Chicago Mesothelioma Lawyer
Many of the buildings in Chicago’s impressive skyline are lined with asbestos. Until the 1980s, construction crews used this carcinogenic material to insulate skyscrapers, factories, homes, and schools. If you developed cancer after asbestos exposure, a Chicago mesothelioma lawyer can fight for the compensation you deserve. The attorneys at Meirowitz & Wasserberg have secured millions in asbestos exposure verdicts. Contact us today for your complimentary case review.
Content Written by: Samuel Meirowitz
Samuel Meirowitz is “Top 100 Trial Lawyer” and an accomplished NYC personal injury lawyer, trial attorney and relentless advocate for his clients. Previously, he served the State of New York for four years as a prosecutor in the Bronx District Attorney’s office. Mr. Meirowitz is admitted to practice law in New York and Florida State Courts.
Samuel Meirowitz is “Top 100 Trial Lawyer” and an accomplished NYC personal injury lawyer, trial attorney and relentless advocate for his clients. Previously, he served the State of New York for four years as a prosecutor in the Bronx District Attorney’s office. Mr. Meirowitz is admitted to practice law in New York and Florida State Courts.
Quick Links
- Why Choose Our Chicago Mesothelioma Lawyers
- What Are the Steps To Pursue a Legal Case for Mesothelioma?
- Where Is Asbestos Found in Chicago?
- What Is Mesothelioma?
- What Are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?
- What Are the Types of Mesothelioma?
- Who Is Liable in a Mesothelioma Injury Case?
- How Is Mesothelioma Diagnosed?
- How Do You Cope With Mesothelioma?
- How Can Our Chicago Mesothelioma Lawyer Help With Mesothelioma?
Why Choose Our Chicago Mesothelioma Lawyers
Asbestos exposure is the main cause of mesothelioma. If you developed this form of cancer after working with asbestos or spending time in a contaminated space, you may be entitled to financial compensation. A skilled legal professional can help you determine the cause of your cancer, identify the at-fault parties, and pursue the settlement you deserve.
At Meirowitz & Wasserberg, we’re known for our work on behalf of those suffering from the effects of asbestos exposure. Our experienced mesothelioma attorneys in Chicago have won millions in successful cases, including:
for secondhand asbestos exposure.
awarded to a former pipefitter exposed to asbestos.
settlement for a Navy machinist’s mate who developed mesothelioma due to asbestos.
We understand the complexities surrounding mesothelioma injury claims. Our attorneys will leverage their detailed knowledge of asbestos-related cases to secure the best possible result for you and your family.
What Are the Steps To Pursue a Legal Case for Mesothelioma?
Every mesothelioma injury case is different. However, following some basic steps to filing a lawsuit for asbestos exposure in Illinois can give you the best chance to recover the full compensation you deserve.
- Hire a mesothelioma lawyer. Chicago-based lawyers, like those at Meirowitz & Wasserberg, know how to compile evidence, collaborate with your medical providers, and build the strongest case for compensation on your behalf.
Learn more on how to choose a mesothelioma lawyer.
- File the complaint. Your attorney will identify potentially liable parties and gather evidence before filing your claim against the defendant in the correct jurisdiction. Once you file the complaint, both sides seek additional evidence in the discovery phase.
- Negotiate a settlement or go to trial. You and your lawyer will negotiate a potential settlement with the defendant based on the evidence collected during discovery. If you cannot settle, your attorney will fight on your behalf in court.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Mesothelioma in Chicago?
The Illinois statute of limitations for mesothelioma cases gives you two years from the date you discover your illness to file a lawsuit compensation. Loved ones also have two years from discovery to pursue a wrongful death suit. There are a few exceptions that can either lengthen or shorten the window to file, so contact a mesothelioma attorney as soon as you are diagnosed to avoid losing your right to seek compensation.
Where Is Asbestos Found in Chicago?
Thanks to its fibrous nature and natural abundance, construction companies used asbestos to make structures more resistant to fire and corrosion. It’s often found in materials like insulation, vinyl flooring, board siding, drywall, roofing felt, and popcorn ceilings installed before 1980.
