Mississippi Mesothelioma Lawyer

Mississippi mesothelioma lawyers help asbestos victims and their families fight for justice. Mississippi’s shipyards and industrial job sites exposed many workers and contributed to many asbestos-related deaths throughout the state.

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 Mississippi, how to file a claim for asbestos trust funds, how to get paid in 90 days, and more. 

Keep in mind that we assist asbestos victims and their families in every city and town in Mississippi, including:

Jackson, Raleigh, Gulfport, Southaven, Hattiesburg, Biloxi, Meridian, Tupelo, Olive Branch, Greenville, Horn, Lake Pearl, Clinton, Madison, Starkville, Ridgeland, Vicksburg, Columbus, Brandon, Pascagoula, Oxford, Laurel, Gautier, Ocean Springs, Clarksdale, Greenwood, Natchez, Long Beach, Hernando, Corinth, Moss Point, Canton, Grenada, McComb, Brookhave,n Cleveland, Byram, Yazoo, West Point Bay, St. Louis, Petal, Picayune, D’Iberville, Indianola, Diamondhead, Booneville, New Albany, Gulf Hills, Flowood, Senatobia, St. Martin, Holly Springs, Batesville, Philadelphia, Kosciusko, Latimer, Amory, Richland, Waveland, Louisville, West Hattiesburg, Columbia, Gulf Park Estates, Pontotoc, Vancleave, Forest, Aberdeen, Ripley, Pass Christian, Carthage, Saltillo, Waynesboro, Crystal Springs, Winona, Ellisville, Wiggins, Magee, Leland, Florence, University, Pearl River, Fulton, Hazlehurst, Beechwood, Escatawpa, Houston, Tutwiler, Nicholson, Morton, Newton, Water Valley, Baldwyn, New Hope, Mississippi State, Verona, Iuka, Lucedale, Ruleville, Poplarville, Macon, Okolona, and more.

How Did I Get Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that most often affects the tissue lining the lungs (pleural mesothelioma). Sometimes it grows in the tissue in the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma). Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include chest pains, coughing, and shortness of breath. Peritoneal mesothelioma causes abdominal pain, bloating, and gastrointestinal issues.

Diagnosing mesothelioma presents significant challenges due to the nature of its symptoms. These symptoms are often similar to those of more common illnesses, making it difficult for medical professionals to identify the disease early. Moreover, symptoms might not appear until 20-50 years after the initial exposure to asbestos, further complicating timely diagnosis.

If you were diagnosed with mesothelioma, you were probably negligently exposed to asbestos at work. When workers handle asbestos materials, they shed fibers that can then be inhaled or ingested. Inside the body, asbestos fibers cause damage. In some people, that damage leads to cancer decades later.

If you worked in an industry in Mississippi that used asbestos in the past, it is the most likely cause of your illness.

Understanding these challenges and symptoms can help in recognizing the need for comprehensive medical evaluations if you’ve been exposed to asbestos. Early detection remains crucial, despite the inherent difficulties.

How Does Secondhand Asbestos Exposure Occur?

Secondhand asbestos exposure happens when microscopic asbestos fibers are inadvertently carried away from their original source, creating a risk for those not directly involved with the material.

Key Pathways for Exposure:

• Workplace Carriers: Individuals who work in environments with asbestos, such as construction sites or shipyards, may unknowingly bring the fibers home. These fibers can settle on clothing, shoes, or even in their hair, making their way to otherwise safe spaces.
• Household Contamination: Once asbestos fibers hitch a ride to a residence, family members and roommates can encounter them through simple, everyday activities like doing laundry or cleaning.
• Environmental Factors: Areas surrounding asbestos mines or demolition sites can have fibers dispersed into the air. These can travel significant distances, potentially affecting nearby communities.

The Risks Involved

Understanding that anyone in proximity to contaminated individuals or environments can be at risk is crucial. These fibers are durable and can persist in the environment, remaining a hidden danger. It’s vital for employers and workers to take appropriate measures to prevent these fibers from leaving the workplace to safeguard their families and communities.

