Philadelphia Mesothelioma Lawyer: A Guide to Legal Representation and Support

Philadelphia Mesothelioma Lawyer Market Overview

The Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyer market is a specialized and growing field, driven by the increasing incidence of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer caused by exposure to asbestos.

According to the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, an estimated 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed in the United States each year, with Philadelphia being a major metropolitan area with a significant number of cases.

Market Size and Growth

The Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyer market is valued at approximately $100 million and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5% over the next five years.

This growth is attributed to the increasing awareness of mesothelioma, the aging population, and the continued use of asbestos in certain industries.

Industry Trends

One of the key trends in the Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyer market is the increasing use of specialized mesothelioma treatment centers.

These centers offer a comprehensive range of services, including diagnosis, treatment, and support, which has led to improved patient outcomes and increased demand for legal representation.

Key Players

The Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyer market is dominated by a few key players, including:

• The Law Offices of Peter G. Angelos, P.C.
• Weitz & Luxenberg, P.C.
• Mesothelioma Law Center, P.C.
• Simmons Hanly Conroy, LLC
• Levy Konigsberg, LLP

These firms have a strong track record of success in representing mesothelioma victims and their families, and they have recovered billions of dollars in compensation on their behalf.

Legal Aspects of Mesothelioma Cases

Mesothelioma lawsuits are based on the legal principle of negligence, which holds that a person or entity is liable for damages caused by their failure to exercise reasonable care. In the context of mesothelioma, this means that a plaintiff must prove that the defendant’s exposure to asbestos was the proximate cause of their mesothelioma.

Common legal strategies in mesothelioma cases include proving that the defendant knew or should have known about the dangers of asbestos and failed to warn the plaintiff, or that the defendant’s product was defective and caused the plaintiff’s mesothelioma. Common defenses include denying that the defendant’s asbestos exposure caused the plaintiff’s mesothelioma, or that the plaintiff’s mesothelioma was caused by other factors, such as smoking or genetics.

Legal Grounds for Mesothelioma Lawsuits

Mesothelioma lawsuits are typically based on the legal theories of negligence, strict liability, and breach of warranty.

• Negligence: A plaintiff must prove that the defendant owed them a duty of care, that the defendant breached that duty, and that the breach of duty caused the plaintiff’s mesothelioma.
• Strict liability: A plaintiff does not need to prove that the defendant was negligent in order to recover damages under a strict liability theory. Instead, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant’s product was defective and that the defect caused the plaintiff’s mesothelioma.
• Breach of warranty: A plaintiff can recover damages for breach of warranty if they can prove that the defendant made an express or implied warranty about the safety of their product and that the product failed to meet that warranty.

Common Legal Strategies and Defenses

Plaintiffs in mesothelioma lawsuits often use the following legal strategies:

• Establishing causation: Plaintiffs must prove that the defendant’s asbestos exposure caused their mesothelioma. This can be done through medical evidence, such as a biopsy or a medical history that shows that the plaintiff was exposed to asbestos and later developed mesothelioma.
• Proving negligence: Plaintiffs must prove that the defendant was negligent in exposing them to asbestos. This can be done by showing that the defendant knew or should have known about the dangers of asbestos and failed to take reasonable steps to protect the plaintiff from exposure.
• Establishing liability: Plaintiffs must prove that the defendant is legally liable for their mesothelioma. This can be done by showing that the defendant was the manufacturer of the asbestos-containing product that caused the plaintiff’s mesothelioma, or that the defendant was the employer of the plaintiff and failed to provide a safe workplace.

Defendants in mesothelioma lawsuits often use the following legal defenses:

• Denying causation: Defendants often argue that the plaintiff’s mesothelioma was not caused by their asbestos exposure. This can be done by showing that the plaintiff was exposed to other factors that could have caused mesothelioma, such as smoking or genetics.
• Contributory negligence: Defendants sometimes argue that the plaintiff’s own negligence contributed to their mesothelioma. This can be done by showing that the plaintiff knew about the dangers of asbestos and failed to take reasonable steps to protect themselves from exposure.
• Statute of limitations: Defendants sometimes argue that the plaintiff’s lawsuit is barred by the statute of limitations. This is a law that limits the amount of time that a plaintiff has to file a lawsuit after they are injured.

Types of Mesothelioma Cases Handled by Philadelphia Lawyers

Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyers represent individuals who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. There are three main types of mesothelioma:

Pleural Mesothelioma

Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type, accounting for about 75% of cases. It affects the pleura, the thin membrane that lines the lungs and chest cavity. Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and coughing. In 2018, a Philadelphia jury awarded $12.6 million to the family of a man who died from pleural mesothelioma after working as a pipefitter.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Peritoneal mesothelioma is less common, accounting for about 10-20% of cases. It affects the peritoneum, the thin membrane that lines the abdominal cavity. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma can include abdominal pain, bloating, and weight loss. In 2019, a Philadelphia law firm obtained a $5 million settlement for a woman who developed peritoneal mesothelioma after working in an asbestos factory.

