Jacksonville Mesothelioma Lawyer

Many people who developed asbestos illnesses at work are now fighting for justice with the assistance of a qualified Jacksonville mesothelioma lawyer. Jacksonville is a high-risk area for asbestos exposure because of its long history of shipping and manufacturing.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be entitled to substantial compensation. Fill out our form to get a free Financial Compensation Packet. You’ll learn about the experienced mesothelioma lawyers in Jacksonville, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file a claim for the asbestos trust funds, and more.

Why Should I Sue for Mesothelioma?

Most people sue for mesothelioma to recover damages. Mesothelioma is caused by negligent workplace asbestos exposure. You can hold companies accountable for your exposure and seek compensation for the medical and other expenses resulting from your illness.

Filing a claim not only helps cover immediate medical costs but also plays a crucial role in securing your family’s financial future. Legal action against these companies can provide the necessary compensation to manage ongoing healthcare needs and maintain financial stability for your loved ones.

Moreover, it’s important to recognize that many asbestos companies knew the risks associated with their products but chose to conceal them for decades. By filing a mesothelioma lawsuit, you are not just seeking financial restitution; you are also taking a stand to hold these corporations accountable for their negligence and the harm they have caused.

This dual impact of seeking justice and ensuring financial security underscores the significance of pursuing an asbestos claim, making it an essential step for those affected by this preventable illness.

How to File a Mesothelioma Claim in Jacksonville

If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos illness, you can file a mesothelioma personal injury lawsuit. Loved ones of those who pass away from mesothelioma can file a wrongful death lawsuit.

Many asbestos companies filed for bankruptcy and cannot be sued. You can still get compensation from these companies by making a claim with the appropriate asbestos trust fund. There is about $30 billion available in asbestos trusts.

When exploring compensation options for asbestos-related conditions, there are three primary avenues to consider: asbestos trust funds, legal action through mesothelioma lawsuits, and Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits.

1. Asbestos Trust Funds

Asbestos companies, over time, have created trust funds specifically to compensate individuals suffering from conditions linked to asbestos exposure. An estimated $30 billion is available for those affected. These funds are designed to provide financial assistance without the need for litigation, making them an accessible option for those diagnosed with asbestos-related illnesses.

2. Mesothelioma Lawsuits

For some patients and their families, pursuing a legal claim may be the best route. Most lawsuits are resolved through settlements, allowing claimants to receive compensation without going to trial. However, if necessary, cases can be presented in court. Successful lawsuits can result in significant financial awards, assisting affected individuals and their families with medical bills and other expenses.

3. Veterans Affairs Benefits

Veterans who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma may qualify for various medical and financial benefits through the VA. Given the prevalence of asbestos use in military settings, these benefits can be crucial for veterans. Specialized attorneys, accredited by the VA, can assist in the preparation and submission of claims, ensuring veterans receive the support they deserve.

By understanding and utilizing these three options, individuals suffering from asbestos exposure can secure the financial assistance they need.

How a Jacksonville Mesothelioma Lawyer Can Help

Asbestos lawsuits and claims are complicated. One of the most important reasons you need a good lawyer is to prove that specific companies exposed you to asbestos and that this caused your illness.

Proving asbestos exposure and its link to mesothelioma means reviewing your work history and knowing which companies used asbestos and when. Only experienced asbestos attorneys and firms have the resources to track down the evidence.

When your lawyer has this information, they can then help you file a lawsuit or an asbestos trust fund claim. If you encountered asbestos during military service, they can help you navigate the process of filing for VA benefits.

Look for a top Florida mesothelioma lawyer who works with asbestos clients in Jacksonville. They should have relevant experience, proven wins for similar clients, and be part of a nationwide firm.

When evaluating potential attorneys, consider the following criteria to ensure you’re making an informed choice:

• Extensive Experience: Aim for lawyers with decades of experience handling asbestos-related cases. This experience translates to a deep understanding of the complexities involved in mesothelioma litigation.
• Successful Track Record: Seek out attorneys who have demonstrated success in recovering significant compensation for mesothelioma clients. Proven results offer assurance that they can effectively advocate on your behalf.
• Contingency Fee Basis: Choose a lawyer who works on a contingency fee arrangement. This means you won’t have to pay unless they secure compensation for you, minimizing financial risk.

