What To Ask A Law Firm Who Deals With Mesothelioma Claims

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that’s caused by exposure to asbestos. In some cases, particularly those in early stages, a diagnosed patient is able to recover well. Unfortunately, for others, it may result in death. 

For patients who have suffered from Mesothelioma, the claims are a way for the loved ones or those left behind to receive compensation. This is needed to cover financial expenses, medical bills, and other expenses since the very first day of diagnosis.

While this may be a very stressful situation, both for the patient and the families left behind, there are people and ways to make the process lighter. One of these is consulting with a lawyer that specifically deals with Mesothelioma. 

To ensure that you’re in good hands, here are questions to ask your lawyer:

1. What Are The Different Types Of Mesothelioma Claims That I May Have?

Right when you first meet with a law firm Mesothelioma, it’s prudent to ask and learn about the various types of Mesothelioma claims. That way, you know for sure that you’re on the same page with your lawyer regarding claims. Here you can check the best personal injury lawyer.

The types of Mesothelioma claims are the following:

• Personal Injury Claims: In this type of claim, you’re filing on behalf of yourself. When you submit this claim, you’re alleging that the compensation is needed for the following purposes:
• Pain and suffering due to your asbestos-related disease
• Medical expenses related to your Mesothelioma diagnosis, including current and future treatment
• Lost wages and other related inflow, including future income
• Wrongful Death Claims: This type of claim is filed by a family member that has unfortunately died due to Mesothelioma. The family members are suing for compensation for the following purposes:
• Funeral expenses
• Loss of expected income because of the untimely death
• Medical costs administered directly before the patient’s death

2. How Much Compensation Can I Receive?

The answer to this question is largely dependent on the circumstances surrounding the claim. No two claims are alike. But, an expert law firm will always be able to give you a general estimate. 

That way, early on, you already have a clear and valid expectation as to how much your claims are going to be worth.

3. What’s The Process Of Filing For Mesothelioma Case?

Even if you’re going to have a lawyer by your side to help you out with your case, this doesn’t mean that your lawyer is going to do all the work; you’ll have to do your part, too. The lawyer is going to do much of the research and technical kinds of stuff. But, your lawyer may also ask you to help out in some aspects.

Generally, your lawyer will need to gather the following information from you to proceed:

• How has exposure to asbestos affected your life, health, and ability to work?
• How and in what circumstances were you exposed to asbestos?
• How long has the exposure to asbestos been ongoing?

4. How Long Will It Take Before Compensation Is Received?

The length of time before compensation for asbestos claims can be given is also largely dependent on the type of claim that you file:

• If the verdict is coming from a trial with a jury, this can take years. But, in most cases, defendant companies are also willing to get it settled quickly (usually within months).
• Money paid to you or your family members that are coming from asbestos trusts can also be paid within a few months.

5. Is There A Means To Expedite My Case?

In some cases, you may need to expedite your Mesothelioma case. Generally, this is granted by the courts when and if the applicant’s health requires it. In these instances, the process is sped up, so the patient receives the timely medication that they need. 

If you feel that your claim can be moved faster, you can, by all means, request this to your lawyer.

6. When Do The Courts Grant a Settlement?

A settlement is granted only when the defendant, usually a corporation, offers compensation to the Mesothelioma patient so that the lawsuit will be dropped.

If you’re lucky, your claim may be one of those that won’t even have to reach the courts. However, there are also instances when it may get tricky. That’s when a trial is absolutely necessary.

Conclusion

Mesothelioma is a difficult and aggressive type of cancer. Depending on the work that you do, it’s also not remotely impossible for anyone to have this disease. Especially for those that are always exposed to asbestos. When this happens, surely the patient and the entire family will be in great turmoil. 

The financial expenses pile up, then there’s the fear of impending death. In this challenging circumstance, a lawyer is the best professional to be on your side. With these tips, you’re also one step closer to finding the right lawyer for your claim.