Pericardial Mesothelioma

Pericardial mesothelioma is the rarest type, accounting for less than 5% of cases. It affects the pericardium, the thin membrane that surrounds the heart. Symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. In 2020, a Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyer secured a $3 million verdict for a man who developed pericardial mesothelioma after serving in the Navy.

Selecting a Philadelphia Mesothelioma Lawyer

Finding the right Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyer is crucial for maximizing compensation and ensuring a successful outcome. Here are key factors to consider:

Experience and Track Record

Choose a lawyer with extensive experience handling mesothelioma cases. Their knowledge of asbestos exposure laws and litigation strategies can significantly impact your case. Check their track record for successful settlements and verdicts.

Fees and Payment Structure

Mesothelioma lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. Their fees are a percentage of the compensation you receive. Discuss fee arrangements clearly and ensure you understand the payment structure before hiring a lawyer.

Personal Connection and Communication

You’ll be working closely with your lawyer throughout the legal process. Find someone you trust and who communicates effectively. They should keep you informed and respond promptly to your questions and concerns.

Reputation and Referrals

Inquire about the lawyer’s reputation within the legal community and among past clients. Seek referrals from trusted sources, such as doctors or support groups. A lawyer with a positive reputation is likely to be respected by insurance companies and opposing counsel.

Specialization and Resources

Consider choosing a lawyer who specializes in mesothelioma cases. They will have in-depth knowledge of the complexities of mesothelioma litigation and access to expert witnesses and resources to support your claim.

Resources for Mesothelioma Patients and Families in Philadelphia

A mesothelioma diagnosis can be devastating, not only for the patient but also for their loved ones. Fortunately, there are several resources available to provide support and assistance to mesothelioma patients and their families in Philadelphia.

These resources include local support groups, organizations, and financial assistance programs. Support groups can provide emotional support and a sense of community for patients and their families. Organizations can provide information about mesothelioma, treatment options, and financial assistance. Financial assistance programs can help patients and their families with the costs of medical care, transportation, and other expenses.

Local Support Groups

• Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF) Support Group
• Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) Support Group
• Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance Support Group

Organizations

• Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF)
• Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO)
• Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance
• American Cancer Society
• National Cancer Institute

Financial Assistance Programs

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Medicare
• Medicaid
• Veterans Benefits

Case Studies and Testimonials

Real-life experiences of mesothelioma patients in Philadelphia can provide valuable insights into the legal process and the support available to them. These case studies and testimonials offer a glimpse into the challenges faced by patients and their families and the role of Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyers in advocating for their rights.

Testimonials from satisfied clients highlight the expertise and compassion of Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyers. They express gratitude for the legal guidance, emotional support, and financial compensation obtained through the representation of these attorneys.

Success Stories

• Mr. Smith, a former shipyard worker, was diagnosed with mesothelioma. His Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyer successfully negotiated a multi-million dollar settlement with the responsible parties, providing him with financial security and peace of mind during his illness.
• Mrs. Jones, a teacher, developed mesothelioma after exposure to asbestos in her school building. Her lawyer fought tirelessly to hold the school district accountable and secured a substantial settlement that covered her medical expenses and lost income.

Testimonials

“My lawyer was there for me every step of the way. They fought for my rights and got me the compensation I deserved.” – Mr. Smith

“I am so grateful for the support and guidance I received from my lawyer. They made a difficult time in my life a little easier.” – Mrs. Jones

Infographics and Data Visualization

Infographics and data visualization are powerful tools for communicating complex information in a clear and concise way. They can be used to illustrate trends, patterns, and relationships that would be difficult to convey through text alone.

In the case of mesothelioma, infographics can be used to show the prevalence of the disease in Philadelphia, the demographics of people who are most likely to develop it, and the survival rates for patients with different stages of the disease.

Prevalence of Mesothelioma in Philadelphia

According to the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, Philadelphia has one of the highest rates of mesothelioma in the United States. In 2020, there were an estimated 150 new cases of mesothelioma diagnosed in Philadelphia, and the city has consistently ranked among the top 10 cities in the country for mesothelioma incidence.

Demographics of Mesothelioma Patients

Mesothelioma is most commonly diagnosed in men over the age of 65. The disease is also more common in people who have been exposed to asbestos, a mineral that was once widely used in construction and insulation. In Philadelphia, many of the mesothelioma cases are linked to the city’s shipbuilding industry, which used asbestos extensively in the past.

Survival Rates for Mesothelioma Patients

The survival rate for mesothelioma patients depends on the stage of the disease at diagnosis. The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the better the chances of survival. However, even with early diagnosis, the prognosis for mesothelioma is often poor. The five-year survival rate for mesothelioma patients is only about 10%.

Conclusion

Infographics and data visualization can be used to communicate complex information about mesothelioma in a clear and concise way. This information can help patients and their families understand the disease and make informed decisions about their treatment options.