When dealing with trust fund settlements, it’s essential to be aware of the fees involved, particularly attorney fees.
Here’s what you need to know:
Attorney Fees: Typically, the fee your attorney will collect is a percentage of the settlement amount. This percentage is often determined when you initially hire them. It’s crucial to discuss this rate upfront to avoid surprises later in the process. Generally, your attorney will receive the same percentage of a trust fund settlement that you agreed to when you retained their services.
Fee Caps: Be aware that some trust funds may have restrictions on the maximum fees attorneys can charge. These caps are in place to ensure fair distribution of funds to claimants. Some trust funds specifically cap attorney fees, so it’s important to verify these limits when entering into an agreement.
When engaging in a trust fund settlement, always verify the specific terms and conditions of attorney compensation and any regulatory limits that might apply. This knowledge helps ensure that you are prepared for all related expenses.
Understanding Trust Fund Criteria
To navigate the complexities of filing a claim, it is crucial to understand the specific criteria associated with trust funds. Trust funds have established requirements that must be adhered to by claimants. Legal experts, particularly those specializing in mesothelioma claims, can provide invaluable assistance in meeting these requirements.
Initially, they will assess key factors such as exposure history and employment records to determine the appropriate trusts to target. Once these trusts are identified, they will ensure compliance with each trust’s unique filing criteria.
Importance of Time Frames
Each trust may impose different filing time frames, which can vary significantly. These time frames might even change based on the particulars of your case. Some trusts incorporate state statutes of limitations, adding another layer of complexity. Being aware of these deadlines is vital to avoid jeopardizing your claim.
In summary, understanding the intricacies of trust fund criteria not only facilitates a smoother claims process but also positions you to make informed decisions regarding legal representation and potential costs. By understanding both the set percentage and potential caps, you can make informed decisions and manage your expectations effectively.
Most claims take just a few months, about 90 days, to pay out to victims. However, the timeframe can vary significantly depending on the specific trust involved. Some asbestos trusts may approve claims in as little as one to two weeks, while others might take as long as one to three months. In certain cases, the process can extend from six months to a year.
Many trusts prioritize the cases of living claimants, which can influence how quickly a claim is processed. The best way to navigate this process efficiently and potentially expedite your claim is to work with a top rated lawyer experienced in filing asbestos trust claims. They can help ensure all necessary documentation is in order and submitted promptly, reducing the likelihood of delays.
We offer free online appointments and can arrange for representatives to meet you within just one mile of your home. Open Now.
Understanding the Difference: Asbestos Trust Fund Claim vs. Mesothelioma Lawsuit
When considering legal options for mesothelioma compensation, it’s vital to distinguish between filing a trust fund claim and pursuing a lawsuit. Each path caters to unique circumstances and comes with its specific process and potential outcomes.
Trust Fund Claim
Target Entity: Trust funds are established by bankrupt asbestos companies to compensate victims of asbestos-related diseases.
Process: Once a claim is submitted, trust administrators review the details and decide on approval.
Payouts: Generally, approved claims result in payouts that vary, typically ranging from several thousand dollars to over $100,000.
Mesothelioma Lawsuit
Target Entity: Filed against companies currently liable for asbestos exposure.
Process: Legal proceedings can lead to settlements negotiated between the parties, or advance to trial where a judge or jury delivers a verdict.
Compensation: Settlements often exceed $1 million, while jury verdicts can reach or surpass $2.4 million.
In summary, while trust fund claims tend to offer lower compensation through a streamlined process, mesothelioma lawsuits potentially yield higher awards but involve more complex legal proceedings. Each option involves distinct timeframes, eligibility criteria, and compensation potential that should be carefully assessed based on personal circumstances.
Can Mesothelioma Victims Receive Compensation from Multiple Asbestos Trust Funds?
Yes, individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma can indeed seek compensation from multiple asbestos trust funds. This is because numerous companies responsible for asbestos exposure have established these funds, each designed to compensate victims. Importantly, filing a claim with one trust does not disqualify an individual from seeking compensation from others.
How It Works
Multiple Trusts Available: Many companies that produced or used asbestos-based products have filed for bankruptcy and subsequently established trust funds to handle claims. Each of these trusts operates independently.
No Restriction on Filing: Victims can file claims with several trusts as long as they meet the specific criteria set by each one. The eligibility requirements vary, typically based on the products used and the extent of exposure.
