The efficiency of Texas Mesothelioma Lawyers was evident when more Texas asbestos lawsuits were filed between 1998-2000 than any other state. In the late 1990s, Texas legislators began to adopt a number of reforms to reduce the number of asbestos cases and manage them.
You can find more information about Texas Mesothelioma Lawyers and how to file a claim.
Texas Mesothelioma Lawyers – Filling a Claim
A number of regulations have been passed in Texas to manage and reduce the state’s Asbestos cases. The state’s most extensive reform was in 2005, when it adopted modifications to the requirements for filing a claim.
In 2003, the state legislature established a multidistrict litigation process that identified specific courts to deal with asbestos cases.
A law was also enacted in 1997 to stop nonresident asbestos claims being filed. Texas is still one of the most active states in asbestos litigation.
A Texas Mesothelioma attorney can explain how these laws may impact your case. They will also advise you on whether it is in your best interests to file in another state and what type claim to file.
You can get compensation for income lost due to Mesothelioma by filing a personal injury or wrongful death suit.
Asbestos Exposure in Texas
There are six asbestos deposits in Texas, but most of the exposure occurred in occupational settings. Some industries are known to use asbestos products, particularly those that involve high temperatures and dangerous chemicals.
Texas Industries are known for asbestos exposure
- Shipbuilding
- Oil refining
- Power generation
- Manufacturing
- Chemical processing
- Metalworks
- Insulation installation
- Construction
Veterans are particularly at risk from asbestos exposure. In every branch of the U.S. military, there were many types of asbestos products.
Texas and other states may not be aware of the potential impact their efforts to reduce asbestos lawsuit filings could have on veterans, who account for approximately 30% of all mesothelioma cases. Veteran may file a VA claim to receive benefits. They also have access Texas VA health care.
Texas Law Firms
Because of their vast experience and reach, Texas residents suffering from mesothelioma may want to consider a nationwide Mesothelioma lawyer firm. The best place to file a claim is in a state that has a nationwide practice. They are unparalleled in their knowledge and reach.
National Mesothelioma Law Firms
- Weitz & Luxenberg
- Cooney & Conway
- Simmons Hanly Conroy
- Nemeroff Law
- Galiher DeRobertis & Waxman
According to a KCIC report, Texas is one of the states where mesothelioma lawsuits are filed out-of-state. Because Texas courts favor asbestos defendants far more than mesothelioma victims, this is why it’s so popular.
There are two national mesothelioma lawyers with offices in Texas or nearby:
- Cooney & Conway have offices in San Antonio and Houston.
- Nemeroff Law is located in Houston and Dallas.
A national firm will often travel across the country to meet clients. They may not charge for travel expenses.
Texas Asbestos Laws & Regulations
Texas has both state and federal laws that regulate asbestos.
Texas Regulations on Asbestos
- Texas Occupations Code Section 1954.001 This summary summarizes the Texas Asbestos Health Protection Act.
State Departments Overseeing Texas’ Asbestos Laws
- Texas Department of State Health Services — The Asbestos Program Responsible for the maintenance, renovation, and demolition of buildings that contain asbestos.
Texas Laws Affecting Asbestos Lawsuits
- Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code Section 16.03(a): This section defines the statute of limitations in Texas for personal injury lawsuits.
- Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code Section 16.03(b): This section defines the statute of limitations in Texas for wrongful death lawsuits.
- Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code Section 41.001: Defines Texas’ negligence laws.
If you or your family are having difficulty dealing with a Mesothelioma diagnosis it is in your best interests to hire a top mesothelioma lawyer who understands the complexities and regulations of the state laws and can help you get the most value for your case.
Asbestos Litigation Trends in Texas
The following procedures have been established by Texas courts to handle asbestos litigation in Texas:
- Case Scheduling Texas allows its trial courts to give preference to hearings or trials involving claimants suffering from malignant mesothelioma and other asbestos-related cancers.
- Joinder Of Claimants: The U.S. courts have attempted to speed up cases by joining different claims such as mesothelioma and claims from people with no impairments for trial. Texas requires that all parties consent to multiple claims being joined for one trial.
- Medical Criteria. Texas law now restricts claims made by plaintiffs who don’t have functional or physical impairments. To proceed with their lawsuits, claimants must meet a minimum of medical criteria.
- Successor Liability. Texas law also limits liability for a company who buys or merges (and assumes the asbestos liabilities) of another company.
This information should not be relied upon to determine your legal rights. To fully understand your legal options, speak with an attorney who is licensed to practice law in the area.
