Asbestos lawsuits allow mesothelioma victims—and their families—to pursue justice after decades of unnecessary exposure. These cases often result in significant compensation through court verdicts, negotiated settlements, or asbestos trust fund claims. Whether your exposure happened on the job, in the military, or at home, you may have the legal right to file a claim.
This page explains how asbestos lawsuits work, the types of claims available, and how DuBose Law Firm helps victims across the U.S. hold asbestos companies accountable.
Explore Legal Options for Mesothelioma Victims
Why People File Asbestos Lawsuits
For much of the 20th century, asbestos was widely used in insulation, construction, shipbuilding, oil refineries, and manufacturing—even though manufacturers knew the health risks. Today, tens of thousands of Americans are diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases due to exposure that occurred 20 to 50 years ago.
Asbestos lawsuits are filed to:
- Recover medical expenses and lost wages
- Hold negligent companies accountable
- Provide compensation for pain, suffering, and loss of life
- Access funds even if the original employer no longer exists
These lawsuits are civil claims, not criminal cases, and they often resolve without a trial.
Who Can File an Asbestos Lawsuit?
You may be eligible to file a lawsuit if:
- You were diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis
- You can link your illness to confirmed asbestos exposure
- You are a spouse, child, or estate representative of someone who passed away from an asbestos-related disease
Even if your exposure occurred decades ago—or the company has since shut down—you may still have legal options. Many asbestos manufacturers set aside money in asbestos trust funds, which are still accessible today.
Two Main Types of Asbestos Lawsuits
Mesothelioma claims typically fall into one of two categories:
1. Personal Injury Lawsuits
A personal injury claim is filed directly by the person diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness. These cases seek compensation for:
- Medical treatment
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Travel and caregiver costs
Most personal injury lawsuits settle out of court, though some go to trial and result in substantial verdicts.
2. Wrongful Death Lawsuits
If your loved one passed away from mesothelioma, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit as a surviving spouse, child, or estate executor.
Wrongful death claims seek compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of companionship or financial support
- Emotional distress experienced by the family
DuBose Law Firm works closely with surviving families to ensure the legal process is handled with compassion, urgency, and respect.
Statute of Limitations: Act Quickly
Each state has a limited time (known as a statute of limitations) for filing a lawsuit—usually 1 to 3 years from diagnosis or death. If this deadline passes, you may lose your right to compensation.
Our firm helps you determine which state laws apply based on your exposure history, current residence, and where liable companies operated.
Why Choose DuBose Law Firm
DuBose Law Firm has successfully represented mesothelioma clients nationwide, including:
- Veterans
- Oil refinery workers
- Construction tradesmen
- Shipbuilders and dock workers
- Family members exposed secondhand
We understand the legal, medical, and emotional challenges you’re facing. With decades of experience in asbestos litigation, we build strong cases that hold companies accountable—and deliver results for our clients.
Visit our page on Finding an Experienced Mesothelioma Lawyer to learn what sets a great asbestos attorney apart.
What If the Company Is Bankrupt?
You can still file a claim.
Over 100 asbestos companies have filed for bankruptcy and established asbestos trust funds worth billions of dollars. These trusts compensate victims without requiring lawsuits or court appearances.
Many clients qualify for both trust claims and legal settlements. Our team helps identify all eligible avenues.
Learn more about your options on our Compensation for Victims page.
📝 Take the First Step Toward Justice
You didn’t choose to be exposed to asbestos—but you can choose to fight back. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or exploring legal action on behalf of a loved one, we’re ready to help.
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Asbestos Lawsuits FAQ
Are asbestos lawsuits still being filed today?
Yes. Thousands of new asbestos lawsuits are filed each year, including claims by newly diagnosed mesothelioma patients and families pursuing wrongful death cases.
How long does a mesothelioma lawsuit take?
Most mesothelioma lawsuits settle within 6 to 18 months, depending on the case complexity, the number of defendants, and whether the case goes to trial.
Can I still sue if I smoked or worked in multiple jobs?
Yes. Smoking doesn’t disqualify you, and exposure across multiple worksites is common. Our firm investigates each potential source of exposure to maximize your claim.