Strategic Compensation Process: Legal experts often recommend a strategic approach to maximize the compensation potential, ensuring that each trust fund’s unique procedures and timelines are adhered to properly.
By working with a knowledgeable attorney, mesothelioma victims can navigate the complexities of filing claims with multiple asbestos trusts, thus optimizing their compensation from the wide network available. This multi-trust approach helps ensure that victims receive comprehensive financial support for their medical and personal needs.
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An asbestos or mesotheliomatrust fund is a fund that contains money set aside to compensate victims of asbestos exposure and their families. Many companies used asbestos for decades, exposing workers to this toxic mineral that causes mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and other illnesses.
Why Did Companies Create Asbestos Trust
Understanding Asbestos Company Bankruptcies
Bankrupt companies that exposed workers to asbestos created asbestos trust funds to compensate those who developed mesothelioma and other illnesses. Asbestos trusts support future claimants and their families and still contain about $30 billion in available funds.
Bankrupt companies that exposed workers to asbestos created asbestos trust funds to compensate those who developed mesothelioma and other illnesses. Asbestos trusts support future claimants and their families and still contain about $30 billion in available funds.
For mesothelioma patients, asbestos trust fund compensation can be a vital lifeline. Here’s how it helps:
Covers Treatment and Travel Expenses: The compensation can significantly ease the financial burden of medical treatments and associated travel costs, ensuring patients can access necessary care.
Provides Financial Security: It offers a safety net for patients and their families, helping to maintain financial stability during challenging times.
Replaces Lost Income: When a patient is unable to work, these funds can help replace lost income, alleviating stress and allowing families to focus on recovery.
If you or a loved one have mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be eligible for a large amount of compensation. We invite you to fill out our form today for a free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information about highly-respected mesothelioma lawyers in your area, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file an asbestos trust fund claim, and much more.
Victims of asbestos exposure and eligible family members file claims with the trusts to receive compensation for medical and other expenses.
Because these companies went bankrupt, the trusts protected them from lawsuits. If a company that exposed you to asbestos went bankrupt, a trust fund might be your only source of compensation.
Understanding Bankruptcy Options for Asbestos Companies
When an asbestos company faces severe financial challenges, it can seek relief under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. Two primary options are Chapter 7 and Chapter 11 bankruptcy, each serving distinct purposes.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy: Liquidation
Purpose and Process: This type of bankruptcy involves liquidating the company’s assets. The proceeds from these sales are used to repay creditors. It’s often chosen when a company sees no feasible path to continue operations.
Outcome: Chapter 7 results in the termination of the company. Once the assets are liquidated, the business does not continue.
Chapter 11 Bankruptcy: Reorganization
Purpose and Process: In contrast, Chapter 11 is aimed at reorganizing the company’s debt structure. This process allows the business to negotiate terms with creditors in hopes of regaining financial stability.
Outcome: Unlike Chapter 7, a successful Chapter 11 bankruptcy allows the company to emerge as an operational entity. A key component for asbestos companies might include setting up an asbestos trust fund to handle future claims.
Key Differences
Continuation vs. Closure: Chapter 7 leads to business closure, while Chapter 11 attempts to keep the company afloat.
Asset Management: Chapter 7 focuses on selling assets to pay creditors. Chapter 11 involves negotiating debt terms and restructuring without liquidating assets.
Long-Term Impact: A terminated company ceases all operations under Chapter 7, whereas Chapter 11 offers a chance for survival and future growth.
Each bankruptcy type offers unique paths depending on whether the company’s ultimate goal is to close operations or continue serving its market.
If you or a loved one have mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be eligible for a large amount of compensation. We invite you to fill out our form today for a free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information about highly-respected mesothelioma lawyers in your area, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file an asbestos trust fund claim, and much more.
Funds?
Expensive lawsuits over asbestos illnesses forced many companies into bankruptcy. Companies had to create these funds as a requirement of reorganization under Chapter 11 protection.
How Does the Asbestos Trust Fund Work?
There are several asbestos trust funds set up by individual companies or groups of a few related companies and subsidiaries.
Victims of asbestos exposure and eligible family members file claims with the trusts to receive compensation for medical and other expenses.
Because these companies went bankrupt, the trusts protected them from lawsuits. If a company that exposed you to asbestos went bankrupt, a trust fund might be your only source of compensation.
