Indiana Mesothelioma Lawyer

An experienced Indiana mesothelioma lawyer can help you if you’ve been diagnosed with an asbestos illness. Indiana ranks 21st in the U.S. for the most asbestos-related fatalities, including malignant mesothelioma and asbestosis.

If you or someone you love suffers from mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for substantial compensation. Fill out our form to get a free Financial Compensation Packet. You’ll learn about the top mesothelioma lawyers in Indiana, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file a claim for the asbestos trust funds, and more.

We offer assistance to asbestos victims in all cities and towns in Indiana, including:

Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, South Bend, Carmel, Fishers, Bloomington, Hammond, Gary, Lafayette, Muncie, Terre Haute, Kokomo, Noblesville, Anderson, Greenwood, Elkhart, Mishawaka, Lawrence, Jeffersonville, Columbus, Portage, New Albany, Richmond, Merrillville, Westfield, Valparaiso, Goshen, Michigan City, West Lafayette, Plainfield, Marion, East Chicago, Granger, Schererville, Hobart, Crown Point, Zionsville, Franklin, Highland Town, Munster, Brownsburg, La Porte, Clarksville, Greenfield, Shelbyville, Seymour, Vincennes, Logansport, New Castle, Huntington, Griffith, Dyer, Frankfort, Crawfordsville, Lebanon, St. John, New Haven, Jasper, Beech Grove, Warsaw, Avon, Bedford, Chesterton, Connersville, Auburn, Lake Station, Speedway, Madison, Washington, Martinsville, Greensburg, Cedar Lake, Yorktown, Peru, Purdue University, Wabash, Greencastle, Plymouth, Bluffton, Kendallville, Mooresville, Danville, Decatur, Lowell, Columbia City, Angola, Princeton, Elwood, Brazil, Charlestown, Tell City, Notre Dame, Lakes of the Four Seasons, Scottsburg, North Vernon, Nappanee, Mount Vernon, Batesville, Bargersville, and more.

Am I Eligible to File a Mesothelioma Claim in Indiana?

If you were diagnosed with mesothelioma in Indiana, you are probably eligible to file a claim or lawsuit to seek compensation. Most cases of mesothelioma are caused by negligent asbestos exposure. The companies responsible can be held accountable and liable for your expenses.

You have a few options for taking action to seek justice and compensation:

• Mesothelioma Personal Injury Lawsuit: Asbestos exposure is negligent, so when it causes an illness, it is considered a personal injury. Negligent companies can be sued for damages. Most of these cases end in settlements.
• Mesothelioma Wrongful Death Lawsuit: When someone dies from mesothelioma, their loved ones can file a wrongful death suit to collect damages.
• Asbestos Trust Fund Claim: Many companies went bankrupt in the face of thousands of asbestos lawsuits. They set up trust funds to compensate victims. An asbestos lawyer can determine if you are eligible to file with any of these trusts, which contain a total of about $30 billion in funds.
• VA Benefits: If you encountered asbestos during military service, you could be eligible for veteran benefits. These include disability compensation and medical treatment.

Understanding the Legal Process

Navigating the legal system can seem daunting, but with the right team, it becomes manageable. In Indiana, there are experienced mesothelioma lawyers who can guide you through each step. These professionals work in dedicated teams that include attorneys, legal staff, and even registered nurses, ensuring you receive personalized attention.

Here’s what your legal team will handle:

• Evidence Collection: Gathering necessary documents and testimonies to support your case.
• Filing Claims: Ensuring all paperwork is filed accurately and within deadlines.
• Legal Representation: Advocating on your behalf, whether in negotiations or, if necessary, in court.

Pursuing Compensation

Filing a lawsuit or claim is about more than just financial compensation; it’s about justice and holding negligent parties accountable. Whether you’re pursuing an asbestos trust fund claim or a personal injury lawsuit, your legal team will strive to secure the best possible outcome for you.

By understanding these processes and having the right support, you can focus on what truly matters—your health and well-being.

