Atlanta Mesothelioma Lawyer

Atlanta mesothelioma lawyers help victims of asbestos exposure take legal action. The city’s growth coincided with a peak era for asbestos use. Many industries used the harmful mineral, exposing workers and residents.

If you or someone you love suffers from mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for substantial compensation. Fill out our form to receive our free Financial Compensation Packet. Our packet is loaded with information on experienced mesothelioma attorneys in Atlanta, how to file a claim for asbestos trust funds, how to get paid in 90 days, and more. 

Atlanta and Asbestos Facts

• Between 1999 and 2017, 4,172 people died from asbestos-related diseases in Georgia.
• Fulton County and the Atlanta area had the highest number of asbestos deaths.
• Georgia-Pacific was one of the city’s major employers that used asbestos.
• Residents and workers in Atlanta are still at risk of being exposed to existing asbestos in many buildings.

About Asbestos and Mesothelioma

If you have mesothelioma, you were probably exposed to asbestos in the past. Asbestos is the single known cause of mesothelioma, a rare cancer that most commonly develops in the tissue around the lungs.

Working with or around asbestos leads to inhalation of asbestos fibers. The fibers cause damage to tissues and cells in the body. In some people, this damage leads to pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma, or lung cancer.

Symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pains. It’s easy to mistake it for another, more common illness, so diagnosis is often challenging.

By the time most victims of asbestos exposure are diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is in the late stages. This makes it challenging to treat. The prognosis is typically not favorable.

If you suspect you might have worked around asbestos in Atlanta, especially if you have troubling symptoms, talk to your doctor immediately.

Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer, is notably linked to asbestos exposure. Once asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can embed themselves in the tissue lining of vital organs, such as the lungs. This latent presence means that the disease doesn’t manifest immediately. Instead, it can take a considerable amount of time—often between 10 to 50 years—for symptoms of mesothelioma to surface. This lengthy latency period makes it challenging to diagnose early, emphasizing the importance of monitoring for any health changes if you’ve been exposed to asbestos in the past.

Do I Need an Atlanta Mesothelioma Lawyer?

If you get a diagnosis of mesothelioma, you need a lawyer. Workplace asbestos exposure in Atlanta harmed thousands of people and could have been prevented.

You can hold companies liable for the asbestos exposure that caused you to get sick. The right lawyer can help you take one or more actions to seek compensation:

• File a mesothelioma personal injury lawsuit
• Make an asbestos trust fund claim
• File a mesothelioma wrongful death lawsuit
• Claim VA benefits if you served in the military

A top-rated Georgia mesothelioma lawyer in Atlanta is the best person to help you recover damages for your costly illness. Asbestos cases are complicated. You need the experience and resources available to an attorney in a large asbestos firm in Atlanta.

Exploring Your Compensation Options

Asbestos Trust Funds: There’s an estimated $30 billion set aside by companies for those affected by asbestos-related diseases. Accessing these funds can significantly support your financial needs.

Mesothelioma Lawsuit: While most cases settle out of court, your attorney will be prepared to represent you in a trial if necessary, ensuring you receive fair compensation.

Veterans Affairs Benefits: If you served in the military, you might be eligible for medical and financial benefits through the VA. Experienced attorneys can assist in preparing your claims to obtain the benefits you’re entitled to.

The Support of a Comprehensive Legal Team

With a full legal team on your side, including senior partners, seasoned attorneys, and paralegals, you’ll receive the personalized care and attention necessary to navigate this challenging process. This team approach ensures all aspects of your case are handled with expertise, leaving no stone unturned in your pursuit of justice.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Mesothelioma Lawyer in Atlanta?

Hiring a mesothelioma lawyer in Atlanta can surprisingly be more affordable than you might think. The majority of these lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis. This means that you won’t have to worry about upfront costs, hourly fees, or any out-of-pocket expenses.

What is a Contingency Fee?

1. No Upfront Payments: You won’t need to pay anything at the start.
2. Payment Linked to Success: The lawyer receives a percentage of the compensation only if you win the case.
3. Risk-Free Approach: If the outcome is not favorable, you typically owe nothing for the legal services.

This fee structure allows individuals affected by mesothelioma to access high-quality legal representation without financial pressure, enabling them to focus on their health and recovery. Always ensure you discuss fee details with your lawyer beforehand to fully understand the terms.

Examples of Past Mesothelioma Settlements in the Atlanta Area

If you’re curious about mesothelioma settlements in the Atlanta area, here’s a look at some notable cases:

• $4 Million secured by a plumber and HVAC technician from Senoia, GA.
• $4.63 Million awarded to a laborer residing in Winterville, GA.
• $3.7 Million received by a coal miner and steelworker in Duluth, GA.

