Mesothelioma Settlements & Verdicts
ELSM Has Secured Nearly $5 Billion in Mesothelioma Settlements.
A mesothelioma diagnosis can be a life-changing event, impacting individuals both emotionally and financially. The financial burdens associated with mesothelioma, such as expensive medical bills and loss of income due to illness, can further increase the challenges faced by patients and their families.
For the last four decades, ELSM has helped thousands of families secure mesothelioma lawsuit settlements to provide much-needed financial relief. If you have questions about your legal rights as a mesothelioma victim, please contact our team for a no-cost, no-obligation case evaluation.
Mesothelioma Lawsuit Settlements vs Trial Verdicts
Mesothelioma compensation can be secured through settlements or lawsuit verdicts. Your attorney should have experience with both situations in order to guide you through the process.
What Is a Mesothelioma Settlement?
A mesothelioma settlement is an agreement reached between the plaintiff (the person filing the lawsuit) and the defendant (usually the asbestos company). This agreement typically involves the defendant agreeing to pay a certain amount of money to the plaintiff to resolve the lawsuit.
Recent Settlements
Our lawyers will fight hard to get you the financial compensation to which you are entitled. Many of the settlements we’ve obtained for our clients total $1 million or more. Several settlements have exceeded $10 million, demonstrating the firm’s commitment to securing the best possible outcome for each client. Here are some examples of recent settlements:
| State | Disease | Occupation / Exposure | Age | ~ Monies to Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WA | Mesothelioma | Mechanic / Abatement Worker | 66 | ~$102,200,000 |
| AZ | Mesothelioma | Cosmetic Talc User | 75 | ~$22,200,000 |
| UT | Mesothelioma | Talc Powder User | 59 | ~$20,000,000 |
| RI | Mesothelioma | Home Renovator | 75 | ~$15,100,000 |
| NV | Mesothelioma | Electrician | 62 | ~$13,800,000 |
| CA | Mesothelioma | Plumber / Mechanic | 49 | ~$13,500,000 |
| CT | Mesothelioma | Abatement Worker / Painter | 70 | ~$12,600,000 |
| OH | Mesothelioma | Pipefitter / Home Renovator | 58 | ~$12,200,000 |
| NV | Mesothelioma | Pipefitter | 65 | ~$12,000,000 |
| CA | Mesothelioma | Navy Veteran / Dry Wall Sprayer | 48 | ~$11,700,000 |
| KY | Mesothelioma | Air Force Veteran / Boilermaker | 84 | ~$11,700,000 |
| MD | Mesothelioma | Hairdresser / Home Renovator | 66 | ~$11,500,000 |
Please note that individual cases vary based on many factors, and prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Wrongful Death Settlements
When a loved one passes away from mesothelioma, family members can be left with bills for medical treatments, hospice care and funeral expenses, along with the emotional toll. Parents, children and estate representatives might be able to file an asbestos claim after death to help cover these costs and provide financial security during a challenging time.
What Is a Mesothelioma Verdict?
A trial verdict is a decision made by a judge or jury at the end of a trial if the case goes to court. While trial mesothelioma verdicts can result in larger compensation amounts, they are less common and can take longer to achieve than settlements.
Recent Verdicts
The jury awards and mesothelioma settlements we have received for our clients are among the highest in the country. While ELSM focuses primarily on obtaining collectible settlements for our clients, the firm, working in collaboration with co-counsel partners, has achieved some significant verdicts in mesothelioma cases. The following are examples of just some of the verdicts:
| Verdict | Case Summary |
|---|---|
| $82 Million | A 67-year-old Washington state man’s wife was awarded $82 million dollars on behalf of her deceased husband who was diagnosed with mesothelioma. He was a frequent user of brakes and gaskets and other auto products from a popular auto parts maker. Co-counsel: Dean Omar Branham Shirley |
| $52 Million | A California jury awarded a combined verdict of $52.1 million to a woman who was diagnosed with mesothelioma after years of using cosmetics containing asbestos-contaminated talc. The woman was also found to have endured secondhand asbestos exposure from laundering her husband’s work clothes. Co-counsel: Dean Omar Branham Shirley |
| $27 Million | Punitive damages in the amount of $27 million dollars were awarded to a 74-year-old South Carolina man who was diagnosed with mesothelioma after years of working with asbestos containing gaskets and packing in valves. Co-counsel: Simon Greenstone Panatier Bartlett |
| $20 Million | A Bridgeport, Connecticut jury returned a verdict for $20 million in compensatory damages to the wife of a man diagnosed with mesothelioma. Her late husband was exposed to asbestos in the 1960s while working with asbestos-containing DAP “33” window glazing. Co-counsel: Waters Kraus & Paul |
| $15 Million | A Connecticut jury awarded a verdict of $15 million to the estate of a man who was diagnosed with mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos-contaminated talc while working as a process engineer at a GE Plastics facility in Massachusetts. Co-counsel: Dean Omar Branham Shirley |
| $6 Million | A $6 million-dollar verdict was obtained for an Oklahoma man diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma. He was exposed to asbestos while working as a laborer and contractor at homebuilding sites and while doing brake and clutch repair as an auto mechanic. Co-counsel: Dean Omar Branham Shirley |
What Is the Average Mesothelioma Settlement Amount?
