UK MESOTHELIOMA SOLICITORS ADVICE

This condition is a cancer and it does not show up as a health problem for between 30 years and 50 years after exposure to asbestos fibres. Most people who suffer from it have been directly involved in the manufacture or use of asbestos and its products however there is a significant and alarming percentage of victims who have had no obvious exposure. Asbestos fibres are almost always present in the atmosphere but usually in low level concentrations that do not seem to present a health risk. Whilst just a short period of exposure can cause this condition it is most likely to affect those who have had significant exposure often on numerous occasions over a long period of time. The condition appears more often in men than in women and is more prevalent in the elderly. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, chest pain, weight loss, abdominal pain, bowel obstruction, anaemia and fever.

There are time limits in regards to settling personal injury claims and in general terms a claim must either be settled or proceedings must have been issued in a court of law within three years of the event that caused the injury however there are a number of exceptions to this general rule and the court does have a discretion to extend time limits. In the case of claims for an asbestos related disease which does not show itself for decades there is a 'latency period' of up to 50 years. In these cases a mesothelioma solicitor can rely on the 'date of knowledge' and the three year time limit does not start to run until the condition has been confirmed by a medical practitioner.

When considering your condition a doctor will initially review your medical records after a detailed physical examination and will arrange for X-rays, CT scans and an MRI scan. Diagnosis of an asbestos related disease is ultimately carried out by use of a biopsy which involves the removal of a tissue sample from the affected area and subsequent examination under a microscope.

This area of law is particularly specialised and is not normally carried out by high street solicitors. We only use experienced mesothelioma solicitors who have detailed knowledge and a track record of success. Here are 3 good reasons to choose our lawyers:

1. Our lawyers will provide you with legal advice on your rights and entitlements to compensation with no further obligation.
2. Our solicitors are specialist accredited expert members of the Law Society personal injury panel with extensive experience in negotiating, settling and litigating accident compensation claims.
3. If you decide to instruct any of our specialists to obtain compensation for you, they will act on a “no win no fee” basis. Compensation is paid in full and win or lose there is no charge.¹