Boston Mesothelioma Lawyer

Boston has always been home to manufacturing, industrial, shipbuilding, and construction industries. Unfortunately, many of these work sites were filled with asbestos. People who have been injured by asbestos are now fighting for justice with the help of an experienced Boston mesothelioma lawyer.

If you or someone you love suffers from mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for substantial compensation. We invite you to fill out our form today for a free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information about experienced mesothelioma lawyers in Boston, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file an asbestos trust fund claim, and much more.

Many of our clients start receiving mesothelioma compensation in as few as 90 days, with additional checks coming in for months after that. This means you can begin to alleviate financial burdens quickly, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: your health and well-being.

By taking the first step with our Financial Compensation Packet, you gain access to a wealth of resources. Not only will you find detailed information about filing claims, but you’ll also learn about the timelines and processes involved, ensuring you’re informed every step of the way.

• Experienced Mesothelioma Lawyers: Connect with legal experts who specialize in asbestos cases.
• Step-by-Step Guidance: Understand how to file claims efficiently and effectively.
• Ongoing Support: Learn about the long-term compensation options available to you.

Take action today and discover how you can secure the compensation you deserve, starting in as little as 90 days. Your journey towards financial relief and support begins now.

Boston Asbestos Facts

• Between 1999 and 2017, more than 8,000 people died from asbestos-related illnesses in Massachusetts.
• This included mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
• As an important port city, Boston’s shipping industry has been responsible for a major portion of the area’s asbestos exposure.

How Did I Get Mesothelioma?

If you have a mesothelioma diagnosis, you probably worked with or around asbestos in the past. Many Boston workplaces used asbestos, including shipyards, construction sites, and industrial plants.

Asbestos is made up of little fibers that shed easily into the air where workers can breathe them in. Once in the body, the fibers cause damage. This leads to illnesses like mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis in some people.

Occupations most at risk of asbestos exposure include:

• Construction Workers: Often work directly with materials containing asbestos, such as insulation and drywall.
• Shipyard Workers: Asbestos was commonly used in shipbuilding for its fire-resistant properties.
• Factory Workers: Many manufacturing environments used asbestos due to its durability.
• Electricians and Plumbers: These trades often require working in environments where asbestos is present.
• Auto or Aircraft Mechanics: Asbestos was used in brake pads and other vehicle components.
• Firefighters and Insulators: Regularly exposed to asbestos during building fires and insulation installation.
• Miners and Boilermakers: Directly handle raw asbestos or materials containing it.

Unfortunately, family members of those in high-risk jobs may also be affected through secondhand exposure. Workers can unknowingly bring asbestos fibers home on their clothing or hair, putting their entire household at risk.

When these fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the linings of organs, irritating healthy tissue over time. This irritation is a known cause of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer. Unfortunately, it can take 20-50 years for symptoms to appear after initial exposure to asbestos, making early detection challenging.

Because the symptoms of mesothelioma often resemble those of more common illnesses, it is frequently not diagnosed until reaching an advanced stage. This delay in diagnosis complicates treatment options and outcomes, emphasizing the importance of awareness and regular health screenings for those who may have been exposed to asbestos.

Understanding the Early Signs of Mesothelioma from Asbestos Exposure

Mesothelioma, a serious condition often linked to asbestos exposure, can initially manifest through subtle symptoms. Recognizing these early signs is crucial for timely medical intervention. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Persistent Discomfort: You might experience lingering pain in the chest or abdomen, heightened by routine activities.
• Respiratory Changes: Take note of any ongoing cough or difficulties with breathing, as these could be early indicators.
• General Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired even after adequate rest? This could be an early warning sign.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Rapid weight loss without changes in diet or activity levels is noteworthy.
• Appetite Reduction: A decreased interest in food can accompany other symptoms.
• Low-Grade Fever: Monitor for any intermittent fevers that lack an apparent cause.

These symptoms don’t automatically confirm mesothelioma, but recognizing them can lead to crucial early detection and treatment. If you have a history of asbestos exposure and notice any of these signs, consulting a healthcare professional is the next prudent step.

