Philadelphia Mesothelioma Lawyers

The person responsible for filing the claim is the estate representative, typically named in a will. This may be a surviving spouse, a child, or another close family member or friend. If there is no will, the court will choose a representative. A claim for wrongful death is usually brought by family members of the deceased plaintiff, such as a spouse or child. The spouse or children of a deceased plaintiff can be considered wrongful death beneficiaries.

One notable example of a high settlement occurred in Illinois. There, a woman named Jean Holmes died of mesothelioma after secondary exposure to asbestos fibers while laundering her husband’s clothes. The jury awarded $2.6 million to Holmes’ children. They received this high award partly because responsible parties did not warn Holmes of the dangers of asbestos fibers.

The top factors that affect a mesothelioma settlement in a wrongful death case include the following:

• The deceased person’s age
• The deceased person’s treatment and expenses
• The deceased person’s pain and suffering
• The strength of the evidence
• The impact the treatment and loss had on surviving family members

You must prove that the defendant was wrongfully exposed to asbestos and died of mesothelioma. The stronger the evidence developed during litigation, the higher the likelihood of a full and fair settlement or verdict.

• Provide Evidence of Costs
• Provide Evidence of Lost Wages and Other Costs
• Provide Evidence of Mental Pain and Suffering

Cohen, Placitella, and Roth has offices in Philadelphia, PA. Our mesothelioma lawyers will fight to get the results you deserve for your case. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.

Our expert mesothelioma lawyers have offices in Cherry Hill, New Jersey and Red Bank, New Jersey. Our attorneys are ready to fight for you and your family –  contact us today for a free evaluation of your mesothelioma lawsuit.

Understanding What to Expect — and How We Help Families Access Funds Faster

When you’ve fought hard for justice in a mesothelioma case, the last thing you want to do is wait. At Cohen, Placitella & Roth (CPR), we understand that settlement funds aren’t just numbers on paper — they represent hope, stability, and security for families navigating life after a devastating diagnosis.

Below, we explain how long it usually takes to receive payment after a mesothelioma settlement, what can affect the timeline, and how our legal team works to get clients their compensation as quickly as possible.

Typical Payment Timeline

Once a mesothelioma case settles, most clients receive payment within 30 to 90 days.

Here’s a general breakdown:

• Asbestos trust funds: Typically pay within 2 to 8 weeks once the claim is approved.
• Private company or insurance settlements: Usually within 1 to 3 months after final paperwork is signed.
• Court-approved settlements (for estates or minors): May take longer due to required judicial review.

Each case is different — some defendants pay quickly, while others delay for administrative or financial reasons. CPR monitors each payment source closely to ensure there are no unnecessary holdups.

Why Settlement Timing Varies

Several factors influence when you’ll actually see the funds:

1. Number of Defendants
   Many mesothelioma cases involve multiple companies. Payments can arrive at different times depending on each defendant’s policies.
2. Type of Settlement Agreement
   Some cases resolve in lump-sum payments, while others use structured payouts spread over time.
3. Paperwork and Verification
   After settlement, both sides must exchange releases, finalize lien information, and verify payment details. Even minor errors can delay disbursement.
4. Bank or Trust Processing Delays
   Financial institutions and asbestos trusts each have their own timelines for issuing checks or electronic transfers.

Understanding Asbestos Trust Fund Payments

If your claim involves asbestos trust funds, the process is generally faster and more predictable than litigation.

After CPR submits your claim with full documentation of exposure, diagnosis, and work history, the trust reviews it for eligibility. Once approved:

• Expedited Review claims (the most common) are often paid within 60 days.
• Individual Review claims may take longer due to manual evaluation of unique circumstances.

Each trust sets its own payment percentage, meaning you’ll receive a portion of the claim’s full “scheduled value.” CPR carefully sequences and manages multiple trust submissions to maximize recovery and reduce delays.

Court Approval and Lien Resolution

Some settlements require court approval — especially those involving deceased clients’ estates or dependents. The court’s role is to confirm that the settlement is fair and that the executor or guardian can distribute funds appropriately.

