Choosing a Mesothelioma Attorney

by Maggie Kay

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.

About the Author

Maggie Kay is a freelance writer from Montreal and is the head researcher and content manager of Mesothelioma Attorney Advice Center (www.maacenter.org).