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Mesothelioma Case Values

The value of a mesothelioma case depends on several factors, including your diagnosis and the types of compensation you pursue. The expert team at Mesothelioma Hope can determine how much compensation you may be eligible for. Keep reading to see examples of other victims’ case values and learn how we can help you file a claim.

Legally reviewed by: Melissa Crowe Schopfer

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What Is the Average Mesothelioma Case Value?

The average mesothelioma case value is between $1 million and $1.4 million for legal settlements and between $5 million and $11.4 million for trial verdicts, according to Mealey’s® Litigation Report: Asbestos.

Lawyers shake hands over a mesothelioma settlement agreement

Mesothelioma case values can vary based on several factors, such as the patient’s diagnosis, asbestos exposure history, medical costs, and emotional suffering.

Additionally, there are several avenues to pursue financial assistance for mesothelioma. Many patients and families qualify for multiple types of compensation, which increases their total mesothelioma case value.

If you or a loved one has mesothelioma, you may be able to receive compensation from:

  • Lawsuit settlements or trial verdicts
  • Payouts from asbestos trust funds
  • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefit programs
  • Other sources (such as insurance company claims)

Choosing the right lawyer to handle your mesothelioma claim plays a large role in your ultimate case value.

Not every attorney knows how to maximize mesothelioma compensation for families impacted by this cancer, and lawyers who do not specifically handle mesothelioma claims may not be able to secure the highest case values.

Looking for a law firm to help determine your mesothelioma case value? Get a free legal consultation today to explore your options.

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3 Steps to Determine Your Mesothelioma Case Value

If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, we know how important it is to understand what compensation may be available to help you pay for treatment and navigate this next phase of your life.

Here are 3 steps you should take to determine your mesothelioma case value:

  1. Find a mesothelioma attorney. It’s important to work with a lawyer at a reputable law firm that has experience with mesothelioma cases. A mesothelioma lawyer is best equipped to determine how you were exposed to asbestos and maximize your potential compensation.
  2. Work with your lawyer to establish your asbestos exposure history. Your mesothelioma attorney will help you determine where and when you were exposed to asbestos. You’ll just need to share information like whether you served in the military and what industries you’ve worked for.
  3. Evaluate your options for compensation. In addition to legal claims, you may be able to access other sources of compensation including asbestos trust funds, military benefits, grants, and insurance claims. Your mesothelioma attorney can help you evaluate all of these sources and get you and your family the financial support you need.

Navigating legal and financial matters can be confusing, but a reputable mesothelioma law firm will make it easy for you. The first step to finding the right law firm for your case is setting up a free, no-obligation consultation.

Call (866) 608-8933 to get started now. Our team can answer any questions you have about the process and connect you with a top mesothelioma law firm that can evaluate your case.

“The financial freedom that came from filing a lawsuit was the one good thing that came out of something bad. It’s made the time I have left even better.”

- Quote from Arthur Putt, 5+ year mesothelioma survivor who was awarded $34 million in a trial verdict against Ford Motor Company

Factors Affecting the Value of Mesothelioma Cases

Mesothelioma case values vary because each victim’s situation is unique. Below are some of the key factors that can affect mesothelioma case values.

Extent of the Asbestos Exposure

Factory worker drilling

While anyone exposed to asbestos can develop malignant mesothelioma, some victims may receive more money if they were exposed to asbestos repeatedly over an extended period of time.

For example, if someone worked at one company for 30 years and handled multiple asbestos products throughout that time, there’s little doubt that they came into contact with asbestos fibers on a daily basis.

On the other hand, it may be harder to prove how someone developed mesothelioma if they do not remember using or living around any asbestos products or were only exposed for a brief period.

A mesothelioma lawyer can review your or your loved one’s work history and help determine how, when, and where asbestos exposure happened.

Diagnosis

Asbestos exposure can cause a variety of serious illnesses, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Typically, mesothelioma is the most difficult of these illnesses to treat and leads to the highest payouts for victims.

Case values will depend on the diagnosis, but you can file a claim for any asbestos-related disease.

Other types of asbestos-related diseases include:

  • Asbestosis
  • Lung cancer
  • Other non-cancerous diseases

Ultimately, mesothelioma claims typically pay more than other asbestos-related disease claims.

Medical Costs

Mesothelioma treatments can be very expensive, and medical costs are a big factor in determining case values.

