What To Expect

Because of its heat and fire-resistant properties and its cost-effectiveness, asbestos became widely used in commercial and consumer products throughout the United States. Asbestos is now known to cause serious and deadly cancer and other illnesses in those who inhale or ingest asbestos dust or fibers.

The unfortunate truth is that many factory owners and asbestos manufacturers were aware of the danger to people working with their asbestos products risks. Although the dangers of asbestos were known to product manufacturers and industry in the early 1900’s, they failed to warn those who worked with and around asbestos about those dangers so workers could protect themselves and their families. The dangers of asbestos were not widely publicized until the 1970s.

If you or a loved one suffers from mesothelioma, you have the right to file a lawsuit against the companies responsible for the asbestos exposure that caused your illness. The decision whether to pursue your legal rights must be made quickly. Statutes of limitations in each state limit the time frame in which you can take legal action.

The time window to file varies by state, so do not delay seeking legal advice. For instance, the statute of limitations in South Carolina is three years from the date of diagnosis or when the diagnosis should have been made.

Filing A Lawsuit

If you suffer from an asbestos-related illness, you may file a lawsuit against the parties responsible for your asbestos exposure. Family members or loved ones may file a suit on behalf of a victim. Asbestos lawsuits often target the following parties:

• Asbestos manufacturers
• Asbestos installers
• Employers
• Landlords
• Leasing agents

Proving Your Case

Many people who have a mesothelioma diagnosis know they were exposed at work. However, determining who manufactured the asbestos can be a challenge. At Richardson, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman, our attorneys have paved the way in asbestos litigation. We know, based on our experience, the most common products used in various work industries and we have a vast knowledge of job sites throughout the United States. Through investigation, we are able to identify the responsible parties. Then we hold them liable.

Once your attorney has a clear understanding of your case, he or she files a complaint against the responsible parties. Filing a complaint document in court initiates a lawsuit. The document details the facts of your case and the compensation you seek. Defendants have approximately 30 to 45 days to respond.

The purpose of an asbestos lawsuit is to recover the financial losses that can result from asbestos-related illnesses and to punish asbestos manufacturers and employers for knowingly exposing workers and the public to this dangerous product.

Will I Have To Go To Trial?

Your case will be resolved either through a jury trial or through a settlement with the responsible defendants. There are always risks associated with trial and many asbestos cases settle out of court just before trial.

A settlement is an agreement to resolve the case for a monetary amount agreed to by both sides. Some lawsuits proceed to trial, where a jury decides whether the companies are liable for injuries arising from exposure to their products. If the jury finds liability, it then sets the damages you receive.

At RPWB, we adjust our approach to reflect the wishes of our clients. When it comes to trial or settlement, we will help you make the best decision for you and your family.

Call 1-866-594-8765 For More Information

For more information about asbestos lawsuits, contact RPWB. We offer free consultations and handle cases on a contingency basis — we won’t charge you until we obtain compensation for you through a verdict or settlement. To speak with one of our lawyers, call 866-594-8765 or contact our firm online.

We represent asbestos victims throughout the nation and will come to you, often just a day or two after you contact us. Our offices are located in Aiken, Charleston, Columbia, Mount Pleasant and Barnwell, South Carolina, and in Edwardsville, Illinois.

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