North Carolina Mesothelioma Lawyer

Being diagnosed with mesothelioma can be a devastating experience for both the person diagnosed and their families. Many of these mesothelioma cases stem from chemical exposure at work. When this happens, employers may be liable to compensate you for damages. This is when it’s important to hire a North Carolina mesothelioma lawyer right away to help you fight for justice. 

Understanding Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer of the protective lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, or testicles. It’s mainly caused by exposure to asbestos, which was commonly used in construction, manufacturing, and other industries in the past. Asbestos fibers can be inhaled or swallowed and remain in the body for decades, eventually causing cellular changes that can lead to mesothelioma. Consider the following statistics:

• 2,803 cases of mesothelioma were reported in 2021 in the United States.
• 2,669 cases were reported in 2022.  
• Most mesothelioma diagnoses were in men. 

Symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, or fatigue typically may not develop until 30-40 years after exposure, so most people are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Mesothelioma is often expensive and difficult to treat at this point. Understanding the fundamental aspects of mesothelioma helps you protect your legal rights while seeking compensation if you or a relative experienced asbestos exposure at work. 

Signs of Mesothelioma

Symptoms of mesothelioma usually do not appear until several decades after exposure to asbestos. When they do develop, they often do so gradually and can be misdiagnosed as other conditions. The four most common warning signs are: 

• Persistent shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Chronic coughing 
• Fatigue

Abdominal swelling or pain, unexplained weight loss, and difficulty swallowing are also present in some patients, depending on where the cancer is located. Symptoms usually do not appear until the cancer is in an advanced stage, which is why it is so important to know the warning signs. If you or a loved one has a history of asbestos exposure, be sure to watch for these symptoms and see a doctor as soon as possible.

What to Expect in the Legal Process

Experienced mesothelioma attorneys exceed typical lawyer roles by bringing both legal experience and an understanding of the human suffering caused by this terrible disease. A North Carolina mesothelioma attorney can help you understand what types of claims you may be able to file, including workers’ comp, personal injury claims, and asbestos trust fund claims. 

From there, your attorney can look at the timeline of your exposure, explain how mesothelioma laws apply to you, and file your case within the statute of limitations. Mesothelioma cases can be challenging due to the need for medical evidence, the presence of multiple defendants, and the potential for future damages. Your attorney can also calculate the compensation you may be entitled to for medical bills, lost wages, caregiving, and wrongful death benefits for loved ones.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Mesothelioma is directly linked to asbestos in nearly all cases. This means that there are certain groups of workers and their families who are at much greater risk than others. The following are some of the most at-risk groups of people:

• Construction workers
• Shipyard workers
• Naval workers
• Electricians
• Plumbers
• Manufacturing workers
• Automotive workers
• Industrial workers
• Family members of exposed workers

Regrettably, asbestos was used in many common products, exposing innumerable workers to potential danger. While federal laws have limited its use, asbestos has never been banned in the United States, and asbestos-containing materials can still be found in older homes, schools, and workplaces today.

Why Hire a Mesothelioma Lawyer From M. Reid Acree, Jr. Attorney at Law, P.A.?

At M. Reid Acree, Jr., Attorney at Law, P.A., we focus on representing injured workers. Mr. Acree is board-certified in workers’ compensation law, with over 35 years of experience handling workers’ compensation cases, including more than 3,500 cases involving asbestos disease. Whether you work for 3M, Johns-Manville Corporation, or a smaller company, we can help.

A knowledgeable asbestos lawyer can help you locate your asbestos exposure source, file claims within deadlines, and assemble crucial medical and occupational evidence to secure the highest possible compensation. Through our work, we ensure each client gets powerful representation while receiving compassionate guidance because the outcomes impact your life and future.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Average Payout for a Mesothelioma Claim?

A: There is no typical “average” payout. Each mesothelioma case is unique. Factors that may determine compensation include the severity of your illness, the degree of asbestos exposure, and the companies involved. An attorney can look at the details of your case and let you know how much your claim may be worth. 

Q: What Are the Fees Associated With Hiring a Mesothelioma Lawyer?

A: Many mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. You don’t pay an hourly rate or an upfront legal fee. Instead, the attorney only gets paid if they recover compensation for you. This makes it possible for patients and families to obtain professional legal assistance with no additional financial stress.

Q: How Long Does It Take to Settle a Mesothelioma Claim?

A: Multiple factors determine the duration of a mesothelioma claim, including the number of companies named and whether it settles or goes to trial. Some claims are resolved rather quickly, while others can take more time if there is extensive medical evidence or if more than one defendant is involved. An experienced law firm can work diligently to streamline the process.

Q: What Are the Success Rates of Mesothelioma Claims?

A: A Mesothelioma claim outcome can vary widely depending on the facts of the case. Many of these cases can end in compensation to the victim and their family. Settlements are often the most common way of winning a mesothelioma claim, and they allow the parties to avoid a lengthy trial. 

Contact M. Reid Acree Jr., Attorney at Law, P.A.

If you or a loved one was exposed to asbestos and subsequently was diagnosed with mesothelioma, hire a mesothelioma lawyer at M. Reid Acree Jr., Attorney at Law, P.A. We can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to get started.