Utah Mesothelioma Lawyer

Contact a Utah mesothelioma lawyer to hear about your legal rights if you’ve been injured by asbestos. Although Utah is home to several naturally-occurring asbestos deposits, most asbestos-related diseases and deaths stem directly from prolonged exposure to asbestos in the workplace.

If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be entitled to considerable compensation. We invite you to fill out our form today for a free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information about experienced mesothelioma lawyers in Utah, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file an asbestos trust fund claim, and much more. 

When dealing with mesothelioma claims, many clients begin to see compensation in as few as 90 days. This initial payment is just the beginning. Additional checks may continue to arrive over the next year or so, ensuring ongoing support until the case reaches full resolution.

By accessing our Financial Compensation Packet, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge of:

• How to connect with top mesothelioma lawyers in your area.
• The detailed steps to start receiving payments promptly.
• Comprehensive guidance on filing an asbestos trust fund claim.

Take the first step towards securing your compensation today with our expert resources at your fingertips.

We offer assistance to all cities and towns in Utah, such as:

Salt Lake City, West Valley, Provo, West Jordan, Orem, Sandy, Ogden, St. George, Layton, Millcreek, Taylorsville, South Jordan, Lehi, Logan, Murray, Draper, Bountiful, Riverton, Roy, Spanish Fork, Kearns, Pleasant Grove, Cottonwood Heights, Tooele, Springville, Midvale, Clearfield, Cedar City, Kaysville, Magna, American Fork, Holladay, Herriman, Syracuse, South Salt Lake, Eagle Mountain, Saratoga Springs, Washington, Farmington, Clinton, Payson, Brigham, North Ogden, North Salt Lake, Highland, South Ogden, Centerville, Hurricane, Heber, West Haven, Woods Cross, Lindon, Smithfield, Vernal, Cedar Hills, Alpine, West Point, Santaquin, North Logan, Grantsville, Washington Terrace, Mapleton, Pleasant View, Riverdale, Price, Bluffdale, Park City, Hooper, Tremonton, Summit Park, Hyrum, Richfield, Ivins, Providence, Salem, Roosevelt, Santa Clara, South Weber, Ephraim, Farr, West Plain City, Snyderville, Enoch, Nibley, Harrisville, Fruit Heights, Nephi, Erda, West Bountiful, White City, Sunset, Moab, Stansbury Park, Perry, Kanab, Midway, La Verkin, Hyde Park, Morgan, Blanding, and more.

Facts About Mesothelioma and Asbestos

Approximately 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year in the U.S. The only known cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. Most people with asbestos illnesses were exposed on the job.

Asbestos is considered dangerous because it has been linked to several severe health conditions. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the lining of organs, irritating healthy tissues and cells. Over time, these irritated cells may mutate and become cancerous, leading to diseases such as:

• Mesothelioma
• Lung cancer
• Other asbestos-related diseases

One of the most alarming aspects of asbestos exposure is the long latency period. Symptoms may not appear until 20-50 years after the initial exposure, making it difficult to diagnose and treat illnesses early. This delayed onset of symptoms can make the management of asbestos-related diseases particularly challenging.

The most common form of mesothelioma is pleural. It develops in the tissue around the lungs many years after inhaling tiny asbestos fibers. Pleural mesothelioma causes shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pains. A less common form of mesothelioma is peritoneal and forms in the abdomen.

Diagnosing mesothelioma presents significant challenges due to its elusive nature. Symptoms can mimic those of other illnesses, making it difficult for medical professionals to pinpoint the disease without extensive testing. Moreover, symptoms may not manifest until 20-50 years after initial asbestos exposure, complicating timely diagnosis and treatment.

Understanding these nuances is crucial for those at risk, as early detection can significantly influence treatment outcomes. By recognizing the complexity and latency of mesothelioma symptoms, individuals can better advocate for their health and seek appropriate medical consultation.

What Can a Utah Mesothelioma Lawyer Do for Me?