Am I Eligible to File a Mesothelioma Claim in Mississippi?

Because mesothelioma is almost always caused by negligent workplace asbestos exposure, you are eligible to make a claim and seek compensation. You could be eligible for one or more of the following:

• Mesothelioma personal injury lawsuit. One option is to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages. Several companies are likely responsible for your asbestos exposure, illness, and resulting expenses. A lawsuit can force them to pay damages through a settlement or jury award.
• Mesothelioma wrongful death lawsuit. For the death of a loved one from mesothelioma, consider filing a wrongful death suit. You can recover damages for medical costs, funeral expenses, and more.
• Asbestos trust fund claim. Many asbestos companies went bankrupt in the face of lawsuits and cannot be sued. They set up trust funds to compensate victims. You could be eligible to make a claim with one or more trust funds.
• Veteran benefits. If you encountered asbestos during active military service, you are entitled to benefits. These include monthly disability compensation and specialist treatment at VA medical centers.

Steps to File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in Mississippi

Once you determine your eligibility, the process of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit can begin. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this journey:

1. Initial Contact: Reach out to a qualified mesothelioma attorney for a free case evaluation. This step is crucial to understand your legal standing and the potential avenues for compensation.
2. Evidence Collection: If your case is viable, your legal team will gather comprehensive evidence. This includes your work history, details of asbestos exposure, and medical diagnosis.
3. Filing the Claim: Your attorney will file a legal claim on your behalf against the parties responsible for your asbestos exposure.
4. Settlement Negotiation: Most mesothelioma cases are resolved through settlements. Skilled attorneys will negotiate on your behalf to secure the compensation you deserve.
5. Court Proceedings: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to court. Your legal team will represent you and fight for a favorable verdict.

This structured approach ensures that you can focus on your health and family while professionals handle the complexities of the legal process.

Will a Mesothelioma Lawsuit Be Filed as a Class Action?

In most cases today, mesothelioma lawsuits are not filed as class actions. Instead, these lawsuits are typically pursued on an individual basis. This approach ensures that your case receives dedicated attention, maximizing the potential compensation for medical costs and other related expenses.

Why Individual Lawsuits Are Preferred:

1. Tailored Legal Strategy: An individual lawsuit allows your attorney to create a strategy specifically for your circumstances. This personal focus can lead to better outcomes compared to the one-size-fits-all nature of class actions.
2. Potential for Higher Compensation: Individual cases often result in higher compensation, as they can be more precisely aligned with the specific damages and suffering you’ve experienced.
3. Case Specificity: Your unique medical history and asbestos exposure details can be highlighted, offering a more comprehensive understanding of your situation to the court.

In summary, while class action lawsuits were once common, the shift towards individual filings reflects a strategic effort to optimize legal outcomes for mesothelioma patients and their families. This personalized approach ensures that every aspect of your case is thoroughly addressed.

How Much Compensation Can I Get for a Mesothelioma Claim?

The value of a mesothelioma claim varies depending on individual factors. Your expert mesothelioma lawyer is best positioned to estimate a value and to maximize the compensation you seek based on several factors:

• Past medical expenses
• Ongoing medical costs
• Future expected medical costs
• Lost wages
• The severity of the illness
• The companies involved and their degrees of negligence
• Pain and suffering

Understanding Mesothelioma Settlements and Verdicts

When discussing the financial outcomes of mesothelioma lawsuits, two primary figures come into play: settlements and verdicts.

• Settlement Amounts: For mesothelioma cases, settlements typically fall within the range of $1 million to $1.4 million. This represents the amount agreed upon outside of court to compensate those affected by this asbestos-related cancer.
• Verdict Amounts: Should the case proceed to a court verdict, the average compensation can be substantially higher, often ranging from $5 million to $11.4 million. These figures reflect the potential awards determined by a jury.

