Financial and Legal Support for Veterans with Mesothelioma

Legal Support for Veterans with Mesothelioma Compensation

Veterans who have been exposed to asbestos during military service and are now facing mesothelioma or other asbestos-related conditions can access various forms of financial help and legal support. According to the National Consulting Firm KCIC, In 2022, the leading states for mesothelioma lawsuits—New York, California, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey—experienced increases in filings, with rates ranging from 18% to 36% compared to 2021.

Navigating Legal Options for Veterans with Mesothelioma

Veterans suffering from asbestos-related diseases may be entitled to financial compensation. Assistance from lawyers with expertise in asbestos cases can be crucial in ensuring veterans receive due compensation, which can significantly help with the costs associated with treatment, loss of income, and other related financial burdens.

Legal Support for Veterans’ Families

The cost of treating asbestos-related illnesses can be substantial. Financial compensation can alleviate this financial strain. Families of veterans who have passed away from asbestos-related diseases due to military service exposure can also seek compensation with the aid of experienced attorneys.

The Role of Mesothelioma Lawyers in Assisting Veterans

Mesothelioma attorneys, proficient in handling claims related to veteran asbestos exposure, can guide veterans and their families through compensation processes. These attorneys can:

  • Clarify various compensation options and determine eligibility.
  • Identify the most appropriate claim option for each individual case.
  • Assist in preparing and submitting robust claims.
  • Offer support throughout the legal proceedings, ensuring compliance with deadlines and eligibility criteria.

Eligibility for Compensation

Veterans must have a service-related disability, typically a diagnosis linked to asbestos exposure during service, to be eligible for compensation. Eligible conditions include mesothelioma, asbestosis, asbestos lung cancer, laryngeal cancer, other malignant diseases, and certain benign diseases. Asbestos was extensively used in various military contexts, affecting personnel from all branches of the military.

Compensation Options for Veterans

Two primary avenues for compensation for veterans are asbestos lawsuits and VA claims. Asbestos lawsuits are filed against companies that manufactured asbestos products, not the military. These can be personal injury or wrongful death claims.

Mesothelioma Lawsuits and VA Benefits

Compensation obtained through lawsuits or trust funds does not impact VA benefits. Veterans are advised against claiming the same government benefits twice for the same illness to avoid fraudulent claims.

Filing VA Claims

There are several VA claim categories designed to address distinct situations encountered during military service. When these claims are approved, they can result in various forms of compensation. This includes Disability Compensation, Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), Special Monthly Compensation (SMC), and compensation related to unique circumstances encountered during service.

Trust Fund Claims for Veterans

If a responsible company has established an asbestos trust fund, veterans may file a claim. Eligibility criteria vary by trust, and mesothelioma attorneys can aid in determining eligibility and assembling the necessary documentation.

Additional Benefits for Veterans with Mesothelioma

Veterans with mesothelioma are eligible for benefits beyond compensation. These include personalized healthcare options at VA hospitals, housing assistance, and insurance benefits. VA healthcare facilities, staffed with experienced doctors, offer specialized care for asbestos-related illnesses. Veterans can also access Specially Adapted Housing Grants, Service-Disabled Veterans Life Insurance, and Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance.