New Hampshire mesothelioma lawyers help asbestos exposure victims seek compensation. New Hampshire was once a major hub of manufacturing and heavy industry in the New England region. Many job sites once used asbestos for its affordability and resistance to fire and heat, resulting in thousands of cases of asbestos disease.
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 New Hampshire, how to file a claim for asbestos trust funds, how to get paid in 90 days, 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
Mesothelioma lawyers have secured compensation totaling over $55 million specifically for families residing in New Hampshire, contributing to a larger total of more than $9.8 billion recovered for clients impacted by mesothelioma across the nation.
We are happy to offer help in all New Hampshire cities and towns, including:
Nashua, Concord, Derry, Dover, Rochester, Salem, Merrimack, Hudson, Londonderry, Keene, Bedford, Portsmouth, Goffstown, Laconia, Hampton, Milford, Durham, Exeter, Windham, Lebanon, Hooksett, Claremont, Pelham, Somersworth, Hanover, Amherst, Raymond, Conway, Berlin, Newmarket, Weare, Seabrook, Barrington, Hampstead, Franklin, Litchfield Hollis, Plaistow, Bow, Belmont, Stratham, Swanzey, Gilford, Pembroke, Plymouth, Farmington, Atkinson, Epping, Newport, Peterborough, Meredith, Wolfeboro, Sandown, Kingston, Hillsborough, Rindge, Littleton, Hopkinton, Jaffrey, New Boston, Loudon, Rye, Alton, New Ipswich, Charlestown, Wakefield, Auburn, Brookline, Northfield, Nottingham, Henniker, Chester, Haverhill, Newton, Barnstead, Milton, Enfield, Epsom, Brentwood, New London, Danville, Lee, North Hampton, Fremont, Allenstown, Ossipee, Winchester, Deerfield, Northwood, Pittsfield, Moultonborough, Hinsdale, Strafford, Boscawen, Candia, Canaan, Gilmanton, Walpole, Wilton, and more.
New Hampshire Asbestos Statistics
- There were 1,531 asbestos-related deaths in New Hampshire between 1999 and 2017.
- Most of those were related to lung cancer, with 284 deaths caused by mesothelioma and 115 from asbestosis.
- The highest rate of asbestos deaths occurred in Rockingham County.
Quick Facts About Asbestos and Its Health Impact
- Versatile Yet Hazardous Material: Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, is renowned for its durability and resistance to both heat and electricity. Because of these properties, it found its way into over 3,000 common household and industrial products. These include items like roofing shingles, talcum powder, automobile brakes, and various forms of insulation.
- Widespread Industrial Use: This mineral was extensively used across multiple industries such as manufacturing, steelworking, and shipbuilding. Its resilient nature made it a material of choice in environments that required fireproofing and insulation.
- Health Risks from Exposure: Although asbestos offers extensive industrial benefits, its fibers pose severe health risks. Inhalation or ingestion of these fibers can lead to the development of serious conditions, including mesothelioma—a cancer that might not appear until 10 to 50 years after the initial exposure.
- Legacy of Exposure: The 20th century saw more than a million U.S. Workers exposed to asbestos. Unfortunately, many of these individuals continue to face significant health challenges due to this exposure, underscoring the long-term risks associated with this once-prevalent material.
Why Do I Need a New Hampshire Mesothelioma Lawyer?
Consider hiring an asbestos attorney if you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma. You will need an experienced lawyer if you plan to sue the companies that exposed you to asbestos.
Most people sue for mesothelioma to seek compensation. Mesothelioma is caused by negligent asbestos exposure. The companies responsible should be held accountable and should pay.
A mesothelioma lawsuit is a legal action taken against companies that made or used products containing asbestos. These lawsuits are often necessary because many companies knowingly hid the dangers of asbestos from their employees and consumers. Victims, therefore, have the right to hold these companies accountable.
The compensation a lawyer helps you get will cover your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. By pursuing this legal route, victims can ensure they receive the justice and financial support they deserve for the injuries suffered due to the company’s products.
Who is Eligible to File a Mesothelioma Legal Claim?