By focusing on these key factors, you can find a lawyer equipped to provide the support and expertise required for your case.

How Mesothelioma Lawyers Assist Without Requiring a Trial or Travel

Dealing with a mesothelioma diagnosis can be overwhelming. Fortunately, specialized lawyers offer a way to seek justice and compensation without adding the burden of court appearances. Here’s how they can help:

1. Remote Consultations

Modern law firms utilize virtual meetings to connect with clients, enabling you to discuss your case from the comfort of your home. These sessions ensure you grasp the legal process and receive personalized advice without stepping out of your front door.

2. Paperwork and Legal Filings

Mesothelioma lawyers handle all the complex documentation involved in filing a claim. They manage deadlines and paperwork, ensuring everything is in order for a compensation claim. This full-service approach means you won’t need to visit any legal offices.

3. Negotiation with Asbestos Trusts

Lawyers leverage their expertise to negotiate with asbestos trust funds on your behalf. These trust funds were established to compensate victims without the need for lengthy trials. Your attorney can work to secure a settlement, sparing you the courtroom stress.

4. Gathering Evidence Remotely

Investigating your exposure history can be done from afar. Lawyers will gather all necessary evidence through phone interviews and digital communication, often working with experts who can support your case without requiring your travel.

5. Contingency Fee Arrangement

Typically, these lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they receive payment only if you win your case. This arrangement eliminates upfront costs and further reduces the need for in-person meetings.

Through these strategies, mesothelioma lawyers provide compassionate support and pursue justice, all while allowing clients to focus on their health and comfort.

When evaluating the success rate of mesothelioma claims in terms of compensation, it’s essential to consider the significant financial recoveries achieved by legal teams for clients nationwide. Successful firms have been known to secure substantial settlements or verdicts, often reaching billions of dollars collectively for individuals affected by mesothelioma.

For instance, the total compensation attained for victims and their families can exceed several billion, indicating a robust capability in obtaining favorable outcomes for clients dealing with the aftermath of asbestos exposure. This extensive track record of sizable financial awards underscores the effectiveness of specialized legal practices in representing mesothelioma cases.

To fully assess the likelihood of a successful claim, it’s also beneficial to examine individual case results and testimonials, as these provide insight into both the quality of the representation and the firm’s commitment to achieving the best possible results for its clients.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations in Florida for Mesothelioma Claims

In Florida, the statute of limitations plays a crucial role in determining the timeframe within which you can file a mesothelioma claim. This legal provision limits the duration you have to initiate legal action following a diagnosis or the death of a loved one due to mesothelioma.

Key Points to Consider:

• Personal Injury Claims: For individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma, Florida sets a deadline for filing personal injury claims. You typically have four years from the date of diagnosis to pursue legal action.
• Wrongful Death Claims: If you are filing on behalf of a deceased family member, Florida law grants two years from the date of the victim’s passing to file a wrongful death claim.

It’s imperative to act promptly. Since these timelines are rigid, missing the deadline might forfeit your right to seek compensation.

Why Timely Action Is Essential

Due to these restrictions, it is vital for mesothelioma patients and their families to consult with an asbestos attorney in Florida as soon as possible. Legal experts can help ensure that all documentation is correctly filed within the statutory period, improving the likelihood of a successful claim.

Taking early steps not only aligns with legal requirements but also allows for the gathering of essential evidence and the mobilization of necessary resources. Ultimately, timely action could significantly influence the outcome of your case.

Where Was I Exposed to Asbestos in Jacksonville?

Workplace exposure is the most common cause of mesothelioma and other asbestos illnesses. Several industries that operated in Jacksonville used asbestos.

Shipping and Asbestos in Jacksonville

The Port of Jacksonville is the largest deepwater harbor in the south and the second largest on the eastern coast of the U.S.  In 2012, the Jacksonville Port Authority’s (JAXPORT) three terminals handled over 8.2 million tons of cargo.

There are also many local shipbuilding and repair yards. Some, like the BAE Systems Shipyards Southeast facility, are currently in operation. Others, such as the Jacksonville Shipyards, have been closed and abandoned.

Ships built before the Environmental Protection Agency’s ban used asbestos in nearly all components. This means that workers constructing, repairing, updating, and crewing ships in the Jacksonville area risked asbestos exposure. Some are still at risk when working on or with older vessels.

