Los Angeles mesothelioma lawyers help victims of asbestos exposure take legal actions and seek compensation. The city has an extensive history of asbestos use in construction and industrial businesses. Many California workers have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases as a result.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be eligible for substantial compensation. Fill out our form to receive our free Financial Compensation Packet. Our packet is loaded with information on leading Los Angeles mesothelioma attorneys, how to file a claim for asbestos trust funds, how to get paid in 90 days, and more.
Top 8 Asbestos and Mesothelioma Lawyers Serving Los Angeles, CA
Paul Danziger
- Founding member of Texas-based law firm that handles asbestos and mesothelioma cases throughout the United States
- Over two decades of experience in mesothelioma litigation with more than 1,000 mesothelioma patients helped
- His law firm, Danziger & De LLano, has won more than $1,000,000,000 in mesothelioma-related claims
- Graduated with honors from the University of Texas, 1989
- Law degree from Northwestern University, 1993
- Bar admission in Texas
- Member of the American Association of Justice and Texas Trial Lawyers Association
- Recognized among Top 100 Trial Lawyers by National Trial Lawyers, 2017-2019
Working from his law offices in Texas, Paul Danziger handles mesothelioma cases throughout the United States. He has focused on mesothelioma litigation for over 25 years, and has recovered significant compensation for victims of mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, and asbestosis.
Paul Danziger earned a law degree from Northwestern University School of Law in Chicago in 1993.
Jeffrey B. Simon
- Licensed to practice in New York, Texas, and California
- Graduated from the University of Texas School of Law in 1993
- Founding partner of Simon Greenstone Panatier, PC
- Named among Top Lawyers Under 40 by D Magazine in 2003 and 2004
- Named a Texas Super Lawyer by Super Lawyers (a Thomson Reuters service), 2006 to 2009 and 2014 to 2016
- Awarded a Dallas County Special Civil Service Commission from 2011 to 2013
- Awarded National Trial Lawyers’ Top 100 Trial Lawyers Award in 2016
- Awarded Lifetime Achievement Award by America’s Top 100 Attorneys in 2016
Jeffrey B. Simon is a founding partner of Simon Greenstone Panatier, PC. He is licensed to practice in California, Texas, and New York. He has worked on mesothelioma cases for over 20 years. Simon received a lifetime achievement award from America’s Top 100 Attorneys in 2016.
Jeffrey A. Kaiser
- Veteran with extensive experience representing asbestos and mesothelioma cases nationwide
- Graduated from University of California Berkeley School of Law in 1992
- Litigating defective product claims for over 20 years nationwide
- Selected to Super Lawyers for 2005, 2007 – 2015, 2018 – 2024.
Jeffrey A. Kaiser is a California attorney providing legal services covering personal injuries from products, including mesothelioma and asbestos exposure claims.
Jeffrey Kaiser, who practices law in Alamo, California, was selected to Super Lawyers for 2005, 2007 – 2015, 2018 – 2024. This peer designation is awarded only to a select number of accomplished attorneys in each state. The Super Lawyers selection process takes into account peer recognition, professional achievement in legal practice, and other cogent factors.
Prior to becoming an attorney, he studied at University of California Berkeley School of Law. He graduated in 1992. After passing the bar exam, he was admitted to legal practice in 1992.
Lou Black
- Partner at Black Law Group
- Focuses solely on asbestos exposure and mesothelioma cases
- Graduate of Texas Christian University and South Texas College of Law, 1990 and 1993
- A career dedicated to asbestos cases and victims of mesothelioma and lung cancer
- Admissions in Texas and Pennsylvania
- Member, board of directors and executive committee of Texas Trial Lawyers Association
Lou Black is a partner and founding member of Black Law Group, with offices in New Mexico and Texas. A graduate of the South Texas College of Law, Black has been practicing law since 1993. She has dedicated her career to helping victims of mesothelioma and lung cancer from asbestos exposure seek justice and recover damages. She is an expert in asbestos litigation.
Lou is nationally-recognized asbestos attorney who frequently assists on cases around the country.