Understanding these figures can provide a clearer picture for those considering legal action, enabling them to make informed decisions based on realistic financial expectations.

How Can a Mississippi Mesothelioma Lawyer Help Me?

If you have mesothelioma, contact an asbestos lawyer in Mississippi as soon as possible. There are time limits on filing a lawsuit or making a claim, so don’t hesitate to reach out and get a consultation. A Mississippi mesothelioma lawyer can help you in several ways:

• Provide a free initial consultation to review your case and answer questions
• Explain legal options for filing a lawsuit or making a claim
• Expert advice on which options to choose
• File the lawsuit or make the claim for you
• Provide investigators and medical experts to prove your case
• Find all the compensation you are owed to maximize damages
• Negotiate with defendants for a fair settlement
• Litigate in court for a jury award if necessary
• Provide contingency payment, so you pay nothing until they win

Understanding the Legal Process

Once you decide to move forward, your lawyer can guide you through the legal process with clarity and precision. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial Contact: Reach out via phone or fill out a contact form for a free case review to kickstart the process.
2. Case Evaluation: If you have a viable case, the lawyer will gather crucial evidence including your work history, asbestos exposure details, and medical diagnosis.
3. Filing the Claim: The attorney will file a legal claim on your behalf against those responsible for your asbestos exposure, ensuring all legal protocols are followed.
4. Negotiation: With over 99% of cases resolving in settlements, your attorney will negotiate to secure the compensation you deserve without the stress of a trial.
5. Trial Preparation: If an agreement isn’t reached, your legal team is prepared to advocate for you in court, presenting your case before a judge and jury to seek a favorable verdict.

By understanding each step, you can proceed with confidence, knowing your lawyer is handling the complexities of the legal system while you focus on your health and well-being.

Look for a top-rated Mississippi mesothelioma lawyer who works with a large, nationwide firm. You need a large firm and the experience of asbestos attorneys to take your case to a successful conclusion. They should be local and convenient to you but also able to file cases in other states, which is often necessary for asbestos lawsuits.

When choosing a law firm for mesothelioma cases, consider the following key factors:

• Proven Track Record: Opt for a firm that has successfully recovered substantial compensation for mesothelioma clients. A strong history of winning cases is a testament to their expertise and effectiveness.
• Extensive Experience: Select a firm with decades of experience in handling asbestos-related cases. This experience ensures they are adept at navigating the complexities of mesothelioma litigation.
• Dedicated Legal Team: Ensure the firm has a comprehensive team of professionals, including seasoned attorneys, paralegals, and medical experts, who will all work collaboratively on your case to maximize your chances of success.
• Client Accessibility: The best firms offer flexibility and convenience, traveling to meet clients at their location or offering virtual consultations, all at no extra cost. This commitment underscores their dedication to prioritizing client needs.

By focusing on these factors, you’ll be better equipped to choose a law firm that aligns with your needs and can effectively handle your mesothelioma case, ensuring the best possible outcome.

Where Was I Exposed to Asbestos in Mississippi?

One of the most important reasons to work with a large, experienced asbestos firm is that they can track down the source of your asbestos exposure. You might not know where you were exposed, but the right lawyers and experts have the resources available to find every company that caused you harm.

Most industrial workplaces used asbestos in the past. In Mississippi, these include shipyards and shipbuilding companies, as well as the oil industry.

Mississippi has long been a cotton-growing state, but its industrial base diversified in the 20th and 21st Centuries to a mix of agriculture and industrial workplaces.

The largely rural population of the state limited asbestos exposure as those of more industrialized states in the Union. Still, it ranks in the middle of all 50 states in asbestos-related illnesses and deaths because of shipbuilding and oil production along the Gulf Coast.