The average mesothelioma settlement ranges from $1 million to $1.4 million. Settlement amounts for a mesothelioma case can vary widely depending on several factors, including the strength of the evidence, the degree of the asbestos company’s negligence and the victim’s medical expenses and lost wages.
Who Can Pursue a Mesothelioma Settlement?
Anyone who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma because of asbestos exposure is eligible to pursue a mesothelioma settlement. This includes individuals who were exposed to asbestos at work, as well as those who were exposed in other ways, such as through contaminated household products or secondhand exposure from a family member who worked with asbestos.
It’s important to note that each case is unique, and the success of a claim depends on a variety of factors, including the strength of the evidence, the degree of the asbestos company’s negligence and the laws in the state where the claim is filed.
How to Get a Mesothelioma Settlement
Mesothelioma lawsuit settlements involve a specific legal process. A knowledgeable legal team can simplify the process for you. Here’s what to expect:
- Consultation with an attorney: Start by contacting an experienced mesothelioma lawyer for a free consultation. They’ll review your case and determine if you’re eligible for compensation.
- Investigation of asbestos exposure: Your attorney will investigate your work history or other history of exposure. They’ll identify all companies responsible for exposing you to asbestos.
- Filing the claim: Once the investigation is complete, your attorney will prepare the paperwork on your behalf and file mesothelioma claims against the liable companies.
- Settlement negotiations: Your attorney will work to secure the highest possible settlement by presenting evidence and pushing back on low offers.
- Receiving compensation: If a fair mesothelioma lawsuit settlement is reached, you’ll receive compensation without going to trial.
At ELSM, we guide you through every step, handling the legal details so you can focus on your health and loved ones.
Factors Affecting Settlement Amounts
Several factors can significantly impact asbestos settlement amounts. Some key considerations include the following:
Evidence of Negligence by Asbestos Companies
Evidence of negligence may include documentation demonstrating that the company was aware of the dangers of asbestos but failed to provide adequate warnings or take necessary precautions. Additionally, evidence of the victim's exposure to asbestos, such as employment records or witness testimonies, can influence mesothelioma lawsuit settlements.
Medical Expenses and Lost Wages
The extent of the victim's medical expenses and lost wages directly affects mesothelioma settlement amounts. This includes current medical costs and wages lost due to illness, as well as projected future expenses and lost earnings.
Location of Lawsuit Filing
The jurisdiction in which the lawsuit is filed can also influence the potential settlement amount. Laws regarding asbestos litigation vary by state, including statutes of limitations for filing a claim.
Number of Companies Responsible
In mesothelioma cases, multiple asbestos companies are often liable for someone’s exposure. The largest asbestos settlements come from claims against multiple companies, because each company that contributed to your exposure is responsible for paying its share. That’s why your attorney will carefully investigate your exposure history to identify all parties.
Funeral Expenses
Funeral costs are a factor in many mesothelioma settlements. Including funeral expenses in the settlement — even if the person hasn’t passed away yet — can reduce financial stress and keep the focus on remembering the loved one. Attorneys with experience in asbestos cases understand how to calculate these costs and incorporate them into your claim.
How to Maximize Your Mesothelioma Settlement
Working with a skilled legal team is the most effective way to get the full settlement amount you deserve. At ELSM Law, we’ve spent decades fighting for mesothelioma victims and their families. Here’s how we can help:
1. Determine the At-Fault Companies
Exposure to asbestos often comes from multiple products, workplaces and manufacturers. Identifying all the companies responsible for your exposure is necessary to build a strong case. At ELSM, we’ll investigate your work history, job sites and exposure timeline to ensure no responsible party is overlooked. Holding every liable company accountable helps maximize mesothelioma settlements.
