Asbestos is a carcinogen that can cause several types of cancer and other serious illnesses. For decades, this fire-retardant material was used in the manufacture of numerous products, including building materials, textiles, insulation, tiles, cement pipes, shingles, and sealants. Today, workers continue to face dangerous asbestos exposure, primarily during demolition and renovation of older buildings containing these hazardous materials.
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or other asbestos-related diseases after workplace exposure, you may be entitled to significant compensation through workers' compensation claims and third-party lawsuits. At Schuster Law, our experienced Pennsylvania asbestos exposure attorneys understand the complex medical and legal challenges these cases present, and we fight aggressively to secure maximum compensation for workers and families affected by asbestos-related diseases.
Call (610) 892-9200 for a free consultation with experienced Pennsylvania asbestos exposure attorneys.
Asbestos-related diseases are life-threatening conditions that require immediate medical attention and legal protection. Our mesothelioma attorneys are available around the clock to provide guidance during this critical time and help you understand your legal rights and options for compensation.
In the US, the majority of workers who come into contact with asbestos today are those who work in the demolition of existing materials because asbestos is no longer permitted in the manufacture of new products.
Despite federal regulations restricting new asbestos use, millions of American workers continue to face exposure risks through:
Construction workers, especially those who work on demolitions, are at the greatest risk for asbestos exposure. In most cases, asbestos dust is accidentally inhaled, although it is also possible to ingest fibers.
Asbestos becomes dangerous when microscopic fibers become airborne and are inhaled or ingested. These deadly fibers can remain in the lungs and other organs for decades, eventually causing:
Mesothelioma:
Lung Cancer:
Asbestosis:
Other Asbestos-Related Diseases:
Mesothelioma and other cancers may not be detected until many years after the worker is exposed to asbestos. By this time, cancer may be at an advanced stage and unresponsive to treatment. If your cancer occurred years after you were exposed, you may need an attorney to help you prove that your illness was caused by the work you did.
If you have been exposed to asbestos at your job, you may be entitled to workers' compensation if you become ill. As an occupational disease, cancer is typically covered by workers' compensation, but you may need a lawyer's help to get all the benefits you deserve.
Asbestos-related illnesses are considered occupational diseases under Pennsylvania workers' compensation law, providing benefits for:
Many asbestos exposure cases involve third parties who may be liable beyond workers' compensation:
Asbestos exposure victims may be entitled to comprehensive compensation including:
I Have Health Insurance - Why Should I Fight For Workers' Compensation Coverage?
Workers' compensation insurance was created to cover the medical bills that arise when a worker is hurt on the job. It may also cover the loss of wages should the worker be unable to return to work. Even with the best health insurance available on the market, patients face out-of-pocket expenses that can cause serious financial strain.
This coverage should be easy to obtain, but in so many instances the insurance adjusters deny claims, having been trained to do so by the company. The insurance company's hope is that the denial will not be appealed or that the worker will fail to consult with a lawyer during the appeals process and that it will be easier to win the appeal. This saves the insurance company money. It's also why so many construction workers search the internet for a "workers' comp lawyer near me".
Common denial tactics include:
The legal team at Schuster Law is familiar with all of the tricks that insurance companies use to try and get out of paying rightful workers' compensation claims. We assist clients with both initial claims and appeals. Our goal is client satisfaction, and we will aggressively fight to ensure you and your loved ones recover the maximum amount possible.
Our legal team will guide you through the process of filing for workers' compensation step by step. However, there are records that you can keep that will assist us along the way.
Records that you should keep may include:
Medical Records:
Work Records - Addresses, Schedules, Company Names, Pay Stubs:
Any Paperwork Sent From The Insurance Company:
Contact Information - Current And Former Coworkers:
Our lawyers take the information you provide, perform our own investigation, collect additional evidence, and consult with medical and industry professionals. This helps us to prove that your asbestos exposure occurred during your employment and that your illness is a direct result of that exposure.
Our investigation typically includes:
Asbestos-related diseases have long latency periods, meaning symptoms often don't appear for decades after initial exposure:
Occupational Exposure:
Secondary Exposure:
Diagnosing asbestos-related diseases requires specialized testing:
Pennsylvania has specific time limits for filing asbestos-related claims:
Asbestos victims may pursue several types of legal action simultaneously:
How Much Does It Cost To Work With An Asbestos Exposure Attorney?