Other significant settlements include:

• A U.S. Navy veteran in Sharpsburg with pleural mesothelioma who received $3.64 million.
• A U.S. National Guard veteran from Atlanta was granted $1.4 million.
• An Auburn gas station mechanic, also diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma, received $1.76 million.
• $3.17 million was settled for a Bell Ground Navy veteran who served on the USS Essex.
• A mechanic and contractor in Acworth benefited from a $1.4 million settlement due to peritoneal mesothelioma.
• An Acworth construction worker was awarded $1.7 million.
• An electrician maintenance worker in Winston secured $2.63 million.
• A Marietta shipping manager obtained $1.52 million.
• Another U.S. Navy veteran from Stockbridge, who served on the USS Damato and USS Kaskaskia, received $1.7 million.

These figures illustrate the range of compensation received by individuals affected by mesothelioma, but it’s important to remember that each case is unique. Settlements are influenced by various factors such as exposure specifics, age, and diagnosis. Keep in mind that while past results can guide expectations, they don’t guarantee future case outcomes.

How Should You Choose a Mesothelioma Lawyer?

Selecting the right lawyer for a mesothelioma case is crucial for ensuring the best possible outcome. Here are key factors to consider:

• Experience Matters: Seek out lawyers or firms with extensive experience in mesothelioma and asbestos-related cases. A lawyer with years of specialized experience will have a deeper understanding of the legal complexities involved.
• Successful Track Record: Research potential lawyers to find out about their history in winning cases and securing generous settlements. Consider those who have achieved significant financial awards for their clients, as this indicates their ability to advocate effectively on your behalf.
• Client Reviews and Testimonials: Look at past client reviews and testimonials to gauge satisfaction with the attorney’s services. High praise from previous clients can be a promising indicator of what you can expect.
• Contingency Fee Structure: Opt for a lawyer who works on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t have to pay any upfront fees, and the lawyer only gets paid if you win the case. This arrangement reduces your financial risk.
• Personalized Attention and Support: Choose a lawyer who is attentive and willing to handle all aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your health and family. A compassionate legal team can make a significant difference during a challenging time.
• Comprehensive Services: Prefer lawyers who offer full services, from investigation to trial representation, ensuring everything from gathering evidence to navigating court proceedings is covered.

Take the time to research and consult with several lawyers before making a decision. This careful approach can make a substantial impact on the success of your case.

Benefits of Working with a Law Firm on a Contingency Fee Basis

Choosing a law firm that operates on a contingency fee basis offers several advantages, particularly for those concerned about upfront legal expenses.

No Upfront Costs

One of the biggest benefits is that you don’t need to worry about hourly fees or initial payments. This arrangement allows you to pursue justice without financial pressure, as your legal team gets paid only if you win your case.

Motivated Legal Representation

With payment tied to the outcome, your attorneys are more motivated to achieve a positive result for your case. They are fully invested in your success, knowing their compensation depends on it.

Risk-Free Legal Process

Working on contingency also means you can access expert legal services risk-free. If your case doesn’t result in compensation, you won’t owe your lawyers anything, making it easier to seek justice without financial risk.

Access to High-Quality Resources

Law firms on a contingency basis often have the resources to cover the necessary expenses during litigation, such as hiring experts or conducting thorough investigations, enhancing your case without burdening you financially.

By opting for a contingency fee arrangement, you’re aligning your interests with those of your legal team, fostering a cooperative pursuit of justice.

Georgia-Pacific Asbestos Use and Controversy

Georgia Pacific, a leading manufacturing company based in Atlanta, faced an asbestos lawsuit in 2005.

Although the company does not use asbestos in its products anymore, there have been more than 600,000 asbestos lawsuits against Georgia-Pacific after employees began developing life-threatening diseases such as malignant mesothelioma and asbestosis.

In 2005, Georgia-Pacific secretly hired researchers to perform studies that showed their products were not responsible for asbestos. When questioned about private research, the company reportedly declined to answer.

A New York appeals court ruled that the company acted fraudulently and demanded that the research paperwork be handed over for review.

Sheila Jasanoff, a government professor at Harvard University, said that it’s suspect when a company refuses to hand over scientific results:

“There’s something extremely smelly about claiming attorney-client privilege for something that is being claimed at the same time as good science. Legal confidentiality protections should not be placed around good science.”

Sheila Jasanoff

In 1965, Georgia-Pacific purchased the Bestwall Gypsum Company, a business that created, manufactured, and distributed the gypsum wallboard, as well as joint and spackling compounds products.

Georgia-Pacific was aware that asbestos was used in most products and manufacturing facilities. The information was kept private and withheld from employees. Many of the later lawsuits came from former Bestwall employees.

Consumers were also at high-risk for asbestos exposure, as Georgia Pacific failed to warn them about asbestos risks. The joint compound, known as Ready-Mix, contained asbestos.

A court trial exposed the information after documents from Georgia Pacific surfaced. The company documented internal operations and methods when making the new version of the mix.

