Charleston, South Carolina Mesothelioma Lawyer

An experienced Charleston, South Carolina, mesothelioma lawyer can help if you encountered asbestos at any workplace in the area. Shipyard jobs and numerous other industries in Charleston have been marred by asbestos use for decades.

Keep in mind that if you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be entitled to considerable compensation. We invite you to fill out our form today for a free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information about experienced mesothelioma lawyers in Charleston, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file an asbestos trust fund claim and much more. 

Charleston Asbestos Facts

• South Carolina saw 3,801 deaths from asbestos-related diseases between 1999 and 2017.
• The county with the highest number of asbestos deaths in that period was Charleston, with 550.
• Charleston’s long history with shipyards is a major contributing factor to the asbestos exposure workers experienced for decades.

About Asbestos and Mesothelioma

Asbestos is a natural mineral once used heavily in most industries. It was most commonly used as an insulator. Asbestos materials shed small fibers that can be inhaled or ingested by anyone in the area.

Workers exposed to these tiny asbestos fibers were at risk for later illnesses, including pleural or peritoneal mesothelioma. The fibers cause damage to tissues and cells in the body, which can cause cancer to develop years later.

Understanding Asbestos Exposure

During the 20th century, asbestos was incorporated into thousands of products due to its strength and heat-resistant properties. However, it has been linked to severe health conditions, such as:

• Mesothelioma
• Lung cancer
• Other asbestos-related diseases

When inhaled or ingested, asbestos fibers can become embedded in the lining of certain organs. This irritation can lead to the mutation of healthy tissues and cells, eventually becoming cancerous.

The Challenge of Diagnosis

One of the complexities of mesothelioma is its similarity to other illnesses, making it difficult to diagnose. Symptoms might not manifest until 20-50 years after the initial exposure, often leading to late-stage discovery. Understanding these risks and the long latency period is essential for those who may have been exposed to asbestos in the past.

Understanding Secondhand Exposure to Asbestos and Its Impact on Families

Secondhand exposure to asbestos occurs when individuals indirectly come into contact with this hazardous material, often through someone else. This typically happens when a person employed in environments with asbestos unwittingly carries the fibers away on their clothing, shoes, or even in their hair.

How Does It Affect Families?

1. Household Transmission: Once the fibers enter the home, family members without direct contact with asbestos can inhale or ingest the particles. This makes the household at risk for asbestos-related illnesses, such as mesothelioma, without ever having stepped foot in a contaminated area.
2. Health Risks:
   • Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer often linked to asbestos exposure.
   • Lung Cancer: Not exclusive to smokers, as asbestos is a known cause.
   • Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease resulting from inhaled asbestos fibers.

Preventive Measures

• Workplace Precautions: Employers should enforce strict decontamination protocols for workers in at-risk environments.
• At-Home Safety: Families can minimize risk by ensuring work clothes are removed and cleaned before individuals enter common living areas.

By understanding and addressing secondhand exposure, families can significantly reduce the associated health risks and create a safer home environment.

Understanding Mesothelioma Symptoms and Diagnostic Challenges

Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer typically caused by asbestos exposure, presents unique diagnostic challenges. One reason it’s difficult to diagnose is the latency period; symptoms often don’t manifest until decades after exposure—sometimes as long as 20 to 50 years.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

The symptoms can be elusive because they often resemble those of more common ailments. Here are some key symptoms to look out for:

• Shortness of Breath: This may occur due to fluid buildup around the lungs or tumors pressing on lung tissue.
• Persistent Cough or Chest Pain: Often mistaken for a common respiratory illness, these symptoms can indicate pleural thickening.
• Abdominal Pain and Swelling: Indicative of peritoneal mesothelioma, these symptoms occur as tumors develop in the abdominal lining.
• Unexpected Weight Loss: This can happen alongside fatigue, making it hard to attribute to mesothelioma alone.

Diagnostic Challenges

The difficulty in diagnosing mesothelioma primarily stems from its symptom similarity to other diseases, such as pneumonia or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Moreover, the long latency period makes it hard for individuals to connect current symptoms to past asbestos exposure. This can lead to multiple misdiagnoses before identifying mesothelioma as the culprit.