The lawyers at Schuster Law work on what is known as a contingency fee. This means that our fee, which is discussed in advance, is taken out of the compensation that we obtain for you. If we are unable to recover benefits for you, then you owe us nothing.
Our attorneys have decades of experience representing workers with asbestos-related diseases, understanding both the medical complexities and legal challenges these cases present.
We work with leading oncologists, pulmonologists, industrial hygienists, and pathologists to build compelling cases that establish the connection between workplace exposure and disease.
We conduct thorough investigations of workplace exposure, often uncovering evidence of corporate knowledge and cover-ups that strengthen our clients' cases.
We pursue all available sources of compensation, including workers' compensation, product liability claims, and trust fund recoveries from bankrupt asbestos companies.
We understand the devastating impact of asbestos-related diseases on patients and families, providing not just legal representation but guidance and support throughout the process.
Our contingency fee structure ensures that financial concerns don't prevent families from accessing experienced legal representation.
Asbestos-related diseases require medical diagnosis and evaluation of exposure history. Our attorneys work with medical experts to establish the connection between workplace exposure and disease.
Many workers have multiple sources of exposure. We investigate all potential exposure sites and pursue claims against all responsible parties.
Yes, family members may have claims for secondary exposure or wrongful death. We represent both patients and surviving family members.
Many asbestos companies have declared bankruptcy, but trust funds have been established to compensate victims. We help clients navigate these complex trust fund claims.
Case timelines vary depending on the complexity of exposure history and number of defendants. We work efficiently while ensuring thorough investigation and maximum recovery.
Compensation can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and wrongful death benefits. Amounts vary based on individual circumstances and exposure history.
Schuster Law represents asbestos exposure victims throughout southeastern Pennsylvania, including:
Delaware County: Media, Chester, Upper Darby, Havertown, Springfield, Swarthmore, Broomall
Philadelphia County: Philadelphia and surrounding areas with high industrial asbestos exposure
Chester County: West Chester, Exton, Coatesville, Kennett Square, Malvern, Paoli
Montgomery County: King of Prussia, Norristown, Plymouth Meeting, Conshohocken, Lansdale
Bucks County: Doylestown, Newtown, Levittown, Bristol, Warrington
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or other asbestos-related diseases after workplace exposure, don't face this battle alone. Contact Schuster Law today for a free, confidential consultation with experienced Pennsylvania asbestos exposure attorneys.
Our mesothelioma legal team will:
Remember: You pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Time is critical in asbestos cases due to legal deadlines and the progressive nature of these diseases. Contact Schuster Law today and let our experienced asbestos exposure team fight for the compensation you and your family deserve.
Several serious conditions can qualify you for an asbestos exposure lawsuit, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and other respiratory diseases caused by occupational exposure. These life-threatening illnesses develop after inhaling asbestos fibers, typically from workplace contact during demolition, renovation, or manufacturing work. Medical documentation linking your diagnosis to asbestos exposure is essential for your claim. At Schuster Law, our experienced Pennsylvania asbestos exposure attorneys have helped numerous workers and families understand which diagnoses qualify for compensation and what evidence strengthens your case.
The statute of limitations for asbestos exposure lawsuits varies by state, typically ranging from one to three years from the date of diagnosis. However, some jurisdictions allow claims based on when the disease was discovered rather than when exposure occurred. This distinction is critical because asbestos-related diseases can take decades to develop. Waiting too long risks losing your legal right to compensation entirely. Consulting with a qualified attorney immediately after diagnosis ensures you understand your state's specific deadlines and don't miss the opportunity to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Yes, you can still pursue compensation for asbestos exposure even if your former employer has closed. Asbestos exposure lawsuits often target multiple defendants, including manufacturers of asbestos-containing products, suppliers, and contractors involved in your exposure. Additionally, many companies that used asbestos have established bankruptcy trusts specifically to compensate victims. At Schuster Law, our attorneys investigate all potentially liable parties and identify available compensation sources, ensuring you receive maximum recovery regardless of your employer's current status.
Strong evidence for asbestos exposure lawsuits includes medical records documenting your diagnosis, employment history showing where you worked, witness testimony from coworkers, product identification linking asbestos materials to your workplace, and expert medical opinions connecting your illness to asbestos exposure. Documentation of job duties, work site conditions, and safety practices strengthens your claim significantly. The more detailed your employment records and the clearer the connection between your work environment and asbestos-containing materials, the stronger your case. Gathering this evidence early is crucial for building a compelling lawsuit.