DOJ’s Concerns About Asbestos Trust Funds
The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) has actively engaged in efforts to reform tort practices, with a particular focus on issues surrounding asbestos trust funds. The primary concerns highlighted by the DOJ include instances of fraud and the mismanagement of these trusts, which are designed to compensate victims of asbestos exposure.
Specific Interventions
Objections to Appointments: In 2018, the DOJ raised objections regarding the appointment of a legal representative to a particular asbestos trust, indicating concerns about potential governance issues.
Bankruptcy Proceedings: The DOJ has stepped in on multiple occasions during trust bankruptcy cases, emphasizing the need for better mechanisms to prevent fraudulent claims and ensure that funds are appropriately managed and distributed.
These interventions reflect the DOJ‘s ongoing commitment to safeguarding trust funds from misuse, though the necessity and impact of these actions continue to be topics of debate among stakeholders.
Important Facts About Mesothelioma and Asbestos Trust Funds
In 1971, the widow of a Louisiana man who developed cancer from one of the company’s products sued the Johns-Manville Sales Corporation. The plaintiff won, and shortly after, courts across the nation were flooded with asbestos-related lawsuits.
For many companies, the burden of lawsuits led to bankruptcy. However, as a condition for filing for bankruptcy protection, these companies were required to set up trusts to compensate victims of asbestos-related illnesses.
Johns-Manville set up the first asbestos trust in 1988.
The trust funds are designed to handle current claims while retaining enough funds also to compensate future claims.
The trust funds have already distributed billions of dollars to asbestos victims.
There are now hundreds of asbestos trusts and an estimated $30 billion set aside for victims. If you’ve developed an illness due to exposure to asbestos, now is the time to reach out and find out if there is a trust that can compensate you.
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“When I was diagnosed with mesothelioma it was like falling into a dark hole but the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma Lawyer Center told us “Don’t worry, this is what you do, this is how we will help you.” They gave us recommendations and have been there all along the way. Not everyone you talk to in law firms understand how critical this is but Mesothelioma Lawyer Center does.”
How Do I File an Asbestos Trust Fund Claim?
The first step in the process of filing a claim is to find one or more asbestos trusts for which you are eligible. To determine your eligibility, gather proof, and make a claim, it’s a good idea to rely on the advice and guidance of an asbestos law firm.
1. List of Asbestos Trust Funds
There are now hundreds of asbestos trusts and an estimated $30 billion set aside for victims. If you’ve developed an illness due to exposure to asbestos, now is the time to reach out and find out if there is a trust that can compensate you.
Currently, there are more than 60 established asbestos trust funds specifically designed to compensate victims of asbestos exposure. These trusts have been set up by companies as part of their bankruptcy restructuring plans. Some companies are still in the process of creating additional trusts, which will contribute further to the pool of resources available for affected individuals.
By tapping into these funds, victims can receive the financial support they deserve. It’s crucial to stay informed about the availability and status of these trusts, as they continue to evolve.
For those seeking detailed information, here’s a snapshot of some key asbestos trust funds:
DII Industries, LLC (Dresser Industries): Set up their trust in 2005, providing an impressive $2.51 billion.
These examples highlight the significant resources available through asbestos trust funds. While the list above is not exhaustive, it represents a selection of the substantial funds established to aid those affected by asbestos exposure. Additional funds continue to be created, expanding the support network for victims.
This is a partial list of important companies that set up trusts to compensate victims. Contact an experienced asbestos lawyer to determine where you were exposed, the companies responsible, and the appropriate trust for making your claim.
To have your claim approved, you must meet specific criteria. You can find the requirements on the trust fund’s website. Eligibility criteria vary by fund, but they generally include:
When and where you encountered asbestos
A diagnosis of an asbestos illness
Evidence of asbestos products you used or worked near
A time limit for filing
3. Collect Evidence
You must support your claim with evidence. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can help you do this. You will likely need medical documentation, a physician statement, and employment records.
4. File the Claim
With everything in order, you can claim with one or more trusts. Your lawyer can do this for you and ensure the claim contains everything you need for a payout.
5. Wait for Review and Approval
Once the trust administrators receive your claim, they will review it. There are two ways they can approach this step:
An individual review is filed when you don’t meet the mandated medical requirements of an expedited or quick review. It requires a deeper look at your personal information and medical history to determine a compensation amount. Due to its detailed nature, this review usually results in slower payouts.
