Seattle Asbestos & Mesothelioma Attorneys

The Mesothelioma Lawyer You Need

Offering Over 20 Years of Collective Legal Experience

Despite decades of research proving that exposure to asbestos leads to a number of devastating and potentially life-threatening diseases, such as mesothelioma, the asbestos industry continued producing harmful, asbestos-containing products throughout the twentieth century.

For the public, this meant an increased risk of:

• Serious illness
• Injury
• Death as a result of asbestos exposure

At the Law Office of J.D. Smith, PLLC, we believe the asbestos industry should be held accountable for its failure to prioritize public health and safety over profits. If you or your loved one was diagnosed with asbestosis, mesothelioma, or any other asbestos-related condition, you have the right to take legal action. Our Seattle asbestos & mesothelioma attorneys are here to help you.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that develops in the mesothelium, a thin layer of tissue covering most internal organs. It is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that were once widely used in construction, manufacturing, and other industries, due to their heat-resistant properties.

Can Mesothelioma Be Cured?

Mesothelioma is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, making it challenging to treat. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and, in some cases, experimental treatments. The prognosis depends on the type and stage of cancer at diagnosis, as well as the patient's overall health.

What Compensation Is Available for Asbestos & Mesothelioma Claims?

Our Seattle-based asbestos attorneys can help you work to recover fair compensation for your:

• Medical expenses
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• And other damages

What Conditions & Diseases Are Associated with Asbestos Exposure?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring material comprised of many microscopic fibers. By nature, it is highly flexible, durable, resistant to fire and heat, and cheap to produce, making it a popular material in the construction and manufacturing industries.

For decades, asbestos was used in everything from building insulation to car gaskets, textiles, and floor tiles. When disturbed, asbestos releases its microscopic fibers into the air, where they can be inhaled or accidentally ingested.

Once this occurs, the fibers become permanently lodged in the lining surrounding the:

• Lungs
• Abdomen
• Heart
• And other areas of the body

As the body attempts to expel the fibers, it can lead to abnormal cell growth (cancer). While this is perhaps the most serious illness associated with asbestos exposure, it is not the only complication that can occur.

Some of the Conditions and Diseases Commonly Associated with Asbestos Exposure Include:

• Asbestosis
• Mesothelioma
• Pleural thickening/plaques
• Pleuritis
• Pleural effusion
• Lung cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Laryngeal cancer
• Throat cancer
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

If you or a loved one suffers from any of these diseases, our Seattle asbestos lawyers can help you seek justice and compensation.

Who Is Most at Risk for Asbestos Exposure?

The severity of asbestos-related issues ranges from mild to severe and may even result in death.

Those most at risk of developing one or more asbestos-related conditions include:

• Construction workers
• Factory employees
• Auto mechanics
• And anyone who worked with or around asbestos for prolonged periods of time

The family members and others living in the same house as individuals exposed to asbestos were also at risk, as many workers unknowingly brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes and in their hair. In fact, anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing an asbestos-related disease.

How Long Does an Asbestos Claim Take?

In Washington State, the duration of an asbestos claim can vary depending on several factors. It may take anywhere from a few months to a few years to resolve. Here’s a breakdown of what influences the timeline:

• Case Complexity: More complex cases involving multiple defendants, extensive medical evidence, or disputed facts may take longer to resolve.
• Court System: The efficiency of the Washington court system where the claim is filed can impact the timeline. Some courts may have backlogs that delay proceedings.
• Settlement vs. Trial:
  • Settlement: Many asbestos claims in Washington are settled out of court. If a settlement is reached early, the case could be resolved within 12-18 months.
  • Trial: If the case goes to trial, it could take several years to reach a verdict, especially if there are appeals.
• Type of Claim:
  • Personal Injury Claims: These are often faster, especially if the evidence is straightforward and the claimant is still living.
  • Wrongful Death Claims: These can be more complex and may take longer to resolve.
  • Trust Fund Claims: Filing a claim against an asbestos trust fund might be faster, potentially resolving within a year, depending on the specific trust’s procedures.
• Negotiations and Legal Strategy: Prolonged negotiations or legal disputes over compensation amounts can extend the timeline. An aggressive legal strategy may lead to a quicker settlement or resolution, but it could also prolong the case if the defense contests the claims.

Why Choose JD Smith as Your Asbestos Lawyer in Seattle?

Fighting for Justice & the Fair Recovery You Deserve

Although studies revealed the link between asbestos exposure and illness as far back as the turn of the century, it wasn’t until the early 1970s that measures were taken in the United States to limit public exposure to asbestos. In the early 1990s, the asbestos industry challenged and ultimately overturned an attempt by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1989 to phase out and ban asbestos.

Many people are surprised to learn that asbestos is not currently banned in the United States. If you have suffered a chronic illness, were diagnosed with mesothelioma, or your loved one died as a result of an asbestos-related condition, our firm can help.

At the Law Office of J.D. Smith, PLLC, we bring more than two decades of combined legal experience to each case. Our mesothelioma lawyers in Seattle work tirelessly to help you and your family pursue the best physical and financial recovery possible. We are here to answer your questions and help you navigate the legal process.