If you’re wondering whether you can pursue a legal claim for mesothelioma, here’s a clear overview of who typically qualifies:
- Individuals Diagnosed with Mesothelioma: If you have personally received a diagnosis of mesothelioma or any related asbestos-induced illness, you may be eligible to file a claim.
- Family Members or Estate Representatives: In circumstances where a loved one diagnosed with mesothelioma has passed away, close family members or those designated as estate representatives are often permitted to pursue compensation on their behalf.
Even in cases where the affected individual is no longer alive, legal avenues may still exist for their survivors to seek justice and potentially secure financial support. Each situation is unique, so consulting with a legal professional specializing in asbestos litigation could provide more personalized guidance.
What Types of Mesothelioma Settlements Have Been Achieved for Clients in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, a variety of mesothelioma settlements have been successfully secured for individuals affected by this devastating illness. These settlements reflect the diverse backgrounds and professions of the clients, as well as the different types of mesothelioma they have endured.
Significant Settlement Examples
- $4.67 Million for a U.S. Navy veteran from Milton
- $4.37 Million awarded to another U.S. Navy veteran in Eaton Center
- $2.54 Million recovered for a Berlin-based ball mill operator
Additional Settlement Highlights
Alongside these major settlements, there have been numerous other cases where substantial compensation was awarded:
- $2.5 million to a laborer in Meredith
- $1.98 million for a carpenter from Dover diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma
- $1.63 million for a machinist and truck driver in Winchester with pleural mesothelioma
- $1.85 million granted to a U.S. Army veteran in Berlin with pleural mesothelioma
Varied Occupation-Related Settlements
Settlements have been obtained for clients from a wide range of occupations, underscoring the far-reaching impact of asbestos exposure:
- Derry lumberyard worker: $2.48 million for pleural mesothelioma
- Concord-based U.S. Navy veteran: $1.82 million for pleural mesothelioma
- Auto worker in Seabrook: $1.28 million due to pleural mesothelioma
- Elevator installer and technician in Derry: $1.26 million for pleural mesothelioma
Occupational Diversity
- Electrician in Alexandria: $2 million for pleural mesothelioma
- Rochester auto body worker: $1.57 million for peritoneal mesothelioma
- Somersworth U.S. Navy boiler technician: $1.45 million for asbestos-related illness
While these settlements provide some measure of justice for the affected individuals, it is important to note that each settlement amount is unique and influenced by various factors, including exposure circumstances, age, and the specific mesothelioma diagnosis. The success of each case hinges on these individual stories and characteristics.
How to Choose a New Hampshire Mesothelioma Lawyer
Top New Hampshire mesothelioma lawyers are experts in their field. Choose a lawyer with experience working with and winning for asbestos clients like you. They should be backed by a big law firm because proving asbestos cases is complicated.
To prove your mesothelioma case, lawyers need investigators to show that companies supplied your workplace with asbestos. They rely on medical experts to prove that exposure led to your illness. Proving your case takes time, resources, and an experienced network of experts.
When you select a mesothelioma attorney, consider those who have been recognized for their achievements. Award-winning lawyers often have proven track records, showcasing their ability to handle complex cases successfully. This recognition means they are not only skilled but also trusted by industry standards.
You should be able to find a lawyer who can come to you but who is part of a nationwide firm. They should offer a free initial consultation and contingency payments. You shouldn’t have to pay anything until you win.
The advantage of working with a lawyer from a large, national firm is their access to vast resources and networks. This includes a team of skilled investigators and medical professionals who can substantiate your case, enhancing the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
Combining personal attention with the reach of a national entity ensures that your legal team can provide both the local support and extensive resources necessary to fight for your rights effectively.
Moreover, these lawyers will often travel to meet you at a time and place that’s convenient for you, whether that’s your home or another location of your choosing. While it’s always possible that some travel might be necessary during your case, it’s reassuring to know that it’s very unlikely you’ll need to leave your area to pursue your claim.
This approach ensures you can focus on your health and recovery without the added stress of extensive travel. Look for a firm that values your comfort as part of their commitment to providing exceptional service.