An expedited review has a fixed compensation amount, and victims are usually paid more quickly when compared to an individual review. Because individual reviews don’t have set value amounts, they require more evidence from the victim, including in-depth work and medical history, to be processed.This method is typically faster because it involves predetermined criteria, allowing for quicker payouts.
In both instances, a consistent payment percentage is applied to ensure fairness across all processed claims.
Your lawyer will know which type of review to request to give you the best chance of approval. Experienced asbestos lawyers can evaluate the specifics of your case and guide you in selecting the optimal review type, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
6. Claim Liquidation
Once the claims are reviewed, liquidation begins for qualified plaintiffs. The trust provides the plaintiff with a financial offer.
At this point, a plaintiff can accept or deny the offer amount. If you accept, your claim will go into a payment queue.
Your claim will enter alternative dispute resolution (ADR) if you reject the offer. Your lawyer will negotiate with the trust to get you a better offer.
Am I Eligible for Asbestos Trust Fund Claims?
This is an important question to answer before you start the claims process. In general, anyone exposed to asbestos and who developed an asbestos illness, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, or lung cancer, may file. You are eligible if you got sick after:
Working with or near asbestos products and materials
Living with someone who worked with asbestos and brought fibers home on their clothing
Living near a workplace with asbestos or naturally-occurring asbestos
Loved ones who lost a family member to asbestos illnesses may also be eligible to claim with a trust.
Medical requirements will vary according to each trust. For some, you may need to provide an in-depth medical and work history, while other trusts may be more lenient in proof requirements. It is up to you to ensure you provide all the necessary information.
What Is the Average Asbestos Trust Fund Settlement?
From 1998 to 2010, according to GAO, 3.3 million trust cases have been paid, totaling about $17.5 billion. The actual amounts awarded from the mesothelioma trust funds depend on individual factors in each claim.
According to reports, claim payouts range widely from $7,000 to $1.2 million. The median payment is $180,000.
How Much Compensation Will I Get From a Trust Fund?
The amount of compensation any individual can get from an asbestos trust fund varies. There are several factors involved.
Personal Factors for Determining Asbestos Compensation
Factors unique to each individual often play a role in determining compensation amounts:
The type of illness diagnosed
The severity of the illness
The extent of past asbestos exposure
The number of asbestos products involved
What Percentage Does an Asbestos Trust Pay?
Another factor is the payment percentage of the trust. Unfortunately, most companies don’t have enough funds to pay the total compensation amount awarded to claimants. Many trusts operate under the percentage value, meaning that claimants will get a certain percentage of the total amount.
For example, if the total amount happens to be $1.5 million and the company is offering 25 percent of the total amount, then the claimant can expect to receive $375,000.
There is a chance that the trust payout will be higher than 25 percent, but rarely does compensation fall below 25 percent.
Why Do Asbestos Trust Funds Only Pay a Percentage of Compensation Owed?
According to the United States Government Accountability Office (GAO), if companies paid the full amount of the claim, funds may not be available for future cases.
FAQs About Asbestos Trust Funds
The best way to get all your questions answered is to contact experienced asbestos lawyers in your area. Here are some answers to get you started.
Can I File a Lawsuit and a Trust Claim?
It’s possible to file both a mesothelioma lawsuit and a trust fund simultaneously. If you receive trust compensation, it may affect the amount you receive in a lawsuit.
State laws vary in the amount of compensation you can receive in a lawsuit if you also file a claim for trust fund compensation.
Can a Victim File Claims with Multiple Asbestos Trust Funds?
Absolutely, there is no restriction on the number of asbestos trust funds a victim can claim against. Victims can pursue claims against all available trusts that correspond to the companies responsible for their asbestos exposure.
Why is Multiple Claim Filing Possible?
Over the years, numerous companies involved with asbestos have set up trust funds to manage and pay out claims. This was done to handle the overwhelming number of cases while these companies often continued operations under bankruptcy protection. Because of this structure, each trust fund operates independently, allowing victims to file claims with as many trusts as necessary, without facing a cumulative limit.
How Does This Benefit Victims?
Comprehensive Compensation: Victims can maximize their compensation by submitting claims to multiple trusts tied to different liable companies.
Broader Coverage: Having access to numerous funds increases the likelihood of achieving sufficient financial relief to cover medical and related expenses.
No Overlap Concerns: Each trust evaluates claims based on its distinct set of criteria related to that specific company’s asbestos usage.
