Denver mesothelioma lawyers help victims of asbestos exposure fight for justice and compensation. Denver job sites once had so much asbestos from power plants, energy stations, mills, chemical plants, and more that former workers developed life-threatening asbestos illnesses.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for substantial compensation.
An estimated $30 billion has been set aside by asbestos companies in asbestos trust funds. These funds were established to provide financial relief to individuals who have developed asbestos-related diseases, ensuring victims receive compensation without lengthy litigation.
Fill out our form to get a free Financial Compensation Packet. You’ll learn about the top Denver mesothelioma lawyers, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file a claim for the asbestos trust funds, and more.
These trust funds are designed to help victims get the support they need quickly and efficiently, allowing for a smoother claim process. Discover how these resources can benefit you and your family during this challenging time.
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
Denver and Asbestos Facts
- There were 3,214 asbestos-related deaths in Colorado between 1999 and 2017.
- The Western Minerals Company Plant in Denver received hundreds of shipments of vermiculite contaminated with asbestos from the Libby, Montana site.
- A recent incident in which several employees at Metropolitan State University were diagnosed with cancer highlights the ongoing risk of asbestos in buildings in Denver.
How Did I Get Mesothelioma?
Asbestos exposure is the leading cause of mesothelioma. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you likely came into contact with asbestos decades ago. This disease often takes a long time to develop, with symptoms appearing 10-50 years after initial exposure.
When asbestos fibers are inhaled or swallowed, they may become lodged in the lining of major organs like the lungs. These fibers irritate healthy tissue over time, leading to the development of mesothelioma.
Understanding the prolonged latency period is crucial for those at risk, as it underscores the importance of early detection and monitoring for anyone who has had potential asbestos exposure in their past.
By recognizing how these fibers affect the body, individuals can better appreciate why vigilance and regular health check-ups are key in managing potential risks related to asbestos.
Many industries used asbestos until the 1970s or 1980s. If you worked with or around it, you probably inhaled the fibers. These fibers caused damage to the tissue around your lungs, leading to cancer.
Do I Need a Mesothelioma Lawyer in Denver?
If you have a diagnosis of mesothelioma, you need an experienced lawyer. Mesothelioma is mostly caused by negligent asbestos exposure. Companies that did not warn you of the risks of asbestos can be held accountable for your exposure.
The most important reason to work with a lawyer now is to seek compensation. You may be entitled to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain or suffering. A lawyer can help you get compensation through:
- Mesothelioma personal injury claims
- Mesothelioma wrongful death claims
- Asbestos trust funds
- Veterans Benefits
A mesothelioma lawyer not only assists in pursuing financial compensation but also seeks justice for the injuries sustained by you or your family. These specialized attorneys help navigate complex legal pathways, ensuring you get the best possible outcome while minimizing stress.
Many families successfully obtain the compensation they deserve without ever going to trial—sometimes even without leaving their home. This is crucial, especially when dealing with the challenges of mesothelioma, as it allows you to focus on what truly matters: your health and family.
Top Colorado mesothelioma lawyers in Colorado have national reach and are part of large firms that give you the best chance of getting the compensation you deserve. Their expertise and resources allow them to efficiently manage your case, aiming for a resolution that respects both your time and well-being.
Understanding the Process of Filing a Mesothelioma Claim in Denver
Taking legal action for mesothelioma can be a critical step to managing your medical expenses and ensuring financial security for your family. Let’s walk through the process to help you understand what to expect.
- Consultation and Case Evaluation
The first step involves a detailed consultation with experienced mesothelioma attorneys who will assess your case’s viability. During this initial meeting, you’ll provide essential details about your medical condition and exposure history. The legal team will evaluate potential options for your claim, ensuring the claim is strong enough to pursue. - Exploring Compensation Options
Various compensation routes are available beyond just the courtroom. Here’s a breakdown:- Asbestos Trust Funds: Companies responsible for asbestos exposure have established funds to compensate victims. With around $30 billion allocated, these funds are a significant source of compensation.
- Settlements through Litigation: Many cases settle before reaching court, resulting in compensation without a trial. However, if needed, your legal team is prepared to argue your case in court.
- Veterans Benefits: If you’re a veteran, specialized benefits are available through the Veterans Affairs system. Legal experts familiar with these claims can assist in securing entitled benefits.
- Building Your Legal Team
When pursuing a claim, you’ll have a dedicated team working on your behalf. This typically includes a senior partner, skilled attorneys, paralegals, medical experts, and investigators, all focused on providing personalized attention and building a robust case. - Filing the Claim
Your legal team will then formally file the claim. Throughout this stage, they’ll handle all the required documentation and keep you informed about any developments. - Negotiation and Trial (if necessary)
While the majority of claims settle outside of court, your team will negotiate vigorously for a fair settlement. Should negotiations fail, they are prepared to take the case to trial to fight for the compensation you deserve.