Additionally, medical or Medicare liens (debts owed to healthcare providers or insurers) must be resolved before final disbursement. CPR’s lien resolution team works directly with healthcare and government agencies to minimize these liens and speed up payment.

How CPR Helps Speed Up Payment

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth, we know timing matters. Our attorneys and paralegals:

• Track every defendant and trust to confirm when payments are due
• Communicate with insurers and administrators weekly to prevent bottlenecks
• Coordinate lien resolution early so there’s no last-minute delay
• Provide regular client updates, so you always know where things stand

We don’t just settle cases — we stand beside families until every check clears and every lien is resolved.

A Simple Guide for Families Affected by Mesothelioma or Asbestos Disease

When you or a loved one is diagnosed with mesothelioma, the last thing you want to avoid as much uncertainty as possible. You may have heard the term “asbestos trust fund” and wondered how it’s different from a lawsuit—or whether it’s something you can pursue.

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth (CPR), we’ve helped thousands of families navigate these questions for more than four decades. Below, we explain what asbestos trust funds are, how they came to exist, and how victims can receive compensation with compassion and efficiency.

Understanding Asbestos Trust Funds

An asbestos trust fund is a compensation fund set aside by companies that manufactured or sold asbestos-containing products and later filed for bankruptcy. These funds exist to compensate workers and families who developed diseases like mesothelioma, asbestosis, or lung cancer caused by exposure to those products. Because these are created by bankruptcies because the companies claimed they do not have enough money to defend and pay all of the current and future claims. As such they are by definition not going to pay what would have been paid out in the tort system,

Rather than suing the bankrupt company in court, claimants file a trust fund claim. The trust reviews the claim and issues payment based on exposure evidence and medical diagnosis.

In short: A trust fund claim is an alternative to a lawsuit—faster, less stressful, and available even if the company no longer exists.

Why Trust Funds Were Created

Beginning in the 1970s, asbestos companies faced tens of thousands of lawsuits. Many filed for bankruptcy but were still required by law to set aside funds for future victims under Section 524(g) of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code.

Today, there are over 60 active asbestos trust funds holding more than $30 billion in total assets (U.S. Government Accountability Office, 2023). These trusts ensure that people who develop diseases decades after exposure can still receive compensation—even if the company went out of business years ago.

How an Asbestos Trust Fund Lawsuit Works

Although it’s often called an “asbestos trust fund lawsuit,” it’s technically a claim process, not a courtroom trial. Here’s how it typically works:

1. Case Review and Exposure Investigation
   Your legal team gathers work history, product identification, and medical records to prove where and when exposure occurred.
2. Trust Identification
   Each asbestos product manufacturer has its own trust. CPR identifies every trust for which you’re eligible—sometimes 10 or more.
3. Claim Submission
   Claims are submitted with evidence of exposure and diagnosis. Trusts offer two review options:
   • Expedited Review: Faster payment based on fixed “scheduled” values.
   • Individual Review: Case-by-case assessment that can yield higher awards.
4. Payment Issued
   Once approved, most payments are made within 2–8 weeks via check or wire transfer.

Who Is Eligible to File a Claim

You may qualify for one or more asbestos trust fund claims if you:

• Were diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestosis, or another asbestos-related cancer
• Were exposed to asbestos at work, through military service, or by handling asbestos-containing materials
• Can identify products or companies linked to your exposure (your legal team helps with this)
• Are a family member or estate representative of someone who passed away from an asbestos disease

Even if you have already filed a lawsuit or received other compensation, you may still qualify for additional trust fund payments.

How Payments Are Calculated

Each trust sets a “scheduled value” for approved claims—essentially a baseline amount for specific diseases like mesothelioma. However, because trust assets must last for future claimants, each pays a percentage of that value (often 10%–30%).

Example:
If a trust’s scheduled value for mesothelioma is $200,000 and its payment percentage is 25%, the approved payment would be $50,000.

Victims often qualify for multiple trusts, resulting in cumulative recoveries that can reach hundreds of thousands—or even millions—of dollars.

