Legal Rights

Every individual case is different, so there is no way to tell exactly how long it might take to receive compensation from a particular claim. It can take months just to gather the appropriate information and documents necessary to simply file a claim. Once the claim is filed, the timeframe to reach a settlement or, if you go to trial, receive a jury award may range from months to years.

An experienced mesothelioma lawyer will be able to provide a realistic idea of how long it may take for you to receive compensation once they know the details of your case. However, it should be understood that the actual timeframe for receiving compensation is an estimate and may be subject to change over the course of the legal proceedings.

If you hire a reputable law firm, you will receive a free case evaluation and usually face no up-front costs. Most mesothelioma lawsuits are handled on a contingency-fee basis, so you won’t have to pay any fees unless your case is won, and fees will not be due until you receive your compensation.

A lawyer that specializes in asbestos cases is different in that they have important experience dealing with similar cases. They understand the asbestos legislation, have experience gathering evidence related to asbestos exposure and know what to expect in terms of compensation for asbestos victims. Mesothelioma lawyers have experience gaining many different forms of compensation, including veterans’ benefits, settlements or verdicts from a mesothelioma lawsuit, claims against an asbestos trust fund and disability benefits.

Due to the long latency period of mesothelioma, some patients aren’t diagnosed until decades after exposure, making them wonder if it’s too late to file a mesothelioma lawsuit, especially if asbestos companies are no longer in business. However, asbestos trust funds are set up to provide victims with compensation for years to come, which mesothelioma lawyers have experience with.

Patients or their loved ones should contact a mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible after receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis. The statutes of limitations put deadlines in place for taking legal action, which could hinder your ability to receive compensation. Each state in the United States has its own statute of limitations. In general, patients often have 1 – 3 years after their diagnosis to take legal action.

An experienced asbestos attorney can help you and your family understand timelines, all of your legal rights and potential avenues for compensation. If you decide to pursue a lawsuit, your attorney can begin researching your case right away.