By leveraging the availability and flexibility of these funds, victims and their families can pursue full financial recovery.
Is There a Time Limit to File a Claim?
Yes, each trust fund sets a statute of limitation for filing. Most are two or three years, so it’s essential to act quickly once you receive a diagnosis. Talk to a lawyer or asbestos law firm as soon as possible.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Mesothelioma Trust Fund Payout?
Most claims take just a few months, about 90 days, to pay out to victims. The best way to get through this process faster is to work with a lawyer experienced in filing claims.
Will Trust Amounts Have Enough for All Victims?
This is a valid concern, with more and more victims coming forward and filing claims against the responsible parties.
However, with over $30 billion in trust funds and strict management to ensure that the funds are allocated fairly, there is no reason to worry.
Do I Need an Asbestos Lawyer to File a Claim?
Most trust funds do not require legal representation to file. However, it’s best to work with an experienced asbestos attorney to get your claim approved quickly.
A lawyer can also negotiate on your behalf, helping you get the maximum amount of compensation possible.
What if I Have Lung Cancer, Not Mesothelioma?
If your lung cancer is related to asbestos exposure, you can file a claim for compensation from an asbestos trust. Your lawyer can help you find a medical expert to prove your illness resulted from asbestos.
Will My Claim Be Taxed?
Trust fund payouts are not usually taxed, but you should consult your lawyer or a tax attorney to determine if your compensation is tax-exempt. Payments from asbestos trust funds are generally not taxable. However, certain laws and regulations could result in taxes on some claims or parts of claims. This means that while your payment may initially seem tax-free, complexities in the law could affect the tax status of specific portions of your compensation.
To fully understand the tax implications of your specific situation, it’s crucial to seek professional advice. A mesothelioma lawyer or tax expert can provide valuable insights into whether your payout is subject to taxes, ensuring you have all the information you need to make informed decisions. By consulting with these professionals, you can gain clarity and peace of mind regarding any potential tax obligations tied to your trust fund payment.
Notable Companies with Large Asbestos Trusts
Johns-Manville set up the first asbestos trust in 1988. This pioneering move laid the groundwork for others to follow. Since then, several companies have established their own longstanding trusts. Notably, National Gypsum Company, Eagle-Picher Corporation, and Keene Corporation have also set up significant trusts that continue to operate today.
The establishment of these trusts has been a pivotal development in addressing asbestos-related liabilities. As the number of companies creating asbestos trusts continues to grow, these early adopters remain at the forefront, demonstrating a long-term commitment to managing the impact of asbestos exposure.
These are just a few more details of the most important asbestos trust funds:
Owens Corning
After World War II, the Owens Corning Corporation quickly became a leader in the insulation industry. It used asbestos heavily in its products from the 1930s through the 1980s.
The company bought the Fibreboard Corporation in 1997. Fibreboard also relied on asbestos for its products.
Shortly after the acquisition, Owens Corning set up a trust anticipating asbestos lawsuits against both companies. Known as the Owens Corning Fibreboard Asbestos Personal Injury Trust of 2006, the company placed close to $7 billion in the fund.
Owens Corning used asbestos in:
Equipment, duct, and pipe insulation
Roof tile insulation
Fiberglass
Finishing cement
Laminated panels
One Cote cement
Mastic
Armstrong World Industries
Armstrong World Industries has been making cabinets and ceiling and flooring materials since 1860. Armstrong faced a string of lawsuits beginning in 1970 when Clarence Borel, an industrial insulation worker, filed a lawsuit against Armstrong and ten asbestos manufacturers after developing mesothelioma.
Borel won against Armstrong and marked a milestone for asbestos victims.
Thousands of cases against Armstrong followed Borel’s. After paying millions out to former workers who developed asbestos-related diseases, Armstrong filed for bankruptcy in 2000.
In 2006 the company created the Armstrong World Industries Asbestos Trust. In the first two years alone, the Armstrong World Industries Asbestos Trust had over 200,000 cases.
Armstrong once used asbestos in a variety of products, including:
Floor tile
Asbestos paper
Cement
Adhesives
Sealers
Asphalt tiles
Cork coverings
Floor felt
Mastics
Emulsions
Finishes
National Gypsum
Established in 1925, National Gypsum (NGC) produces wallboard products under the Gold Bond trademark. Many of the company’s products contained asbestos. NGC declared bankruptcy in 1990 after facing many lawsuits over asbestos illnesses.