In summary, the subtlety and delay of symptom onset are key factors in complicating the timely diagnosis of mesothelioma. Being aware of its unique symptoms and maintaining an awareness of any past asbestos exposure are crucial for early detection and treatment.

Why Do I Need a Charleston, SC, Mesothelioma Lawyer?

You need an experienced asbestos attorney if you have a diagnosis of mesothelioma. An expert in asbestos cases gives you the best possible chance of recovering damages and being able to pay for costly treatments.

Mesothelioma is caused by negligent workplace asbestos exposure. The companies that failed to protect you from asbestos can and should be held accountable. For a successful claim or lawsuit, you need expert legal guidance.

Benefits of Partnering with Our Mesothelioma Law Firm

Choosing the right legal partner for your mesothelioma case can make all the difference. Our firm is committed to providing top-tier legal representation with unique advantages tailored to your needs.

Access to Justice Without Financial Burden

We understand the challenges of facing a mesothelioma diagnosis. That’s why our firm offers complimentary legal consultations and promises no preliminary costs or hourly charges. We work on a contingency basis, meaning we only earn our fee if we successfully secure compensation on your behalf. This allows you to focus on your health while we handle the legal complexities.

Proven Success in Mesothelioma Claims

With over $5.2 billion recovered for our clients, our firm boasts a track record of securing significant compensation in asbestos cases. A remarkable 98% of our cases result in a favorable outcome, showcasing our ability to navigate the legal system effectively and efficiently.

Unmatched Expertise and Experience

For over 45 years, we have been dedicated to handling asbestos and mesothelioma cases. Our legal team comprises seasoned experts including skilled attorneys, registered nurses, and investigators who are all committed to building the strongest case for you.

Personalized and Convenient Service

We prioritize your convenience and comfort. Our team is willing to travel to meet with you, whether that’s in the comfort of your own home or through a virtual consultation. This ensures that you have access to high-quality legal assistance without added stress or costs associated with travel.

By choosing our firm, you’re not just hiring attorneys; you’re gaining a dedicated team ready to fight for justice and the compensation you deserve.

How to Make a Mesothelioma Claim in Charleston

The first step is to choose an experienced mesothelioma lawyer working in and around Charleston. They should be backed by a large asbestos law firm with the resources to handle your case.

The right asbestos lawyer will offer you a free initial consultation to review your information. If they think you have a case, your lawyer will get you started on one or more types of mesothelioma claims:

• Mesothelioma personal injury lawsuit
• Mesothelioma wrongful death lawsuit
• Asbestos trust fund claim
• VA benefits claim

Once you’ve decided on the path forward, here’s what typically follows:

1. Evidence Gathering: Your lawyer will gather crucial evidence regarding your work history, asbestos exposure, and medical diagnosis. This step is vital to building a strong case.
2. Filing the Claim: Your attorney will file a legal claim on your behalf against the parties responsible for your asbestos exposure. This ensures that the legal process is underway and your rights are being represented.
3. Negotiating a Settlement: Most mesothelioma cases are resolved through settlements out of court. Your lawyer will negotiate diligently to secure a fair settlement, maximizing your compensation without the stress of a trial.
4. Court Proceedings: If a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer is prepared to advocate for you in court. They will present your case before a judge and jury to seek a favorable verdict.

Your lawyer will handle all aspects of the lawsuit or claim, giving you the best chance of a successful outcome and fair compensation.

Past Mesothelioma Settlement Amounts

If you’re curious about the types of settlements achieved in mesothelioma cases, here’s a glimpse into some notable outcomes from past cases our firm has handled:

• A $4.9 million settlement was awarded to an individual from Johns Island.
• A waitress from Fort Mill received $3.44 million.
• An experienced union teamster and assembly line worker secured $1.82 million.
• A veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard and electrician in Simpsonville achieved a $1.72 million award.
• A laborer and pipefitter in Ruby received $1.57 million.
• A skilled carpenter and U.S. Army veteran from Aiken was awarded $2.37 million.
• A former U.S. Navy shipfitter from Ladson secured $1.45 million.
• A home remodeler in Honea Path received $1.26 million.
• An Easley resident battling pleural mesothelioma achieved a settlement of $2.36 million.