By understanding these steps, you can feel better prepared to move forward with confidence. The goal is to secure a future that’s financially stable, allowing you to focus on your health and loved ones.
Choosing the Right Mesothelioma Lawyer for Your Case
Selecting the right lawyer for your mesothelioma case is crucial in securing the compensation you deserve. Here are several key factors to consider:
- Experience in Asbestos Litigation: Look for lawyers who have extensive experience with mesothelioma cases. Ideally, they should have spent at least a decade specializing in asbestos-related claims, demonstrating a deep understanding of the intricacies involved.
- Strong Track Record: It’s important to find an attorney or firm known for their success in recovering significant settlements or verdicts for clients. Research past case outcomes to ensure they have a proven history of achieving favorable results in mesothelioma claims.
- Client Recommendations: Investigate client testimonials and reviews. Positive feedback from previous clients can give you confidence in the lawyer’s ability to handle your case with empathy and efficiency.
- Contingency Fee Basis: Ensure the lawyer offers services on a contingency fee basis. This arrangement means you won’t pay any legal fees unless you receive compensation, minimizing financial risk.
- Comprehensive Legal Support: Choose a lawyer who will take charge of all legal proceedings, allowing you to focus on your health and recovery. They should be capable of managing paperwork, negotiations, and court appearances if necessary.
Ultimately, the right mesothelioma lawyer will combine experience, a proven track record, and compassionate client service to guide you through the legal process. Take advantage of initial consultations to ask questions and ascertain their approach, ensuring you feel confident and supported in your choice.
Understanding Colorado’s Statute of Limitations for Mesothelioma Claims
A statute of limitations is a legal time limit that dictates how long individuals have to initiate legal proceedings. In Colorado, the statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma claim is particularly important due to the nature of the disease and its causes.
Timeframe for Filing
- Personal Injury Claims: For mesothelioma claims stemming from personal injury, you generally have two years from the date of diagnosis to file a claim.
- Wrongful Death Claims: If a loved one has passed away due to mesothelioma, the statute allows two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim.
The critical factor in these cases is timing. Mesothelioma often manifests many years after asbestos exposure, making it essential to act swiftly once a diagnosis is confirmed.
Importance of Legal Guidance
Given the complexities and severe time constraints associated with these cases, consulting with a qualified mesothelioma attorney in Colorado at the earliest opportunity is highly advisable. These professionals can navigate the legal landscape effectively, ensuring that your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe.
Final Thoughts
Being proactive in seeking legal assistance can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. Understanding these deadlines and acting accordingly ensures that you preserve your right to seek justice and compensation for the impact of this devastating disease.
Mesothelioma Settlement Amounts in Denver: What to Expect
If you or a loved one are exploring legal action for mesothelioma, understanding past settlement amounts can provide useful insights. Here’s a breakdown of some previous settlements in the Denver area:
Triumphs in the Courtroom
- A mold maker and carpenter’s helper received $3.25 million in Denver.
- In Larkspur, a carpenter and laborer settled for $5.27 million.
- A railroad worker in Arvada was awarded $3 million.
More Success Stories
- $3 million for a machinist in Littleton.
- $2.27 million awarded to a Northglenn sheet metal worker with pleural mesothelioma.
- A Lakewood carpenter and U.S. Army veteran secured $2.88 million.
- A Denver construction worker settled for $2 million.
- An Arvada woman exposed secondhand to asbestos through her husband’s job as a union insulator received $2.26 million.
- $1.91 million awarded to a mechanic in Denver.
- In Lakewood, a U.S. Air Force veteran and union plumber received $2.98 million.
- A Palmer Lake teacher and mail clerk battling pleural mesothelioma settled for $2.6 million.
- $2.47 million for a Lakewood furnace repairman with pleural mesothelioma.
These figures highlight the potential for substantial financial relief, though each case is unique. It’s important to note that outcomes can vary based on factors such as the level of asbestos exposure, age at diagnosis, and specific circumstances surrounding each case. Remember, no outcome can be guaranteed.
Understanding the Costs of Hiring a Mesothelioma Lawyer
When considering the services of a mesothelioma lawyer, a common concern is the potential cost involved. Fortunately, most law firms specializing in mesothelioma cases offer a convenient and client-friendly payment structure.
- No Hourly Fees: You won’t have to worry about accumulating hourly charges each time you consult with your lawyer.
- Zero Upfront Costs: There are typically no out-of-pocket expenses required to initiate your case, allowing you to focus on your health and well-being.
- Contingency-Based Fees: Payment is only required if your case results in a successful compensation outcome. The lawyer’s fee is a pre-agreed percentage of the settlement or award.
