How to Choose a Mesothelioma Attorney

September 28, 2018

You’ve seen the television ads, all two dozen of them, proclaiming such-and-such law firm is the right one to choose for your mesothelioma claim.

But how do you know which non-attorney spokesperson to believe? How can you compare them without being roped into moving forward with a certain firm over the phone? What questions will help you determine which attorneys are the easiest to work with?

Mesothelioma cases often deal with niche information that some firms don’t have as much experience in as others. Beyond their credibility, you can also decide which law firm will treat you well, rather than settling for one that only adds to your stress level.

Sourcing the Right Mesothelioma Law Firm

You’ve already taken one step in the right direction by searching online, but you’re probably also intimidated by the sheer number of search results and ads clamoring for your attention. Here are a few ways to reduce this clutter and make a smart decision.

Ask Friends and Co-Workers

Many mesothelioma patients contract the cancer through exposure on construction sites, contaminated office buildings, or by working in the same manufacturing plant. If you know of anyone who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, reach out to them and find out which lawyer they hired to handle their case.

No matter what recommendation they give, whether a glowing review or a strongly worded complaint, this helps you move forward with valuable information on which firms handle their clients’ cases personally and professionally.

Conduct Online Research

Before wading back into the ocean of “mesothelioma lawyer” Google results, take a word of caution with you: law firms can pour a lot of money into gimmicky websites and catchy mottos, but few take the time and effort to produce valuable content that explains and informs readers of their rights and options.

As you begin to browse through lawyers’ websites, look for those with more than clichéd catch phrases to explain how they can serve you. These firms are more likely to pay closer attention to your wellbeing as they work on your case.

Also consider working with a local attorney rather than a nationwide firm. A local lawyer may be familiar with the home or place of business in which you contracted mesothelioma.  An Indiana mesothelioma attorney can bring both the strength of a nationwide law firm and the personal attention of a local attorney.

Compare and Contrast Lawyers’ Qualities

Once you’ve narrowed your list down to a few trustworthy Indiana law firms, it’s time to pick up the phone. It’s likely you will have selected firms that offer no-obligation consultations, since those kinds of services are becoming more and more common.

During this consultation, answer as many questions as you feel comfortable, but also make sure to ask some of your own. If you can’t get a word in edge-wise, that should also tell you something about the firm that you may want to consider in your final decision.

Here are a few things you’ll want to find out during that initial phone call:

• Find out who exactly will be communicating with you on your case. Ask about their specialties, experience, and even work style. Whatever qualities are important to you should also be important to your lawyer.
• Ask how quickly the firm returns phone calls or emails with questions about your case. Keep potential case deadlines and your personal schedule in mind as you evaluate whether you need immediate answers or can wait a day or two.
• Determine the attorney’s fee. Most mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee, which means they won’t get paid unless and until you get a settlement. Since the mesothelioma case is nationwide, it’s likely the attorney’s fee will be set by the court, not by individual law firms. But although the attorney’s fees are likely to be the same, other fees may differ. Some firms, for example, may require you to pay expenses for paperwork and medical records even if they don’t secure a settlement for you. Ask questions about other fees beyond the attorney’s fee to make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into.
• Check their reviews. It’s unlikely that mesothelioma lawyers will be able to provide you with references of past clients due to attorney-client privilege, but that doesn’t mean you have to make a decision completely in the dark. Check Google, Facebook, and even the Better Business Bureau online to read reviews from firms’ former clients.

Ultimately, you should choose a mesothelioma attorney who cares about your well-being as well as your case.

Indiana Mesothelioma Lawyers Who Care

At Hensley Legal Group, our attorneys get to know our clients as they work together to find a solution that meets their needs, no matter the odds. Fortunately for mesothelioma victims, the legal battle isn’t usually difficult, though pinpointing exactly who’s at fault and who pays for your medical bills can be.

When you work with our lawyers and case managers, you’ll find your priorities become our priorities, all while knowing we won’t be paid until you are. Call us or contact us online today to start a conversation with our friendly mesothelioma attorneys. As always, your first consultation is free and there’s no obligation.