Mesothelioma is a type of malignant tumor that is often fatal. So far, asbestos exposure is the known cause of mesothelioma, which can happen on the worksites where asbestos-containing products are used. The victim and their families are eligible to file a suit and demand compensation. The purpose of making a claim is to lessen the financial difficulties of the patients and their families. The total amount of compensation is calculated by factoring in expenses such as medical costs, travel expenses, the loss of livelihood and income, pain, and suffering.
Mesothelioma lawsuits are quite lengthy and involve extensive paperwork, collecting evidence, and investigating claims. Therefore, victims and their families always need expert attorneys who have experience dealing with such cases to take forward their application to the justice system. But finding a mesothelioma lawyer can become tiring if you don’t know where to start. A few questions can help you gauge their suitability for your case. Here are those questions.
- Are you working independently or with a firm?
The first question you may ask is about their practice setting. Good attorneys often work with renowned firms. They can be dedicated to the department where only mesothelioma cases are undertaken. The benefit of working with a mesothelioma law firm is that they have an extensive range of resources are at their disposal that can help them solve your case. These firms also have their branches in various parts of the country to file your lawsuit in a state where you still fulfill the bindings of the statute of limitation. An example of such a firm is Sokolove Law; you can access their website at sokolovelaw.com and get in contact with their customers’ service at any time.
- Do you offer a free consultation?
Many lawyers offer a free consultation to their prospective clients, especially when working with a law firm specializing in mesothelioma. But others may charge a consultation fee even if you do not go with them finally. Therefore, when looking for prospective lawyers and calling their offices, ask them clearly about the consultation fee.
- Can they travel to their house?
At some places, it is common that mesothelioma lawyers visit your house to take your statement and discuss your case. It becomes easier for mesothelioma patients who might not have the strength to travel across the state or country. When a lawyer visits your house, you can also judge them on their behavior with you. Are they considerate about your issue? Do they understand your financial predicament? Do they make you feel respected and actively listen to your case? You can consider these questions to gauge their behavior and interest in your case.
- Will you go to the court trial?
There are two ways that a mesothelioma lawyer can help you win compensation: it could be through a court trial or a mesothelioma settlement. In a court trial, the case is presented before a judge or jury who gives a verdict after analyzing all the evidence and arguments made by both parties. Quite the opposite is the case of a mesothelioma settlement. Here the perpetrators settle the case without going into the court trial. They offer a settlement amount to cover your financial and other losses.
In the latter case, if your evidence is very strong, your lawyer has the leverage to negotiate the settlement amount and win a maximum amount. A settlement is much quicker than a court verdict, so lawyers mostly avoid taking the case to court. You can also enquire about these options based on the details of your case.
- Who will pay for the cost of the lawsuit?
Cost is important because the victims might not be working due to their illness. So, you have to ask the lawyer about the cost of the case and how you will pay for it. In most mesothelioma lawsuits, the lawyers charge their clients according to a contingency fee plan. In this plan, the victim and their family don’t pay anything until they have received the compensation amount. The lawyer’s payout is a small percentage of the total compensation. The fee percentage can range from 25% to 40%, depending on the claim you are making.
- How much payment can you win for me?
The amount of compensation can vary considerably. Lawyers in the country have been able to win an average amount of $1 million for mesothelioma claims. But in some cases, it has gone higher and lower than this figure too. For instance, a navy veteran received $40 million in 2018 when he filed a lawsuit through a mesothelioma lawyer. So, you must ask how much your lawyer can win for you, depending on your situation. With their years of experience fighting mesothelioma cases, they can easily give you a rough idea.
- Can I take action in place of my loved one who died of mesothelioma?
The victims or their families can file mesothelioma cases if the patient dies due to mesothelioma. Your lawyer can help you find a wrongful death claim in this situation. The representatives of the victims file it; therefore, the compensation amount also goes to them.
Conclusion
Finding the right mesothelioma lawyer is essential to ensure the success of your claim. The lawyer can help you get the compensation amount as soon as possible, making it easier to pay for health and other expenses. When finding one, you must engage with them, ask them multiple questions and clear all your confusions and knots. Once you are satisfied with a firm or advocate, only then must you go with them.