The total cost of mesothelioma cancer can reach $500,000 or more since the disease can be challenging to diagnose and treat. You’ll have multiple doctor visits and may need to travel long distances to see a specialist if you live in a rural area.

Fortunately, most mesothelioma case settlements award much more than this amount. Payouts from legal action can alleviate some of these treatment costs and help provide peace of mind for you and your family.

Before a claim is filed, your lawyers will estimate the total cost of your medical expenses (including future costs of care) and factor them into a mesothelioma case value.

Economic Loss

Another factor for determining a mesothelioma case value is a patient’s lost wages. Many mesothelioma treatments have lengthy recovery periods.

If you’re diagnosed with mesothelioma while still working, you may need to quit your job or go on medical leave to focus on getting better. Your caregivers may also have to temporarily stop working, which can reduce your household income.

Mesothelioma lawyers will account for your economic losses when filing your legal claim to help you secure the appropriate amount of compensation.

Other Factors That Affect Mesothelioma Case Values

Additional factors are considered when determining mesothelioma case values.

These factors include:

  • Age: Those diagnosed with mesothelioma under the age of 65 may receive a larger payout since they will likely have more long-term expenses and family members to support.
  • Funeral expenses: The average cost of a funeral is nearly $8,000, according to a study conducted by the National Funeral Directors Association. If a family member files a lawsuit on behalf of a loved one who has passed, these expenses may be factored in.
  • Number of asbestos companies at fault: More than one company may be responsible for your or your loved one’s illness. A mesothelioma lawyer can help you identify all of the companies that played a role in the asbestos exposure. If more companies are found responsible, you may be entitled to more compensation.
  • Pain and suffering: Mesothelioma can take an emotional toll on everyone involved. Mesothelioma lawsuits may award extra money to compensate a victim and their family for their suffering.
  • Spouses and dependent family members: The number of dependents (non-working spouses or young/disabled children) can also impact case values. Individuals with dependents may receive more money from their case to support them.

All of these factors contribute to your possible mesothelioma case value. Your attorney will evaluate all relevant factors to determine the appropriate compensation payouts for your situation.

Looking for a mesothelioma lawyer? Our Free Attorney Checklist can help you ask the right questions during the interview process.

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Mesothelioma Case Values for Each Type of Claim

The amount of money that you may receive from a mesothelioma case depends on what type of claim you pursue. Below are the most common types of legal action for mesothelioma and the case values associated with each.

Settlements

An asbestos settlement is the most common outcome of a mesothelioma lawsuit. In these cases, the law firm will bring a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit against the asbestos companies responsible for the victim’s asbestos exposure.

Mesothelioma settlements occur when the legal teams agree on a sum of money without going to trial. When a case settles, you won’t ever have to step into a courtroom or worry about the outcome of your case. Additionally, many clients start to receive settlement compensation in as little as 90 days.

The average mesothelioma settlement is worth between $1 million and $1.4 million, according to Mealey’s® Litigation Report: Asbestos.

You may receive more or less than these settlement amounts depending on the specifics of your case. For example, a U.S. Navy veteran received a $10.2 million settlement after developing mesothelioma, and a welder was awarded $7 million.

If a mesothelioma settlement cannot be reached, the case may go to trial.

Trial Verdicts

Trial verdicts are decided by a judge and jury, who hear arguments from both legal teams.

A gavel shown in an empty court room

The average mesothelioma trial verdict is worth between $5 million and $11.4 million, according to Mealey’s® Litigation Report: Asbestos.

While mesothelioma case values from trials may be higher than those from a settlement, it may not always be in your best interest to take your case to court.

For example, there is a possibility of losing the trial. If this happens, you will be awarded no money at all. And even if the court rules in your favor, the asbestos company’s legal team may try to appeal the jury verdict.

In addition, trials take longer compared to settling out of court. It may take years before your family actually receives any money.

Asbestos Trust Funds

Mesothelioma case values from asbestos trust funds average between $300,000 and $400,000 since most victims are able to receive compensation from multiple trusts.

Asbestos trust funds were established by asbestos product manufacturers that had filed for bankruptcy to avoid lawsuits. These court-ordered trust funds ensure that these companies pay current and future mesothelioma victims for asbestos-related diseases.

Payouts can vary since each bankruptcy trust contains a different amount of money. A larger asbestos company may have over $1 billion in its trust fund, while a smaller one may only have a few million dollars.

