Victims of asbestos exposure can contact a Chicago mesothelioma lawyer to seek justice and compensation. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) once named Chicago a “high-risk area” for asbestos exposure after numerous industries used the toxic mineral for years.
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 get a free Financial Compensation Packet. You’ll learn about the experienced mesothelioma lawyers in Chicago, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file a claim for the asbestos trust funds, and more.
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
Chicago Asbestos Facts
- There were 12,067 asbestos-related deaths in Illinois between 1999 and 2017.
- The county with the highest number of asbestos deaths was Cook County, which includes Chicago.
- Several industries important to the economy in Chicago put workers and residents at risk of asbestos exposure for decades.
- The W.R. Grace vermiculite plant in Chicago received hundreds of thousands of tons of asbestos-tainted minerals from the infamous Libby, Montana mines.
About Asbestos and Mesothelioma
Asbestos is a natural material that was once widely used in industries like manufacturing, construction, and shipbuilding. It consists of fibers that easily shed tiny pieces that become airborne or settle on surfaces.
People working with or around asbestos can inhale those fibers. Some people exposed in this way get sick decades later. One of the illnesses caused by asbestos exposure is mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer.
The most common type of mesothelioma is pleural and affects the tissue around the lungs. Symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pains. Peritoneal mesothelioma is less common and develops in the abdomen. Mesothelioma is challenging to treat and typically has a poor prognosis.
Why Should I Sue for Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a terrible and mostly preventable illness. If you were diagnosed with mesothelioma, you were most likely negligently exposed to asbestos. The companies responsible can and should be held accountable.
Why is this accountability crucial? Because these companies knew the risks when they used asbestos in their products. Despite this knowledge, they chose profit over safety, putting thousands at risk. Holding them accountable is not just about seeking justice—it’s about preventing future harm and ensuring corporate responsibility.
Justice is just one reason to file a lawsuit for mesothelioma. Just as important is suing for mesothelioma to seek compensation. The money can help you pay for costly treatments and replace your income. It also compensates you for pain and suffering.
Filing an asbestos claim is crucial not only for financial reasons but also for the pursuit of justice. Many asbestos companies were aware of the dangers posed by their products yet kept these risks hidden from the public. By taking legal action, you can hold these companies accountable for their negligence and the harm they’ve caused.
Beyond immediate relief, compensation from a successful claim can help secure your family’s financial future. This financial stability is vital when faced with the high costs of medical treatment and the potential loss of income due to illness.
In pursuing your claim, you not only seek personal justice and compensation but also contribute to a broader movement to ensure that negligent companies are brought to light and held responsible.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Mesothelioma Claims in Chicago, Illinois
When considering legal action for mesothelioma claims in Illinois, understanding the statute of limitations is crucial. These laws define the timeframe within which affected individuals or their families must initiate legal proceedings after a diagnosis or death related to mesothelioma.
Timeframe to File a Claim
In Illinois, individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma typically have two years from the date of diagnosis to file a personal injury claim. This period is the standard legal timeframe, allowing patients to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related damages.
For Wrongful Death Claims
If a family member has passed away due to mesothelioma, the statute of limitations also provides a window to take action. Families generally have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. This allows families to seek justice and compensation to cover funeral expenses and loss of financial support.
Acting Promptly is Essential
Given these time restrictions, it’s imperative to act swiftly. Legal proceedings can be complex and lengthy, making it advantageous to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. Prompt action ensures comprehensive preparation and adherence to legal deadlines, essential for a strong case.
Understanding and adhering to these timelines is critical for securing the compensation you rightfully deserve.
How Can a Chicago Mesothelioma Lawyer Help?
Legal action against companies that exposed workers to asbestos is important and requires legal representation. Top Illinois mesothelioma lawyers in Chicago have the resources, expertise, and experience necessary to help you seek justice and compensation.