Compensation for asbestos exposure lawsuits varies widely based on diagnosis severity, age, work history, and jurisdiction. Mesothelioma cases typically result in higher settlements, often ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars. Factors affecting awards include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages. Each case is unique, and settlement amounts depend on the specific circumstances and liable parties involved. At Schuster Law, our experienced Pennsylvania asbestos exposure attorneys evaluate your individual situation to estimate potential compensation and pursue maximum recovery through negotiation or trial.
Workers' compensation provides limited benefits for work-related injuries and illnesses but typically prevents you from suing your employer. Asbestos exposure lawsuits, however, allow you to pursue third-party claims against manufacturers, suppliers, and contractors who exposed you to asbestos. Third-party lawsuits often result in significantly higher compensation than workers' compensation alone. You may be eligible for both benefits simultaneously. Understanding which claims apply to your situation requires careful legal analysis of your employment circumstances and the parties responsible for your exposure.
Asbestos exposure lawsuits can take anywhere from several months to several years to resolve, depending on complexity, number of defendants, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Many cases settle within one to two years through negotiation. Trials typically take longer but may result in higher awards. Factors affecting timeline include the strength of evidence, defendant responsiveness, and court schedules. At Schuster Law, our attorneys work efficiently to move your asbestos exposure case forward while ensuring thorough investigation and preparation to maximize your compensation outcome.
Workers in demolition, renovation, construction, shipbuilding, military service, manufacturing, insulation installation, and maintenance roles face the highest asbestos exposure risks. These professions frequently encounter asbestos-containing materials like insulation, tiles, cement pipes, shingles, and sealants in older buildings and products. Electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and firefighters also face significant occupational exposure. Even secondary exposure—from contaminated clothing or work environments—can cause asbestos-related diseases. If your job involved handling or disturbing materials in structures built before asbestos restrictions, you may qualify for an asbestos exposure lawsuit.
Yes, family members can file asbestos exposure lawsuits for secondary exposure caused by contaminated work clothing, equipment, or materials brought home by workers. Spouses and children who laundered work clothes or lived in homes where asbestos dust accumulated have developed mesothelioma and other serious illnesses. These cases establish liability against employers and manufacturers for failing to prevent take-home exposure. Secondary exposure claims require medical evidence linking the family member's diagnosis to contact with the worker's contaminated materials. If a loved one developed an asbestos-related disease through secondary exposure, you may have grounds for significant compensation.
After an asbestos-related disease diagnosis, seek comprehensive medical care and document your condition thoroughly. Gather all employment records, work history details, and information about workplaces where you may have encountered asbestos. Preserve any physical evidence, photographs, or documentation of work environments. Contact an attorney experienced in asbestos exposure lawsuits as soon as possible to understand your legal rights and compensation options. At Schuster Law, our experienced Pennsylvania asbestos exposure attorneys are available around the clock to provide guidance during this critical time and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Yes, many companies that manufactured or used asbestos have established bankruptcy trusts to compensate victims of asbestos exposure. These trusts hold billions of dollars specifically designated for mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis claims. Bankruptcy trust claims often process faster than traditional lawsuits and provide reliable compensation. However, navigating trust claims requires understanding complex eligibility requirements, documentation needs, and claim procedures. An experienced attorney can identify which trusts apply to your exposure history and ensure your claims are filed correctly and completely to maximize your recovery from all available sources.
Proving occupational asbestos exposure requires establishing a clear connection between your workplace and asbestos-containing materials. Documentation includes employment records, job descriptions, witness testimony from coworkers, photographs or inspections of work sites, product identification, and expert analysis linking materials to your exposure. Medical experts can often determine exposure timing based on disease development and latency periods. At Schuster Law, our investigators thoroughly document your work history and identify all sources of occupational exposure, distinguishing workplace hazards from other potential exposure sources to build a compelling asbestos exposure lawsuit.
Asbestos-related diseases have long latency periods, often developing 20-50 years after initial exposure. You can still file an asbestos exposure lawsuit even if exposure occurred decades ago, provided you file within your state's statute of limitations from the diagnosis date. Many jurisdictions recognize the discovery rule, allowing claims based on when the disease was identified rather than when exposure occurred. Medical evidence linking your current diagnosis to historical occupational exposure is essential. Even if your former employer no longer exists, manufacturers and suppliers of asbestos products remain liable for compensation through lawsuits and bankruptcy trusts.
