Filing Mesothelioma Claims During COVID-19

One of the many things COVID-19 has changed is the court system in New York. Social distancing guidelines and other effects of the pandemic have led to courthouses doing things differently. It is still critical, however, not to delay in filing a mesothelioma claim. Many attorneys are still handling these suits through virtual and telecommunications tools. Filing a claim during COVID-19 could help you achieve a faster resolution as a patient with this disease. It could be crucial to act now if you are close to your filing deadline.

Why You Need To Act Quickly

As someone with mesothelioma, you do not have an unlimited amount of time in which to file a claim. You must file by New York’s statute of limitations. The statute of limitations is a legal deadline that exists for all civil claims. In some states, the deadline on a mesothelioma claim is as short as one year from the date of diagnosis. The sooner you speak to a mesothelioma attorney about your case, the better. Discussing things early with an attorney can ensure you do not miss your deadline to file.

In general, you will have a maximum of three years from the date of your mesothelioma diagnosis to file a civil suit in New York. You will have two years if you are bringing a wrongful death cause of action. Experts do not know when the COVID-19 pandemic will end. While some states are extending statutes of limitations in light of changes related to the coronavirus, others are following existing deadlines. Do not wait to file your claim or you could run the risk of missing the time limit. Filing too late will usually mean losing your right to obtain compensation.

Mesothelioma Lawyers Have Gone Virtual

Most law offices are still operating at full capacity during the COVID-19 pandemic. For example, the New York mesothelioma lawyers at The Williams Law Firm are still accepting new clients and pursuing claims. They have simply changed most in-person matters to virtual meetings in accordance with social distancing guidelines and safer-at-home orders. Telecommunication technology allows lawyers to still host meetings, discuss cases and answer client questions without face-to-face consultations. Ask a lawyer near you about pursuing a mesothelioma claim during COVID-19 regulations.

How To Bring A Claim During COVID-19

It is critical to keep yourself safe as a patient with mesothelioma who wishes to file a lawsuit during COVID-19. You are especially susceptible to severe health complications related to the coronavirus. Do not travel to a law office in person. Instead, call the firm or submit a query online to hear back virtually. Your mesothelioma attorney will understand that you are immunocompromised and must continue your case virtually for your safety. Discuss the possibility of a lawsuit during a video chat or phone call.

If the lawyer accepts your case, he or she can help you file your claim virtually. An attorney can ensure a smooth filing process with the correct county court. From obtaining electronic signatures to submitting paperwork virtually, your lawyer can handle matters on your behalf to start a mesothelioma claim without you needing to leave home. Many judges in New York are entering judgments and making decisions virtually whenever possible. Through videoconferencing technology, you could even have a face-to-face meeting without being in the same room as your lawyer or a judge.

Most mesothelioma claims resolve without needing to go to court. If you qualify for recovery through one of several federal asbestos trust funds, for example, a lawyer can handle your case outside of the court system. Even if the courts are closed due to the coronavirus, you could receive compensation for your damages depending on the circumstances. The best thing you can do to help your mesothelioma lawsuit is to contact an attorney virtually or by phone right away about a potential case. Even during COVID-19, there are safe and effective ways to obtain compensation for your losses.