File a Lawsuit or Asbestos Claim
Most importantly, your lawyer will help you file a lawsuit or make a claim for compensation. They will recommend one or more types of actions for your situation:
- Mesothelioma personal injury lawsuit
- Asbestos trust fund claim
- Mesothelioma wrongful death lawsuit
Navigating the legal landscape for mesothelioma claims can be complex, but you don’t have to face it alone. Here’s how the process typically works and what you can expect:
Comprehensive Legal Support
An experienced Chicago asbestos law firm will surround you with a dedicated legal team. This includes senior partners, seasoned attorneys, paralegals, medical staff, and investigators, all working together to provide you with personalized care and attention. This team will guide you through each step of the legal process, ensuring you understand your options and are prepared for what lies ahead.
Options for Compensation
You may be eligible for compensation through various channels:
- Asbestos Trust Funds: These funds have been established by asbestos companies to compensate those affected by asbestos-related diseases. Billions of dollars are available, and claims can often be settled outside of court.
- Mesothelioma Lawsuits: While many cases are settled before reaching trial, experienced lawyers are ready to fight for you in court if necessary. Settlements can provide significant financial relief.
- Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits: Veterans with mesothelioma can access medical and financial benefits through the VA. Accredited attorneys can assist in preparing and submitting VA claims to secure the benefits owed.
No Upfront Costs
One of the key concerns for many is the cost of legal action. Rest assured, there are no hourly fees or out-of-pocket costs involved. Legal teams work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if your case results in compensation.
Mesothelioma claims are complicated. Don’t try to go it alone or rely on a lawyer without relevant experience. For the best outcome, you need an experienced Chicago asbestos law firm.
Criteria for Choosing a Mesothelioma Lawyer in Chicago
When selecting a mesothelioma lawyer in Chicago, it’s crucial to consider several key factors to ensure you have the best legal representation:
- Extensive Experience: Look for attorneys with decades of specialized experience in asbestos litigation. A seasoned lawyer is familiar with the intricate details of mesothelioma cases and can navigate the legal system effectively.
- Proven Success: A strong track record is essential. Seek out firms that have successfully recovered significant sums for their clients. This history of success indicates a lawyer’s ability to handle cases efficiently and achieve favorable outcomes.
- Contingency Fee Basis: Opt for legal services offered on a contingency fee basis. This means you will not have to pay upfront fees; the attorney only gets paid if they recover compensation for you. This approach reduces financial risk and aligns the lawyer’s incentives with your success.
- Client Testimonials and References: Investigate client testimonials and reviews. They provide insight into the lawyer’s reputation, communication skills, and dedication to their clients.
Choosing the right mesothelioma attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Prioritize these criteria to find a lawyer who will advocate effectively on your behalf.
Beyond the Courtroom: Comprehensive Support from Mesothelioma Attorneys
Mesothelioma attorneys excel in more than just legal representation; they provide a multi-faceted support system for their clients:
- Advocacy for Vulnerable Groups: They extend their efforts to helping those in tumultuous situations, such as children in foster care or individuals facing homelessness, ensuring that these groups have a voice in the legal system.
- Aid for Abuse Survivors: By working closely with domestic abuse victims, these attorneys help secure a safe and just future for those in need.
- Support for Immigrants: Their commitment extends to immigrants, offering legal guidance and support to navigate complex legal processes.
- Second Chances for the Rehabilitated: They assist individuals looking to rebuild their lives through expungement processes, fostering a path to renewed opportunities.
- Honoring Veterans: Special attention is also given to U.S. Military veterans, acknowledging their service by fighting for their rights and benefits when affected by mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma attorneys collaborate with a wide array of partner organizations and donate significant time volunteering their legal expertise. This dedication ensures that their clients and communities can access fair justice and can move forward with dignity and support.
Community Initiatives and Pro Bono Services by Mesothelioma Law Firms
Mesothelioma law firms actively engage in numerous community initiatives and offer pro bono legal services to support and uplift those in need. These initiatives reflect their commitment to making a tangible difference beyond the courtroom.