In most cases, you can still pursue an asbestos exposure lawsuit even if you signed a release or waiver, particularly if the document was signed before your diagnosis or without full knowledge of asbestos exposure risks. Courts often refuse to enforce waivers that prevent compensation for serious injuries like mesothelioma. Additionally, releases signed by employers typically don't prevent third-party lawsuits against manufacturers or suppliers. At Schuster Law, our experienced Pennsylvania asbestos exposure attorneys review any documents you signed and determine whether they affect your legal rights and compensation options.
Expert witnesses are crucial in asbestos exposure lawsuits, providing testimony on medical causation, occupational exposure history, product identification, and industry practices. Medical experts establish the connection between asbestos exposure and your diagnosis, while industrial hygienists document workplace conditions and exposure levels. Product experts identify asbestos-containing materials present in your work environment. Engineering experts may testify about manufacturer knowledge of asbestos dangers and failure to warn workers. Strong expert testimony significantly strengthens your case and increases settlement value. Experienced attorneys maintain relationships with qualified experts who understand asbestos litigation and can effectively communicate complex technical information to juries.
Asbestos exposure lawsuit procedures, statutes of limitations, damage caps, and liability standards vary significantly by state. Some states allow punitive damages while others cap compensation amounts. Venue rules determine where cases can be filed, and some jurisdictions are more favorable to plaintiffs than others. Pennsylvania, for example, has specific procedures and recognized asbestos litigation expertise. Filing in the right jurisdiction can substantially impact your case outcome and compensation. Understanding your state's unique asbestos laws is essential for maximizing recovery. Consulting with an attorney licensed in your state ensures your asbestos exposure lawsuit follows proper procedures and leverages favorable legal standards.
If you pass away before your asbestos exposure lawsuit concludes, your estate or designated beneficiaries can continue the claim and receive any settlement or judgment awarded. Wrongful death claims can also be filed by surviving family members, often resulting in compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and loss of companionship. At Schuster Law, our experienced Pennsylvania asbestos exposure attorneys help families navigate wrongful death claims and ensure deceased victims' rights are protected. We work compassionately with grieving families to pursue maximum compensation while handling complex legal procedures.
Yes, you can continue working while pursuing an asbestos exposure lawsuit, though the severity of your asbestos-related disease may limit your ability to work. Some victims remain employed throughout litigation, while others become unable to work due to illness progression. Your employment status doesn't prevent you from filing or receiving compensation. Lost wages—both past and future—are recoverable damages in asbestos exposure lawsuits if your illness prevents you from working. Medical documentation of your condition and its impact on your earning capacity strengthens your compensation claim. An attorney can help calculate appropriate lost wage damages based on your specific circumstances.
Asbestos exposure lawsuits are uniquely complex due to long disease latency periods, multiple potential defendants, bankruptcy trust involvement, and sophisticated medical causation requirements. Unlike typical personal injury cases, asbestos claims often involve decades-old exposure, making evidence preservation challenging. Manufacturers' historical knowledge of asbestos dangers and failure to warn workers are central legal issues. Multiple defendants—employers, manufacturers, suppliers, and contractors—may share liability. At Schuster Law, our experienced Pennsylvania asbestos exposure attorneys understand these distinctive challenges and possess the specialized knowledge necessary to navigate complex litigation and secure maximum compensation for affected workers and families.
You can typically pursue both workers' compensation benefits and third-party asbestos exposure lawsuits simultaneously, though specific rules vary by state. Workers' compensation provides faster, guaranteed benefits but prevents suing your employer. Third-party lawsuits against manufacturers, suppliers, and contractors offer potentially higher compensation and aren't restricted by workers' compensation exclusivity rules. Filing timing depends on your state's laws and your specific circumstances. At Schuster Law, our attorneys coordinate workers' compensation claims with third-party asbestos exposure lawsuits to maximize your total recovery while ensuring compliance with all applicable legal requirements and deadlines.
A client of Schuster Law
My husband and I were in a car accident and our car got t-boned. Andrew Valentin was the lawyer we chose to represent us. Andrew fought on our behalf with the other party's insurance company, making sure everything was made right. Between regular check-ins on us and follow through on the case, Andrew made sure we were well taken care of.
Laura VM
A Car Accident Client of Schuster Law