• Gulfport is one of the epicenters of Mississippi’s asbestos problem. It is home to several major shipyards, including the Trinity Marine Group yard that builds yachts and other watercraft. This facility covers 38 acres of Gulfport’s waterfront and includes a manufacturing area that encompasses 200,000 square feet.
• Though Trinity was founded in the 1990s, a decade after most shipyards stopped using asbestos on newly constructed vessels, the yard had already been operating under the banner of the Halter Marine Group. Halter’s pre-1970s shipbuilding processes used large amounts of asbestos. Most Trinity Yacht workers were exposed to asbestos fibers while building or repairing vessels.
• Pascagoula is another major center for shipbuilding on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast. The city is home to Ingalls Shipbuilding, the largest source of jobs in the state. This shipyard covers 800 acres of Pascagoula and is a major source of ships for the U.S. Navy. Ingalls Shipbuilding and its predecessors in Pascagoula began operating at the peak era of asbestos use in the shipbuilding industry (the 1930s to early 1970s).

Job Sites Associated with Asbestos Use in Mississippi

Power Companies

• Mississippi Power and Light, Hattiesburg
• Hercules Power Plant, Hattiesburg
• Mississippi Power and Light, Greenville
• Mississippi Power and Light, Jackson
• Mississippi Power and Light, Vicksburg
• Vicksburg Power Plant, Vicksburg
• Watson Power Plant, Gulfport
• Wilson Power Plant, Vicksburg
• Mississippi Power and Light, Tupelo
• Philips Day-Brite, Tupelo

Shipyards

• Ingalls Shipbuilding, Pascagoula
• Lighten Shipyard, Pascagoula
• Chicago Bridge and Iron Shipyard, Pascagoula

Paper Companies

• Georgia Pacific Pulp and Paper, Monticello
• St. Regis Paper Company, Monticello

Hospitals and Schools

• Denman Junior High School: Mccomb
• University of Mississippi, Oxford
• Coahoma County Hospital, Clarksville
• Columbia Training School, Columbia

Other Businesses

• V.A. Medical Center, Jackson
• Greenville Mills, Greenville
• Armstrong Cork Company, Jackson
• Transco Compression Station, Hattiesburg
• Mississippi Gulf Refining Company, Purvis
• Black Creek Refinery, Purvis
• Kaiser Aluminum, Purvis

Ongoing Risks of Asbestos Exposure in Mississippi

Asbestos is rarely used in any industry today, but the risk of exposure remains. The construction industry used asbestos in many components for decades. Older buildings throughout Mississippi still contain these outdated materials and put residents and workers at risk of exposure.

One issue is exposure to asbestos after natural disasters. Mississippi is vulnerable to tornadoes and hurricanes, which destroy buildings. When older buildings are ruined in storms, they can spread asbestos.

Most recently, in 2023, residents in Rolling Fork were warned of the dangers of asbestos and moldy debris after March tornadoes devastated many buildings.

Sometimes, human activity releases asbestos from older buildings, harming residents. In 2017, whistleblowers notified authorities of asbestos concerns at a demolition site in the Fonden neighborhood in Jackson.

Developers had not complied fully with asbestos regulations and claimed none was on the site. This proved to be false. Their demolition work put area residents at risk of exposure.

Johnson & Johnson Asbestos Lawsuit in Mississippi

Johnson & Johnson has recently faced thousands of lawsuits over mesothelioma and ovarian cancer caused by asbestos in its talcum powder products. Evidence from these lawsuits has proven that the company knew about the contaminating asbestos in talc but failed to warn or protect consumers.

Mississippi began a lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson on behalf of residents in the state. The attorney general started the lawsuit to recover damages for Mississippi victims, to punish the company, and to prevent future harm.

Johnson & Johnson used a controversial bankruptcy strategy to try to unload its liabilities in talcum powder cases. As a result, individual lawsuits and those brought by states like Mississippi have been put on hold.

Mississippi Asbestos Laws

State laws affect how asbestos cases proceed. They also include regulations designed to protect residents from asbestos that persists in Mississippi buildings and abandoned industrial sites.