Community Support
- Cancer Research and Support: Many law firms collaborate with cancer research organizations and support groups, contributing to the fight against mesothelioma and other forms of cancer. By funding and participating in these initiatives, they help advance crucial research and provide resources to affected individuals and families.
- Food and Clothing Drives: Annual food drives are organized to collect both groceries and monetary donations, benefiting local food banks such as the Greater Chicago Food Depository. These efforts help ensure that families facing food insecurity receive much-needed assistance. Additionally, firms often conduct clothing drives, especially during the holiday season, supporting community members in need.
- Community Events: Hosting events like golf tournaments serves dual purposes—raising funds and encouraging community participation. Events of this nature help foster a sense of community and bring attention to important causes.
Pro Bono Legal Services
Mesothelioma law firms frequently extend their legal expertise to provide pro bono services, assisting individuals who may otherwise not have access to legal representation:
- Supporting Vulnerable Populations: Lawyers volunteer their time to represent children in foster care and victims of domestic abuse, ensuring their rights are protected.
- Helping Immigrants and the Homeless: Offering legal aid to immigrants and those facing homelessness, law firms strive to provide hope and possible solutions for complex challenges.
- Expungement and Veterans’ Assistance: They also assist individuals seeking to expunge their records, offering them a second chance. Veterans can find much-needed legal support geared towards improving their civil and legal conditions.
Through these initiatives, mesothelioma law firms demonstrate their dedication to advocating for justice and supporting crucial causes within their communities. Their involvement goes beyond legal battles, reaching into the heart of societal issues and striving to create equitable opportunities for all.
Mesothelioma law firms have collectively extended their expertise to support over 6,000 families impacted by asbestos exposure across the nation. These firms have successfully facilitated the acquisition of more than $9.8 billion in claims, ensuring that affected families receive the justice and financial relief they deserve. Whether you’re seeking guidance or compensation, experienced legal teams stand ready to help navigate these challenging circumstances.
Build a Case to Prove Mesothelioma From Asbestos Exposure
The best law firms with experience handling asbestos cases will be able to build a strong case in your favor. To get compensation, you have to show that the defendants negligently exposed you to asbestos and that this exposure caused your illness.
Asbestos firms rely on investigators, company records, and decades of experience to find the evidence needed to prove your mesothelioma case. They will look at your work history and match it to companies known to have used asbestos at specific times.
Maximize Your Compensation
An experienced mesothelioma lawyer knows how much this illness costs. They will think of expenses you have not yet considered. They know how to get the most in a settlement negotiation, which is how most mesothelioma lawsuits end.
How Was I Exposed to Asbestos in Chicago?
Many industries used asbestos in the past. Some of the most common sites of exposure occurred in manufacturing, construction, and shipping jobs. These are just some examples of the companies in Chicago that exposed workers to asbestos.
Allied Metal Company
Hundreds of businesses and worksites in the city put employees at risk of exposure. Allied Metal Company was one of the worst offenders, using more asbestos than many other companies in Chicago.
Founded in 1953 during peak asbestos use, the aluminum company used asbestos to smolder their products. Asbestos was also used as a spray on all of the company’s products and everywhere inside the facilities, including pipes, walls, floors, and ceilings.
The use of asbestos at Allied Metal continued for another 30 years until the late 1970s. Unfortunately, thousands of workers had already been exposed to harmful asbestos fibers. Many have now been diagnosed with mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses.
Dresden Power Plant
The Dresden Power Plant is another example of a company exposing workers to asbestos. It was built while asbestos was still heavily used in the power generation industry. Two Dresden units with asbestos still stand today.
Asbestos materials were used virtually everywhere in Dresden Power Plant, including doors, pipes, ceilings, floors, work surfaces, and turbines.
Millions of asbestos fibers would be pushed into the air and into areas where many plant employees were working when used in turbine machinery. The workers then inhaled these fibers daily.
W. R. Grace Exfoliation Plant
W. R. Grace, a company that mined and processed a mineral known as vermiculite, operated an exfoliation plant in Chicago. Between 1974 and 1988, the company received 273,600 tons of asbestos-contaminated vermiculite from the company’s Libby, Montana mine.