How CPR Helps Families Through the Process

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth, we know that every asbestos case represents a life story—not just a legal claim. Our attorneys and paralegals work closely with each family to ensure:

• Comprehensive trust identification — We review decades of product and jobsite records to maximize eligible claims.
• Accurate documentation — Our medical and investigative teams prepare airtight evidence packages.
• Timely filing — We track every trust’s submission window and requirements to avoid delay.
• Clear communication — Families receive updates and plain-language explanations at every stage.

We also pursue civil lawsuits at the same time when viable to secure additional compensation from solvent companies—because we believe every responsible party should be held accountable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to go to court for a trust fund claim?
No. Trust fund claims are handled outside of court. There’s no testimony or hearing required.

Can I file both a lawsuit and trust fund claims?
Yes. Many families pursue both paths. Your attorney ensures claims and suits are coordinated properly.

How long does it take to receive payment?
Once approved, payments are usually received within 2–8 weeks. Complex cases with multiple trusts may take longer.

Is there a deadline to file?
Yes. Each trust sets its own statute of limitations (often 2–3 years from diagnosis or death). It’s important to act quickly.

How much does it cost to file?
There are no upfront costs. CPR works on a contingency basis—you pay nothing unless compensation is recovered.

Next Steps — Get Personal Guidance

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, you may be eligible for substantial compensation through asbestos trust funds and lawsuits.

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth, we’ve guided families nationwide through this process with care and dignity for over 40 years. We handle every detail so you can focus on health, family, and peace of mind.

Talk with our team to understand your options.
Call us or use our secure online form to schedule a free consultation today.

Understanding Who Qualifies — and How Cohen, Placitella & Roth Can Help

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer,  asbestosis, or another asbestos-related disease, you may be wondering if you qualify for an asbestos trust fund settlement.

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth (CPR), we know that these questions often come at one of the hardest moments in a family’s life. The good news: even if the company responsible for your exposure is no longer in business, you may still be eligible for significant compensation through asbestos bankruptcy trust funds.

This guide explains what asbestos trust funds are, who qualifies, what proof is required, and how CPR’s experienced legal team helps families file successful claims nationwide.

What Are Asbestos Trust Funds?

Asbestos trust funds are special accounts set up by companies that manufactured or used asbestos products and later filed for bankruptcy.
Federal law requires these companies to reserve money for current and future victims of asbestos diseases.

Instead of suing those companies in court, you can file a claim directly with their trust fund. Each trust evaluates claims and pays approved claimants from a pool of assets — collectively totaling over $30 billion nationwide (U.S. GAO, 2023).

Basic Eligibility Requirements

You may qualify for an asbestos trust fund settlement if you meet these three general conditions:

1. Medical Diagnosis — You have a confirmed diagnosis of an asbestos-related disease (for example, mesothelioma, lung cancer or asbestosis).
2. Exposure Evidence — You can show that you were exposed to asbestos-containing products made or distributed by a company that established a trust fund.
3. Timely Filing — You file within the time limit (statute of limitations), which usually begins at diagnosis or date of death.

Even if exposure occurred decades ago — in a shipyard, construction site, power plant, or military base — you may still qualify today.

Qualifying Diseases

Each trust maintains a list of compensable conditions. The most common include:

• Malignant mesothelioma
• Lung cancer caused by asbestos
• Other asbestos-related cancers (laryngeal, ovarian)
• Asbestosis and pleural fibrosis

The level of compensation depends on disease severity and evidence strength.

Types of Exposure That Count

Eligibility isn’t limited to workers who directly handled asbestos. Many successful claims involve:

• Trades and industries: shipyards, steel mills, construction, insulation, automotive, and power generation
• Military service: especially Navy veterans exposed aboard ships
• Secondary exposure: family members who inhaled asbestos dust from contaminated work clothing
• Environmental exposure: living near mines or factories that released asbestos fibers

Even short-term or indirect exposure can qualify if properly documented.

Documents You’ll Need

To prove eligibility, your attorney will help you gather:

1. Medical records confirming diagnosis
2. Pathology reports or imaging verifying asbestos disease
3. Employment or service history identifying asbestos-related jobs or sites
4. Product identification evidence (co-worker statements, invoices, or union records)

CPR’s investigative team tracks down decades-old company records and witness evidence so families don’t have to shoulder that burden alone.

