Iowa Mesothelioma Lawyer

If you’re a victim of an asbestos illness, an Iowa mesothelioma lawyer may be able to help you. Many industries in Iowa used asbestos heavily for years before the strict regulations set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be entitled to substantial compensation. Fill out our form to receive our free Financial Compensation Packet. Our packet is loaded with information on experienced mesothelioma attorneys in Iowa, how to file a claim for asbestos trust funds, how to get paid in 90 days, and more. 

More than $190 million has been recovered to support mesothelioma victims and their families in Iowa. This compensation aims to cover medical expenses and ensure accountability for the harm caused.

We are happy to help asbestos victims and their families in all cities and towns in Iowa, such as

Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Sioux City, Iowa City, Waterloo, Council Bluffs, Ames, West Des Moines, Dubuque, Ankeny, Urbandale, Cedar Falls, Marion, Bettendorf, Marshalltown, Mason City, Clinton, Burlington, Ottumwa, Fort Dodge, Muscatine, Coralville, Johnston, Waukee, Clive, Altoona, Newton, Indianola, North Liberty, Boone, Oskaloosa, Spencer, Fort Madison, Storm Lake, Keokuk, Pella, Waverly, Carroll, Le Mars, Norwalk, Fairfield, Grimes, Pleasant Hill, Grinnell, Mount Pleasant, Denison, Perry, Decorah, Creston, Webster City, Clear Lake, Charles City, Washington, Sioux Center, Knoxville, Hiawatha, Atlantic, Nevada, Oelwein, Orange City, Estherville, Maquoketa, Eldridge, Independence, Red Oak, Anamosa, Clarinda, Algona, Centerville, De Witt, Glenwood, Iowa Falls, Cherokee, Vinton, Manchester, Winterset, Sheldon, Shenandoah, Harlan, Asbury, Osceola, Spirit Lake, Windsor Heights, Evansdale, Humboldt, Bondurant, Mount Vernon, Camanche, Hampton, Sergeant Bluff, Jefferson, Chariton, Dyersville, Adel Forest City, Polk City, Carlisle, Le Claire, and more.

How Does Asbestos Cause Mesothelioma?

Asbestos is a natural material used in many industries for most of the 20th century. Workers who handled or even just worked around asbestos risked exposure. Exposure occurs when fibers of asbestos come loose and are inhaled or ingested.

Asbestos fibers inside the body irritate tissues and cause inflammation and damage. In some people, this leads to cancer. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, and asbestos is a leading cause. Asbestos exposure can also lead to lung cancer and a non-malignant lung disease called asbestosis.

Where Was I Exposed to Asbestos in Iowa?

Nearly everyone diagnosed with mesothelioma was exposed to asbestos. Most of this exposure occurred in the workplace and is considered negligent.

Major Iowa Companies That Used Asbestos

Most asbestos exposure in Iowa came from some of the state’s largest businesses. Power plants, in particular, are known to have asbestos throughout job sites, machinery, and other materials. Iowa is home to major power plants that used asbestos, such as Storm Lake Power Plant and the Tipton Power Plant.

People who worked in the construction and metal industries in the state before laws regulated asbestos use are also at risk for developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.

Large companies such as Celotex Corporation and Georgia-Pacific Corporation have large job sites in Iowa, both associated with asbestos.

U.S. Gypsum operated mines and processing facilities in Fort Dodge, Iowa. U.S. Gypsum mined gypsum in the area and also manufactured gypsum products, like wallboard. These products often contained asbestos and put workers at risk of exposure.

Vermiculite Processing Plants

Vermiculite processing put thousands of workers at risk of asbestos exposure at facilities around the country. Many plants received vermiculite from the W.R. Grace mine in Libby, Montana, which mined asbestos-contaminated vermiculite.

In Iowa, plants that received vermiculite that contained asbestos included:

• Celotex Corporation, Fort Dodge
• E.M. Peat Manufacturing Company, Council Bluffs
• Georgia Pacific/Bestwall, Ford Dodge
• National Gypsum, Fort Dodge
• U.S. Gypsum, Sperry

Asbestos in Iowa Schools

Another important source of exposure for workers and students is the state’s older school buildings. Buildings constructed during heavy asbestos use often still contain the material. It can become an exposure risk during maintenance and repair work and as it deteriorates or gets damaged over time.