How Can an Indiana Mesothelioma Lawyer Help Me?

Top-rated Indiana mesothelioma lawyers are your best option for representation in an asbestos case. They have expertise and experience in working with and winning for victims of asbestos exposure.

Extensive Resources and Proven Success

The right lawyer will provide a free initial consultation to review your case and provide advice. If they take your case, they will put their extensive resources to work investigating your past exposure. Based on your work history, they can determine which companies exposed you to asbestos and can be held liable.

Asbestos attorneys give you the best chance of winning compensation through a settlement. If a settlement cannot be reached, they will litigate your case in court to seek a jury award.

Comprehensive Legal Support

• Experience in Indiana: With decades of service, these attorneys have represented many clients across Indiana, showcasing their deep understanding of local legal processes.
• Full Legal Process Management: They manage every step, from gathering evidence to filing claims, ensuring you’re supported throughout.

Client-Centric Approach

• No Initial Costs: You won’t face any upfront fees or out-of-pocket expenses. They operate on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you successfully receive compensation.
• Convenience and Accessibility: These attorneys prioritize your convenience by offering to meet you at a location that suits you, ensuring their services are accessible without added stress.

By choosing an Indiana mesothelioma lawyer, you align yourself with a team dedicated to giving you the best chance at justice and financial recovery.

Navigating the Legal Process for Mesothelioma Cases in Indiana

If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma in Indiana, it’s crucial to understand the steps involved in the legal process to seek compensation.

Step 1: Initial Consultation

The journey begins with a consultation where you can discuss your case with a specialized legal team. They will gather preliminary information about your asbestos exposure and explain potential legal avenues.

Step 2: Evaluating Compensation Options

There are several pathways to pursue compensation:

• Trust Fund Claims: Many companies responsible for asbestos exposure have set up trust funds. These funds, totaling over $30 billion nationally, are available for victims without the need for court proceedings.
• Filing a Lawsuit: You may choose to file a lawsuit against the companies accountable for your asbestos exposure. A successful lawsuit can potentially lead to substantial compensation.
• Pursuing Veterans Benefits: Veterans who developed mesothelioma due to asbestos in military applications can apply for VA benefits. This includes health care and monthly monetary compensation since 33% of mesothelioma cases involve veterans.

Step 3: Collecting Evidence

For your claim to succeed, collecting evidence is essential. This includes medical records, employment history, and any documentation of asbestos exposure. Your legal team will assist in gathering and organizing these vital pieces of evidence.

Step 4: Claim Filing

Once the evidence is compiled, the next step is to file your claim. It’s crucial to adhere to Indiana’s legal deadlines, as filing in a timely manner can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Step 5: Handling Negotiations and Court Proceedings

Your legal team will manage all negotiations with companies or trust funds and represent you if the case proceeds to court. They aim to secure the maximum possible compensation by arguing convincingly on your behalf.

By understanding these steps, you can navigate the legal landscape more confidently, ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.

Why Contacting a Mesothelioma Attorney Promptly is Crucial in Indiana

When it comes to a mesothelioma diagnosis in Indiana, swift action in seeking legal representation can make a critical difference. Here’s why time is of the essence:

Statutes of Limitation

Indiana law imposes specific time limits, known as statutes of limitation, on filing mesothelioma lawsuits. These legal deadlines restrict the window for taking action. Once expired, the chance to secure compensation may be lost forever. Acting quickly ensures your rights are preserved.

Gathering Evidence

Mesothelioma cases require detailed evidence, including medical records and exposure history, which might take time to compile. Initiating contact with an attorney early allows more time to gather vital documents and information.

Emotional and Financial Stability

Beyond legal deadlines, mesothelioma significantly impacts emotional and financial well-being. An experienced attorney can help navigate these stresses, offering peace of mind by handling complex legal matters and pursuing rightful compensation.

Competitive Attorney Selection

With many experienced attorneys to choose from, starting early allows for a measured selection process, ensuring you find the advocate best suited to your specific needs.