How a Mesothelioma Law Firm Can Assist Veterans Affected by Asbestos Exposure
Veterans are particularly vulnerable to mesothelioma due to asbestos usage in military settings. If you or a loved one has been affected, a mesothelioma law firm can provide invaluable support in several key ways:
Understanding the Legal Process
Navigating the complexities of mesothelioma claims can be daunting. A dedicated legal team will demystify the process, explaining each step and ensuring you’re informed and comfortable with the progress of your case.
Access to Asbestos Trust Funds
Over $30 billion remains in asbestos trust funds, specifically for victims and their families. With expert guidance, you can file claims to access these funds without the need to appear in court, easing your burden during an already challenging time.
Pursuing Mesothelioma Lawsuits
A lawsuit could potentially secure a significant financial award from the companies responsible for asbestos exposure. An experienced lawyer will prepare and argue your case, aiming to achieve the best possible outcome.
Leveraging Veterans Benefits
Given that veterans comprise about a third of all mesothelioma cases, it’s crucial to tap into available veteran-specific resources. Legal experts can assist in filing for Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, which may include health care services and monthly compensation tailored to the needs of affected veterans.
In sum, a specialized mesothelioma law firm can be a vital ally, helping veterans claim the compensation and support they deserve, chasing justice and easing financial pressures.
How a Mesothelioma Law Firm Can Assist Veterans Affected by Asbestos Exposure
Veterans are particularly vulnerable to mesothelioma due to asbestos usage in military settings. If you or a loved one has been affected, a mesothelioma law firm can provide invaluable support in several key ways:
Understanding the Legal Process
Navigating the complexities of mesothelioma claims can be daunting. A dedicated legal team will demystify the process, explaining each step and ensuring you’re informed and comfortable with the progress of your case.
Access to Asbestos Trust Funds
Over $30 billion remains in asbestos trust funds, specifically for victims and their families. With expert guidance, you can file claims to access these funds without the need to appear in court, easing your burden during an already challenging time.
Pursuing Mesothelioma Lawsuits
A lawsuit could potentially secure a significant financial award from the companies responsible for asbestos exposure. An experienced lawyer will prepare and argue your case, aiming to achieve the best possible outcome.
Leveraging Veterans Benefits
Given that veterans comprise about a third of all mesothelioma cases, it’s crucial to tap into available veteran-specific resources. Legal experts can assist in filing for Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, which may include health care services and monthly compensation tailored to the needs of affected veterans.
In sum, a specialized mesothelioma law firm can be a vital ally, helping veterans claim the compensation and support they deserve, chasing justice and easing financial pressures.
How Can Clients Share Their Experiences with a Mesothelioma Law Firm?
Choosing the right mesothelioma law firm is a significant step for many clients, and sharing experiences can help others make informed decisions. Here’s how clients can effectively share their insights:
- Write Reviews on Legal Platforms: Websites like Avvo, Lawyers.com, and Martindale-Hubbell are popular platforms where clients can leave detailed feedback about their legal journey.
- Contribute to Online Forums: Participating in mesothelioma-focused forums, such as those on Reddit or dedicated support groups, allows clients to provide advice and support to those in similar situations.
- Submit Testimonials to the Firm’s Website: Many law firms welcome testimonials from clients. These stories are often highlighted on the firm’s website, providing new clients with a more personal perspective.
- Utilize Social Media: Sharing experiences on platforms like Facebook and Twitter allows clients to reach a broader audience quickly. These posts can include insights into the legal process and the support received.
- Engage with Community Events: Some law firms host events or webinars. Attending these and sharing experiences in person or during a Q&A session can be impactful.
By using these methods, clients can ensure their voices are heard while helping others navigate their legal options.
How Was I Exposed to Asbestos in New Hampshire?
For more than a century, asbestos was used heavily in many industries. Construction companies, steel mills, lumber yards, shipbuilding facilities, textile mills, and power generating plants used tons of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
These industries used asbestos as insulation, fire retardant, and other purposes mostly related to friction, high temperatures, and electrical currents.
Asbestos in New Hampshire’s Textile Industry
Textile manufacturing was a significant industry in New Hampshire until the 1970s. Most of the textile mills in New Hampshire were located along the Merrimack River. During the industry’s heyday, Concord, the state capital, and Nashua were major textile-producing communities in the Merrimack Valley. Many of these older job sites have caused asbestos exposure.