Students and staff may have been exposed at Prairie Crest Elementary School after a contractor failed to follow asbestos regulations when removing the carpet.

The school district in Cedar Rapids received fines after repairing derecho damage in 2020. The workers did not take proper precautions when removing asbestos flooring materials.

Additional Iowa Workplaces with Asbestos

Many job sites used asbestos and put workers at risk of exposure. These are just a few of the known companies or buildings that contained asbestos:

• Alcoa Company, Davenport
• American Herbicide Plant, Muscatine
• Beaver Channel Powerhouse, Clinton
• Cedar Falls Powerhouse, Cedar Falls
• Chemplex Plant, Clinton
• Chevron Chemical Company, Fort Madison
• DuPont Chemical, Fort Madison
• Firestone Tire and Rubber Company, Des Moines
• Fort Neil Army Base, Sioux City
• Goodyear Tire & Rubber, Des Moines
• Hawkeye Chemical Plant, Clinton
• Iowa Power and Light, Des Moines
• John Deere Powerhouse, Waterloo
• John Deere Tractor Plant, Waterloo
• Mississippi River Power Company, Keokuk
• National Gypsum, Fort Dodge
• Northwestern Bell, Des Moines
• Prairie Creek Powerhouse, Cedar Rapids
• Sioux City Coal and Gas, Sioux City
• Taylor Insulation Company, Cedar Rapids
• Whitehead Machinery Company, Davenport

Do I Need an Iowa Mesothelioma Lawyer?

There are a few situations that call for hiring or at least consulting with a mesothelioma lawyer:

• If you suspect you experienced asbestos exposure, especially on the job
• If you know you were exposed to asbestos
• If you have received a diagnosis of mesothelioma or another illness related to asbestos

Only a lawyer with expertise in mesothelioma and asbestos laws can help you understand your options and rights.

A lawyer will help you fight against an employer or supplier of asbestos materials, get justice for your illness, and recover the damages you are entitled to.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Mesothelioma Attorney in Iowa?

When considering legal representation for mesothelioma cases in Iowa, understanding the cost structure is essential. Fortunately, many law firms specializing in asbestos-related cases offer a contingency fee arrangement.

What is a Contingency Fee?

This means you won’t face any upfront costs or initial fees. Instead, payment to the attorney only occurs if they successfully secure compensation on your behalf. Here’s how it works:

• No Initial Fees: You won’t pay anything to start working with the attorney.
• Payment Upon Success: The attorney receives a percentage of the settlement or court award only if your case is successful.

Additional Cost Considerations

While the legal fees are contingent on winning the case, it’s also important to consider:

• No Out-of-Pocket Expenses: You typically won’t be responsible for miscellaneous legal expenses during the process.
• Transparent Agreement: Any fees and percentages should be clearly outlined before signing any agreements, ensuring complete transparency.

This structure makes it financially feasible for victims to seek the justice they deserve without the burden of legal expenses looming over them.

Do I Need to Travel to File a Mesothelioma Claim?

Filing a mesothelioma claim is often a concern when it comes to logistics, but rest assured, traveling is unlikely to be necessary. Many asbestos lawyers understand the challenges faced by their clients and offer the convenience of meeting at a location that works for you—be it your home or another comfortable setting.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Home Consultations: Lawyers typically offer to visit you, eliminating the need for long-distance travel.
• Flexible Locations: You can choose a location nearby, whether it’s your own residence or another place that makes you feel at ease.
• Minimal Court Appearances: Although some cases require court appearances, most proceedings can be handled without you needing to leave your area.

While there might be an occasional need to travel for certain aspects of a case, it is rare. This approach not only prioritizes your comfort but also allows you to focus on what truly matters—getting the compensation you deserve.

Do I Qualify for Mesothelioma Compensation?

