A mesothelioma diagnosis can turn the victim’s and their family’s life upside down. Not only can such a diagnosis cause physical and emotional stress, but it can also cause significant financial stress. Medical bills can quickly pile up, and many patients are forced to stop working or reduce their hours while undergoing treatment. When dealing with a mesothelioma diagnosis, many patients and families wonder how they will cope financially. Thankfully, in the United States, when a person develops mesothelioma after being negligently exposed to asbestos, they or their family can take legal action and seek compensation.
If you are considering taking legal action after a mesothelioma diagnosis, one of the first questions you might be asking is, “How long does a mesothelioma case take to settle?” There is no straightforward answer to this question as the timeline of a mesothelioma case depends on the factors surrounding the case. The good news, however, is that mesothelioma cases are usually resolved faster than other types of cases. Below, we break down typical timelines, factors that can impact the timeline of a case, and what you can do to speed up the process.
Typical Mesothelioma Case Timeline
Every mesothelioma case is different, but most cases are settled within 6 to 18 months. However, some cases may take longer if they end up in court or due to other factors. Some mesothelioma cases may settle in just a few months, especially when it is clear who is at fault, and the company or companies involved want to avoid going to trial.
However, even if a mesothelioma case goes to trial, courts usually prioritize these cases since mesothelioma is an aggressive and life-threatening illness. Often, judges approve expedited schedules to ensure that patients and their families can receive their compensation as quickly as possible.
Key Factors That Affect How Long a Case Takes
Several factors can affect how long a mesothelioma case takes to settle, including;
- Whether the case settles or goes to trial: Cases that go to trial can be prolonged by months or years and may involve appeals, which may further delay resolution.
- Number of defendants: Cases involving several defendants can be more complex and time-consuming.
- Strength of evidence: The stronger the evidence of asbestos exposure and the link between the exposure and the illness, the faster a case can be resolved.
- Legal representation: The experience and efficiency of the legal team can significantly impact the speed of the case.
- Defendant cooperation: The willingness of the defendant(s) to resolve the case can have a significant impact on the case’s timeline.
- Health and diagnosis: If the patient is critically ill, the courts may expedite the case to ensure they receive timely compensation.
How Can You Speed Up the Process?
While some things are beyond your control, there are steps you can take to help move your mesothelioma case forward, including;
- Seeking legal advice as soon as possible
- Gathering evidence early, such as employment and medical records
- Responding promptly to requests for information or documentation
Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyers
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment.