- Mills such as the Star Specialty Knitting Company’s facility in Laconia used asbestos to insulate and fireproof their machinery.
- They also manufactured products that incorporated asbestos fibers into their fabrics. Cooks’ oven mitts and firefighters’ work clothes were made with threads spun out of asbestos.
- Workers at these mills suffered from exposure to asbestos introduced into the air by the weaving machines and spinning looms.
Even when the state’s textile industry could no longer compete with new mills in Southern states such as North Carolina, closed facilities still contained large amounts of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). These abandoned mills still pose serious health hazards to people who live nearby.
Johns Manville in Nashua
Johns Manville manufactured construction materials using asbestos for many years. It was one of the earliest companies to face asbestos lawsuits and exposed more workers than many other companies.
The Johns Manville site in Nashua, New Hampshire, used asbestos for nearly 100 years. Workers here were exposed to asbestos, but so were nearby residents. The company gave away waste materials for people to use as fill. This resulted in widespread asbestos in the soil in the area. The plant shut down in 1985 and was demolished in 1997.
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
The U.S. Navy and the shipbuilding industries were two of the heaviest past users of asbestos. For years, asbestos materials went into hundreds of components on ships.
Just over the border in Maine, the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard employed many New Hampshire workers. These workers were at risk of exposure to asbestos, as were those who served on Navy ships.
Other New Hampshire Industries That Used Asbestos
New Hampshire’s other major industries also used asbestos.
- Coal power plants also used a lot of asbestos. Every power plant in New Hampshire built before 1980 used ACMs in almost every work or power-generating area. The boilers that generated the steam for the turbines contained asbestos, along with pipes and insulated walls.
- The Seabrook Station Nuclear Plant, known as Seabrook 1, was completed in 1976, It was one of the last power plants built before asbestos use was phased out. Seabrook 1 was constructed with significant amounts of asbestos within its various facilities and reactor buildings.
- New Hampshire not only used asbestos-derived products made in other states but also manufactured them. The cities of Nashua, Meredith, and Tilton were home to asbestos plants. In Meredith, the Keasbey & Mattison Company manufactured asbestos products from the 1930s until 1962.
- In Tilton, the Quinn-T manufacturing plant made asbestos paper products for numerous years. When these facilities closed, their owners gave away tons of asbestos-containing waste to property owners, who used it as a landfill.
Job Sites, Schools, and Landfills With Known Asbestos Exposure
These are some other buildings and sites in New Hampshire known to have asbestos now or in the past:
- University of New Hampshire, Manchester
- General Electric, Somersworth
- Jaffrey Landfill, Jaffrey
- L.W. Packard Company, Ashland
- Star Speciality Knitting, Laconia
- Troy Mills, Cheshire County
- Monadnock Paper Mills, Bennington
- Johns-Manville Plant, Nashua
- Turnkey Landfill, Rochester
- Nashua Sanitary Landfill, Nashua
- Schiller Station Power Plant, Portsmouth
- Brown Paper Mill, Berlin
- Merrimack Power Plant, Bow
- Lebanon Municipal Landfill, West Lebanon
The Risk of Asbestos Exposure in New Hampshire Today
A couple of recent news stories highlight the ongoing risk of asbestos exposure in the state. The risk comes from older buildings with asbestos materials and contractors violating safety regulations.
In May 2023, a man in Swanzey pleaded guilty to improperly managing asbestos, a felony that got him a 12-month sentence and a fine. He worked as a contractor at a home in Charleston. He knew about asbestos siding but failed to take proper steps to manage it safely.
In another recent case, a contractor falsified asbestos testing while working on two different jobs in the Upper Valley. The case is not yet resolved.
New Hampshire’s Asbestos Laws
State laws address both asbestos lawsuits and safety regulations.
Statute of Limitations for Asbestos Lawsuits in New Hampshire
Don’t wait to reach out to a mesothelioma attorney for advice. The statute of limitations is a deadline for filing an asbestos lawsuit in New Hampshire. Don’t let time run out on your case.