If you have mesothelioma, it is important to talk to an asbestos attorney as soon as possible. They can determine if you have a case, explain your legal options, and help you take steps to get compensation.

There are several benefits to working with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer in Utah:

• Get a free, no-obligation case review
• Learn more about your options
• Have an expert on asbestos backing your case
• Get solid evidence that companies negligently exposed you to asbestos
• Get the best chance of recovering maximum compensation
• Work with someone who is compassionate and understanding about your illness

Track Record of Success

When choosing a mesothelioma lawyer, their history of success matters. Our team has a proven track record, having recovered over $5.2 billion for mesothelioma clients. Impressively, 98% of our asbestos cases result in compensation, illustrating our dedication and effectiveness in seeking justice for our clients.

By partnering with us, you’re not only gaining an advocate who understands the intricacies of asbestos litigation but also someone with a history of achieving substantial results. This combination of expertise and proven success offers you peace of mind, knowing you’re in capable hands.

Am I Eligible to File a Mesothelioma Claim in Utah?

A lawyer who specializes in asbestos lawsuits can answer this question. Generally, if you have mesothelioma, you are entitled to make a claim and to seek compensation.

Mesothelioma is almost always caused by negligent asbestos exposure. This means you can hold asbestos companies responsible for your illness and force them to pay.

What Are Some Past Mesothelioma Settlement Amounts in Utah?

If you’re seeking information on past mesothelioma settlements in Utah, there are several noteworthy cases to consider. These figures highlight the substantial compensation some individuals have received due to mesothelioma, often influenced by different factors such as occupation and exposure level.

• $5.39 Million was awarded to a worker with diverse roles, including factory work, roofing, and carpentry, in Central Utah.
• A $3.91 Million settlement was reached for a U.S. Army veteran in Salt Lake City who also served as a supervisor.
• Another significant sum of $3.58 Million was secured for an individual involved in construction work.
• $2.8 Million was received by a U.S. Navy veteran who also worked as a laborer in Morgan, highlighting the risks faced by military personnel.
• A pipefitter in Tooele was awarded $2 Million, reflecting compensation aligned with their specific circumstances.
• In Morgan, a union electrician received $1.73 Million for their claim.
• A mining worker from Vernal was granted $1.68 Million.
• Lastly, a U.S. Navy veteran from Enterprise received a settlement amounting to $2.27 Million.

It’s crucial to remember that compensation amounts can widely differ based on individual case details and contextual factors. While these numbers may provide a benchmark, there’s no guarantee of outcomes, as each case is unique.

Are There Costs Associated with Hiring a Mesothelioma Lawyer?

When considering legal representation for mesothelioma cases, a common concern is the potential cost. The good news is that many mesothelioma lawyers typically don’t require upfront payments or out-of-pocket expenses.

Contingency-Fee Basis

Most reputable mesothelioma attorneys operate on a contingency-fee basis. Here’s what that means for you:

• No Fees Until Compensation: Your lawyer will only receive payment if your case is successful in securing compensation.
• Financial Risk is Minimized: Since legal fees are contingent upon a favorable outcome, you won’t be burdened with costs in the event your case does not win.

Peace of Mind

• Focus on Recovery: This payment structure allows you to focus on your health and recovery without financial stress.
• Transparent Agreement: Before proceeding, your lawyer will provide a thorough explanation of any costs that may later be deducted from your settlement or award.

In essence, hiring a mesothelioma lawyer should not add financial pressure. Always ensure that you’re clear about the fee structure during your initial consultation.

Types of Mesothelioma Claims

Your lawyer will explain all of your options for seeking compensation for past asbestos exposure. You could be eligible for one or more of the following:

• Personal Injury Lawsuit. Mesothelioma is a personal injury because asbestos exposure is most often negligent. Most of these lawsuits end in settlements and never go to trial.
• Wrongful Death Lawsuit. You can file a wrongful death suit if you lose a loved one to mesothelioma.
• Asbestos Trust Fund Claim. If the companies that exposed you to asbestos went bankrupt, you can file for compensation through an asbestos trust fund. These trusts still have about $30 billion in compensation available.
• VA Benefits Claim. If you were exposed during military service, your lawyer can help you claim VA benefits, including disability compensation.

