Frequently Asked Questions
With more than 50 years experience practicing law in Pensacola, Levin, Papantonio, Thomas, Mitchell, Echsner & Proctor, P.A.'s Florida attorneys have extensive knowledge of asbestos-related laws on the state and national levels. Our law firm is easily accessible and welcomes questions from those dealing with the effects of mesothelioma. Some frequently asked questions we receive include—
- How do I know if I am at risk for mesothelioma or other asbestos-related medical conditions?
- Are there guidelines protecting workers from asbestos?
- What is the Asbestos and Silica Compensation Fairness Act of 2005?
- I have been diagnosed with mesothelioma. What can an attorney do for me?
- How is the statute of limitations for filing a legal action in Florida applied in mesothelioma cases?
- What losses and injuries can be compensated?
- I am worried about how much a lawsuit would cost. How does that work?
Know your law firm. Know your rights.
Levin Papantonio regularly works with victims of asbestos exposure throughout Florida, including Miami-Dade County, Jacksonville, Tampa, Orlando, and St. Petersburg. Our attorneys represent clients throughout all state and federal courts in Florida. We perform home or hospital visits for clients unable to travel to our office.
Contact our Pensacola office for a free initial consultation with an experienced Florida mesothelioma lawyer.
¿Se habla español? Levin Papantonio regularly assists Spanish-speaking mesothelioma clients.
How do I know if I am at risk for mesothelioma or other asbestos-related medical conditions?
While most people are exposed to asbestos at some point in their life, asbestos in the workplace greatly increases your risk of developing mesothelioma. Asbestos is often found in factories, construction sites, mines, and mills. Those who work with insulation, asbestos textiles, and brakes also risk exposure, as do building renovators and firefighters. Family members of employees exposed to asbestos also stand a greater chance of developing an asbestos-related condition.
Are there guidelines protecting workers from asbestos?
Yes. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) set restrictions in Section 5(a)(1) of the OSH Act requiring employers to provide a workplace environment "free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm."
What is the Asbestos and Silica Compensation Fairness Act?
Passed in Florida in 2005, the Asbestos and Silica Compensation Fairness Act is designed to restrict the number of asbestos- and silica-related lawsuits. Its dictates that plaintiffs must have health problems caused directly by asbestos and silica when filing suit—and smokers must provide medical evidence that their cancer was caused by asbestos, not cigarettes. Additionally, plaintiffs must live in Florida or have been exposed to asbestos in Florida to sue in the state.
I have been diagnosed with mesothelioma. What can an attorney do for me?
Hiring a qualified mesothelioma attorney can help protect your family from the devastating financial impact serious illnesses have. The lawyers at Levin Papantonio understand the emotional distress you feel from an entirely preventable medical condition and aggressively pursue justice on your behalf. We ensure clients receive sound legal representation so they can afford treatment for mesothelioma.
Our law firm also represents families whose loved ones passed away due to mesothelioma.
How is the statute of limitations for filing legal action in Florida applied in mesothelioma cases?
The Asbestos and Silica Compensation Fairness Act of 2005 suspends the Florida's standard personal injury statute of limitations and discovery clause. This means that, should you develop mesothelioma, you can still file a lawsuit years after learning about your exposure to asbestos.
What losses and injuries can be compensated?
Florida allows plaintiffs to sue for the following types of economic and noneconomic losses—
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I am worried about how much a lawsuit would cost. How does that work?
Levin Papantonio operates on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing for our services until we collect damages for your lawsuit. We want you to focus on your treatment and your family, not your legal bills. Your attorney's fees come directly out of your settlement or verdict.