The exfoliation process is particularly likely to cause asbestos fibers to become airborne. This contaminates the surrounding air and soil, exposing workers and nearby residents. As late as 2001, asbestos turned up in testing samples at the site, even though the plant shut down in 1996.
Other Job Sites Associated with Asbestos in Chicago
Many workplaces have used asbestos in Chicago for decades, putting people at risk of exposure and getting sick.
Steel Companies
- Acme Steel Company
- American Steel and Wire Company
- American Steel Foundries, Inc.
- Central States Steel Boiler Company
- Central Steel and Wire Company
- Chicago Steel & Wire Company
- Chicago Steel Service
- Columbia Tool Steel
- General Steel and Wire Company
- Inland Steel Powerhouse
- Interlake Steel Corporation
- Kensington Steel Company
- La Salle Steel
- LTV Steel Mill
- Modern Steel & Treat Company
- Pollock Steel Company
- Pressed Steel Car Company
- Republic Iron and Steel Company
- Scully Steel and Iron Company
- U. S. Steel South Works Plant
- Wisc Steel Div of I H Company
Schools
- Abbott Elementary School
- Albert Einstein Elementary School
- Ashland High School
- B. Shoesmith Elementary School
- Banneker Elementary School
- Bass Elementary School
- Board of Education South Side Vocational School
- Bond Elementary School
- Burke School
- Carl Schurz High School
- Chicago Public School District
- Delano Elementary School
- Deneen Elementary School
- Dumas Elementary School
- DuSable High School
- Dvorak School
- Faraday Elementary School
- Farragut High School
- Fulton Elementary School
- Garfield Junior High School
- Garrett Morgan Elementary School
- Garvy Elementary School
- Gillespie Elementary School
- Gresham Elementary School
- Guggenheim Elementary School
- Hale Elementary School
- Harrison Technical School
- Harvard Elementary School
- Hefferan Elementary School
- Hibbard School
- Hinton Elementary School
- Hyde Park High School
- Jacob Beidler School
- Jane Neal Elementary School
- Joliet Public Schools
- Kenwood High School
- Kershaw Marshall Elementary School
- McCosh Elementary School
- McDade Classical Elementary School
- Melody Elementary School
- Mollison Elementary School
- New Chicago Trade School
- Northwestern High School
- Price Elementary School
- Reavis Elementary School
- Reed Elementary School
- Ryerson School of Engineering
- Sauganash School
- Senn High school
- Sheridan Phil Grammar School
- Simpson School
- South Shore North High School
- St. Ignatius High School
- St. Mills High School
- Stagg Elementary School
- Stephen Gale School
- Stockton Elementary School
- Swift Elementary School
- Thorp Elementary School
- Wadsworth Elementary School
- Washburne Trade School
- Weber High School
- Wells School (Ashland & Augusta)
- Wicker Park Elementary School
- Yale Elementary School
Manufacturing Companies
- Adamson Manufacturing Company
- Agar Manufacturing Corp
- Anderson Tool & Manufacturing
- Barrett Manufacturing Company
- Blackstone Manufacturing Company
- Bonell Manufacturing
- Central Manufacturing District
- Chicago Rawhide Manufacturing Company
- Corn Products Manufacturing Company
- E. J. Davis Manufacturing Company
- Fairbanks Morse Manufacturing Company
- Friedman Manufacturing Company
- Goodman Manufacturing Company
- Grabler Manufacturing Company
- Illinois Vinegar Manufacturing Company
- J.W. Sefton Manufacturing Company
- Joslyn Manufacturing & Supply Company
- M C Bullock Manufacturing Company
- Magic Glove Manufacturing Company, Inc.