Chris J. Panatier
- Graduated from the University of Texas Law School in 2001
- Founding partner in Simon Greenstone Panatier, PC
- Won verdicts with significant damages
- With practice partner, brought the first verdict against Colgate-Palmolive for mesothelioma caused by talcum powder
- Named a Thomson Reuters Texas Rising Star, 2005 to 2012
- Named Thomson Reuters Texas Super Lawyer from 2013 to 2019
- Top Lawyer Under 40, as named by D Magazine for 2006
Chris J. Panatier is a partner in the trial law firm Simon Greenstone Panatier, PC. He focuses on asbestos and mesothelioma, toxic tort cases, products liability, and pharmaceuticals. With a partner he helped to win the first talcum powder and mesothelioma verdict against Colgate-Palmolive. Panatier earned his law degree from the University of Texas in 2001.
Michelle Whitman
- Secured millions of dollars in settlements for victims of asbestos exposure, including workers in construction, shipbuilding, and power plants
- Working through Danziger & De LLano, a mesothelioma law firm with over a billion dollars won in asbestos and mesothelioma cases
- Over two deceased of experience
- Licensed through the Texas State Bar
- Active member of American Bar Association, American Association for Justice, and Texas Trial Lawyers Association
Michelle Whitman is a skilled attorney at Danziger & De Llano, LLP, specializing in Mesothelioma and Asbestos litigation. With over a decade of experience in the field, Michelle has built a strong reputation for securing justice and substantial compensation for victims of asbestos exposure. Her expertise in asbestos-related cases has led to millions of dollars in settlements for clients suffering from mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
Peter A. Kraus
- Founding partner at Waters, Kraus & Paul
- Admitted to the State Bar of Hawaii, California, Missouri, Texas, and Virginia, as well as several U.S. Courts and the U.S. Supreme Court
- Involved in numerous mesothelioma cases with significant compensation for victims
- Graduated University of Texas School of Law, 1985
- Awarded Above and Beyond Award by the American Association for Justice in 2017
- Appointee to the Federal Judicial Center Foundation Board, 2014 to the present
- Named a Texas Top Rated Lawyer by Lexis Nexis, 2013 through 2016
- Listed Best Lawyer in Dallas by D Magazine, 2001, and 2011 to 2019
Peter Kraus is a founding partner with the Waters, Kraus & Paul law firm serving Houston from their Dallas, Texas office. He focuses on litigating cases related to harmful exposure, particularly asbestos. His nearly 30 years of work on behalf of asbestos and mesothelioma victims has led to major wins and jury awards. He is active in his community and spends time on pro bono work and in serving on boards of directors and trustees for a number of charitable organizations.
Ross Stomel
- Accreditation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for excellence in representing veterans
- Recovered over $250 million in verdicts and settlements related to asbestos exposure
- Named among the “Top 100 Trial Lawyers” by National Trial Lawyers Association
Ross Stomel is a leading expert in mesothelioma and asbestos litigation who practices in Houston, Texas. He has made a career of working with victims of personal injury and wrongful death, with special expertise in asbestos exposure. He has litigated throughout the U.S. and helped his clients recover more than $250 million in settlements and jury awards.
Los Angeles Asbestos Facts
- Los Angeles County has the highest number of asbestos-related deaths in the state of California.
- Between 1999 and 2017, there were over 27,000 deaths in the state related to asbestos exposure, and nearly 5,000 asbestos deaths occurred in the Los Angeles area.
- Construction, shipping, and industrial workplaces in this large city have largely contributed to asbestos exposure and illnesses.
- Several sites in and around Los Angeles received shipments of vermiculite from Libby, Montana, a mineral heavily contaminated with asbestos.
How Can a Los Angeles Mesothelioma Lawyer Help Me?
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you need a lawyer to handle pressing legal matters. A top California lawyer serving Los Angeles residents in asbestos cases helps their clients with:
- Asbestos Personal Injury Lawsuits
- Asbestos Wrongful Death Lawsuits
- Asbestos Trust Fund Claims
- Veteran Benefits
- Other Benefits
Mesothelioma is nearly always caused by negligent asbestos exposure. One or more companies are responsible for your exposure and can be held liable for damages.
