Choosing a lawyer:
Our staff is currently in the process of reviewing judgments and verdicts across the country. Based on verdicts and our reviews, we will make recommendations as to the best lawyers in various geographic regions. We do not accept lawyer advertising on MAACenter. If you are a lawyer who is looking to advertise, don't bother. Sometime soon we will have geographic information on attorneys or will make a selection as to the best attorney. If you feel you are an attorney worthy of recommendation from MAA Center you can submit your contact information and any information on your firm here.
We have included some questions that we suggest you ask an attorney before signing:
How much experience do you have in actually trying Mesothelioma cases?
It is important that you find a lawyer who has lots of experience in taking on asbestos companies. Some attorneys have handled one or two cases and some have handled hundreds. It is important that the lawyer you choose has the experience necessary in TRYING cases, not just settling them.
Are you aware of the statute of limitation laws regarding my case?
An SOL or statute of limitation is the government's way of making sure that old cases don't flood the courts. For this reason if you don't act quickly, you may be prevented from getting any money from anyone. This is why it is important for you and your lawyer to move as quickly as possible.
Can you provide me with a list of references of families you've represented and the types of verdicts you've received?
Would you go to a stock broker that had never sold a stock in his life? Absolutely not! Any lawyer worth their salt should be able to provide you with examples of cases they've won and how they've beat the asbestos companies time and time again. They also should have a list of families who are extremely happy with the service they received. Some lawyers might even suggest you talk to these people - and you should.
How much do YOU get paid if I win?
It is no secret that most personal injury lawyers get paid when you do. Sometimes this means that they have to spend hundreds of thousands on your case with risk that they may not win at all. It is reasonable that they would get some percentage if you win. You should ask any lawyer you are talking to what that percentage is and ask them for a ballpark of how much your family could win. Many Mesothelioma verdicts of late have been for Millions of Dollars. The asbestos companies became very rich, while many workers became very sick.
What state would you try this case in?
It is important to find out what jurisdiction a lawyer intends to try a case in. A lawyer might be more used to trying cases in a state that typically gets lower verdicts. To get the highest dollar amount possible for your case, you want to make sure you try it in the right jurisdiction. A good lawyer is going to know the best place to try your case in order to get the highest amount possible.
Do you refer your cases to someone else? If so, who?
There are differing theories in case referrals. Some say that you will get better representation dealing with the lawyer who will eventually try your case. Others argue that you receive two lawyers for the price of one. This is a judgment you will need to make and you will definitely hear both sides of the argument. If you find a lawyer you feel comfortable with, it may be in your best interest to have the case referred to a trial lawyer. You want to find a lawyer who displays compassion and honesty and work with a team that can get you the best money possible. Check their references and trust your instincts.
Can my case be tried separately or as a class action suit?
Some lawyers may try to bunch you in with a group of plaintiffs. This could mean less work for the lawyer and less money for you. On the other side of things, this means that the lawyer is able to gather and present all the information necessary. In most cases mesothelioma is dealt with separately with one plaintiff. Still, this is an important question to ask.
How long will it take to get paid?
It can take two or three years for a mesothelioma case to be paid out. Some companies are in bankruptcy and others have made other legal maneuvers to avoid paying. It is much easier to get a case on the docket if you act quickly and the patient is still alive. The quicker you move forward with the right lawyer, the quicker you will get the money you deserve. Your lawyer should give you some answers as to when you can expect your money if you win.
Did the asbestos companies know what they were doing to my loved one?
The asbestos companies absolutely knew. Read through some of our historical data and timelines regarding asbestos. A good lawyer will have compiled years and years of data and admissions about what the asbestos companies knew and when. Chances are he/she even has information that could help your loved on with their case. You should ask what information your lawyer intends to present to hold the asbestos companies liable.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Any lawyer should offer to meet you in person at your place of residence before you sign with them. The attorney(s) will sit down with you face to face and discuss your case. The lawyer will evaluate all of your legal options and assess the seriousness and potential outcome of the case. They may first seek specific information over the phone such as where exposure occurred. If a lawyer is going to pay thousands of dollars coming to see you, they'll likely want you to confirm that the loved one has been diagnosed. Any lawyer that is serious should be willing to come see you promptly, as they understand how important it is to move quickly.
What is your background?
Just because a lawyer went to Harvard doesn't make them the best lawyer. However, chances are a good lawyer is usually a smart one. Don't be afraid to ask your lawyer where he/she received their education. You want someone smart working on your case and you want someone that is hard working. You know hard working folks and you're going to need someone smart and hard working if you're going to win.
