What Is Asbestos and Mesothelioma Law?

Asbestos and Mesothelioma Legal Issues

Asbestos is an insulating and flame retardant material that has been partially banned in the United States since the passage of the Clean Air Act in 1970. That's when the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that the substance caused numerous health problems, including mesothelioma, a form of cancer most commonly found in the lungs of people exposed to asbestos. Since 1970, the use of asbestos has been greatly limited and regulated by the EPA, although the regulations limiting its use have changed over time.

Asbestos and mesothelioma litigation is related to personal injury and toxic tort law. But even when plaintiffs are diagnosed with mesothelioma, they must still prove that exposure to asbestos caused it. Mesothelioma and other asbestos-related health issues often take years to develop. Attorneys who focus their practice on asbestos litigation often have the most experience dealing with these issues.

Terms to Know

• Asbestos - A toxic substance that was formerly used in a wide array of applications, such as building materials and insulation as a flame retardant
• Mesothelioma - A rare form of cancer often found in the lungs of people who have been exposed to asbestos
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - A federal agency charged with regulating environmental toxins and pollution
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - A federal agency that governs workplace safety and health precautions
• Product Liability - Liability imposed on a manufacturer for injuries or damages caused by a dangerous or defective product

For more legal definitions, visit the FindLaw Legal Dictionary.

Other Considerations When Hiring an Asbestos and Mesothelioma Attorney

When meeting with an attorney about your asbestos-related issue, be sure to bring all of the relevant information with you to the consultation. This includes medical records, including chest x-rays and test results, as well as your workplace history, including your job duties and the materials you handled on a regular basis. This information will help an attorney evaluate your case and determine whether you might be entitled to damages.

Like all lawsuits, asbestos-related claims are subject to statutes of limitations, meaning that you only have a certain amount of time to file your claim. If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, contact an asbestos and mesothelioma attorney immediately to preserve your rights and explore your legal options.

Related Practice Areas

• Product Liability Law
• Toxic Torts
• Personal Injury — Plaintiff
• Business and Commercial Law
• Employment Law — Employee