- New Hampshire follows a strict statute of limitations for asbestos-related lawsuits. This means there is a limited timeframe in which you can file a claim after being diagnosed with mesothelioma or any other asbestos-related disease.
- Plaintiffs must file their lawsuit within three years of diagnosis of an asbestos-related disease or within three years of when the disease should have been reasonably diagnosed. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your chance to seek legal recourse.
- For wrongful death lawsuits associated with asbestos-related illnesses, the plaintiff must file the lawsuit within three years of the victim’s death. This timeframe emphasizes the importance of acting swiftly to ensure justice for your loved ones.
This urgency underscores the necessity of contacting a legal professional as soon as possible to discuss your situation. A knowledgeable team can assess your case and confirm if you still have time to take legal action. Don’t wait until it’s too late—exploring your options promptly can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve.
New Hampshire Asbestos Safety Regulations
The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES) enforces asbestos rules and regulations:
- Env-A 100- 4800 of the DES Certified Administrative Rules covers the regulations of asbestos in New Hampshire regarding clean air, testing and monitoring procedures, procedural directions, and more.
- Asbestos abatement cannot be performed in New Hampshire without prior written notification to the state and applicable fees.
- Env-Sw 400 mandates that asbestos must be collected, stored, transferred, and disposed of in accordance with New Hampshire state laws.
- New Hampshire follows the EPA guidelines in regard to any school building that was built with asbestos-containing materials as well as state rules.
For more detailed information and in-depth explanations, visit the New Hampshire DES website or the EPA’s official asbestos web page.
Steps to Filing a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in New Hampshire
Navigating a mesothelioma lawsuit in New Hampshire involves a detailed and structured process. Understanding each step can ensure you or your loved ones receive the compensation deserved.
1. Initial Consultation with a Legal Expert
Begin by consulting a skilled mesothelioma attorney. They will assess your case details, establish its viability, and guide you on the best legal pathway.
2. Collection and Organization of Evidence
Your legal team will gather critical evidence, including medical records, employment history, and information linking asbestos exposure to your diagnosis. This step is crucial for building a robust case.
3. Identification of Responsible Parties
Identifying the companies responsible for asbestos exposure is essential. This may include former employers or manufacturers of asbestos-containing products.
4. Filing the Lawsuit
Once all evidence is compiled and parties identified, your attorney will file the lawsuit in the appropriate New Hampshire court. This initiates the legal process to secure compensation.
5. Discovery Phase
During discovery, both parties exchange information and evidence relevant to the case. This phase may involve depositions, interrogatories, and document requests.
6. Settlement Negotiations
Many mesothelioma cases settle before trial. Your attorney will negotiate with the defendants to reach a fair compensation agreement. Settlements can avoid the unpredictability and time of going to court.
7. Trial (if necessary)
If a settlement is not reached, the case proceeds to trial. Here, your attorney will present evidence and argue on your behalf to secure a judgment.
8. Receiving Compensation
If successful, compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. Payment methods vary depending on whether it was a settlement or a court verdict.
New Hampshire’s statute of limitations for mesothelioma claims typically requires filing within a certain period from diagnosis, making timely action crucial. Each step plays a pivotal role in ensuring justice for affected individuals and their families.
Getting Treatment for Mesothelioma in New Hampshire
Getting treatment immediately for mesothelioma is essential to the best outcome. Look for an excellent cancer center with various treatment options and access to specialists.
The largest cancer treatment center in New Hampshire is the Norris Cotton Cancer Center at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. It is located in Lebanon and is a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center.
The Thoracic Oncology Program treats pleural mesothelioma, and the Gastrointestinal Oncology Program treats patients with peritoneal mesothelioma. Patients here also have access to clinical trials.
Great people. Helped my family through our meso diagnosis.
– Donald H.
Additional Information and Legal Assistance in New Hampshire
Keep in mind that there is a good chance you’ll qualify for considerable compensation if you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis. Remember to fill out our form to get your free Financial Compensation Packet, with information on experienced asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers in your area. For questions and assistance, feel free to contact us at 800-793-4540.