In total, asbestos trust funds contain over $30 billion in compensation for mesothelioma victims as of January 2024.

Skilled mesothelioma attorneys will work hard to uncover every company that may have been responsible for your asbestos exposure, potentially increasing the number of trust funds you may be eligible for.

If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, you may be eligible for an asbestos trust fund payout. See if you’re owed compensation from these trust funds and get help filing your claim today.

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Military Compensation and VA Benefits

Some people diagnosed with mesothelioma may also be eligible for compensation from the VA and workers’ compensation policies.

The military relied on asbestos to build many of its ships, bases, and other assets from the 1930s to the early 1980s. Military veterans may qualify for compensation through the VA if they were exposed while they served.

The VA has several different programs available to veterans, and some of these programs award financial compensation. Mesothelioma case values for VA benefits depend on the specific program.

Types of VA benefits include:

  • Disability compensation: The VA provides a monthly, tax-free payout to veterans who developed illnesses or injuries due to their military service. For 2024, married veterans may receive $3,946.25 per month since the VA considers mesothelioma a complete disability.
  • Pensions: Veterans may qualify for a VA pension if their net worth is $150,538 or less, and if their income is below an established amount. Once on a pension plan, veterans may be able to access other benefits, such as Aid & Attendance or housebound benefits.
  • VA health care: The VA employs a handful of mesothelioma specialists to treat veterans affected by this rare cancer. Through VA health care, veterans may receive treatment from these doctors at reduced rates.
  • Burial benefits: If a veteran passes away from mesothelioma, the VA may cover some of their burial expenses. The VA pays up to $2,000 if the veteran died from an illness related to their military service.

A VA-accredited mesothelioma lawyer can help veterans determine which benefits they qualify for and apply for them. For more information on veteran-specific programs and compensation options, download our Free Veterans Compensation Guide.

Workers’ Compensation

Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance put in place by companies to help employees who are injured in the workplace. If a worker developed mesothelioma from their job, they may qualify for workers’ compensation.

Mesothelioma case values for workers’ compensation can vary, and there are limitations to consider before filing.

Since workers’ compensation may not be enough to cover all mesothelioma-related expenses, workers should explore all of their options with an experienced asbestos attorney.

See What Your Mesothelioma Case May Be Worth

The value of a mesothelioma case depends on your unique situation, as well as how many and which avenues of compensation you choose to pursue.

It can seem like a lot to navigate, but Mesothelioma Hope is here to help. Our caring and knowledgeable team will walk you through your financial options (legal and otherwise) and help you determine the amount of compensation you may be eligible for.

You don’t have to have all the answers right now — take it one day at a time. But know that there is a deadline called a statute of limitations that impacts how long you have to file a claim.

Call us at (866) 608-8933 or request a free legal consultation to get started.

Mesothelioma Case Value FAQs

What is the average payout for mesothelioma victims?

Mesothelioma case settlements average around $1 million, and trial verdicts average between $5 million and $11 million. Asbestos trust funds have different payouts that vary per trust, but the average payout per trust is $180,000, according to the RAND Institute for Civil Justice.

These numbers are just estimates, and many people with mesothelioma who file asbestos claims receive more or less than these compensation amounts.

Many factors play a role in mesothelioma case value, including the person’s age, medical expenses, and asbestos exposure history. The best way to find out what your mesothelioma case may be worth is to speak to an experienced asbestos injury lawyer.

What are some mesothelioma case values for 2024?

Here are some notable mesothelioma trial verdicts awarded in 2024:

  • An Illinois jury awarded $30 million to the family of a man who developed mesothelioma and passed away after being exposed to asbestos-contaminated talc at a tire factory.
  • A Wisconsin jury returned a $9.7 million verdict in an occupational workplace asbestos case.
  • An Illinois jury awarded nearly $41 million to the family of a man who developed mesothelioma from working with asbestos-laden gaskets.

What’s the highest mesothelioma case value?

Mesothelioma case values vary based on several factors, and some patients receive compensation from multiple sources. Your total compensation can include settlement or trial awards from a lawsuit, asbestos trust fund payouts, and VA disability benefits.

The highest payout for a mesothelioma case on record is a $250 million jury verdict for a man who got cancer after working at U.S. Steel for 30 years. Many other mesothelioma patients have been awarded millions of dollars in asbestos settlements and verdicts in recent years.