By contacting a mesothelioma attorney shortly after a diagnosis, you safeguard your ability to take full advantage of the legal options available, helping secure the future for you and your family.

How Do I Choose a Mesothelioma Lawyer?

Your choice of lawyer to handle your mesothelioma case is essential. Asbestos lawsuits are complicated and time-consuming. They require particular expertise and a lot of resources. Look for the following in your Indiana mesothelioma lawyer:

• A lawyer in Indiana who is part of a large firm with jurisdictions in other states
• Experience working on asbestos cases
• Proven wins for other asbestos clients
• A free initial consultation
• Contingency payment with no fees until they win

When hiring an Indiana mesothelioma attorney, it’s crucial to understand the financial arrangements involved. Fortunately, reputable attorneys often work on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t face any initial or out-of-pocket costs. This arrangement ensures that the attorney only gets paid if they successfully recover compensation for you. This not only aligns their interests with yours but also provides peace of mind, knowing that you won’t incur legal fees unless you win your case.

Choosing the right attorney with these attributes will give you the best chance at a successful outcome, while also ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent you from seeking justice.

Discover the Qualifications and Achievements of Our Elite Mesothelioma Attorneys

When seeking legal representation for mesothelioma cases, it’s crucial to work with attorneys who possess a proven track record and exceptional credentials. Our team of distinguished mesothelioma attorneys stand out due to their unique qualifications and numerous accolades.

Credentials and Distinctions

• Recognized Leaders in Trial Law: Among our talented team, you’ll find attorneys who have been listed as Top 40 Under 40 National Trial Lawyers. This prestigious honor highlights their excellence and influence in the field.
• Honored as Best Lawyers in America: Multiple attorneys in our practice have earned the title of “Best Lawyer in America,” setting a standard for superior legal expertise and client success in complex mesothelioma cases.
• Specialists in Asbestos Litigation: Our team includes leaders who spearhead asbestos litigation teams, showcasing their in-depth knowledge and strategic prowess in handling cases with outstanding results.

Military Experience and Commitment

• Veteran Insights: Our legal roster includes individuals who are not only skilled attorneys but also U.S. Military veterans. Their disciplined approach and commitment to service bring a unique perspective to our clients’ cases.

By choosing our team, you can be confident in our dedication to fighting for justice, backed by a firm commitment to providing personalized support and leveraging extensive legal resources.

Client Feedback: Experiences With A Mesothelioma Law Firm

Peace of Mind Through Financial Security

Clients often commend these law firms for providing peace of mind, knowing their loved ones will be financially secure. This assurance allows clients to focus on what truly matters to them without the constant worry about the future.

Exceeding Expectations With Exceptional Support

Many have found that the support and assistance offered by these firms go well beyond initial expectations. Clients appreciate the comprehensive guidance and unwavering help during challenging times.

Accountability and Justice

A recurring theme in client stories is the empowerment they feel in holding companies accountable for their actions. This accountability is often cited as a critical factor in achieving justice and compensation.

Providing Hope in Difficult Times

Families frequently express gratitude for the hope these firms bring into their lives during their toughest moments. Whether it’s through securing settlements or offering emotional support, clients recognize the positive impact on their family dynamics.

Do Mesothelioma Clients Need to Travel for Their Legal Claims?

For individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma, one of the pressing questions is whether pursuing a legal claim requires extensive travel. The good news? It’s largely unnecessary for clients to travel, as most legal teams prioritize convenience and accessibility.

Flexible Consultations

Experienced asbestos attorneys often take the initiative to meet clients at their preferred locations. Whether it’s the comfort of your home or another place of your choosing, you have the flexibility to decide what’s best for you.

Remote Communication

Modern technology allows for significant portions of the case to be handled via phone calls, video conferencing, and email. This minimizes the necessity for face-to-face meetings and makes it easier to communicate with your legal team from afar.

Local Representation

Typically, your legal representation will have networks and partnerships within various jurisdictions, which reduces the likelihood of you needing to travel outside your region for court proceedings.