If you aren’t sure whether you qualify for compensation, talk to an Iowa mesothelioma lawyer. Reputable firms offer free initial consultations. This allows you to get answers to your questions without committing to any fees or services.

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you are most likely eligible for some compensation. Mesothelioma is almost always caused by negligent asbestos exposure, and companies can be held liable for the resulting expenses. Your lawyer can explain your options, which may contain one or more of the following:

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

Ready to take action and start your journey toward financial compensation? The first step is crucial: Get a Free Consultation with an experienced mesothelioma attorney. They will guide you through the process, helping you understand which claims apply to your situation and how to proceed effectively.

With expert legal advice, you can confidently navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure you pursue the compensation you deserve. Whether through litigation or claims, your path to justice and financial relief begins with reaching out for professional guidance.

Discover the impact past mesothelioma settlements and verdicts have had in Iowa. With over $190 million secured for families affected by this devastating illness, these financial compensations not only help cover medical expenses but also ensure accountability from those responsible.

Here’s a glimpse into some notable settlement amounts:

High-Value Claims

1. $6.37 Million awarded to an asbestos mixer from Spirit Lake
2. $4.83 Million secured for a machinist mate and U.S. Navy veteran residing in Cedar Rapids
3. $4.96 Million granted to a union asbestos worker in Sioux City

Additional Settlements

• A Toddville woman received $4.33 million after her mesothelioma diagnosis.
• An electrician in Cedar Rapids with peritoneal mesothelioma obtained $3.99 million.
• A U.S. Navy veteran in Sioux City was awarded $4.24 million.
• $2.15 million for an assembler from Dubuque.
• Compensation of $3.49 million for a hair stylist based in Davenport.
• $3.39 million for an Ottumwa molding machine operator diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma.
• A Cedar Rapids machinist was awarded $4.82 million.
• A carpenter in Algona secured a settlement of $3.98 million.
• $2.85 million compensated to a union plumber and pipefitter in Des Moines.
• $4.27 million awarded to a Prole bricklayer and phone technician.
• $3 million was granted to a U.S. Navy veteran and supervisor in Newton.
• $3.59 million for a Davenport mechanic’s helper and gas attendant.
• $2.38 million for a Big Rock heat and frost insulator with peritoneal mesothelioma.
• $3.7 million for a woman exposed to asbestos secondhand through her husband’s occupation.

These cases reflect different individual experiences with mesothelioma, where factors like exposure, age, and diagnosis influence the settlement. Each story is unique, showing the diverse backgrounds of those affected and the substantial reparations awarded to support their battles against this illness.

Iowa Laws That Affect Asbestos Cases

Mesothelioma personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits proceed according to specific state laws. It’s important to know the laws in your state and how they could affect your case.

Understanding the Process of Filing a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in Iowa

Filing a mesothelioma lawsuit in Iowa involves several critical steps and requires a dedicated legal team to guide you through the complex legal system. With the right support, you can focus on your health while your legal representatives work to secure the compensation you deserve.

Team Approach for Personalized Attention

Your case will benefit from a collaborative team approach, often including experienced attorneys, skilled legal staff, and healthcare professionals such as registered nurses. This ensures personalized attention and expertise as your case moves forward.

Pathways to Compensation

Here are the primary avenues your legal team can explore to pursue mesothelioma compensation:

1. Asbestos Trust Fund Claims
   There is an estimated $30 billion available in asbestos trust funds. These funds are designed to compensate mesothelioma victims and their families without requiring them to go to court.
2. Mesothelioma Lawsuits
   Filing a personal lawsuit can lead to substantial compensation from the companies responsible for your asbestos exposure. This pathway often involves a thorough investigation and legal strategy to prove negligence or liability.
3. Veterans Benefits
   Because a significant percentage of mesothelioma cases involve veterans, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers benefits. Veterans exposed to asbestos during service can receive healthcare support and monthly compensations.

Strategic Legal Process Management

Your legal team will manage every aspect of the legal process on your behalf. This includes gathering crucial evidence, meeting specific filing deadlines, and representing your interests in negotiations or court proceedings.

