For those employees who have been exposed to asbestos through their workplace and have developed mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease in Louisiana, a mesothelioma settlement or verdict can allow you to deal with the expenses associated with your treatment, as well as replacing any lost income you may have experienced due to your illness.
The vast majority of Louisiana mesothelioma claims are settled prior to an actual trial, even though the average mesothelioma trial verdict amount is significantly more than the average mesothelioma settlement amount.
Average Mesothelioma Verdict Awards
These numbers are based on settlement amounts—mesothelioma cases are generally settled because of the length of time it takes to bring a case to trial, and the fact that by the time mesothelioma is discovered, the disease has progressed significantly.
Factors Which Determine Settlement or Verdict Amounts for Mesothelioma Patients
Other factors associated with mesothelioma settlement and verdict amounts include the medical history and diagnosis of the plaintiff, the number of companies being sued, the venue where the case is filed, whether proof of negligence exists and the level of medical expenses, lost wages and other expenses.
The strength of the case is, of course, directly linked to the level of compensation.
The Settlement Process for a Mesothelioma Case
If you developed mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure in the workplace, there is a specific process for a settlement.
Your attorney will research the facts associated with your case, organizing your information, and building a solid case on your behalf. This information can include your medical history, your medical records, your employment history, and all expenses related to your mesothelioma diagnosis.
Next, your attorney will file a mesothelioma claim on your behalf, against the company or companies responsible for your exposure to asbestos—often there can be multiple companies responsible for your asbestos-related illness.
There will be many pretrial activities, including the submission of motions on your behalf which relate to your claim. All information will be exchanged between the parties during the discovery phase of the claim.
Once your attorney files your claim, an initial offer may be made from the defendant(s), however typically the first offer is low.
At this point, your lawyer will make a counter-offer on your behalf, and if a settlement amount can be reached, the details will be finalized. If no settlement offer is accepted, a trial will be scheduled.
Getting Legal Help for Your Mesothelioma Claim
If your job resulted in a diagnosis of mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, having an experienced mesothelioma attorney by your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your claim.
Having an attorney to handle the details of your claim also allows you the time to concentrate on your mesothelioma treatment without having to deal with an insurance company.
At Landry & Swarr, our attorneys can help hold negligent employers accountable and pursue maximum compensation, so you have the money you need during this difficult time. If you would like a no-obligation consultation please contact us today. You can reach us by telephone at (504) 299-1214 or come by our offices at 1100 Poydras St. Energy Centre – Suite 2000 New Orleans, LA 70163.