Rare Exceptions

While it’s possible that travel may occasionally be required, these instances are rare. Most cases are structured in a way that the burden of travel is minimized, ensuring that pursuing justice does not add unnecessary strain on you or your family.

By focusing on client comfort and leveraging modern tools, attorneys strive to make the legal process as seamless as possible, letting you concentrate on your health and well-being.

Which Job Sites Used Asbestos in Indiana?

Asbestos use was heavy in most industrial jobs throughout the state until the early 1980s. But some industries and job sites caused a notable amount of exposure and cases of related illnesses:

• Steel mill workers in Indiana have some of the highest risks of developing asbestos-related diseases. Steel mill workers were exposed because asbestos was heavily used in the industry to protect against high temperatures and fires.
• Workers in the automobile industry were also at great risk. In 1984, the Nuturn Corporation, a brake manufacturing business, was inspected for asbestos. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) determined that employees were being exposed to asbestos at much higher levels than legally allowed.
• In July of 1986, NIOSH also surveyed the Federal Office Building in Evansville, Indiana, after the president of the American Federation of Government Employees requested an evaluation. The findings concluded that over nine surface samples contained asbestos, meaning that asbestos was present and could easily become airborne.
• Indiana’s USX Corporation facility in Gary, a steel business, faced a multi-million dollar lawsuit when a former employee filed an asbestos lawsuit after being diagnosed with mesothelioma. The former worker won his lawsuit and was awarded $250 million, one of the largest mesothelioma payments ever awarded.

What Other Companies Used Asbestos?

• Allison – Bedford Foundry
• A-Bomb Heavy Water Plant
• Heise Brothers and Company
• Kaiser Aluminum and Chemical
• Southern Indiana Railway Company
• Texas Gas Transmission Corporation
• Bluffton City High School
• Franklin Electric Company
• Bethlehem Steel Corporation
• U.S. Steel
• United States Steel Corp.
• Heise Brothers and Company
• Rolls Royce
• General Motors
• Peerless Pump
• Chemetron Corporation
• George Rogers Clark National Park
• Owens-Corning Fiberglass Corporation
• Raybestos Friction Materials Company
• Linde Air Products Company
• Clinton Electric Light and Power Company
• Indiana & Michigan Electric Company
• Blish Milling Company

Some companies that used asbestos are only now the sites of cleanup efforts. In South Bend, the city will take over the site of the former Drewrys brewery, long abandoned and a dangerous source of community asbestos.

In Indianapolis, the city plans to redevelop the former site of Carrier-Bryant, a manufacturer of air conditioner units. The site is contaminated with asbestos and other toxic materials.

In 2023, a warehouse fire in Richmond, Indiana, destroyed a former plastic recycling plant. The plant contained asbestos, and the fire spread harmful debris throughout the area. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency got involved in cleaning up asbestos materials and warned residents to be careful around any debris in their yards.

How Much Compensation Can I Get in a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?

Asbestos cases vary significantly by individual. The right lawyer can maximize your compensation by finding all the expenses you face. They can make a reasonable estimate but cannot guarantee a certain amount.

Asbestos and mesothelioma compensation takes into account:

• Past and ongoing medical expenses
• Expected future medical and care expenses
• Lost wages and lost earning potential
• Pain and suffering

Mesothelioma lawsuit compensation can be significant. One of the largest jury verdicts ever awarded in an asbestos case originated in Indiana. Roby Whittington worked at the U.S. Steel plant in Gary and developed mesothelioma.

An Indiana jury ultimately awarded Whittington $250 million. This included $50 million in compensatory damages and $200 million in punitive damages.

When mesothelioma strikes, the impact on Indiana patients and their families is profound. Beyond financial compensation, these lawsuits offer a lifeline by mitigating the economic strain that accompanies this devastating diagnosis. Legal action allows families to focus their energy where it matters most—on health and loved ones—without the overwhelming burden of medical bills and lost income.

