Pacor filed for bankruptcy in the 1980s and was originally called the Philadelphia Asbestos Corporation. For decades, it made asbestos-containing materials, including insulation, and today makes similar products without asbestos. The use of asbestos led to lawsuits and bankruptcy, as well as the founding of an asbestos trust to compensate victims.
All kinds of Philadelphia workers and their families risked exposure to asbestos. Those at the highest risk include all types of construction and demolition workers, factory and manufacturing workers, pipefitters, shipyard workers, boiler workers, steel mill workers, railroad workers, and auto mechanics.
Asbestos in Philadelphia Buildings
Unfortunately, it is not just the workers of Philadelphia facing asbestos exposure. The material was used heavily in the construction of older buildings. Government buildings, hospitals, schools, and homes often contain asbestos, especially those built before the 1980s.
Public schools have been particularly hard hit by asbestos exposure. In 2020, six schools and a learning center in Philadelphia shut down because of damaged asbestos in the buildings. The Philadelphia Federation of Teachers sued the district for failing to test adequately for asbestos and do anything about the hazard once discovered.
When Do I Need a Philadelphia Mesothelioma Attorney?
If you live or work in the area and have been exposed to asbestos, you may need to talk to a mesothelioma lawyer in Philadelphia. If you have received a diagnosis of mesothelioma, asbestosis, or asbestos lung cancer, talk to an attorney.
Asbestos exposure is often negligent, and you have legal rights. Even when a company responsible for asbestos materials goes bankrupt, there are ways to recover damages. The company may have an asbestos trust for compensating victims.
What Can a Mesothelioma Lawyer in Philadelphia Do for Me?
A Philadelphia mesothelioma attorney is a legal specialist, someone who knows the relevant laws, the asbestos industry, and the local area. They can help you and your family in several ways:
1. Track down asbestos
A lawyer focused on asbestos cases knows how to investigate incidents of exposure. You may not know where you encountered asbestos, but they can find out for you, especially local lawyers in the Philadelphia area.
2. Connect exposure to illness
Mesothelioma lawyers also have access to a network of medical experts. To make a case of negligent asbestos exposure, you must prove it connects directly to your diagnosed illness or symptoms.
3. Make a claim with an asbestos trust
If your lawyer finds your exposure came from a bankrupt company, they can determine if there is an asbestos trust that covers you. They can also make the claim and help you get compensation.
4. File a lawsuit
A lawsuit may also be an option if you have suffered because of asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma lawyers are experienced litigators and will represent you in pre-trial negotiations and in court if necessary.
5. Recover damages
Holding the responsible parties accountable for the harm they caused is important. You also need compensation for the resulting medical bills. A lawyer will be able to help you take the steps needed to recover fair damages.
What Should I Look for in a Philadelphia Mesothelioma Attorney?
When looking for a lawyer to represent you or your family over asbestos exposure and mesothelioma, don’t settle for just anyone. Look for a lawyer in your area. If you experienced exposure in Philadelphia, you need a lawyer who knows the industry there.
Also essential is a lawyer who spends most or all of their time on asbestos cases. You need the experience and expertise of a lawyer dedicated to this area of the law and to personal injury and litigation.
Additionally, the lawyer you hire should make you feel comfortable that they can handle your case and have the time and resources to see it through. You should feel good about opening up to them and their fees. Selecting the right lawyer is one of the most important choices you’ll make moving forward with asbestos litigation.
Complete our simple contact form to set up a Free Initial Consultation with Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyer Dave Halpern. As a leading advocate for asbestos victims and with decades of experience, he can answer all your questions and help you take legal action.
Sources
(800) 505-6000