If a loved one has passed away due to an asbestos-related illness, you may wonder if you can pursue a claim on their behalf. In California, wrongful death claims can generally be initiated by the deceased’s personal representative, surviving spouse, domestic partner, or children.
Consulting with an experienced mesothelioma attorney is essential to determine whether you have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit. They can guide you through the legal process, ensuring that the responsible parties are held accountable for their negligence.
By taking action, you not only honor your loved one’s memory but also seek the justice and compensation your family deserves.
How to Schedule a Free Consultation with a Mesothelioma Law Firm in Los Angeles
If you’re looking to schedule a free consultation with a mesothelioma law firm in Los Angeles, the process is straightforward and convenient. Follow these steps to get started:
- Visit the Firm’s Website: Head over to the law firm’s website and locate their contact page. This is usually found in the navigation menu at the top of the homepage.
- Fill Out the Contact Form: Look for an online form you can complete, typically labeled as a contact or consultation form. Provide your details, including your name, email, and phone number, along with a brief message about your inquiry.
- Make a Phone Call: Prefer direct conversation? Call their office directly. Many firms offer around-the-clock phone support, ensuring you can reach out at any time.
- Email Communication: If you prefer written communication, send an email to the address provided on their site. Include your relevant information and any specific questions you have.
- Follow Up: After your initial outreach, a representative from the firm should contact you to schedule your consultation.
These law firms typically promise no obligational commitment for setting up a meeting, giving you the freedom to explore your legal options without any pressure.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Mesothelioma Attorney in Los Angeles?
Hiring a mesothelioma attorney in Los Angeles can seem daunting, but understanding the costs can help ease your concerns. Here’s a breakdown:
- Free Consultations: Most mesothelioma attorneys offer free initial consultations. This allows you to discuss your case and explore your legal options without any financial commitment.
- Contingency Fee Basis: Typically, mesothelioma attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t be charged any upfront fees. Instead, the attorney will only be paid if you receive a settlement or win a verdict. Generally, the fee is a percentage of the compensation awarded.
- No Hidden Costs: With a contingency fee arrangement, you won’t have to worry about hidden charges or extra fees during the legal process. Attorneys usually cover all case-related expenses upfront.
Make sure to discuss the specific percentage your attorney will take and any other potential costs during your initial consultation. This ensures that you are fully informed before proceeding with legal action in your mesothelioma case.
What is the Process for Filing a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?
Filing a mesothelioma lawsuit involves a systematic approach to seek justice and financial compensation for asbestos exposure. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:
- Initial Consultation:
- Connect with an experienced attorney who specializes in asbestos litigation. This often starts with a free consultation to discuss your specific case and the potential for legal action.
- Case Evaluation:
- The attorney will gather detailed information about your asbestos exposure history. This includes identifying potential sources such as product manufacturers, contractors, or property owners.
- Gathering Evidence:
- Crucial evidence is collected to support your claim. This may involve medical records confirming your diagnosis, work history, and any documents or testimonials linking your illness to asbestos exposure.
- Filing the Claim:
- Your attorney will draft and file a legal complaint in the appropriate court, clearly outlining the defendants and the basis for your claims. The complaint usually seeks compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages, and potentially punitive damages.
- Discovery Phase:
- Both parties exchange information through depositions, document requests, and interrogatories. This phase is crucial for building a strong case.
- Pre-Trial and Negotiations:
- Attorneys may negotiate settlements with the defendants to avoid going to trial. Many cases are settled out of court, but if a fair settlement isn’t reached, the case will proceed to trial.
- Trial:
- If no settlement is agreed upon, the case goes to trial. Both sides present their arguments, and a judge or jury determines the outcome, including any financial compensation awarded.
- Resolution:
- After a verdict, if the decision is favorable, the compensation is distributed as per the court’s judgment or settlement agreement. If needed, parties might appeal the decision, which could extend the process.
By following these steps, the legal process aims to hold responsible parties accountable and secure the compensation deserved for the hardships endured due to asbestos exposure.