2. Work With Experienced Asbestos Attorneys
Navigating a lawsuit for mesothelioma requires in-depth knowledge of asbestos laws and settlement negotiations. Mesothelioma attorneys can help you gather evidence, calculate the true value of your claim and negotiate the highest settlement amounts possible. With ELSM, you can count on professionals who understand the unique challenges of mesothelioma cases and are dedicated to achieving the best outcome for you.
3. Explore All Types of Compensation
There are several sources of mesothelioma compensation available beyond traditional lawsuits. Asbestos trust funds were set up by bankrupt companies to compensate their victims. You might also be able to get workers’ compensation or veterans’ benefits. Our attorneys can help you file claims with these sources to increase the total amount of compensation you receive.
Why Pursue a Mesothelioma Settlement?
Pursuing a mesothelioma settlement offers more than just financial relief for victims and their families. While the financial aspect is crucial for covering medical expenses, lost wages and other related costs, there are other reasons to consider taking legal action.
- Accountability: Filing a mesothelioma claim holds asbestos companies accountable for their negligence, ensuring that they are held responsible for the harm caused to victims.
- Justice: Seeking a settlement can provide a sense of justice for individuals and their families, acknowledging the pain and suffering endured due to asbestos exposure.
- Future protection: By pursuing legal action, individuals contribute to raising awareness about the dangers of asbestos and promoting preventive measures to protect future generations from similar harm.
- Closure: Securing a mesothelioma settlement can help victims and their families find closure, lessen financial burdens and focus on their emotional healing.
An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of the legal process, maximize the potential settlement amount and ensure the best possible outcome for the individual and their loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my asbestos case go to trial or settle out of court?
Whether a mesothelioma case goes to trial or settles out of court largely depends on the specifics of the case. However, many mesothelioma cases are settled out of court. This is often a faster process than going to trial.
Does everyone with mesothelioma get a settlement?
Anyone who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma because of asbestos exposure has the right to pursue a claim. However, this does not guarantee a mesothelioma settlement. The success of a claim depends on a variety of factors, including the strength of the evidence linking the mesothelioma diagnosis to company negligence and the laws in the state where the claim is filed.
Who is eligible for a mesothelioma settlement?
Anyone who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma because of asbestos exposure is eligible to pursue a mesothelioma settlement. This includes individuals who were exposed to asbestos at work, as well as those who were exposed in other ways, such as through contaminated products or secondhand exposure from a family member who worked with asbestos.
Are mesothelioma settlements taxable?
In general, the portion of a mesothelioma settlement that compensates for physical injuries or sickness is not taxable. However, other portions of the settlement, such as punitive damages or interest, may be taxable. It's important to consult with a tax professional to understand the tax implications of a mesothelioma settlement.
Who pays out mesothelioma settlements?
Mesothelioma settlements are paid by the companies responsible for your asbestos exposure or their insurance providers. In some cases, payments come from asbestos trust funds set up by bankrupt companies. These trusts were created to compensate victims without lengthy lawsuits.
How long does a mesothelioma settlement take?
The timeline for a mesothelioma settlement varies, ranging from a few months to over a year. Factors like the complexity of your case, the number of companies involved and settlement negotiations can affect the timeline. A good attorney will work urgently to finalize your settlement because they understand you and your family need financial relief as soon as possible.
Can I get a mesothelioma lawsuit settlement if I’m not sure how I was exposed?
Yes, an experienced attorney can help identify where and how you were exposed to asbestos. This often involves investigating your work history, job sites and products you may have used. Even if you’re unsure, legal professionals have the tools to trace your exposure.
Can my family get a mesothelioma settlement after my death?
Yes, your family can file a wrongful death lawsuit to seek compensation. This type of settlement can help cover medical bills, funeral costs and the financial impact of losing a loved one. If you’ve already filed a lawsuit, your family can continue to work with the attorney to carry on the case even if you pass away.
Request a Free Case Evaluation
Request a free case evaluation now if you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma. The evaluation will cost you nothing. Our lawyers will travel to visit you at your convenience or conference call with you over the phone. We understand how difficult a time this is for you and will assist in any way that we can. You can also call us toll-free at 1-800-336-0086 at any time.
