If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma in Minnesota, it’s vital to understand your rights. Mesothelioma is a serious and often fatal cancer that may entitle victims and their families to seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress. The experienced mesothelioma attorneys at Schmidt & Salita Law Team are dedicated to guiding you through this process, safeguarding your rights, and striving to secure the compensation you deserve.
Mesothelioma (me-zoe-thee-lee-O-muh) is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the lining of certain organs, most commonly the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), heart (pericardium), or testes. This cancer is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a group of naturally occurring minerals known for their heat resistance and durability.
When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the body’s tissues, leading to inflammation, scarring, and eventually cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma, and most cases are directly linked to this dangerous substance.
Mesothelioma is known for its long latency period, which means symptoms may not appear until 20 to 50 years after exposure. This makes early diagnosis challenging. Common symptoms include:
These symptoms can mimic other conditions, mesothelioma is often diagnosed in later stages, complicating treatment options. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is crucial to seek immediate medical advice and legal guidance.
Individuals most at risk of asbestos exposure include those who have worked in industries where asbestos was heavily used, such as construction, shipbuilding, automotive repair, and manufacturing. Asbestos fibers can be found in various products, including insulation, roofing materials, brake pads, and ceiling tiles. According to the American Cancer Society, people are typically exposed to asbestos in the following ways:
Workers in industries like mining, construction, shipbuilding, and automotive repair. Jobs that involve handling or disturbing asbestos-containing materials, such as demolition work or asbestos removal, are particularly high-risk.
Family members of workers who may carry asbestos fibers on their clothing, shoes, or hair. Even minimal exposure through secondary contact can lead to serious health risks.
Residents living near asbestos mines, manufacturing facilities, or sites where asbestos-containing products are processed or disposed of may be at risk. For example, residents of Libby, Montana, experienced widespread asbestos exposure due to local vermiculite mining.
Use of consumer products containing asbestos, such as certain talcum powders, older home insulation, floor tiles, or brake linings, can also pose a risk.
It is essential to note that even brief exposure to asbestos can be dangerous. The tiny fibers can become trapped in the lungs or other tissues, leading to chronic inflammation and, eventually, cancer. Mesothelioma is not the only disease caused by asbestos exposure — asbestosis and lung cancer are also common among exposed individuals.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be eligible to file several types of claims to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. These claims can include:
Determining which claim to file depends on the specifics of your situation, including where and how the exposure occurred. An experienced mesothelioma attorney can help you identify the best legal options if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma in Minnesota and maximize your compensation.
In Minnesota, the statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma claim is generally four years from the date of diagnosis or discovery of the disease. For wrongful death claims, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of the victim’s death. However, it is important to note that these time limits may vary depending on the specifics of each case.
Minnesota follows the “discovery rule,” which means the clock starts ticking when the disease is diagnosed, rather than when the exposure occurred. This rule is particularly important for mesothelioma victims because of the disease’s long latency period. Even if exposure occurred decades ago, you still have the right to pursue legal action once diagnosed.
Begin with medical care and then explore legal options quickly. After a diagnosis, seek treatment from a team experienced with mesothelioma cases. Minnesota residents may find resources and specialists through institutions such as the University of Minnesota or Mayo Clinic.
From a legal standpoint, documenting the source of exposure is critical. Keep detailed records of:
As a firm, we help clients identify liable parties, whether they are former employers, product manufacturers, or property owners. Filing a claim may lead to compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you should also consider whether other family members may have grounds for a wrongful death or survivor’s claim.
We understand how overwhelming a mesothelioma diagnosis can be. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, the legal journey doesn’t have to be as difficult as the medical one. At Schmidt & Salita Law Team, we’ve handled thousands of personal injury cases across Minnesota and are ready to listen, advise, and act.
Call us today at (952) 473-4530 for a free consultation and let us help you take the next step forward—with clarity, purpose, and commitment.
Mary Beth Boyce is a dedicated personal injury and workers’ compensation attorney with over 12 years of experience advocating for injured individuals. A Rising Star recognized by Super Lawyers, she has successfully handled high-stakes cases, including multiple multi-million-dollar settlements in personal injury claims. Mary Beth is deeply committed to protecting first responders, working on legislation, and handling cases related to cancer, cardiac conditions, and mental health claims.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partner, Dean M. Salita, with more than 30 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
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