Successfully litigating an asbestos case requires the skills of an experienced attorney who understands the various aspects of this type of legal matter, including the vulnerability of patients and their families, as well as how to trace asbestos exposure to its original source.
Working With a Seasoned California Asbestos Litigation Attorney
There are many issues that must be handled in a mesothelioma, lung cancer or asbestosis case, including but not limited to:
Meeting with an Attorney and the Attorney’s Staff
Here, we will want to ask you questions and learn about you, your family, your medical status and prognosis, your work history and your needs. We will want to explain in detail how things should proceed should we take your case. We will gather your signature on authorizations for the release for medical, military, social security, union and work records. We will discuss fees and obtain a signature on an attorney fee contract that will make clear that you pay us no money unless we recover money for you.
Starting the Case: Initial Court Papers and Bankruptcy Compensation Claim Forms
We will explain the three basic types of asbestos court claims: (1) product liability claims; (2) premises liability claims and (3) contractor liability claims. We will explain the basics of Court Complaints, Answers, and other motions involved at the beginning of a lawsuit. We will explain, and where appropriate, prepare asbestos compensation forms to be submitted before various trusts established by asbestos product manufacturers to compensate asbestos injury victims. Where appropriate, we will explain and may file a workers compensation claim for you, and/or a Veterans Administration service-connected claim and/or a social security disability claim.
Fact-Finding and Discovery
We will explain pretrial “discovery” rules — the process by which opponents in a lawsuit get information from each other to establish facts in the case, such as depositions, subpoenas for records and interrogatories.
Resolution before Trial: Motions
Many cases get resolved by Motions to Dismiss and other motions which ask the court to cut the case off before trial. We will explain this process to you.
Settlement
Far more injury lawsuits settle than go to trial. We will explain the basics of settlements, as well as factors you should consider.
What Happens at Trial?
Trials are not like those shown on TV. We will explain what really happens — from jury selection, to opening arguments, witness testimony, closing arguments, and all the way to a jury’s verdict.
Because so much of your case rests on the ability of your attorney to successfully prove the original source of asbestos exposure and to negotiate the highest possible settlement, it is critical that you work with an experienced California trial lawyer who has a solid track record of success.
Before choosing your attorney, it’s important to determine if your lawyer has experience in winning large, multi-million dollar asbestos settlements, and if he or she is able to explore the possibility of compensation through asbestos trust funds.
Contact Stephen Healy Today For More Information
Asbestos litigation can be an overwhelming and tiring process, especially when you’re already dealing with the emotional upheaval of your diagnosis and the physical issues that these illnesses bring with them. Attorney Stephen Healy has worked with individuals and families that have been affected by asbestos exposure for years, and can provide you with the qualified, aggressive legal representation you need.
Attorney Healy is not only dedicated to the success of each case, but is also committed to providing families with support and compassion throughout the process of obtaining compensation. He understands how challenging a diagnosis of mesothelioma or asbestos can be for an individual and their loved ones, and is committed to guiding each family through the various steps of obtaining justice and compensation.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with asbestosis or mesothelioma, it’s important that you take action right away. Contact Attorney Healy today for a consultation by calling (844) 466-3768.