Understanding the Timeline for Mesothelioma Symptoms

After exposure to asbestos, the timeline for mesothelioma symptoms to manifest can be quite lengthy. Typically, individuals may not notice any signs until 20 to 50 years after the initial exposure. This extended latency period means that symptoms often emerge decades after coming into contact with asbestos fibers.

Why the Delay?

The long incubation period is due to the slow progression of the disease. The asbestos fibers can remain in the body for years without causing symptoms. Over time, they can lead to inflammation and scarring, eventually resulting in cancerous growths.

Challenges in Diagnosis

When symptoms do appear, they often resemble those of common illnesses. This similarity can lead to misdiagnosis, delaying treatment until the disease has advanced. Common symptoms include:

• Persistent cough
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath

By the time these symptoms become pronounced enough to prompt investigation, the disease is frequently at an advanced stage. Understanding this timeline is crucial for early detection and better outcomes.

When Should I Contact a Boston Mesothelioma Lawyer?

Contact a local mesothelioma lawyer as soon as you receive a mesothelioma diagnosis. You can also talk to a lawyer if you know you worked around asbestos and are concerned you might get sick.

It costs nothing to consult with a mesothelioma lawyer, so don’t hesitate to reach out. Time is limited, and you could miss your opportunity to file a lawsuit or make a claim.

Our mesothelioma attorneys work on a contingency-fee basis, providing you peace of mind with no upfront costs or hourly fees. We only receive payment if we successfully secure compensation for you, whether through a lawsuit or an asbestos trust fund claim.

This means you can focus on your health and well-being without worrying about immediate financial burdens. Don’t delay in seeking the justice and compensation you deserve.

What Steps Are Involved in Filing a Mesothelioma Claim?

1. Initial Consultation
Begin by reaching out to a specialized mesothelioma attorney. Most offer a free consultation to review your case details. You can typically initiate this process by calling or filling out a contact form on their website.

2. Case Evaluation
Once you provide your information, the legal team will assess your situation. This involves analyzing your asbestos exposure history and reviewing your medical documentation to ensure there’s a solid foundation for the case.

3. Evidence Gathering
Should you have a viable claim, the next step is to collate all necessary evidence. This might include documenting your work history, gathering witness testimonials, and collecting medical records that substantiate your condition.

4. Filing the Claim
Your attorney will prepare and file the claim in the relevant court. This includes determining which parties are legally responsible for the asbestos exposure and formally notifying them of your intent to seek compensation.

5. Settlement Negotiations
The majority of mesothelioma claims are resolved before the trial stage. Legal representatives will negotiate with the responsible parties to reach a fair settlement, leveraging your documented evidence for a favorable outcome.

6. Court Proceedings
In cases where a settlement isn’t possible, the claim may proceed to court. Your legal team will argue your case, present evidence, and work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.

By following these steps, you can navigate the complexities of filing a mesothelioma claim with confidence and clarity.

Can You Pursue Compensation for a Loved One Who Passed Away from Mesothelioma?

Absolutely, pursuing compensation after a loved one’s passing due to mesothelioma is possible.

Even if your loved one is no longer with you, there are still legal avenues available. Family members or estate representatives may be eligible to file claims on behalf of the deceased.

These claims can include:

• Wrongful Death Claims: These are intended to cover medical bills, funeral costs, and loss of income or companionship.
• Trust Fund Claims: With several asbestos manufacturers having set up trust funds, you might access compensation from these resources even after the individual’s death.

It’s Important to Act Promptly

• Deadlines Apply: Different states have specific statutes of limitations, which limit the time you have to file a claim. Acting quickly is crucial to ensure eligibility.
• Seek Expert Guidance: Consulting with a legal professional experienced in mesothelioma cases can help navigate the complexities of establishing a claim.

Remember, while the journey of seeking compensation can be challenging, it’s designed to provide financial support and justice for the suffering endured.

What Services Does a Mesothelioma Law Firm Provide for Asbestos Victims?