High-risk Chicago structures include:
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport
- Military bases, ships, and barracks
- Chicago public schools built before 1980
- Hotels and other large structures
- Industrial buildings, such as power plants, oil refineries, steel mills, and manufacturing centers
- The Johns-Manville Corporation’s Waukegan disposal site
- The Matthiessen and Hegeler Zinc Company in La Salle
What Is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is an aggressive, malignant form of cancer that affects the mesothelium, the thin layer of tissue that lines your internal organs. Unlike many other cancers, we generally understand its origins. Mesothelioma is almost always associated with exposure to asbestos. Spending time in a contaminated building and working in certain industries—such as shipbuilding, manufacturing, or construction—can place you at risk.
Asbestos fibers enter the lungs or stomach and cause abnormal cell division. The more fibers you inhale or swallow, the more scar tissue your body will develop. This can go undiagnosed for months or years. Once you begin experiencing symptoms, prompt medical intervention is crucial.
What Are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?
While it is not possible to cure this form of cancer, doctors can alleviate your symptoms. Depending on where it metastasizes, signs of mesothelioma may include:
- A dry cough that does not improve over time
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heartbeat
- Significant weight loss
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fever and fatigue
- Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating
- Pain in the chest, abdomen, or lower back
- New, unexplained lumps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Swelling of the limbs, face, or abdomen
What Are the Types of Mesothelioma?
After asbestos exposure, it may take years for symptoms to manifest. Most people are diagnosed with one of the four main types of mesothelioma.
Pleural Mesothelioma
The most common and most intensely studied form of mesothelioma, pleural mesothelioma, affects the pleura, or the membrane surrounding your lungs. It is treated with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Accidentally ingesting asbestos can cause peritoneal mesothelioma, or cancer of the abdominal lining. Painful masses, general abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and fluid build-up in your torso can all be signs of this type of mesothelioma. Doctors treat peritoneal mesothelioma with a combination of surgery and chemotherapy called hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).
Pericardial Mesothelioma
The word “pericardial” refers to the protective sac of tissue surrounding your heart. Pericardial mesothelioma can cause fatigue and heartbeat irregularities. Though pericardial mesothelioma occurs primarily in the pericardial, the tumors can metastasize to other organs, including the liver and lungs. Doctors remove the growths and their associated material to manage this form of cancer.
Testicular Mesothelioma
Testicular mesothelioma is the rarest type of asbestos-linked cancer. Because its symptoms are mostly painless—swelling, tumors, and testicular fluid retention—some men may not seek treatment. Testicular mesothelioma is treated by removing as much of the cancer as possible.
Who Is Liable in a Mesothelioma Injury Case?
If you developed mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure, you have legal recourse. State regulations protect workers from asbestos exposure and provide oversight for those who must work with this substance.
Depending on the specific facts of your exposure, several parties could be liable for your mesothelioma lawsuit. Our Chicago mesothelioma lawyers can help you identify all potential liable parties, including:
- Manufacturers of asbestos
- Manufacturers of asbestos-contaminated products
- Mining companies that spread airborne asbestos particles
- The owner of an asbestos-contaminated building
How to File a Mesothelioma Claim in New York
If you have symptoms of mesothelioma, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible.
If your provider suspects mesothelioma after a physical exam, they may order the following diagnostic tests:
- Chest X-rays
- Biopsies
- Positron emission tomography (PET) scans
- Blood tests
- Computerized tomography (CT) scans
- Echocardiograms
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans
How Do You Cope With Mesothelioma?
With proper preparation, it’s possible to live well after a mesothelioma diagnosis.
Physically Coping With Mesothelioma
Chemotherapy, multiple medications, surgery, radiation, and immunotherapy are all used to treat this form of cancer. Monitor your diet, activity level, and sleep habits as your treatment progresses.
Mentally Coping With Mesothelioma
A mesothelioma diagnosis can be emotionally overwhelming, and so is the barrage of treatment that follows. Social support greatly benefits those battling cancer. Leaning on loved ones, building community through group meetings, and attending regular therapy sessions can help you mentally cope in the days ahead.
Financially Coping With Mesothelioma
Don’t struggle to pay for costly cancer treatments. You may be eligible for compensation from your previous employer and the asbestos industry itself.
How Can Our Chicago Mesothelioma Lawyer Help With Mesothelioma?
At Meirowitz & Wasserberg, our mesothelioma attorneys in Chicago are here to take the burden off your family. Our legal team is highly experienced with the complexities often present in mesothelioma lawsuits. We will investigate your claim, determine which parties are responsible for your asbestos exposure, gather evidence, and handle each step of the process on your behalf.
There is no fee unless we win your case, so contact us today for your free consultation to learn more about how we can help.
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