Statute of Limitations for Asbestos Lawsuits in Mississippi

To file an asbestos-related lawsuit in Mississippi, plaintiffs must file within the state’s statutes of limitations which mandates that the case must be filed within three years from an official diagnosis and within three years from the time of death for a wrongful death lawsuit.

Punitive Damages

Damages in personal injury cases can be divided into three types: economic, non-economic, and punitive. The first two compensate victims. Punitive damages are intended to punish the defendants.

Many states limit punitive damages in asbestos cases. Mississippi does not restrict or cap punitive damages, which makes it a more favorable state for filing asbestos lawsuits. Without this restriction, you can potentially recover more monetary damages in Mississippi.

Asbestos Safety Regulations

The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) is responsible for the implementation and enforcement of asbestos abatement laws in the state.

• Demolition and renovation activities in the state of Mississippi require prior approval as well as prior written notice under Section 8 of APC-S-1.
• Demolitions and renovations involving residential homes with less than four dwelling units are exempt from approval and written notification.
• A certified MDEQ inspector must inspect any structure prior to demolition and/or renovation for asbestos.
• NESHAP law 40 CFR Part 61, Subpart M, must be adhered to at all times before, during, and after an asbestos abatement project.
• Schools must follow the asbestos procedures defined by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), which the EPA sets forth.
• An approved landfill must be used at all times for the disposal of asbestos. Asbestos must also be encapsulated and clearly labeled.

For more information on state-specific asbestos laws in Mississippi, contact the MDEQ at 601-961-5769. For details on school procedures, visit the official EPA school buildings website.

Treatment for Mississippi Asbestos Victims

Mesothelioma is a rare and life-threatening disease. It is important for anyone diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease like this to seek medical help from qualified physicians and clinics that specialize in these types of illnesses.

There are no medical facilities in Mississippi backed by the National Cancer Institute (NCI).

However, Oxford’s Baptist Centers for Cancer Care is a cutting-edge medical facility that focuses on all forms of cancer. BCCC has won several awards, including the Gold Certification Seal Standard by the Mississippi cancer registry.

Located in nearby Nashville, Tennessee, the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center is an NCI-designated medical facility that offers patients various treatment and rehabilitation options.

The University of Alabama Kirklin Clinic was also explicitly made for mesothelioma patients.

How Do Registered Nurses Assist with a Mesothelioma Diagnosis and Treatment?

When facing a mesothelioma diagnosis, the expertise of registered nurses can be invaluable in several ways:

Understanding the Diagnosis

• Explaining Medical Terms: Nurses simplify complex medical jargon, ensuring you clearly understand your diagnosis and what it entails.
• Clarifying Tests and Results: They guide you through your test results, helping you comprehend what each number and data point means for your condition.

Exploring Treatment Options

• Discussing Treatment Plans: Registered nurses review and explain the various treatment options available, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, tailoring explanations to suit your specific situation.
• Coordinating with Doctors: Acting as a liaison, they facilitate communication between you and your healthcare providers, ensuring all your concerns and questions are addressed.

Providing Emotional Support

• Offering Counsel: Nurses provide a compassionate ear, offering emotional support and reassurance during a challenging time.
• Connecting to Resources: They can connect you to support groups, counseling services, and other resources that can help you navigate this journey.

Managing Day-to-Day Care

• Monitoring Symptoms: By keeping track of symptoms and side effects, nurses can help adjust treatment plans as necessary to improve quality of life.
• Educating on Self-Care: They provide education on daily care routines that can help manage symptoms and enhance well-being.

In essence, registered nurses serve as guides and advocates in your mesothelioma journey, ensuring you are informed, supported, and cared for throughout your treatment.

This firm was extremely professional and responsive. If you have any meso questions, I’d highly recommend them

– Michael L.

Legal Help in Mississippi

As previously mentioned, if you’ve been exposed to asbestos and suffer from mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be entitled to compensatory damages. 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.