Mesothelioma law firms offer comprehensive legal support for victims, ensuring that the intricate legal process is handled meticulously so clients can concentrate on their recovery and family.

1. Comprehensive Case Management

Mesothelioma attorneys manage every aspect of your legal journey. From gathering crucial evidence to represent your case effectively, to formally initiating legal proceedings on your behalf, their expertise allows you to focus on healing.

2. Exploring Compensation Opportunities

Mesothelioma claims can be pursued through a variety of channels. These may include:

• Lawsuits for Settlements or Verdicts: Skilled lawyers can guide you through the litigation process to secure the best financial outcomes.
• Asbestos Trust Funds: Many companies have established trusts with allocated funds to compensate victims. Legal experts navigate these complex systems for you.
• VA Claims: Veterans exposed to asbestos during service can access benefits through a VA claim, with lawyers ensuring all requirements and documentation are met.

3. Timely and Accurate Filing

Legal deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, define the timeframe for filing a claim. Missing these deadlines can forfeit your right to compensation. A mesothelioma law firm will ensure all necessary paperwork is completed accurately and submitted within the required timeframes to maintain your claim’s validity.

By entrusting your case to experienced professionals, you gain a powerful ally dedicated to securing the justice and compensation you deserve.

Understanding the Advantages of Selecting the Right Mesothelioma Law Firm

Choosing the best mesothelioma law firm can make a significant difference in how your case is handled and the compensation you receive. Here are some key benefits to consider when evaluating your options:

Expertise and Resources

A top-tier mesothelioma law firm often has a wealth of resources at its disposal. Experienced lawyers are equipped to thoroughly investigate your case, identifying the companies responsible for asbestos exposure. Their extensive knowledge in asbestos litigation helps in effectively holding these companies accountable for their negligence.

Proven Track Record

Selecting a firm with a history of success can significantly impact the compensation outcomes. Look for firms with a strong track record of securing substantial settlements and verdicts. Some firms have successfully obtained millions in settlements, reflecting their ability to navigate complex legal scenarios.

Cost-Effective Services

Reputable mesothelioma law firms generally operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. This ensures that anyone can pursue justice without worrying about hourly legal fees or other out-of-pocket expenses.

Expedited Compensation

Time is essential, especially for those battling mesothelioma. Some law firms can expedite the process, allowing you to start receiving compensation within a few months, helping to ease the financial burden quickly.

Comprehensive Support

Many of these firms employ on-staff medical professionals, such as registered nurses, who can offer valuable insights into your diagnosis and treatment options. This holistic approach ensures you receive both legal and medical guidance tailored to your situation.

When seeking justice for asbestos exposure, it’s important to choose a law firm that is not only experienced but also compassionate and supportive. The right firm will prioritize your needs, giving you peace of mind during a challenging time.

Where Was I Exposed to Asbestos in Boston?

There are many potential sites of asbestos exposure in and around Boston. Many industries and workplaces used asbestos through the 1970s. Boston’s long history of shipping is one major source of asbestos. Others include mineral processing, construction, and industrial manufacturing.

Bethlehem Hingham Shipping Yard

Established in 1913, Bethlehem Hingham Shipping Yard once employed over 24,000 workers who built destroyer ships and war vessels. When the shipping yard closed in 1986, more than 220 ships had been built there.

From its inception until the late 1970s, the shipping yard used asbestos in many materials and parts, including gaskets, boiler components, electrical insulation, coatings, and more. Workers were exposed to the dangerous asbestos fibers day after day, year after year.

Consequently, former employees of the shipping yard later developed dangerous asbestos-related diseases, including peritoneal mesothelioma, pleural mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Charlestown Navy Yard

The Charlestown Navy Yard, a ship repair business, opened in Boston during the early 1800s. After the Civil War, the yard’s work began in decline, so it shifted focus to shipbuilding.

Thousands of workers built ships, including steel-hulled warships. As with the Bethlehem Hingham Shipping Yard, the Charlestown Navy Yard also used asbestos in parts, machinery, and equipment.