How CPR Proves Eligibility and Files Claims

For more than 40 years, Cohen, Placitella & Roth has represented asbestos victims nationwide. Our experience helps clients qualify efficiently and confidently:

• Trust Identification: We match your exposure history to all eligible trusts — sometimes 10 or more.
• Evidence Development: We work with medical experts and occupational investigators to confirm diagnosis and exposure.
• Claim Preparation: Our legal team ensures every trust form and affidavit meets the required standards.
• Monitoring & Appeals: If a trust requests more information or undervalues a claim, we respond promptly to protect your rights.

Our goal is simple: help families secure the full compensation they deserve as quickly as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I qualify if I don’t remember the product names?
Yes. Many clients don’t. Our firm uses historic product databases, jobsite records, and co-worker affidavits to identify likely asbestos sources.

What if the company that exposed me went bankrupt decades ago?
That’s exactly why trust funds exist. If that company created a trust, you can still file today.

Can families file after a loved one has passed away?
Yes. Estates and dependents can pursue trust fund claims on behalf of deceased victims.

Do I need a lawyer to file?
Technically no, but the process is complex. CPR has decades of experience ensuring claims meet all evidentiary standards — maximizing the payout and minimizing stress.

How long does it take to get paid?
Most trust fund payments are issued within 2–8 weeks after approval.

Next Steps — Get Your Eligibility Reviewed

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, you may be eligible for substantial compensation — even if the responsible company no longer exists.

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth, our attorneys have decades of experience guiding families through asbestos trust fund claims with care and precision. We handle the paperwork, documentation, and communication so you can focus on what matters most: health and family.

Talk with our team today to learn your options.
Call us or complete our confidential online form for a free eligibility review.

Understanding What to Expect — and How Cohen, Placitella & Roth Helps Families Maximize Recovery

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, one of the first questions you may have is, “How much will the asbestos trust fund pay me?”

The short answer: it depends — but with the right legal guidance, many families recover substantial compensation from multiple asbestos trust funds.

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth (CPR), we’ve spent more than 40 years helping asbestos victims nationwide secure every dollar they’re entitled to. This post explains what determines asbestos trust fund payouts, how payments are calculated, and how we help families receive their compensation quickly and fairly.

How Asbestos Trust Funds Work

When asbestos manufacturers and suppliers filed for bankruptcy, federal law required them to create asbestos bankruptcy trust funds to compensate victims who later develop illnesses such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, or asbestos-related lung cancer.

Each trust operates independently, reviewing claims and paying approved claimants based on:

• The type of disease,
• Strength of evidence, and
• The trust’s available assets.

Today, more than 60 asbestos trust funds remain active, with over $30 billion reserved for victims and families (U.S. GAO 2023).

What Determines How Much You’ll Receive

Several factors influence your final recovery:

1. Disease Level and Severity
   Each trust assigns a “scheduled value” to specific diseases — mesothelioma typically has the highest.
2. Payment Percentage
   Because trusts must preserve funds for future victims, most pay 10% – 30% of the scheduled value.
   Example: if a trust’s scheduled value is $200,000 and its payment percentage is 25%, the payout is $50,000.
3. Evidence Strength
   Solid medical records, pathology confirmation, and work or product identification documentation directly affect approval and payout speed.
4. Jurisdiction and Filing Type
   Some trusts allow expedited review (faster, set amount) or individual review (potentially higher amount).
5. CAUTION: Beware of those promising you specific amounts in order to sign you up. No one can do that without detailed knowledge and investigation of your case.

How Multiple Trusts Increase Recovery

Most victims were exposed to products made by several companies over years of work. Each responsible company that filed bankruptcy may have its own trust.

An experienced asbestos attorney identifies every trust you qualify for. CPR routinely files 10 or more trust claims per client, significantly increasing overall recovery.

Our team sequences filings strategically — submitting the strongest claims first — to generate early payments while others are still being processed.

Factors That Reduce or Delay Payment

• Incomplete or outdated medical documentation
• Unclear exposure history
• Missing employment records
• Outstanding medical or Medicare liens
• Filing without legal assistance (leading to rejections or under-valuation)

CPR’s paralegals and investigators help clients resolve every issue before submission, avoiding costly delays.