Calculate Case Value
How Much Compensation Can I Get for Mesothelioma?
| Claim type | What it covers | Typical range / source | Lawsuit needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asbestos trust funds | Claims paid from bankrupt asbestos manufacturers’ trust funds | $30B+ available across active trusts; each trust sets its own payout schedule | No — filed directly, often in months. Trust fund payouts → |
| Mesothelioma settlement | Negotiated recovery from solvent companies that caused the exposure | Averages ~$1M–$1.4M (varies widely by case) | Yes — a lawsuit is filed; most cases settle before trial |
| Wrongful-death claim | Filed by a surviving spouse or family after the patient has passed | Medical bills, lost income, and loss of companionship | Yes — must be filed within the state deadline. Wrongful death → |
| VA benefits | For veterans with an asbestos-related disease from military service | VA disability compensation plus health care (not a lawsuit) | No — a separate VA claim. Veterans benefits → |
The answer to this question depends on many factors. A lawyer cannot guarantee a certain amount from a settlement or jury award. They can make a reasonable estimate and maximize your compensation based on several factors:
- Your diagnosis and the severity of the illness
- Medical expenses
- Future expected medical and care expenses
- Lost wages and lost earning potential
- Degree of pain and suffering
However, the compensation you may be eligible for also hinges on the specific circumstances of your case. Each mesothelioma lawsuit is unique, and the parties who may be liable for your illness can significantly influence the outcome. Identifying these parties is crucial, as they are responsible for covering your damages.
Working with experienced lawyers can help ensure a comprehensive review of your situation. They can assess all possible avenues for recovery, considering the intricate details of your case. By doing so, they aim to provide a more accurate estimate of potential damages tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.
Mesothelioma Settlements and Jury Awards in Los Angeles
Most asbestos lawsuits end in settlements that fairly compensate the victim. A few go to trial and end in jury awards that can be substantially larger. These are a few examples from Los Angeles:
- $11 Million. In 2018, a Los Angeles jury awarded Alfred Mata and his wife $11 million. He developed mesothelioma because his father worked around asbestos and brought the fibers home on his clothing. This is known as secondhand exposure. The jury agreed that Liberty Utilities Corp. had a duty to warn workers of the risks of bringing asbestos home.
- $43 Million. Deanne Warren was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2019, also from secondhand exposure. Algoma Hardwoods, Inc. was found responsible for her exposure to asbestos fibers in the home.
- $48 Million. In 2012, a Los Angeles court awarded Bobbie Izell’s family $48 million after he died from mesothelioma. He worked as a contractor and was exposed to asbestos in construction products. Some of the companies found liable included Union Carbide, Riverside Cement, and CalPortland.
Where Was I Exposed to Asbestos in Los Angeles?
Most asbestos exposure occurs in the workplace. If you have mesothelioma, a lawyer can help you track down your exposure history so you can take legal action.
Los Angeles is a large city with an industrial economy and many locations that used asbestos and put workers and even residents at risk. Some of the people at greatest risk worked in power plants, shipyards, construction sites, steel plants, mines, and factories.
These are just some major sources of asbestos exposure in Los Angeles and the surrounding area.
Shipping and Asbestos in Los Angeles
Todd Shipyards was one of the largest companies that used asbestos in Los Angeles. Created in 1916, the company provided ships during wartime, especially during World War II. During this time and later, all shipyards used asbestos.
In 1945, the Los Angeles Shipbuilding and Dry Dock became a part of the business, which included military and private ships. At this time, nearly all components on ships contained asbestos.
Todd Shipyards continued its success until the mid-1980s when competition from other shipbuilding enterprises forced the shipyard to close the Los Angeles site in 1989.
In 2010, the company was bought by Vigor International. Vigor International has strict laws in place concerning the use of asbestos on the worksites. Yet, this law came about decades after thousands of workers at the former Todd Shipyards had been exposed daily.
By 2010, Todd Shipyard faced 490 asbestos claims, ten malignant mesothelioma claims, and 184 less-serious claims from its former employees.
Many of these cases have already been settled, and the company placed $3 million in a trust fund bank for future lawsuits.
Libby Vermiculite in Los Angeles
The W.R. Grace mine in Libby, Montana, produced asbestos-tainted vermiculite for decades, shipping it to industrial locations throughout the country.