By having a professional legal team, you can navigate this challenging journey with confidence, knowing every opportunity for compensation is being pursued on your behalf.

Statute of Limitations on Mesothelioma and Asbestos Lawsuits

The plaintiffs filing an asbestos lawsuit must follow the state’s statute of limitations outlined in Iowa Code Ann. § 614.1 et seq.

• These cases must be filed within two years under the “discovery rule.”
• The discovery rule means that the time period for filing begins when the asbestos-related illness was discovered or should have been reasonably discovered.
• The same rules apply to wrongful death cases; plaintiffs need to file within two years of the victim’s date of death.

Additionally, Iowa’s “separate injury rule” lets plaintiffs file an asbestos lawsuit within two years of discovering the disease, regardless of when the disease developed. This law benefits people suffering from asbestos-related illnesses, as these diseases can take decades to surface.

Take-Home Duty for Secondhand Asbestos Exposure

Most people are exposed to asbestos on the job. Some workers unknowingly brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, exposing family members. This is known as secondhand exposure, and while less common, it can cause mesothelioma.

Iowa does not recognize take-home duty in asbestos cases. Take-home duty is a company’s responsibility to warn people of the risks of secondhand exposure in the home.

The Iowa Supreme Court set this precedent with its decision in a 2009 case. A woman died from mesothelioma after exposure to asbestos on her husband’s work clothes. The Court ruled that the relevant asbestos suppliers had no duty to warn of the risks of asbestos to family members of workers.

What Are Iowa’s Asbestos Safety Laws?

Iowa has state laws that help prevent the spread of asbestos.

1. Demolition and Renovation: First, an asbestos survey is required in which a State of Iowa licensed surveyor must conduct a safety survey to ensure the renovation and/or demolition is in compliance with Subpart M of the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP). Per NESHAP, asbestos cannot be released into the environment during the demolition and/or renovation.
2. After a survey is completed, the demolition notification form must be filled out and sent to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Air Quality Bureau (IDNR). Even if asbestos was not found during the survey, this form must be sent in for all demolitions.
3. Asbestos Licensing: In 1984, the Asbestos Removal and Encapsulation Act was passed, mandating all workers must be trained to work around asbestos by the Bureau of Labor.  The state must license anyone working around asbestos in the state of Iowa as a qualified asbestos abatement professional. Anyone caught working renovating, demolishing, or removing asbestos-containing materials without the proper licensing will face strict fines and penalties.
4. Working with Asbestos on Job Sites: Per the Iowa Occupational Safety and Health Administration, several precautions must always be taken when working around asbestos, including the proper disposal, cleanup, and handling of any asbestos-related materials. Friable asbestos must typically be sealed and wetted upon disposal.

For more information and complete details on Iowa asbestos laws, visit the official Iowa Department of Natural Resources webpage or call 515-281-5918.

Where Can I Get Mesothelioma Treatment in Iowa?

Look for treatment options from physicians who have specialized knowledge of asbestos diseases.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) focuses on helping cancer patients find the best treatments available. It also conducts in-depth mesothelioma research.

Iowa’s Holden Comprehensive Care Center is an NIH-designated care center. Located in Iowa City at the University of Iowa’s Hospitals and Clinics Center, Holden offers mesothelioma treatments and services for patients, including chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and more.

Holden is also the only care center in Iowa designated by the National Cancer Institute (NCI). An NCI designation means that the care center has been recognized for its physicians, scientists, and other healthcare professionals who have in-depth knowledge and experience dealing with cancer.

When my husband was diagnosed we had no idea what to do. Our doctor said we should reach out to an attorney to talk about compensation. After talking to several firms we found the mesothelioma lawyer center and were grateful we did. They helped with every step of the way. If you need a meso attorney then I would recommend contacting them

-Isabelle D.

Getting Legal Help in Iowa

If you’ve been affected by asbestos, you may be entitled to financial compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, medical bills, and more. Remember to fill out our form to get your free Financial Compensation Packet, with information on asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers in your area. For questions and assistance, feel free to contact us at 800-793-4540.