The Jacksonville Shipyards

The site known as the Jacksonville Shipyards was one of the area’s largest shipbuilding and repair facilities before it closed in 1992.  It built or refitted thousands of vessels from the 1850s until its closure.

During this period, Jacksonville Shipyards used or handled large quantities of asbestos materials, including insulation for pipes, hulls, engineering spaces, steam lines, and electrical wiring.

The years immediately preceding and following World War II marked the peak period for asbestos use at the site. Operating under the company name Merrill-Stevens Drydock & Repair Co, the facility repaired or refitted hundreds of ships during the war.

The company changed owners and names several times after Merrill-Stevens relocated its headquarters to Miami in the 1950s but continued repair work and modernization work on ships until going out of business in 1992.

Many Merrill-Stevens/Jacksonville Shipyards, Inc (JSI) employees were exposed to asbestos when they performed these repairs and refits, especially those on ships built between the 1930s and the 1970s. Decades later, several of these workers were diagnosed with asbestos illnesses.

Naval Station Mayport

Jacksonville’s strategic location on Florida’s northeast coast makes it ideal for placing military facilities in the area. The U.S. Navy operates two bases in Jacksonville:

• Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville
• Naval Station (NS)  Mayport

Commissioned in 1942, NS Mayport is a deep water harbor, with repair facilities and Admiral David L. McDonald airfield. The harbor can accommodate 34 ships at a time, including large conventional aircraft carriers.

As with civilian ships and ports, military sites used many asbestos materials in ship components. Service members were put at risk of exposure, just as civilian workers at Jacksonville Shipyards were.

Other Sources of Asbestos in Jacksonville

Asbestos use was heavy in the maritime industry at one time. But it was not the only industry that used this material. The widespread use of asbestos in construction, transportation, power generation, and even textiles has put thousands of people at risk.

According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, asbestos can even be found in many materials in residential buildings:

• Corrugated asbestos roofing
• Electrical meter boards
• Backyard sheds
• Dog kennels
• Subfloor packers
• Wood heaters
• Hot water piping
• Eaves
• Insulation in heaters and stoves

Many workplaces and public buildings throughout Jacksonville used asbestos. Some examples include:

• Anheuser-Busch Brewery
• Florida Power & Light (FPL) plant
• Ameristeel (formerly Florida Steel) mill
• Union Camp Chemical Plant
• Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA)

How Asbestos Exposure Leads to Mesothelioma

Asbestos exposure and the development of mesothelioma is a process that unfolds over several decades. Here’s a breakdown of how this unfortunate disease progresses:

1. Initial Exposure: When individuals inhale or ingest tiny asbestos fibers, these microscopic particles can infiltrate the body.
2. Lodging in Organs: Once inside, asbestos fibers can become trapped in the protective linings of major organs, such as the lungs. This lining, known as the mesothelium, is delicate and vital for organ protection.
3. Chronic Irritation: Over time, the presence of these foreign fibers causes persistent irritation and inflammation of the mesothelium. This constant irritation can damage surrounding healthy cells and tissues.
4. Latent Development: Remarkably, the onset of symptoms may not surface for 10 to 50 years. During this latency period, cellular changes can lead to the development of tumors.
5. Formation of Mesothelioma: Eventually, these cellular alterations can result in mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer that predominantly affects the linings of the lungs, abdomen, or heart.

By understanding these steps, individuals can appreciate the long-term risks associated with asbestos exposure and the critical importance of protective measures to prevent initial contact with asbestos fibers.

When my husband was diagnosed we had no idea what to do. Our doctor said we should reach out to an attorney to talk about compensation. After talking to several firms we found the mesothelioma lawyer center and were grateful we did. They helped with every step of the way. If you need a meso attorney then I would recommend contacting them

-Isabelle D.

Specialized Mesothelioma Treatment in Jacksonville

If you have developed mesothelioma or another asbestos illness, you need treatment from specialists. While Jacksonville is not home to any National Cancer Institute-designated cancer centers, there are cancer treatment facilities in the area:

• Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center
• University of Florida Health Cancer Center
• Mayo Clinic Cancer Center

Getting Legal Assistance in Jacksonville

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, remember that you may be entitled to substantial compensation. Get our free Financial Compensation Packet for information on the top mesothelioma and asbestos lawyers in your area. For questions and assistance, feel free to contact us at 800-793-4540.