NGC created a trust to help handle more than 40,000 pending lawsuits as part of this process. NGC had paid out over $200 million by 2010.
The three primary products that NGC made with asbestos were:
Gold Bond gypsum board
PermaBase cement board
Proform drywall finishing products
Combustion Engineering
Combustion Engineering (CE) manufactured boilers that included several asbestos-containing materials. The company began in 1912 and was bought in 1990 by Asea Brown Boveri (ABB Group). ABB Group became responsible for any asbestos lawsuits.
By 2002 CE still had close to 111,000 pending lawsuits, which ABB successfully reduced to 94,000. Since the number of asbestos cases was extremely high, ABB established a trust several years later, which covered any unsettled asbestos lawsuits as well as any future claims.
Products that CE and ABB manufactured with asbestos include:
Boilers
Ropes
Block sticks
Cement
Joint material
Protective and weather coating
Johns Manville
The Johns Manville Trust is the largest asbestos trust fund created in the U.S., with an estimated $2.5 billion. The company established the trust in 1988 after thousands of people began developing diseases after being exposed to asbestos in the company’s products.
Johns Manville began in 1858 as a construction and insulation company that provided many asbestos-containing products for the construction of residential and commercial buildings.
In 1927, the company also began manufacturing products for the military. Many of these went into U.S. Navy ships that required significant insulation and fireproofing.
As early as 1929, Johns Manville faced its first lawsuit after employees laid health-related charges against the company. Numerous asbestos claims followed, resulting in the establishment of the 1988 trust.
A large number of workers in a variety of industries were potentially affected by Johns Manville asbestos products:
Construction workers
Factory workers
Electricians
Bakers
Firefighters
Military veterans
Painters
Roofers
Pipefitters
Shipbuilders
Insulation installers
HVAC installers and repair workers
Products containing asbestos, provided by Johns Manville, included:
Adhesives
Siding sheets
Roofing materials
Tiles
Insulation
Caulking putty
Roof shingles
Panels
Wallboard
Protective clothing
Flexboards
Transite sheets
Fireproof sheets
Limitations on Asbestos Trust Fund Claims
Legitimate victims of asbestos exposure through bankrupt companies should have no problem getting compensation from a trust. There are some limitations, though, and you should be aware of them.
Statute of Limitations
As with lawsuits, there are deadlines for filing asbestos trust fund claims. Every trust sets its own statute of limitations, determining when it is too late to file. Your lawyer can guide you here and ensure you don’t miss the deadline.
Other State Laws
Another reason to work with a lawyer to make an asbestos trust claim is that state laws vary. Your state might limit your ability to collect compensation through certain laws. This is especially important if you are also filing a lawsuit. The asbestos lawsuit process is dictated by state law.
The Furthering Asbestos Claim Transparency Act
Some states have passed what is known as a FACT law (Furthering Asbestos Claim Transparency). This law requires anyone filing an asbestos or mesothelioma lawsuit to disclose any asbestos trust fund claims they have made. They must also disclose any claims they plan to make in the future.
The law limits the amount of damages a victim can recover in a lawsuit over asbestos exposure. If they have received trust fund compensation from a bankrupt company, that amount can be deducted from damages or a settlement against another company.
The FACT Act is part of a larger tort reform movement aimed at making it harder for victims to file legal claims and to limit compensation. This movement has introduced the FACT Act in Congress multiple times, although no legislative action has been taken since 2017.
A key provision of the FACT Act is the requirement for asbestos trust funds to publicly disclose claims, which has been met with criticism. Opponents argue that these provisions invade privacy and could slow down the claim review process, making it more challenging for victims to receive timely justice.
While Congress has not recently pursued the FACT Act, it remains a possibility for future reintroduction. Advocates for asbestos victims continue to stand against the bill, ensuring that the rights and privacy of those affected by asbestos exposure are protected.
This ongoing debate highlights the tension between transparency and privacy, as well as the broader implications for asbestos litigation and victim compensation.
Where Can I Get Legal Assistance with Asbestos Trust Funds?
Remember, if you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for significant compensation. Don’t forget to fill out our form to get our free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information on asbestos and mesothelioma attorneys in your area.