Mesothelioma lawsuits have the potential to award substantial settlements, typically ranging from $1 million to $11.4 million. This amount can vary depending on whether your case is settled out of court or proceeds to trial. Notably, over 99% of these cases result in settlements, meaning many clients receive compensation without the stress of a courtroom battle.

By working with experienced mesothelioma lawyers, you can achieve crucial steps in your case:

• Identifying exposure: Determine which asbestos-containing products you were exposed to.
• Accountability: Hold the companies responsible for manufacturing those products accountable for your illness.
• Securing compensation: Pursue financial restitution that could cover your treatments and ensure your family’s financial security.

Understanding these options not only empowers you to take action but also highlights the significant potential for financial recovery that could change your life.

What Are the Steps to File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in Utah?

Filing a mesothelioma lawsuit involves several important steps. If you’re in Utah, here’s a guide to understanding the process:

1. Initial Contact and Case Evaluation
   • Reach out to a specialized attorney or legal firm experienced in asbestos cases.
   • Provide them with details about your work history, exposure to asbestos, and any medical diagnosis.
   • They will conduct a free case evaluation to determine the strength of your claim.
2. Evidence Collection
   • Collect detailed information about your occupational and environmental exposure to asbestos.
   • The legal team will gather medical records, employment history, and other documentation to build your case.
3. Filing the Lawsuit
   • If the evaluation is favorable, your attorney will draft and file a legal claim in the appropriate Utah court.
   • This claim will be directed against the companies or entities deemed responsible for your asbestos exposure.
4. Negotiation for Settlement
   • The legal team will enter negotiations with the defendants, aiming for a fair settlement.
   • In most cases, a settlement is reached outside of court, ensuring a quicker resolution and compensation.
5. Court Trial
   • If a satisfactory settlement cannot be negotiated, your case might proceed to trial.
   • Your attorney will represent your interests before a judge and possibly a jury to secure a verdict.

Throughout each step, having an experienced mesothelioma attorney is critical to navigate legal complexities and secure the best possible outcome.

How Will My Asbestos Lawsuit Be Filed?

When pursuing an asbestos lawsuit, you might wonder whether it will be handled as a class action or on an individual basis.

In most cases, your lawsuit will be filed individually. This approach ensures that your attorney can focus on the unique aspects of your case, providing the personalized attention and dedication it requires.

Here’s why individual filing is often preferred:

• Tailored Legal Strategies: An individual lawsuit allows your attorney to craft a strategy that best addresses your specific circumstances and needs.
• Maximized Compensation: With a personalized approach, your lawyer can aim for the highest possible compensation based on the details of your case.

By going this route, clients often find that their legal representation is more responsive, thorough, and effective in securing the justice and financial recovery they seek.

Where Was I Exposed to Asbestos in Utah?

If you have mesothelioma, you were most likely exposed to asbestos in the workplace. Many industries used asbestos and harmed workers. These are just some examples of industries and locations that could have exposed you to asbestos in Utah.

Mining and Asbestos in Utah

Miners in Utah faced the most significant risk of exposure, illness, and asbestos-related death. They worked in asbestos mines scattered throughout the state and were exposed each day they went to work.

The most common forms of asbestos in Utah mines are actinolite and tremolite.

Vermiculite Processing

Vermiculite is a mineral that is mined and then processed in plants to make various products. Two vermiculite plants in Utah near Salt Lake City received asbestos-contaminated vermiculite from the W.R. Grace mine in Libby, Montana.

The Libby mine shipped thousands of tons of harmful vermiculite to plants around the country through the early 1990s. Anyone who worked at the Salt Lake City plants or even lived nearby could have been exposed to asbestos. The two plants eventually shut down and were abated.

Public Buildings and Asbestos

Many government buildings in Utah are associated with asbestos, including the Salt Lake Jail, the Salt Lake City District Court, and the Salt Lake City Circuit Court.

