Columbus Mesothelioma Legal Question

In the early stages, mesothelioma may cause few symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms can include:

Chest pain, coughing, and difficulty breathing due to fluid buildup or a tumor in the lungs

Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel habits resulting from fluid buildup or a tumor in the abdomen

Fatigue and weight loss

Treatment options for mesothelioma include:

Surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible. This can be used for early-stage mesothelioma.

Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells using drugs. This is often used in combination with surgery.

Radiation therapy which uses high-energy beams to shrink tumors and kill cancer cells.

Immunotherapy which harnesses your immune system to fight cancer.

Clinical trials offer access to promising new treatments.

Mesothelioma Diagnosis and Treatment Options in Columbus

1. Diagnosing Mesothelioma

The only way to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis is through a biopsy. Your doctor will remove a tissue sample from the affected area in your body and examine it to determine if there are cancerous cells present. Common biopsy procedures for mesothelioma include:

Needle biopsy: Removes tissue through a needle inserted into the chest or abdomen

Thoracoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure using a small camera to examine the chest cavity and remove tissue samples.

Laparoscopy: Similar to thoracoscopy but examines the abdominal cavity.

Treatment Options

There are several standard treatment options for mesothelioma patients:

Surgery: Removes as much of the mesothelioma as possible. Often used in earlier stages or to reduce symptoms.

Chemotherapy: Uses anti-cancer drugs to kill cancer cells. Can be used alone or in combination with other treatments.

Radiation therapy: Uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. Often used to shrink tumors before surgery or reduce pain.

Immunotherapy: Uses your own immune system to fight the cancer. Some options like Keytruda have shown promise for mesothelioma.

Clinical trials: Newer experimental treatments still being tested. Can provide access to promising new therapies.

Filing a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in Ohio

Here are some frequently asked questions about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit in Ohio.

1. What is the statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit in Ohio?

Ohio has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, including those involving mesothelioma. This means patients have two years from the date of diagnosis to file a claim. It’s best to start the legal process as soon as possible before time runs out.

2. Can family members file a wrongful death lawsuit?

Yes, if a loved one has passed away from mesothelioma, family members including spouses, children, and parents may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover damages. Ohio’s wrongful death statute also has a two-year time limit, so it’s important to take action quickly.

3. What types of compensation can I recover in a mesothelioma lawsuit?

Successful lawsuits can recover damages for a variety of losses including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and loss of life’s enjoyment. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the companies responsible. The total amount awarded depends on the details of each case.

4. Do I need an attorney to file a mesothelioma lawsuit?

Filing a mesothelioma lawsuit can be complicated, so working with an experienced asbestos attorney is highly recommended. They can properly investigate the case, determine which companies are liable, and fight to maximize your compensation. Most attorneys handle mesothelioma cases on contingency, so they don’t get paid unless you win your case.

Finding a Mesothelioma Lawyer in Columbus

Here are some tips to find an experienced attorney:

1. Do your research

Search online for “Columbus mesothelioma lawyer” or “asbestos attorney Columbus Ohio.” Check sites like Avvo, Justia, and your local or state bar association for reviews and ratings. Look for lawyers with a proven track record of success in mesothelioma and asbestos cases.

2. Schedule consultations

Many attorneys offer free initial consultations. Meet with a few lawyers so you can find one you connect with and trust. Ask about their experience, credentials, caseload, and fee structure. A good lawyer will be straightforward in answering your questions.

3. Consider experience

An ideal candidate will have years of experience handling mesothelioma and asbestos claims. They should be familiar with the process of filing claims against asbestos trusts and lawsuits. More experience means they’ll know how to build the strongest case for maximum compensation.

4. Discuss fees

Most mesothelioma lawyers work on contingency, meaning they only get paid if they win your case or settlement. The standard fee is 33-40% of your total settlement amount. Make sure you understand all potential fees before signing a contract.

4. Review credentials

Check that the lawyer is licensed to practice in Ohio and see if they belong to any professional organizations like the American Bar Association, Ohio Association for Justice, or American Association for Justice. Membership in these groups shows a commitment to high ethical standards and continuing education.

With the right attorney by your side, you can feel confident your case is in good hands. Do your part by providing as much information as possible about your asbestos exposure. Together you’ll make a great team to get you compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. The road ahead won’t be easy, but the right Columbus mesothelioma lawyer will help you every step of the way.

Mesothelioma Legal FAQs for Columbus Residents

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions from others in your position.

1. Can I file a lawsuit if exposed to asbestos in Columbus?

Yes, if you were exposed to asbestos because of negligence, you may be able to file an asbestos lawsuit. This could be against the companies that manufactured or sold the asbestos products that caused your exposure. Many Columbus residents have successfully filed lawsuits against asbestos companies and won financial compensation.

2. How much time do I have to file an asbestos claim?

Each state has its own statute of limitations for filing asbestos-related lawsuits. In Ohio, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of diagnosis. However, some exceptions may apply in certain situations. It’s best to speak with an asbestos attorney in Columbus as soon as possible about your case.

3. How much money can I get from an asbestos lawsuit?

There is no set amount for asbestos lawsuit settlements or verdicts.

The amount will depend on factors like:

Severity of your mesothelioma diagnosis

Age, occupation, health, life expectancy

Companies named in your lawsuit

Strength of evidence showing negligence
Past settlements and verdicts in similar cases

4. Will I have to go to court for an asbestos claim?

Not necessarily. Many asbestos lawsuits are settled out of court through negotiations between the plaintiff’s and defendant’s attorneys. Settlements avoid the time, stress, and uncertainty of taking a case to trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, you may need to take your case to court to get the full compensation you deserve. An mesothelioma law firm in Columbus can handle the entire legal process for you.

Conclusion

Hope this helps provide some initial answers and guidance for Columbus residents with mesothelioma. Please let me know if you have any other questions. I’m happy to help in any way I can.

Columbus Mesothelioma Legal Question

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