Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the thin layer of tissue that covers most of your internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the leading cause of mesothelioma, and unfortunately, many people were exposed to asbestos without knowing it. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma in West Virginia, it’s essential to speak with a knowledgeable mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible.
What Is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the mesothelium, which is the thin layer of tissue that covers most of your internal organs. It’s most commonly caused by exposure to asbestos, a group of naturally occurring minerals that were once widely used in construction, manufacturing, and other industries. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or other organs and cause mesothelioma to develop over time.
Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear for 20-50 years after asbestos exposure, and by the time mesothelioma is diagnosed, it’s often already in the advanced stages. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is a deadly cancer with no known cure, and life expectancy for mesothelioma patients is often only a few months to a few years.
How Is Mesothelioma Treated?
Treatment for mesothelioma often involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The treatment plan will depend on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. In some cases, clinical trials may offer new treatment options for mesothelioma patients. Mesothelioma treatment can be expensive, and many patients face financial strain due to medical bills and lost wages.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s essential to speak with a mesothelioma lawyer who can help you understand your legal options. A mesothelioma lawyer can help you file a lawsuit and pursue compensation from the companies responsible for your asbestos exposure, which can cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Why Should You Hire a Mesothelioma Lawyer?
Hiring a mesothelioma lawyer is an essential step in the process of pursuing compensation for your mesothelioma diagnosis. A mesothelioma lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and work on your behalf to pursue the compensation you deserve. A mesothelioma lawyer can also help you understand your legal rights and options and provide guidance and support throughout the legal process.
At Pintas & Mullins Law Firm, our mesothelioma lawyers have years of experience helping mesothelioma patients and their families pursue compensation from the companies responsible for their asbestos exposure. We understand the devastating impact that mesothelioma can have on your life, and we’re here to help.
The Legal Process for Mesothelioma Cases
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, here are the steps you can expect in the legal process:
- Consultation with a mesothelioma lawyer: During your initial consultation, a mesothelioma lawyer will ask you about your asbestos exposure, medical history, and other details to assess your case’s potential value.
- Investigation: Your mesothelioma lawyer will investigate your case, including researching your asbestos exposure history and identifying the companies responsible for your asbestos exposure.
- Filing a lawsuit: Your mesothelioma lawyer will file a lawsuit against the companies responsible for your asbestos exposure, seeking compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
- Discovery: Both sides (your legal team and the defendants) will gather evidence to support their case, such as witness statements or medical records.
- Settlement or trial: In most mesothelioma cases, the parties will reach a settlement agreement before trial. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case will go to trial.
- Jury verdict: If a mesothelioma case goes to trial, the jury will hear evidence from both sides and return a verdict.
- Appeal: Either side can appeal the verdict if they believe there was an error in the trial or if they disagree with the decision.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mesothelioma
What Are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the location of the cancer. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, coughing, and weight loss. These symptoms may not appear until 20-50 years after asbestos exposure.
Who Is at Risk for Mesothelioma?
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Occupations with the highest risk of asbestos exposure include construction workers, shipyard workers, firefighters, and others who worked with asbestos-containing products.
Is There a Cure for Mesothelioma?
There is currently no cure for mesothelioma, and treatment options are limited. However, clinical trials offer new treatment options for mesothelioma patients, and some patients have achieved long-term remission.
Conclusion
Mesothelioma is a devastating cancer that is most commonly caused by exposure to asbestos. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma in West Virginia, it’s crucial to speak with a mesothelioma lawyer who can help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation from the companies responsible for your asbestos exposure. At Pintas & Mullins Law Firm, our experienced mesothelioma lawyers are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