Accessing compensation from asbestos trust funds can be a crucial step in securing financial support. Here’s how you can navigate this process effectively:
Eligibility for Multiple Trusts: Mesothelioma victims might be eligible for compensation from several asbestos trust funds. Filing a claim with one does not preclude you from seeking compensation from others. This maximizes your potential compensation.
Understanding Eligibility Requirements: Trust funds require specific documentation, such as proof of asbestos exposure and a medical diagnosis. Meeting these requirements is essential, and working with an experienced asbestos attorney can be invaluable.
Role of Trustees and Payout Factors: Trustees manage the trust funds and process claims. Payouts depend on several factors, including the severity of your disease, your age, and the fund’s payment percentage. Understanding these elements can help set realistic expectations.
Legal Guidance: Attorneys specializing in asbestos cases can help navigate the intricacies of filing claims, ensuring all eligibility requirements are met and optimizing your compensation. They can also assist in identifying the appropriate funds against which to file.
To further empower yourself with knowledge, you can request our free guide on understanding your legal rights. This comprehensive resource will provide detailed information on navigating your legal options, ensuring you are fully informed about your entitlements and the steps you can take.
If you need additional assistance, contact us toll-free at 800-793-454. Our team is ready to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have about your legal rights and compensation opportunities.
When it comes to filing a mesothelioma trust fund claim, having an attorney is not just beneficial—it’s crucial. Here’s why:
Understanding Eligibility Requirements: The criteria for trust fund claims can be complex. An experienced asbestos attorney can help determine if you meet these requirements.
Maximizing Compensation: Lawyers skilled in these matters are adept at negotiating to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.
Knowledge of Accepting Trusts: With numerous trusts available, an attorney’s familiarity with those currently accepting claims can streamline your application process.
By partnering with a seasoned lawyer, you can navigate the intricacies of filing a claim more efficiently and effectively. Our knowledgeable team is here to support you every step of the way.
Comprehensive Support for Mesothelioma Patients
Legal Guidance and Financial Assistance
Learn More About Your Legal Rights: Understand your entitlements and the process to secure them. Request our free guide for detailed insights into your legal options.
Financial Support for Treatment: Treatment costs can be overwhelming. Our guide includes information on financial aid programs designed to ease your burden.
FREE Financial Compensation Packet
Info on law firms that will recover your HIGHEST COMPENSATION
Learn how to get paid in 90 days
File for your share of $30 billion in trust funds
Personalized Assistance
Have a Question About Mesothelioma?: Our experts are ready to address your concerns. Reach out to us for personalized advice and support.
Remember, if you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for significant compensation. Don’t forget to fill out our form to get our free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information on asbestos and mesothelioma attorneys in your area.
To further empower yourself with knowledge, you can request our free guide on understanding your legal rights. This comprehensive resource will provide detailed information on navigating your legal options, ensuring you are fully informed about your entitlements and the steps you can take.
If you’re specifically looking for financial assistance to help with treatment costs, we offer resources that address these needs directly:
Request our Free Financial Assistance Guide: This guide includes detailed information on various types of financial aid available, helping you manage treatment expenses effectively.
Explore Legal Rights and Support: Understanding your legal rights can open up additional avenues for financial compensation. Our guide will walk you through these options.
If you need additional assistance, contact us toll-free at 800-793-4540. Our team is ready to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have about your legal rights and compensation opportunities.
For any other questions about mesothelioma, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to help you navigate these complex waters, ensuring you have access to all the resources you need.
Paul Danziger grew up in Houston, Texas and earned a law degree from Northwestern University School of Law in Chicago. For over 25 years years he has focused on representing mesothelioma cancer victims and others hurt by asbestos exposure. Paul and his law firm have represented thousands of people diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer, recovering significant compensation for injured clients. Every client is extremely important to Paul and he will take every call from clients who want to speak with him. Paul and his law firm handle mesothelioma cases throughout the United States.
U.S. Government Accountability Office. (2011, September). Asbestos Injury Compensation. The Role and Administraton of Asbestos Trusts. Retrieved from: https://www.gao.gov/assets/590/585380.pdf
The Owens Corning Fibreboard Asbestos Personal Injury Trust. (n.d.). The Owens Corning Fibreboard Asbestos Personal Injury Trust. Retrieved from: https://ocfbasbestostrust.com
The Armstrong World Industries Asbestos Trust. (n.d.). The Armstrong World Industries Asbestos Trust. Retrieved from: https://armstrongworldasbestostrust.com
