Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Filing an Asbestos Mesothelioma Lawsuit

Mesothelioma or malignant mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer which is developed from the inhalation or exposure to asbestos particles, dust or fiber. The cancer is developed around the protective lining which covers many of the body's internal organs such as the outer lining of the chest (pleura) or the heart. Some of the symptoms if mesothelioma are shortness of breath, chest wall pain and weight loss. Malignant mesothelioma can be detected via CT scan or chest X-ray. Malignant
mesothelioma can be confirmed by conducting a biopsy.

Malignant mesothelioma is a debilitating disease. It deprives the person from having a normal life and an active occupation. Furthermore, it costs hundreds to thousands of dollars in medical bills. By extension, malignant mesothelioma also affects the family and friends of the person ailed by mesothelioma. Thus, it is only natural that persons who have been affected by this disease to file an asbestos mesothelioma lawsuit.

A mesothelioma lawsuit is filed in order to sue the responsible company for damages. This is in order to recover expenses incurred for the medical bills as well as for wrongful death and debilitation. There are several things to consider in filing an asbestos mesothelioma lawsuit. First, hire an expert lawyer. The lawyer should have extensive experience and knowledge regarding mesothelioma lawsuit. Ask from your immediate network or seek help from the local bar association. It is best to seek free consultations and gauge the expertise of the potential lawyer. It is imperative the lawyer handling the case will be able to steer the results toward a favorable settlement.

Second, gather relevant documents that will support the case. Prior to filing an asbestos mesothelioma lawsuit, the patient should have been examined by an expert. The doctor should be an expert in asbestos related disease. CT scans, X-rays and biopsy results can be used as evidences against the defendant. Gather documents related to the company. The documents should indicate the place of employment, the nature of work, years in service, contact information of co-workers and specific asbestos products which were directly or indirectly handled by the plaintiff. Fill out a document which allows your lawyer to access all pertinent confidential information such as medical records, employment records etc.

Once all pertinent documents have been gathered, the lawsuit will be forwarded to the company or defendant. The defendant may choose to settle early or let the case be filed at a court of law. Once the asbestos mesothelioma lawsuit is filed, the court will examine the evidence while a jury will decide if the defendant is responsible for the plaintiff's disease. The most important thing to remember is to be honest and consistent with proceeding and hope for a reasonable mesothelioma settlement.