- Michael Printing Press Manufacturing Company
- Miehle Printing Press Manufacturing Company
- Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
- Multi-Electronic Manufacturing
- Pheoll Manufacturing Company
- Plano Manufacturing Company
- Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Company
- Rheem Manufacturing. Company
- Ruud Manufacturing Company
- Sandberg Manufacturing
- Scholl Manufacturing Company
- Shall Manufacturing Company
- Shotwell Manufacturing Company
- Simonds Manufacturing Company
- Studebaker Brothers Manufacturing Company
- Turner Manufacturing. Company
- Vaughan & Bushnell Manufacturing Company
- Victor Manufacturing & Gasket Company
- Wilson Athletic Goods Manufacturing Company
- Winnebago Furniture Manufacturing Company
- Yellow Cab Manufacturing Company
- Yonk Manufacturing Company
Asbestos in Chicago Buildings
Another potential source of asbestos exposure in the city is in older buildings. The construction industry used asbestos heavily through the 1970s. Many older structures still contain asbestos and put workers and residents at risk of exposure.
In 2018, WBEZ Chicago reported on the issue of exposure to asbestos and other toxins when homes are demolished in the city. They found that while the city has regulations to protect people, they are not reliably enforced.
When older homes are demolished, the dust often contains asbestos and other harmful substances. Anyone in the area can be exposed if workers don’t take proper precautions, like wetting the debris to keep down the dust.
Paul at Mesothelioma Lawyer Center provided outstanding support when my family faced a mesothelioma diagnosis. From the start, his professionalism and genuine care were evident. Paul explained every step of the legal process with patience and empathy.
–Patrick M
His meticulous attention to detail and expertise ensured our case was handled swiftly and efficiently. What truly impressed us was Paul’s responsiveness—he was always quick to reply and kept us well-informed throughout.
I highly recommend Mesothelioma Lawyer Center.
Mesothelioma Treatment in Chicago
Mesothelioma is a complex cancer that requires specialists. Chicago is a great place to seek treatment.
The University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center (UCCCC) is an NCI-designated care center with researchers, physicians, cancer experts, and healthcare specialists that focus on mesothelioma cancer and other asbestos-related diseases.
The study and research of malignant mesothelioma have been a part of the center for over 20 years.
What Is My Mesothelioma Claim Worth?
| Claim type | What it covers | Typical range / source | Lawsuit needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asbestos trust funds | Claims paid from bankrupt asbestos manufacturers’ trust funds | $30B+ available across active trusts; each trust sets its own payout schedule | No — filed directly, often in months. Trust fund payouts → |
| Mesothelioma settlement | Negotiated recovery from solvent companies that caused the exposure | Averages ~$1M–$1.4M (varies widely by case) | Yes — a lawsuit is filed; most cases settle before trial |
| Wrongful-death claim | Filed by a surviving spouse or family after the patient has passed | Medical bills, lost income, and loss of companionship | Yes — must be filed within the state deadline. Wrongful death → |
| VA benefits | For veterans with an asbestos-related disease from military service | VA disability compensation plus health care (not a lawsuit) | No — a separate VA claim. Veterans benefits → |
Each mesothelioma lawsuit is different. The value of your lawsuit depends on the defendants, your illness, your ongoing expenses, and more. A lawyer cannot guarantee an amount but can make a reasonable estimate and maximize your compensation.
Chicago mesothelioma lawyers have helped many victims of asbestos exposure win justice and compensation. Late 2021 saw two important victories:
- $5.6 million for mesothelioma death. The family of a man who worked in U.S. Steel plants recently won their lawsuit. The jury agreed that Fred Riebel died because of asbestos exposure caused by U.S. Steel and BP Amoco.
- $23 million for mesothelioma. Cynthia Cowger won her case against Qualitex. She worked in a commercial laundry and used the company’s asbestos-lined press pads. She later developed mesothelioma.
Getting Legal Help in Chicago
If you’ve been injured by asbestos, there is a good chance that you’ll qualify for considerable compensation. Get our free Financial Compensation Packet for information on the top mesothelioma and asbestos lawyers in your area. For questions and assistance, feel free to contact us at 800-793-4540.
