Mesothelioma Lawyer Louisiana
Mesothelioma Lawyer Louisiana
Asbestos exposure is particularly prevalent in Louisiana’s petrochemical, oil refinery, and shipbuilding industries. Workers in these fields, as well as their families who were exposed to asbestos fibres, and carried home on clothing, are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma. This deadly disease, caused by prolonged asbestos exposure, has claimed many lives in Louisiana. Between 2018 and 2020, 126 residents died from mesothelioma, while 203 others succumbed to lung cancer linked to asbestos. Many of these deaths were preventable, as employers knew the risks but failed to provide proper protection or warn their employees.
Mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, and it is one of the most serious consequences of asbestos exposure. Patients diagnosed with mesothelioma face enormous medical costs and the emotional toll of a terminal illness. In such a challenging situation, finding a skilled mesothelioma lawyer in Louisiana is vital to help secure the compensation you or your loved one deserves.
A qualified attorney can guide you through the legal process, ensuring you receive the financial support needed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and more. In this article, we will discuss the importance of hiring a mesothelioma lawyer, how to choose the right one, and the steps to pursue justice and compensation for victims in Louisiana.
Why You Should Hire a Mesothelioma Lawyer in Louisiana
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, working with a Louisiana-based mesothelioma attorney can help you navigate the complicated legal system. Below are some reasons why having a skilled lawyer is essential:
- Specialized Knowledge in Asbestos Cases
Mesothelioma lawsuits require in-depth knowledge of both asbestos exposure and the legal proceedings. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can investigate your case, identify the parties at fault, and gather the necessary evidence to support your claim.
- Maximizing Your Compensation
A mesothelioma lawyer can assist you in pursuing different types of compensation, including reimbursement for medical bills, lost income, emotional distress, and wrongful death if you’re filing for a loved one who passed away. They can also help you access asbestos trust funds, which may be available from companies that have filed for bankruptcy due to asbestos-related claims.
- Managing Complex Legal Steps
Mesothelioma cases often involve multiple defendants and complicated legal details. A qualified attorney will take care of the legal documentation, ensure all deadlines are met, and negotiate with insurers on your behalf to get the best possible result.
- Understanding Local Laws
Louisiana has unique laws for personal injury and asbestos cases. A local mesothelioma lawyer will be well-versed in these laws and how they apply to your situation, ensuring all legal requirements are properly followed.
READ: Mesothelioma Lawyer Center
How to Find the Right Mesothelioma Lawyer in Louisiana
Choosing the right mesothelioma lawyer is crucial to the success of your case. Here are some important things to consider when picking an attorney:
- Experience with Asbestos Cases
Look for a lawyer who focuses on mesothelioma and asbestos cases. They should have a strong history of winning cases and getting settlements for clients.
- Familiarity with Louisiana Laws
Pick a lawyer who understands Louisiana’s laws, including the time limits for filing personal injury claims. This helps ensure your case is filed on time.
- Client Reviews and Feedback
Check what past clients have said about the lawyer by reading reviews and testimonials. Positive feedback can give you confidence that they will handle your case well.
- Personalized Attention
Mesothelioma cases are often emotionally and financially tough. Choose a lawyer who is compassionate and takes the time to understand your unique situation, making your needs a priority.
- No Fees Until You Win
Many mesothelioma lawyers work on a “contingency fee” basis, meaning you won’t have to pay legal fees unless they win compensation for you. This means no upfront costs while you pursue your case.
How to File a Mesothelioma Claim in Louisiana
The first step to filing a mesothelioma claim in Louisiana is choosing an asbestos law firm that specializes in these types of cases. It is important to select a firm that knows Louisiana’s specific laws around asbestos litigation. Your mesothelioma lawyer should be familiar with how the state’s laws could impact your case.