Several workplaces in and around Los Angeles received this vermiculite:
- Al-Lube Division of Far Best Corporation, Glendale
- California Zonolite Company/W.R. Grace, Glendale
- Domtar/Kaiser Gypsum America Inc., Long Beach
- Germain’s Seed Company, Los Angeles
- Southwest Grease Company, Compton
Other Places Associated with Asbestos Use in Los Angeles
Schools, plants, mills, hospitals, restaurants, and hospitals are among the many types of businesses that contained asbestos before its ban in the late 1970s:
Schools
- Aviation High School
- Banneker High School
- Bell High School
- Belmont High School
- Belvedere Middle School
- Carson High School
- El Camino Real Estate School
- Fairfax Senior High School
- Fern Avenue School (demolished)
- Gardena High School
- Garfield High School
- Hammel Street Elementary School
- Hoover Street Elementary School
- Jefferson High School
- John Muir Middle School
- Los Angeles High School
- Los Angeles Manual Arts High School
- Los Angeles Technical Trade School
- Los Angeles Unified School District
- Los Feliz Elementary School
- Marvin Avenue Elementary School
- Pacoima Middle School
- Ramona Elementary School
- Roosevelt High School
- Sherman Oaks High School
- State School for Boys
- Topeka Drive School
- Washington High School
Plants
- Aynes Steam Plant
- Balboa Water Treatment Plant
- Central Plants Incorporated
- Dickson Gun Plant
- El Segundo Steam Plant
- Haynes Steam Generating Plant
- Los Angeles County Central Plant
- Los Angeles Water Plant
- Mccullough Plant
- Oxnard Mandalay Plant
- San Onofre Generating Plant
- Texallano Plant
- Trigen Central Plants
- Union Pacific Plant
Hotels
- Alexander Hotel Company
- Alexandria Hotel
- Beverly Hills Hotel
- Biltmore Hotel
- Blackstone Apartment Hotel
- Century Plaza Hotel
- Hunts Hotel
- Mayflower Hotel
- Statler Hilton Hotel
Hospitals
- Angelus Hospital (demolished)
- Cedars of Lebanon Hospital
- Children’s Hospital (Vermont Ave)
- Good Samaritan Hospital
- Hollywood Presbyterian Hospital
- Los Angeles County General Hospital
- Los Angeles Infirmary Sisters’ Hospital
- Martin Luther King Jr General Hospital
- Midway Hospital
- Queen of Angels Hospital
- Saint Francis Hospital
- Shriners Children’s Hospital
- St. John’s Hospital
- St. Vincent’s Hospital
- Temple Hospital
- UCLA Medical Center
- The University of Southern California Hospital
- Veterans Administration Hospital
- White Memorial Hospital
Chemical Companies
- Amer Chemical
- American Potash & Chemical Corporation
- Ashland Chemical Company
- Borden Chemical Company
- Bray Chemical Company
- Collier Carbon & Chemical Corporation
- Dixon Chemical
- Dow Chemical Company
- Filtrol Chemical
- Food Machinery & Chemical Corporation
- Kaiser Aluminum and Chemical
- Kerr Mcgee Chemical Corporation
- Old Colony Paint & Chemical Company
- Pacific R & H Chemical Company
- Rohm & Haas Chemical
- Shell Chemical Company
- Southern California Chemical Company
- Stauffer Chemical
- Witfield Chemical Corp
Electric Companies
- Cannon Electric
- Edison Electric Company
- General Electric Company
- Hoagland Lakin Electric and Engineering Company
- Los Angeles Electric Company
- Pacific Electric Railway Company
- Pasadena Los Angeles Electric Railway Company
- San Gabriel Electric Company
- Santa Maria Electric and Gas Company
- Sawyer Electric
- U.S. Electrical Motors Inc
Additional Businesses
- A. P. Mc Guinness
- Aaron Ferer & Son
- Affiliated Metals
- Air Reduction Pacific Company
- AiResearch Corporation
- Alameda Tank Company
- Aluminum Company of America (Alcoa
- Aluminum Extrusion Company
- Amalgamated Oil Company
- American Airlines -Los Angeles International Airport
- American Appliance Company
- American Brazing Company
- American Bridge Division
- American Container
- American Hair & Felt Company
- American Manganese Steel Division
- American Pacific Steamship Company
- Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation
- Angelus Floor Covering
- Angelus Steel Treating
- Apex Steel Corporation
- ARCO Twin Towers
- BF Goodrich Company
- Balboa Water Treatment Plant
- Beeson Engineering Company
- Bradbury Building
- California Fireproof Door Company
- California Sanitary Canning Company
- Chevrolet Division of General Motors Company
- Devoe & Reynolds Company, Inc.
