Filing a mesothelioma lawsuit is a long and dwindling process. Selection of a
mesothelioma attorney whom you trust and have a good rapport with is very
important.
If you are thinking about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit, you must meet with a
variety of lawyers before making your final decision. Choosing from a long list
of mesothelioma lawyers can be a daunting task, so here is a guide to help you
through the process:
1. Start the Search
Look for a qualified mesothelioma attorney in the following places:
Bar Associations
Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory (found in most public libraries)
Yellow Pages
Internet (many firms have their own sites)
2. Narrow Down the Field
Once you have found the names of some mesothelioma attorneys in your area,
begin by contacting each firm by telephone for further information.
Describe your legal issue to each attorney and inquire as to whether he/she
can handle your situation. Don’t forget to ask whether there is a fee for an
initial consultation, and the approximate cost to handle a mesothelioma lawsuit.
It is advisable to schedule appointments with two or three different
attorneys before making your final selection.
3. Meet the Prospective Attorneys
The initial consultation is an opportunity for you and the lawyer to get to
know each other. After listening to your case, the lawyer should be able to
outline your rights and offer you alternative courses of action.
The initial consultation is the mesothelioma attorney's opportunity to
explain what he or she can do for you and how much it will cost. You should not
hesitate to ask about the attorney's experience in handling previous
mesothelioma lawsuits.
Feel free to ask about the lawyer's fees and the likely results. If you are
considering going beyond the initial consultation and hiring the lawyer, request
a written fee agreement before proceeding.
It is also important to ask each attorney for a list of references that you
may contact.
4. Making Your Decision
After each initial consultation, ask yourself the following questions about
the mesothelioma attorney you just met:
Did the attorney listen to me?
Was the attorney knowledgeable about asbestos law?
Did the attorney give me a firm understanding of my alternative courses of
action?
Do I understand the range of possible results associated with each course of
action?
Did the attorney seem trustworthy?
If need be, take notes after each consultation, indicating your initial
reaction to the mesothelioma attorney you have just met.
Maggie Kay is a freelance writer from Montreal and is the head researcher and
content manager of Mesothelioma Attorney Advice Center (www.maacenter.org).
