compensation amount for a personal injury claim. In asbestos trust fund claims, the percentage reduces to 25%. So, ask your lawyer about their payment plan too.
Do they give free legal consultation?
Some lawyers who might be new to this profession or are oblivious to the seriousness of the situation of victims and their families also charge a consultation fee. When the family is already struggling with finances, this consultation can be a huge burden. But other seasoned firms give free consultation to their clients, discuss the details of their case and clearly outline their options. By asking about the cost, you will know where you are standing and if you want to proceed with a firm.
Conclusion
Filing a mesothelioma case is a long and tiring process that victims and their families cannot carry out independently. A mesothelioma lawyer is the best option that you have. They can pursue the whole process for you and win compensation in the shortest period.