- Dominguez Water Corporation
- E. P. Clark Building.
- E.B. Wiggins Oil Tool
- Firestone Tire & Rubber Company
- Food Machinery & Chemical Corporation
- Golden State Creamery
- Kaiser Medical Center
- United Technology Corporation
- Valley Place Methodist Church
- Wesco Steel Rolling Mills Corp
Talcum Powder Asbestos Lawsuits
An emerging source of asbestos exposure is contaminated talc. Many people who used talcum powder for decades have developed mesothelioma or ovarian cancer.
Los Angeles has been the site of important lawsuits against makers of talcum powder products contaminated with asbestos. In December 2021, the family of Doreen Myers won their lawsuit against talc suppliers and Avon Products.
Myers used the products for years and died from mesothelioma. Her legal team helped her family secure a $780,000 jury verdict for the companies’ failures to warn consumers of the risks of asbestos in talc.
Understanding the Time Limit for Mesothelioma Lawsuits in Los Angeles
When considering legal action in Los Angeles, California, the statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit is crucial. In California, you generally have one year from the date of your mesothelioma diagnosis to file a personal injury lawsuit. Alternatively, if you were unaware that your condition was linked to asbestos exposure, you have one year from the date you should have reasonably discovered this connection.
Why Timeliness Matters
Initiating your lawsuit promptly is essential. This allows your attorney adequate time to:
- Investigate your case: Gathering all necessary information and evidence.
- Build a strong legal argument: Collaborating with medical and exposure experts.
- File appropriate documentation: Ensuring all paperwork is correctly submitted.
Speak with a Mesothelioma Attorney
It’s advisable to consult a specialized mesothelioma lawyer in Los Angeles without delay. Early consultation helps clarify your options and initiate necessary legal procedures within the stipulated timeframe.
Don’t risk missing out on the opportunity for justice and potential compensation due to time constraints. Reach out to a legal professional experienced in handling mesothelioma cases to safeguard your rights.
What is the Statute of Limitations for Filing Asbestos Lawsuits in California?
In California, timing is crucial when it comes to filing lawsuits related to asbestos exposure. The law typically grants you a two-year window to take legal action for mesothelioma claims. This period begins from the moment you receive your diagnosis.
If you’re pursuing a wrongful death claim due to a loved one’s passing from asbestos-related illness, you similarly have two years from the date of death to file. Be aware that claims against asbestos trust funds might have different deadlines, but they often align with these same timeframes.
For veterans, it’s important to note that filing a claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) doesn’t have a statute of limitations, giving more flexibility in seeking benefits.
Mesothelioma Treatment in Los Angeles
Victims of asbestos exposure in Los Angeles have access to one of the world’s premier treatment centers for mesothelioma.
The Pacific Mesothelioma Center, part of the Pacific Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, launched in 2012. It focuses on the research and treatment of pleural mesothelioma.
Also in Los Angeles is the UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center. It is recognized as a center of excellence and a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute.
The Cancer Center specializes in lung and other thoracic cancers, including mesothelioma, and partners with the Pacific Mesothelioma Center.
Great people. Helped my family through our meso diagnosis.
-Donald H.
Get Legal Help from an Experienced Mesothelioma Lawyer in Los Angeles
As previously mentioned, you may be entitled to financial compensation if you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis. Get our free Financial Compensation Packet for info on the top mesothelioma and asbestos lawyers in your area. If you need additional assistance, contact us toll-free at 800-793-4540.
