Mesothelioma is a form of cancer. Multiple organs can be impacted by mesothelioma leading to symptoms such as fever, iron deficiency, blood clotting, bowel obstruction and many other conditions. Untreated, mesothelioma can rapidly multiply throughout the body, ultimately resulting in death.

Asbestos, a known carcinogen, is the root cause of mesothelioma induced cancer. Asbestos is a material used in many industries as well as a multitude of applications. One of the most popular uses of asbestos in the United States was insulation. Because asbestos is a carcinogenic material, it is harmful when inhaled. It is the inhalation of asbestos that can lead to lung damage, best illustrated by mesothelioma.

The potential hazards inherent with asbestos use have been well documented for the better part of a century. However, many asbestos companies, as well as manufacturers and services which used asbestos-based products all cooperated together to consistently avoided regulation, as well as intentionally deceived the public about potential negative health effects of asbestos exposure.

Because of the intentional public deception by asbestos companies, as well as the widespread use of asbestos in industry, in construction, as well as in the workplace, the legal system has come to the assistance to those who have been negatively impacted by asbestos exposure.

It is important for anyone who has contracted mesothelioma to explore all of their legal options. The cost of combating cancer, as well as potentially being disabled and unemployed makes it imperative that one seek any legal remedy to which one is entitled. The good news is that the vast majority of cases never go to trial. Instead, a settlement between the asbestos company and your attorney can result in a financial award in as little as 4-6 months. An individual’s current medical condition can greatly influence the likelihood and timing of litigation and subsequent award disbursement.

Many mesothelioma victims are concerned about daunting legal costs. Fortunately, attorneys who specialize in this field work on a contingency basis. This means that they agree to work on your case, at no upfront expense to you, and will receive a portion of any settlement or proceeds from litigation. Otherwise said, you do not pay, unless you win your case. Having an attorney represent you can alleviate this major stress during a time in life when stress is already high. It should be added that it is a common myth that attorneys will consume a large part of your award. Contrary to this popular misconception, the average cost to a mesothelioma client is between 3%-5% of any subsequent settlement amount, according to some recently evaluated data. However, we also know of cases in the past where this number has been indeed significantly higher. When should one seek the assistance of an attorney? As soon as one knows they have been exposed to asbestos and has been diagnosed with mesothelioma.