Remember, compensation can vary significantly based on the unique aspects of each case. Settlement results are contingent upon various factors, including the specifics of exposure and individual circumstances.

What Factors Determine the Value of a Mesothelioma Settlement?

Mesothelioma settlements can vary significantly, often ranging from $1 million to $1.4 million. However, some verdicts may even reach amounts between $5 million and $11.4 million. Several crucial factors play into determining these values:

1. Severity of the Illness: The extent and progression of mesothelioma in the patient are primary considerations. More severe cases often lead to higher settlements due to increased medical costs and suffering.
2. Duration and Intensity of Asbestos Exposure: How long and how intensely a person was exposed to asbestos can impact the settlement. Longer or more intense exposure often correlates with higher compensation.
3. Medical Costs and Treatment Needs: The cost of medical treatment, therapies, and necessary care weigh heavily on settlement amounts. More extensive or experimental treatments may drive up compensation.
4. Loss of Income and Earning Capacity: If the illness has led to significant time away from work or reduced the ability to earn a living, settlements will typically reflect the financial loss endured.
5. Pain and Suffering: Emotional and physical suffering experienced by the victim are important factors. High levels of distress and life disruption can justify higher settlements.
6. Number of Defendants: When multiple companies are liable, settlements might be larger since each defendant might contribute to the total payout.
7. Legal Precedents: Previous case outcomes in similar circumstances can influence settlement expectations, pushing for amounts aligned with regional or historical verdicts.

By understanding these elements, plaintiffs and their legal teams can better assess the potential value of a settlement, ensuring fair compensation tailored to individual circumstances.

What is the Average Settlement Amount for Mesothelioma Lawsuits?

When pursuing a mesothelioma lawsuit, financial compensation can vary significantly. On average, settlements for these cases typically fall between $1 million and $1.4 million.

This range represents the usual compensation achieved without going to trial. However, if a case proceeds to court, the awards can escalate substantially, with averages ranging from $1 million to as high as $11.4 million.

Key Points to Consider:

• Settlement vs. Court Verdicts: Settlements tend to be lower than court verdicts. Many cases settle outside of court to reduce time and legal expenses, but if a case does go to trial, the payout can be considerably higher.
• Factors Influencing Compensation: Various elements can affect the final amount, including the severity of the illness, the extent of negligence, and the financial impact on the victim’s family.

Understanding these aspects can help create realistic expectations regarding potential compensation in mesothelioma lawsuits.

Understanding the Nature of Mesothelioma Lawsuits

Mesothelioma lawsuits are usually handled individually rather than as class actions. Here’s why:

• Individual Circumstances: Each case of mesothelioma is unique, influenced by specific exposure circumstances and personal experiences. This individuality makes personalized legal strategies more effective than a one-size-fits-all approach.
• Compensation Maximization: By filing individually, attorneys have the opportunity to delve deeper into each case. This allows them to pursue compensation amounts that truly reflect the client’s personal losses and suffering, rather than being limited to the collective interests of a class action.
• Personal Attention: Individual lawsuits enable attorneys to dedicate their time and resources to thoroughly exploring the details of the case. This dedication ensures that each client’s story is fully represented and advocated for.
• Complexity and Variability: The complexities involved in mesothelioma cases, such as varying exposure levels and differing statute limitations across jurisdictions, create challenges for class actions. Individual lawsuits can better navigate these intricacies.

In summary, filing mesothelioma lawsuits individually ensures that each case receives the detailed attention it deserves, improving the likelihood of achieving a fair and just compensation.

