Mesothelioma Frequently Asked Questions

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the thin layer of tissue (mesothelium) surrounding the lungs, abdomen, or heart. The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos fibers. Symptoms often do not appear until 20 to 50 years after initial exposure, which is why many patients are diagnosed in later stages of the disease.

Mesothelioma is caused by inhaling or ingesting microscopic asbestos fibers. These fibers become lodged in the mesothelial tissue and, over time, cause cellular damage that leads to cancerous growth. Asbestos was widely used in construction, shipbuilding, manufacturing, and military applications throughout the 20th century. Even brief or indirect exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma decades later.

The timeline for a mesothelioma case varies depending on the complexity of the case, the number of defendants, and whether the case goes to trial or is settled. Many mesothelioma cases are resolved within 12 to 18 months. Our attorneys work diligently to move cases forward as quickly as possible while ensuring maximum compensation. Asbestos trust fund claims can sometimes be resolved in a matter of months.

In California, the statute of limitations for a mesothelioma personal injury claim is generally one year from the date of diagnosis. For wrongful death claims, the statute of limitations is one year from the date of death. Because these deadlines are strict, it is critical to contact an attorney as soon as possible after a mesothelioma diagnosis. Our firm can evaluate your situation and ensure your claim is filed within the required timeframe.

In Texas, the statute of limitations for mesothelioma personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of diagnosis. For wrongful death claims, the deadline is two years from the date of death. These deadlines can vary based on specific circumstances, so it is important to consult with an experienced mesothelioma attorney promptly to protect your rights.

At Whitman Mesothelioma Law Firm, we handle all mesothelioma cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront costs and owe no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. Your initial consultation is always free and confidential. We advance all case expenses, so there is no financial risk to you or your family.

Compensation in mesothelioma cases may include medical expenses (past and future), lost wages and earning capacity, pain and suffering, loss of consortium, and in some cases, punitive damages. The total amount depends on factors such as the severity of your illness, your exposure history, the number of responsible parties, and available asbestos trust funds. Our attorneys pursue every available source of compensation to maximize your recovery.

Yes. Many companies that manufactured or used asbestos have filed for bankruptcy, but most were required to establish asbestos trust funds to compensate victims. There are currently more than 60 active asbestos trust funds holding over $30 billion in assets. Our attorneys have extensive experience filing trust fund claims and can identify every trust fund from which you may be eligible to receive compensation.

If a family member has died from mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. In California and Texas, surviving spouses, children, and other family members can seek compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, loss of companionship, and pain and suffering endured by the deceased. Our attorneys guide families through every step of the wrongful death claims process with compassion and care.

Yes. Military veterans were disproportionately exposed to asbestos in shipyards, barracks, vehicles, aircraft, and other military settings. Veterans can file mesothelioma lawsuits against the manufacturers who supplied asbestos-containing products to the military. Veterans may also be eligible for VA disability benefits and asbestos trust fund claims. Filing a lawsuit does not affect your VA benefits. Our attorneys have extensive experience representing veterans with mesothelioma.

Asbestos was used in thousands of products and workplaces throughout the 20th century. Common exposure sites include shipyards, oil refineries, power plants, construction sites, military bases, automotive repair shops, and industrial facilities. If you worked in any of these industries or locations before the 1980s, you may have been exposed to asbestos. Our attorneys can help investigate your work history and identify potential sources of exposure, even if you are unsure where or when exposure occurred.

Mesothelioma settlements vary widely depending on the facts of each case. Settlements can range from hundreds of thousands of dollars to tens of millions of dollars. Factors that influence settlement amounts include the severity of illness, age, exposure history, number of responsible parties, and available trust fund claims. Our firm has recovered over $2 billion for asbestos exposure victims. We evaluate each case individually and pursue the maximum compensation available.

Many mesothelioma cases are resolved through settlement without the need for a trial. However, our attorneys are fully prepared to take your case to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, which often results in better settlement offers from defendants. If a trial is necessary, our experienced trial attorneys will represent you in court. In many cases, depositions and testimony can be conducted remotely or at a location convenient for the client.

Contact Whitman Mesothelioma Law Firm for a free, confidential consultation. Call us at 1-800-400-1805 or complete the form on this page. During your consultation, our attorneys will review your diagnosis, discuss your exposure history, and explain your legal options. There is no cost and no obligation. If we take your case, you pay no fees unless we recover compensation for you.