Is a mesothelioma lawsuit worth it?

There are many reasons to pursue a mesothelioma lawsuit, and whether or not you choose to do so is a personal choice. However, many patients who have filed a lawsuit are glad they did.

With the right law firm, the lawsuit process can be straightforward — and if the case settles, you’ll never have to step foot in a courtroom.

Additionally, compensation received from a lawsuit can help cover everything from treatments to travel to lost wages. This can provide peace of mind for patients who don’t want to financially burden their families because of a diagnosis that was caused by negligent corporations.

Call (866) 608-8933 to speak with our team and better understand your legal options.

Melissa Crowe Schopfer, Simmons Hanly Conroy AttorneyReviewed by:Melissa Crowe Schopfer

Partner, Simmons Hanly Conroy

  • Fact-Checked
  • Legal Editor

Melissa Crowe Schopfer is a partner at Simmons Hanly Conroy. Over the past 10 years, Melissa has worked on over 500 cases and recovered more than $100 million in settlements and trial verdicts on behalf of her clients. She has represented families impacted by mesothelioma and asbestos-related diseases in almost every state.

  • Asbestos Trial Team Leader
  • Practicing Attorney for 15+ Years
  • Has Recovered Over $100 Million
Jenna TozziWritten by:

Director of Patient Advocacy

Jenna Tozzi, RN, is the Director of Patient Advocacy at Mesothelioma Hope. With more than 15 years of experience as an adult and pediatric oncology nurse navigator, Jenna provides exceptional guidance and support to mesothelioma patients and their loved ones. Jenna has been featured in Oncology Nursing News and is a member of the Academy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators & the American Nurses Association.

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References
  1. American Cancer Society. (2020, January 8). Survival Rates for Mesothelioma. Retrieved January 26, 2024, from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/malignant-mesothelioma/detection-diagnosis-staging/survival-statistics.html
  2. American Lung Association. (2019, September 25). Lung Cancer Fact Sheet. Retrieved January 26, 2024, from https://www.lung.org/lung-health-and-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/lung-cancer/resource-library/lung-cancer-fact-sheet.html
  3. Bates, C. E., & Mullin, C. H. (2007, December 3). Asbestos: Show Me The Money. Retrieved January 26, 2024, from https://www.bateswhite.com/media/publication/59_media.285.pdf
  4. Kaiser Health Network. “In America, Cancer Patients Endure Debt on Top of Disease.” Retrieved January 26, 2024, from https://khn.org/news/article/in-america-cancer-patients-endure-debt-on-top-of-disease/
  5. Law360. “Calif. Woman Awarded $50M In Talc Suit Against Avon.” Retrieved January 26, 2024, from https://www.law360.com/articles/1559399/calif-woman-awarded-50m-in-talc-suit-against-avon
  6. Mealey’s Litigation Report: Asbestos. “Asbestos Verdicts & Settlements: January 2021 – December 2021.” Retrieved January 26, 2024, from https://www.lexislegalnews.com/articles/80615/asbestos-verdicts-settlements-january-2021-december-2021
  7. Mealey’s Litigation Report: Asbestos. “Mealey’s Asbestos.” Retrieved January 26, 2024, from https://www.lexislegalnews.com/mealeys/mealeys-asbestos
  8. RAND Institute for Civil Justice. (2010). Asbestos Bankruptcy Trusts: An Overview of Trust Structure and Activity with Detailed Reports on the Largest Trusts. Retrieved January 26, 2024, from https://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/technical_reports/2010/RAND_TR872.pdf
  9. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2020, January 10). How to apply for a Veterans burial allowance. Retrieved January 26, 2024, from https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/veterans-burial-allowance/
  10. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. “2024 VA pension rates for Veterans.” Retrieved January 26, 2024, from https://www.va.gov/pension/veterans-pension-rates/
  11. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. “2024 Veterans disability compensation rates.” Retrieved January 26, 2024, from https://www.va.gov/disability/compensation-rates/veteran-rates/
  12. USA Today (2023). How much does a funeral cost in 2023? Retrieved January 26, 2024, from https://www.usatoday.com/money/blueprint/life-insurance/how-much-does-a-funeral-cost/
  13. World Population Review. “Average Funeral Cost by State 2022.” Retrieved January 26, 2024, from https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/average-funeral-cost-by-state
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