The plaintiff in the case, Lisa Pransky, was only eight years old when she was exposed to asbestos. Her father renovated the basement in her childhood home while using Ready-Mix on the ceiling. Decades later, Pranksy died of mesothelioma at age 34.

Other Job Sites Associated with Asbestos in Atlanta

Many buildings and workplaces in Atlanta used asbestos, and some still contain the harmful mineral.

Schools

• Walden Austin T. Middle School
• Thomasville Elementary School
• Georgia State University
• Georgia Institute of Technology
• Morris Brown College
• Clark Atlanta University
• Emory University
• Spelman College
• Agnes Scott College
• Life University
• Parklane Elementary School

Gas and Electric Companies

• Atlanta Gas Light
• Georgia Railway and Power Company Gas Works
• Georgia Power
• Westinghouse Electric Company
• Western Electric

Hospitals

• Crawford W. Long Memorial Hospital
• Emory Healthcare
• Grady Memorial Hospital
• Metropolitan Hospital
• Piedmont Hospital
• St. Josephs Hospital
• Atlanta VA Medical Hospital
• West Paces Ferry Hospital
• Georgia State Mental Health Center

Additional Job Sites, Businesses, and Buildings

• A&P Warehouse Building
• Armstrong Contracting & Supply Corporation (AC&S)
• Atlanta American Motor Inn
• Coca Cola
• Atlanta Journal-Constitution Building
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
• The Biltmore
• City of Atlanta Hemphill Station
• Equitable Life Assurance Society Building
• Guthman Laundry
• Jade East Apartments
• La Ista Villa Apartments
• Lakeview Baptist Church
• Lenox Towers
• Mcburney Corporation
• National Bank of Georgia
• Peachtree Baker Building
• Perimeter Mall
• Hyatt Regency Atlanta
• Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
• Shook & Fletcher Insulation Company
• Southern Wood Preserving Company
• Westinghouse Electric
• Equitable Life Assurance Society Building
• Great Southern Land and Paper Company
• Sara O’Kelley Municipal Auditorium (Coweta)

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.

Mesothelioma Treatment in Atlanta

Atlanta’s Winship Cancer Institute (WCI) is the only medical center in the state backed by the National Cancer Institute (NCI).

Cancer care centers backed by NCI have many advantages, including advanced, cutting-edge treatment options, in-depth cancer research, public outreach, and training opportunities for scientists, cancer experts, and physicians.

WCI also has some of the most prominent cancer specialists in the nation, including:

• Daniel Miller, M.D., surgical director and the assistant professor of surgery at WCI’s Thoracic Oncology Program
• Dong M. Shin, M.D., director of WCI’s Clinical and Translational Cancer Prevention Program
• Suresh Ramalingam, M.D., director of WCI’s Division of Medical Oncology

WCI’s expansive clinical and research trials consist of four different research programs:

• Cancer Prevention and Control (CPC)
• Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics (CGE)
• Cancer Cell Biology (CCB)
• Discovery and Developmental Therapeutics (DDT)

Winship Cancer Institute: Emory University

1365C Clifton Road
Atlanta, Ga. 30322, 404-778-1900

Atlanta’s VA Medical Center offers comprehensive cancer care for veterans, with in-depth research managed by both Emory scientists and experienced VA physicians.

Atlanta VA Medical Center

1670 Clairmont Road
Decatur, Ga. 30033, 404-321-6111

How Has Our Law Firm Supported Families Impacted by Asbestos Exposure?

Our law firm has dedicated itself to standing by families affected by the dangers of asbestos, tirelessly pursuing justice and compensation for over two decades. Here’s how we’ve made a difference:

• Assisting Thousands of Families: We’ve provided legal assistance to more than 6,000 families across the nation who have suffered due to asbestos exposure.
• Securing Substantial Compensation: Through our persistent efforts in handling mesothelioma cases, we’ve achieved settlements and verdicts that collectively exceed $9.8 billion.
• Empowering Clients in the Legal System: For over 25 years, we’ve been advocating for our clients, ensuring they have a powerful voice in the courtroom and the legal process.

Our commitment has always been to offer unwavering support and expertise to families navigating these challenging times.

Over the years, the law firm has successfully attained impressive financial outcomes for its clients dealing with mesothelioma cases. They’ve recovered a substantial $9.8 billion in total settlements for those affected by this condition. These achievements underscore their effectiveness in providing legal assistance for families nationwide, particularly benefiting those in the Atlanta area and beyond. Their track record speaks volumes about their ability to secure significant compensation for victims and their loved ones.

Getting Legal Help in Atlanta

If you’ve been injured by asbestos, there is a good chance that you’ll qualify for considerable compensation. Remember to fill out our form to get your free Financial Compensation Packet, with information on experienced asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers in your area. If you have questions or need assistance, contact us toll-free at 800-793-4540.