This contingency fee arrangement ensures that legal representation is accessible without adding financial stress to what is already a challenging time.
Where Was I Exposed to Asbestos in Denver?
Most asbestos exposure in Denver and elsewhere occurs in the workplace. Until the 1970s, many companies used asbestos and didn’t warn workers of the risks. Some of the industries that used asbestos the most include:
- Construction
- Power plants
- Oil refineries
- Chemical plants
- Manufacturing plants
- Automotive Repair
- The U.S. military
If you worked in one of these industries, you may have been exposed to asbestos and could be at risk for mesothelioma.
Asbestos in Denver Power Stations
Denver is home to several power stations and energy companies that have used asbestos for decades and put workers at risk of exposure:
Cherokee Power Station
Created in 1957, the Cherokee Power Station, now known as Xcel Energy, is an electrical generation facility in Denver. For many years, the power station used asbestos in its facilities.
Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) were used in many products and machinery at the job site, including boilers, turbines, tanks, pipes, pipe coverings, and much more, placing workers at risk of inhaling asbestos fibers daily.
Gary-Williams Energy
Gary-Williams Energy Corporation is an independently-owned energy company in Denver. It was created in the 1950s, but decades later, in 1995, it purchased Oklahoma’s Wynnewood Refinery and became one of the leading crude oil producers in the area.
As with many other refineries, Gary-Williams Energy once relied on asbestos and caused exposure in workers.
The fact that asbestos did not react during chemical spills made it one of the most popular choices. Consequently, asbestos was used in many products at the energy company, including:
- Furnaces
- Pumps
- Boilers
- Tanks
- Reactors
- Pipes
- Equipment
- Machinery
In addition to the risk of routine exposure on the job, workers were seriously harmed by asbestos during two facility fires in 2007 and 2008.
The first fire permeated the air with asbestos and smoke, traveling up to 25 miles. A year later, the refinery experienced a second fire, caused when lightning struck a storage tank in the facility.
In 2012, Wynnewood Refinery faced yet another disaster after a boiler exploded.
Employees died in the explosion, prompting an investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
Libby Vermiculite in Denver
The W.R. Grace mine in Libby, Montana, shipped contaminated vermiculite to processing plants nationwide.
In Denver, the Western Minerals Plant received many shipments of this mineral that contained harmful asbestos.
The Denver plant was one of the country’s largest processors of vermiculite. Thousands of workers and nearby residents risked exposure to contaminating asbestos.
Asbestos in Auraria
The Auraria campus of Denver’s Metropolitan State University recently came under scrutiny because of several cancer diagnoses in employees.
All work in the same campus area and investigators found asbestos in the West Classroom as early as 2010.
Other areas of the campus have been shut down in the last few years due to asbestos.
Whether or not the current cancer cases were caused by campus asbestos is uncertain.
Additional Denver Job Sites Associated with Asbestos Use
Other companies associated with asbestos use in Denver include, but are not limited to:
- Colorado General Hospital
- Colorado State Industrial School (currently known as the Lookout Mountain Youth Services Center )
- Denver Municipal Airport (currently known as the Stapleton International Airport)
- Denver City Hall
- ANB Bank
- Lowry Air Force Base
- Midwest Plumbing and Heating
- Colorado and Southern Railway Company
- Colorado Packing and Provision Company
- Phillips Elementary School
- VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System
- University of Colorado (Denver campus)
- Fitzsimons Army Medical Center
- Johns Manville
- Arapahoe Station
Treatment for Mesothelioma Near Denver
Denver does not have a designated National Cancer Institute (NCI). In nearby Aurora, the University of Colorado’s Cancer Center (UCCC) provides innovative, in-depth treatment options for people with mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other forms of cancer caused by asbestos.
UCCC utilizes multidisciplinary clinics to treat patients. For pleural mesothelioma, the Lung Multidisciplinary Clinic provides a group of experts in different fields who consult each other for the treatment of each individual patient.
The Peritoneal Cancer Multidisciplinary Clinic provides treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma, including HIPEC.
People in this company are friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. They quickly answered all my questions and patiently walked me through the case and any open issues. I so appreciate their diligence and patience during this challenging time.
-Jingjing Z.
How Much Is a Mesothelioma Claim Worth?
Compensation depends on your diagnosis, exposure history, and the type of claim. The table below shows the main paths and typical ranges.
| Claim type | What it covers | Typical range / source | Claim 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 claim 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 claim) | No — a separate VA claim. Veterans benefits → |
Legal Help in Denver
If you or a loved one have been a victim of mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, keep in mind that you may qualify for significant compensation. Get our free Financial Compensation Packet for info on the top mesothelioma and asbestos lawyers in your area. If you have questions or need assistance, contact us toll-free at 800-793-4540.
