Being diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness like mesothelioma can be overwhelming. The road ahead often involves not just medical treatments, but also major financial and emotional challenges.
Asbestos cases can be complex. However, you can make things easier by hiring an experienced asbestos lawyer to help you navigate the legal system, identify liable parties, and pursue a successful claim. With so many lawyers available, choosing the right one can be difficult. Discussed below are key factors to consider when hiring an asbestos lawyer.
Experience
An asbestos lawsuit often involves tracing exposure back decades, sometimes to a single product, job site, or employer. Asbestos lawyers understand the medical aspects of diseases like mesothelioma, and they know how to investigate exposure history. Here are some questions you should ask:
- How many asbestos cases have they handled?
- Have they worked with clients who had similar exposures?
- What outcomes have they achieved in those cases?
Track record
A lawyer’s track record speaks volumes about their ability to handle asbestos cases. Look for documented settlements and verdicts from past cases. While every case is different, a strong history of successful outcomes is a good indicator of their skill, resources, and dedication.
Nationwide reach
Your asbestos exposure might have occurred in more than one state, or through multiple employers and products. A local lawyer may not have access to the wide network of resources needed to build a strong case. A lawyer or law firm with a national reach offers the following benefits:
- Access to medical and industrial experts
- A database of asbestos-containing products and job sites
- The ability to file in the most favorable state for your case
This kind of muscle can come in handy in your asbestos case.
Contingency fee basis
Most trusted asbestos lawyers work on a contingency fee, which means they won’t be paid unless they win your case. There should be no upfront fees for filing, consultation, or case development. Be sure to also ask how their fee structure works, what percentage the firm takes, and whether there are any out-of-pocket expenses you might be responsible for down the road.
Client reviews and testimonials
Client reviews and testimonials often reveal what case statistics can’t. Were they responsive? Did they explain things clearly? Were they compassionate and professional? Read through their online reviews to see what their past clients are saying about them. Doing this will help you understand crucial things about the lawyer or law firm, including:
- Compassion and understanding
- Communication and availability
- Support and guidance
Endnote
Choosing the right asbestos lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. With high medical costs and the emotional toll of an asbestos-related illness, you deserve a lawyer who is both skilled and compassionate.
By considering their experience in handling asbestos cases, track record of success, and national reach, as well as asking the right questions, you are highly likely to find an asbestos lawyer who will help you get the compensation that you deserve.