Louisiana uses a comparative fault system, which means a lawyer with experience can build a strong case to minimize any claims that you share responsibility for your exposure. The Legal Process for Mesothelioma Claims is provided below;
- Consultation and Case Review
The first thing you will do is meet with a mesothelioma lawyer. During this consultation, the lawyer will review your medical records, go over your exposure history, and assess the details of your case.
- Filing the Lawsuit
Once your lawyer has all the information, they will file a lawsuit on your behalf. The lawsuit will name the companies responsible for your asbestos exposure and seek compensation for your injuries.
- Discovery and Investigation
During this phase, your lawyer will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and investigate the companies involved. They will also identify if any asbestos trust funds could provide additional compensation for you.
- Negotiation or Trial
Many mesothelioma cases are settled outside of court. Your lawyer will work to reach a fair settlement with the responsible parties. If a settlement can’t be reached, they will take the case to trial and fight for your rights in front of a jury.
READ: Mesothelioma Attorney Arkansas
Facts About Filing Louisiana Asbestos Claims
Filing an asbestos claim in Louisiana comes with specific time limits: the statute of limitations for a personal injury lawsuit is 2 years from diagnosis, and for wrongful death, it is just 1 year from the loss of a loved one. Additionally, Louisiana follows a pure comparative fault system, meaning your damages may be reduced if you’re found partly responsible.
While these time restrictions can be strict, do not be discouraged if you have missed the deadline, an experienced mesothelioma attorney may help find exceptions or even allow you to file your claim in another state if your exposure occurred elsewhere or the defendant is based in a different location.
Asbestos Trust Funds and Compensation
Mesothelioma victims may qualify for compensation from asbestos trust funds, set up by bankrupt companies due to asbestos liabilities. A skilled lawyer can help identify and file claims, ensuring you receive compensation even if the company responsible is no longer in business. Below are some Notable Louisiana Settlements and Verdicts;
- $10.3 Million (2020): A jury awarded damages to Henry Pete, exposed to asbestos as a longshoreman.
- $8.2 Million (2021): Steven Aaron Sr. received damages for mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure while working as an auto mechanic.
- $7.55 Million (2011): Thomas Kenney won damages after exposure to asbestos products from John Crane and Haveg at Tenneco.
- $4.5 Million (2007): A millwright’s family received damages after asbestos exposure at a West Monroe paper mill led to mesothelioma.
Notable Mesothelioma Lawyers In Louisiana
Below are some lawyers in Louisiana;
- Ricky LeBlanc
Ricky LeBlanc is the Managing Attorney at Sokolove Law, overseeing risk management and ensuring compliance with legal advertising regulations across all 50 states. He leads the asbestos practice and supervises other areas, including birth injuries, medical malpractice, and product liability. Ricky previously founded his firm and worked at Rodman, Rodman & Sandman, PC. He volunteered for Trial Lawyers Care after 9/11. Ricky holds a B.S. in History and Education from Fitchburg State College and a law degree from Suffolk University Law School. He is admitted to practice in Massachusetts and before the U.S. Supreme Court.
- Terrence D. McCay
Terrence D. McCay specializes in Employment Law, including employee benefits, discrimination, wrongful termination, and ERISA, along with Environmental Law, Asbestos & Mesothelioma cases, and Toxic Tort Litigation. He also has experience in the forest products industry, handling various legal matters related to these fields.
- Georgia N. Ainsworth
Georgia N. Ainsworth specializes in Asbestos & Mesothelioma, Business Law (including contracts, dissolution, finance, litigation, mergers, and disputes), and Real Estate Law, covering commercial real estate, condominiums, zoning, eminent domain, mortgages, neighbour disputes, residential real estate, homeowners associations, and water law.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma in Louisiana, hiring an experienced mesothelioma lawyer is essential to secure the compensation you deserve. A skilled attorney can help navigate the legal process and ensure you receive justice for your asbestos-related injuries. Visit the website for more information. I hope the provided information is helpful, share your thoughts below in the comment section.
RELATED LINKS