Asbestos in Boston Buildings

Many of Boston’s public buildings were also constructed using asbestos. Most of these buildings are still in use today, including:

Schools

• Boston Latin School
• Boston University
• Harvard School of Public Health
• Harvard Medical School
• John W. McCormack Graduate School
• Katharine Gibbs School
• McMenamins-Kennedy School
• South Boston High School
• Law School at Suffolk University
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Hospitals

• Beth Israel
• Boston City (closed in 1996)
• Boston State Hospital (closed in 1979)
• Brigham and Women’s Hospital
• Children’s Hospital Boston
• Massachusetts General Hospital

Additional Public Buildings

• Boston City Hall Annex
• Boston Federal Building
• Boston Symphony Hall
• Boston Municipal Auditorium
• Cutler Majestic Theater
• Museum of Science
• New England Aquarium
• Park Square Building

Asbestos in older buildings continues to be a problem for residents and workers in Boston. In 2023, Boston University faced asbestos controversy after renovating a student residence.

Students claimed construction work went on in neighboring rooms for a week or more before the university warned that asbestos was involved. They filed a complaint with the university and were relocated until the building was safe.

W.R. Grace Asbestos Cover Up

For decades W.R. Grace and Co. mined materials contaminated with asbestos and manufactured chemicals and products using asbestos. Through numerous workplaces across the U.S., the company exposed thousands of workers to asbestos.

The Boston Globe broke the story that the company knew about asbestos and its harmful fibers used in one of its best-selling products: Zonolite Attic Insulation.

Globe reporters found internal documents proving the company knew of the health hazards associated with the insulation by 1977. They kept selling the product for seven years after that.

Mesothelioma Treatment in Boston

When seeking treatment for asbestos-related diseases such as malignant mesothelioma and asbestosis, look for experienced physicians who specialize and have in-depth knowledge of these types of illnesses.

Boston has a few excellent cancer centers that can treat mesothelioma patients:

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Dana-Farber is affiliated with the Harvard Cancer Center. Together, they offer comprehensive cancer care, cancer research, and clinical trials.

In addition to pleural mesothelioma, specialists at Dana-Farber treat the rarer peritoneal mesothelioma, which occurs in the abdomen. Patients benefit from multidisciplinary teams that use a variety of treatment approaches.

Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Brigham and Women’s is particularly important for mesothelioma patients in Boston. It hosts the International Mesothelioma Program as well as a Peritoneal Surface Malignancy Program with HIPEC treatment.

VA Boston Healthcare System

For Boston-area veterans, the VA provides world-class mesothelioma care. VA Boston includes a minimally-invasive thoracic surgery department directed by Dr. Abraham Lebenthal, a pleural mesothelioma specialist.

Achieved Mesothelioma Settlements in Massachusetts

If you’re curious about past mesothelioma settlements in Massachusetts, here’s a glimpse into some notable cases:

• $9.3 Million was awarded to the family of a veteran from the U.S. Navy. This significant settlement highlights the compensation possibilities for military personnel exposed to harmful substances.
• In a case of secondhand asbestos exposure, a claimant secured $5.3 Million. This underscores the serious implications and compensation available even when exposure is indirect.
• A boilermaker, who was also a union member, received a settlement of $1.3 Million. This case reflects the risks industry workers face and the potential financial recourse available to them.
• Another notable settlement, amounting to $2.4 Million, was for someone involved in home remodeling and automotive work, particularly with clutches. This demonstrates the diverse scenarios in which asbestos exposure can occur.
• A $3.67 Million settlement was awarded to a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, illustrating the lifelong impact service-related exposures can have and the restitution paths that exist.

It’s important to remember that settlement amounts can vary significantly based on individual case details, and outcomes aren’t guaranteed. Each mesothelioma case is unique, and numerous factors influence compensation.

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 Boston

While it’s important to seek medical assistance if you’ve been exposed to asbestos, it’s also important to understand your legal rights and options. Don’t forget to fill out our form to get our free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information on the experienced asbestos and mesothelioma attorneys in your area.