By pursuing a mesothelioma lawsuit, patients can secure their family’s future during a tumultuous time. This legal recourse not only holds responsible parties accountable but also provides essential financial relief, empowering families to navigate the challenges of mesothelioma with greater peace of mind.

An Indiana jury ultimately awarded Whittington $250 million. This included $50 million in compensatory damages and $200 million in punitive damages.

How much compensation has been recovered by a particular law firm for mesothelioma clients in Indiana?

The law firm has achieved significant success, securing more than $440 million for mesothelioma-affected families in Indiana. This is part of a larger achievement, with the firm recovering over $9.8 billion for numerous clients nationwide.

Indiana Laws That Affect Mesothelioma Cases

State laws regarding mesothelioma and asbestos claims vary. In Indiana, victims hoping to file a successful lawsuit need to know about the statute of limitations and the state’s stance on secondhand asbestos exposure.

Indiana Statute of Limitations on Mesothelioma and Asbestos Lawsuits

Unlike many other states, Indiana has specific state laws when dealing with asbestos lawsuits. Indiana has two different categories of statutes of limitations: cases against defendants who sold and mined raw asbestos are separate from all other asbestos cases:

• If the plaintiff is suing a defendant who mined and sold raw asbestos, the claim must be filed within two years of the plaintiff discovering they developed an asbestos-related disease.
• The plaintiffs suing on behalf of a victim who passed away are allowed two years from the date of death to file a lawsuit.

For all other cases, under Ind. Code Ann. § 34-20-3-1, plaintiffs have two years from the time of cause or within ten years after the asbestos products were delivered to the victim.

Take-Home Duty for Secondhand Asbestos Exposure in Indiana

Secondhand asbestos exposure occurs when someone accidentally brings fibers of asbestos from work into the home. They usually unknowingly carry the fibers on their clothing. Anyone in the home can be exposed. There are many cases of people developing mesothelioma from secondhand exposure.

Some states recognize that companies have a duty of care in these cases. Indiana recognizes this duty. A company has a duty to warn workers and their families of the risks of secondhand asbestos exposure. This means that victims of secondhand exposure can file an asbestos lawsuit in Indiana.

The decision came in a 2002 asbestos case. A woman sued after developing mesothelioma from exposure to asbestos on her husband’s clothing. He worked as an insulation installer. The insulation contained asbestos.

Courts initially dismissed her case, but her legal team pursued it and a higher court. That court ruled that the asbestos insulation manufacturer had a duty to warn the woman that she could be exposed.

What Are Indiana’s Asbestos Safety Laws?

The Indiana Environmental Health Department, along with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM), handles and imposes the laws and regulations in the state concerning asbestos.

• Indiana has strict compliance laws when it comes to asbestos, which includes notification requirements, demolition and renovation rules, and technical documents.
• Licensing requirements must be met before anyone can work on an asbestos abatement project.
• Proper inspection staff must be used for all asbestos abatement procedures.
• There are several different types of licensing requirements in Indiana concerning working around asbestos, which are determined by the type of job being performed, including disposal handlers, contractors, supervisors, inspectors, and others.

For more detailed information on the legal requirements of licensing as well as any applicable fees, contact the Indiana Asbestos License Program at 317-233-3861.

To learn more about asbestos disposal, emission requirements, and any other asbestos-related questions or concerns, contact the Indiana Department of Environmental Management at 317-232-8941.

Where Can I Find Mesothelioma Treatment in Indiana?

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has designated the Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center at Indiana University (IU) as a mesothelioma treatment facility.

An NCI-backed medical facility is recognized for its superior physicians, scientists, and other healthcare professionals with in-depth knowledge and experience with mesothelioma treatments and research.

Always seek treatment at medical centers with experience and knowledge of this rare disease, as time is critical in getting the best results.

Once victims are diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, they are usually already in the latest stages of the cancer, as the symptoms of mesothelioma typically lie dormant for up to 50 years.

Legal Help in Indiana

If you’ve been injured by asbestos, there is a good chance that you’ll qualify for considerable 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.