Understanding the Cost and Payment Structure for Hiring an Asbestos Attorney

When you’re considering hiring an asbestos attorney, it’s crucial to understand both the costs involved and the payment structure. Here’s what you need to know:

1. No Upfront Fees: Generally, reputable law firms specializing in asbestos cases do not require any upfront payments from clients. This means you won’t need to pay anything out of pocket to start working with them.
2. Contingency-Fee Basis: Most asbestos attorneys operate on a contingency-fee arrangement. Under this model, the attorney’s payment is contingent upon the success of your case. In simple terms, this means that the lawyer only receives payment if you receive compensation through a settlement or court decision.
3. Percentage of Compensation: If your case is successful, the attorney’s fees are typically a pre-agreed percentage of the compensation you receive. This percentage will be established when you first engage their services, ensuring transparency from the start.
4. Risk-Free Consultation: Many firms also provide free initial consultations, allowing you to explore your legal options without financial commitment.

This fee structure is designed to provide you with access to legal representation with minimal financial risk, ensuring that you can pursue justice for asbestos exposure without the burden of upfront legal costs.

Where Was I Exposed to Asbestos in Charleston?

Several industries in and around Charleston used asbestos and put workers at risk of exposure and illness. These are just a few examples.

Charleston Naval Shipyard

Business at the Charleston Naval Shipyard grew to over 25,000 workers by 1943. The majority of these contractors and employees faced daily asbestos exposure. Workers here built more than 220 ships at the Charleston Naval Shipyard during World War II alone.

Asbestos long played a role in both U.S. Navy and civilian ship repair, building, and construction throughout much of the 20th century. Asbestos insulated and protected against heat and fire. Asbestos was also desirable on ships for its ability to add lightweight strength to materials.

In 1978, the Navy released the “Controlled Procedure for the Removal of Asbestos Containing Materials” documentation to the Charleston Naval Shipyard.

Although the report provided a detailed outline of how to abate asbestos as safely as possible, the document came after many workers had already been exposed to dangerous asbestos fibers.

After the shipyard closed in 1996, citizens began expressing concerns about exposure to dangerous toxins left behind.

In 2005, new construction began at the old site, now renamed The Navy Yard at Noisette.

In February 2019, The Post and Courier reported that the shipyard “remains very much a work in progress.”

Braswell Services Group

In addition to Charleston Naval Shipyard, the Braswell Service Group was a shipyard that once relied on asbestos. Asbestos was used in almost every type of machinery, equipment, and parts at the shipyard.

Employees at Braswell worked around asbestos and asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) daily as they built and repaired ships. Asbestos was found in:

• Boilers and turbines
• Electrical, building, and plumbing insulation
• Pumps and valves
• Steampipes
• Incinerators
• Gaskets
• Tiling
• Welding blankets, and more

Other Job Sites Associated with Asbestos Use in Charleston

Along with shipyards, several other companies in and around Charleston used asbestos for years. Several buildings that were constructed with ACMs remain in Charleston today.

Schools

• Citadel Military College of South Carolina
• Basic Science Building- Medical University of South Carolina
• University of South Carolina

Hospitals

• Charleston Memorial Hospital
• Roper St. Francis Healthcare
• Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn VAMC

Additional Businesses

• Bird and Son Inc.
• South Carolina Gas and Electric Company
• Charleston Hydraulic Cotton Press
• Charleston Oil Refinery
• Daniel Construction
• General Asbestos and Rubber Company (GARCO)
• J. R. Deans Company, Inc.
• Westvaco Corporation
• Wood Brothers Thresher Company

Specialty Cancer Care in Charleston

If you’ve been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease or been exposed to asbestos and need assistance with testing and diagnosis, contact the Hollings Cancer Center (HCC) at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). It has been helping cancer patients since its inception in 1824.

In 1993, HCC was named a designated cancer center backed by the National Cancer Institute (NCI).

In addition to extensive cancer research and research trials, HCC offers innovative radiology oncology treatment options through its well-known Thoracic Oncology Program.

Hollings Cancer Center
86 Jonathan Lucas St,
Charleston, SC 29425
(843) 792-0700

These lawyers made us feel so much better about going through this terrible process. We had no idea where to begin and they helped get us all the compensation we possibly could. They were friendly understanding and very hard-working. They answered any questions we had about compensation and even medical advice.

– Natalie F.

Additional Information and Getting Legal Help

Don’t forget to fill out our form to get our free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information on the experienced asbestos and mesothelioma attorneys. If you need additional assistance, contact us toll-free at 800-793-4540.