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Frequently Asked Questions about Mesothelioma

Legally Reviewed by Joseph P. Williams on October 24, 2023

Answers from Our Experienced New York Mesothelioma Attorney

The team at The Williams Law Firm, P.C., focuses on mesothelioma cases and helping asbestos exposure victims and their families recover the financial compensation they deserve. Below are the answers to some commonly asked questions that our New York mesothelioma lawyers hear about mesothelioma and asbestos lawsuits.

WHAT CAUSES MESOTHELIOMA?

Mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral with carcinogenic properties. When asbestos is broken apart, the fibers are easily inhaled and accumulate in the lungs, where they contribute to the mutation of cells that leads to mesothelioma or lung cancer.

WHO IS AT RISK FOR MESOTHELIOMA?

Occupational exposure to asbestos is the most common source of mesothelioma. However, asbestos exposure can also occur in the home or through second-hand contact with asbestos.

HOW IS IT POSSIBLE TO DEVELOP MESOTHELIOMA IF I NEVER WORKED WITH ASBESTOS?

Mesothelioma sometimes develops after second-hand asbestos exposure. Because asbestos fibers are tiny and easily cling to clothing, many family members of those who worked directly with or around asbestos were vulnerable to mesothelioma from contact regular contact with contaminated clothing.

HOW LONG AFTER ASBESTOS EXPOSURE DOES IT TAKE FOR MESOTHELIOMA SYMPTOMS TO APPEAR?

One of the most devastating aspects of mesothelioma is that cancer is usually in an advanced stage by the time it is diagnosed. Mesothelioma has a long latency period—typically 20 to 50 years after the individual was exposed to asbestos—before mesothelioma symptoms become evident. Further complicating timely diagnosis is the fact that many of these symptoms are shared with other medical conditions.

WHY SHOULD I WORK WITH THE WILLIAMS LAW FIRM, P.C. ON MY MESOTHELIOMA CASE?

Our firm not only has a proven record of successfully recovering substantial compensation for mesothelioma patients and their families, but our entire team at The Williams Law Firm, P.C. is aggressive and compassionate advocates for asbestos exposure victims. We can advise you on your legal options, refer you to medical experts, and reduce your stress by fighting for the financial peace of mind you and your family deserve.

WHY IS IT BENEFICIAL TO FILE MY MESOTHELIOMA CASE IN NEW YORK?

In New York, asbestos exposure cases are filed in state court and are put on a preferred track when the plaintiffs are in late-stage mesothelioma or asbestos-related lung cancer. Trials are scheduled within a year, and lawyers for plaintiffs make a motion to consolidate multiple cases together for trial in order to expedite the process and reduce the stress on asbestos exposure victims and their families. Often, eight to 10 large cases may be consolidated for one trial against 10 to 50 companies. Additionally, New York law allows the testimony of plaintiffs in asbestos cases to be preserved prior to trial and can be completed at your home, even if you do not reside in New York.

Have more questions? Get reliable answers from our dedicated and experienced team. Contact us online or call (855) 575-6376 to speak with us today.