Additionally, several Utah schools built before the 1980s still have asbestos materials in them. Many of these schools are still in use today and must undergo regular inspections for asbestos to ensure the fibers haven’t been disturbed.

Other Job Sites Associated with Asbestos in Utah

• Columbia Geneva Steel
• Columbia Steel Company
• Geneva Steel Company
• Geneva Works
• U. S. Steel Corporation
• United States Steel Corporation
• Bingham Consolidated Mining and Smelting Company
• Bingham Copper and Gold Mining Company
• Bingham Junction
• Northgate Business Center
• Steiner Corporation
• Tesoro Refining Marketing
• West One Bank
• Whittier Elementary
• Bloomington Power Plant
• Lakeside Power Plant
• Millcreek Power Generation
• Gadsby Power Plant
• Geneva Steel Mine

Utah Air Quality Board Lawsuit

In 2000, the State of Utah, via the Utah Quality Air Board, was involved in a lawsuit. The state’s Environmental Health Division analyzed the ceiling tiles in the Truman Mortenson Family Trust building and found asbestos throughout the tiles.

Almost all of the workers in the building were at risk of exposure and had not been given the proper protective gear.

Under Utah State law, anyone working around asbestos must always have access to hygiene products and must always wear protective clothing and gear provided by the employer.

The workers were also using improper techniques, which worsened exposure risks. Not only were the workers being exposed to asbestos, but citizens in the surrounding areas were running the risk of exposure as well.

Utah’s Asbestos Laws

Asbestos laws by state help protect workers today from exposure. Other laws impact how and when asbestos lawsuits proceed.

Utah Statute of Limitations to File an Asbestos Lawsuit

The statute of limitations is a time limit on filing personal injury and wrongful death asbestos lawsuits.

• Under state law, anyone wishing to file a mesothelioma or asbestos lawsuit in Utah must do so within four years of discovering their illness.
• This rule also applies to family members and loved ones seeking a wrongful death lawsuit.

Rights for Secondhand Asbestos Exposure Victims

Secondhand asbestos exposure occurs when someone inadvertently brings asbestos fibers home on their clothing, exposing others in the house. Some of these secondhand exposure victims develop mesothelioma later.

Utah recognizes that companies had a duty to warn workers and their families of the risks of secondhand asbestos exposure. This means that these additional asbestos victims can seek justice and compensation.

Asbestos Trust Fund Transparency

If you plan to file a mesothelioma lawsuit to seek compensation, you must disclose information about trust fund claims. If you receive compensation from a trust fund, a Utah court can reduce a jury award you receive during a lawsuit.

Asbestos Safety Regulations

Utah follows NEPSHA federal regulations regarding the removal process of asbestos material. The Utah Department of Environmental Quality governs state laws.

• The state requires contractors to be certified in the asbestos removal process, as well as inspectors specifically used to identify potential areas where asbestos may be located.
• The state does allow exemptions in the case of homeowners as well as condominium operators with less than four units.
• The state requires a “wetting” process for the removal of asbestos removal, meaning the material must be dampened prior to being secured in containers for safe removal.
• For companies and individual contractors specialized in the asbestos removal process, there is an annual recertification fee, as well as refresher training in order to maintain the approval of the state to continue in the removal process.

For additional information, contact:

Utah Department of Environmental Quality
195 North 1950 West
Salt Lake City, UT
Office: 801-536-4440

Utah Mesothelioma Treatment

It’s important to find a physician specializing in asbestos-related diseases, as these illnesses are still considered relatively unique in the medical world.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) helps make this process easier by appointing worthy care centers and hospitals as NCI-designated facilities.

The Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI), located at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, is an NCI-designated care center with researchers, physicians, cancer experts, and healthcare specialists focusing on mesothelioma cancer and other asbestos-related diseases.

In addition, HCI is a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN).

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

-Michael L.

Legal Assistance in Utah

You might be entitled to significant compensation if you or a loved one has been a victim of mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis. 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. For additional assistance, contact us toll-free at 800-793-4540.