Hello and welcome to this journal article on mesothelioma lawyers in Houston. Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, abdomen or heart. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a fibrous mineral that was commonly used in construction, shipbuilding, and other industries until the 1980s. Unfortunately, many people who worked with or around asbestos were never warned about the dangers of the material, and as a result, developed mesothelioma years later.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be entitled to compensation from the companies that exposed you to asbestos. However, pursuing a lawsuit can be complex and overwhelming, which is why you need the help of experienced mesothelioma lawyers. In this article, we will provide you with valuable information on mesothelioma, the legal process, and how mesothelioma lawyers in Houston can help you seek justice.
Mesothelioma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelium, a thin layer of tissue that lines the lungs, abdomen, and heart. The most common cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, which can occur in many different ways, including:
| Exposure Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Occupational Exposure | Working with or around asbestos-containing materials |
| Secondary Exposure | Inhaling asbestos fibers from a family member’s work clothes |
| Environmental Exposure | Living near asbestos mines or factories |
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the location of the cancer. In pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs, symptoms may include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
In peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the abdomen, symptoms may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Swelling
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Bowel obstruction
Treatment for mesothelioma typically involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, there is currently no cure for mesothelioma, and the prognosis for mesothelioma patients is often poor.
The Legal Process for Mesothelioma Victims
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be entitled to compensation from the companies that exposed you to asbestos. To pursue a mesothelioma lawsuit, you will need to file a claim against the responsible parties.
To file a mesothelioma claim, you will need to provide the following information:
| Information Required | Description |
|---|---|
| Proof of Diagnosis | Medical records and reports confirming your mesothelioma diagnosis |
| History of Exposure | Documentation of where and how you were exposed to asbestos |
| Proof of Damages | Documentation of your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages caused by your mesothelioma |
Once you have filed your claim, the defendant companies will have the opportunity to respond. They may choose to settle the case out of court or go to trial. If the case goes to trial, you will need to prove that the defendant companies were negligent in exposing you to asbestos and that their negligence caused your mesothelioma.
How Mesothelioma Lawyers Can Help
Mesothelioma lawsuits can be complex and time-consuming, which is why you need the help of experienced mesothelioma lawyers. Mesothelioma lawyers specialize in representing victims of asbestos exposure and can help you navigate the legal process.
Some of the ways mesothelioma lawyers can help you include:
- Gathering evidence of your exposure to asbestos
- Filing your claim and ensuring that it is complete and accurate
- Negotiating with the defendant companies on your behalf
- Representing you in court if necessary
- Helping you obtain compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages
FAQs about Mesothelioma Lawyers Houston
Q: How do I find a mesothelioma lawyer in Houston?
A: There are several ways to find a mesothelioma lawyer in Houston. You can search online, ask for referrals from friends or family, or contact a mesothelioma support group for recommendations.
Q: How much does it cost to hire a mesothelioma lawyer?
A: Most mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means that they only get paid if you win your case. Typically, the fee is a percentage of the compensation you receive, ranging from 25% to 40%.
Q: How long does a mesothelioma lawsuit take?
A: The length of a mesothelioma lawsuit can vary depending on the complexity of the case and whether or not it goes to trial. Typically, mesothelioma lawsuits take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to resolve.
Q: Can I still file a mesothelioma lawsuit if the company that exposed me to asbestos is no longer in business?
A: Yes, you can still file a mesothelioma lawsuit even if the company that exposed you to asbestos is no longer in business. This is because many companies that used asbestos have set up trusts to compensate mesothelioma victims.
Q: What is the statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit in Houston?
A: The statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit in Houston is 2 years from the date of diagnosis or discovery of the asbestos-related disease, whichever is earlier.
Thank you for reading this article on mesothelioma lawyers in Houston. We hope that the information provided has been helpful in understanding the legal process and how mesothelioma lawyers can help you seek justice. Remember, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you have a right to compensation for the harm that has been done to you. Don’t wait to take action.