How CPR Maximizes Your Compensation

For over four decades, Cohen, Placitella & Roth has been a national leader in asbestos and mesothelioma litigation. Our approach combines:

• Experience: We know each trust’s criteria and history of payment percentages.
• Precision: We build airtight documentation packages tailored to each trust’s requirements.
• Efficiency: We monitor payments and coordinate lien resolution to ensure clients receive funds quickly.
• Personal Care: You’re assigned a dedicated team who explains every step in plain English.

Our goal: to secure the maximum available recovery, compassionately and efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I receive money from more than one trust?
Yes. Most people qualify for several trusts because multiple companies contributed to their exposure.

Are asbestos trust fund payments taxable?
Generally no. Compensation for personal injury or wrongful death is not taxable under federal law (26 U.S.C. § 104).

How long does it take to receive payments?
Most trusts issue checks within 2–8 weeks after approval, though multi-trust cases may take longer.

Can I still file a lawsuit against other companies?
Yes. Filing trust claims doesn’t prevent you from suing solvent companies that remain responsible.

Is there a deadline?
Each trust sets its own statute of limitations, usually 2–3 years from diagnosis or death. Early filing protects your rights.

Next Steps — Get a Personalized Claim Review

No two asbestos cases are alike. Your payout depends on your work history, diagnosis, and which companies made the products you were exposed to.

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth, our attorneys have recovered hundreds of millions for asbestos victims nationwide. We’ll review your history, identify every eligible trust, and file all claims for you — with compassion and care.

Speak with our team today to learn your potential recovery.
Call us or complete our secure online form for a free case evaluation.

Understanding Your Right to Seek Justice — and How Cohen, Placitella & Roth Can Help

Losing a loved one to mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease is devastating. Amid the grief, many families wonder: “Can I still file a claim now that they’ve passed away?”

The answer is usually yes. Families can pursue compensation through asbestos trust fund claims, wrongful death lawsuits, or both — even years after exposure occurred.

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth (CPR), our attorneys have guided families through this process for more than four decades. We handle every detail so you can focus on what truly matters: honoring your loved one’s life and protecting your family’s future.

Why You Can Still File After Death

Asbestos-related illnesses like mesothelioma often appear decades after exposure, and many victims pass away before they can take legal action. Fortunately, U.S. law recognizes this challenge.

Most states — and all major asbestos trust funds — allow family members or estate representatives to file claims after death. These are called wrongful death or survivor claims.

Filing serves two purposes:

1. It helps the family recover financial compensation for medical bills, lost income, and suffering.
2. It holds companies accountable for exposing workers and families to asbestos without adequate warnings.

Types of Asbestos Claims Families Can File

There are two main types of claims available after a loved one’s death:

1. Wrongful Death & Survivorship Lawsuits

Filed in court against companies that are still in business. It seeks damages for:

• • Funeral and medical expenses
  • Lost financial support
  • Loss of companionship
  • Emotional suffering
  • Pain and suffering

2. Asbestos Trust Fund Claim

Filed outside of court with trusts set up by bankrupt asbestos companies. These claims are typically faster and easier to process.

• • No trial or testimony required
  • Payments often arrive within 2–8 weeks of approval
  • Can be filed alongside a lawsuit against other companies

Many families qualify for both types of claims — CPR helps coordinate them to maximize total recovery.

Who Can File on Behalf of a Loved One

Eligibility varies by state and trust fund, but generally, the following may file:

• Spouses or life partners
• Children depending on circumstances (including adult children)
• Estate executors or administrators
• Other dependents or next of kin if there’s no surviving spouse or child

If an estate has already been established, the executor can handle the filing. If not, CPR’s team assists families in setting up the necessary legal paperwork.

How Trust Fund Claims Work After Death

Even after a victim’s passing, their exposure history, medical records, and employment documents can be used to file claims.

Here’s how the process works:

1. Case Review — We review your loved one’s work history, diagnosis, and possible asbestos exposures.
2. Trust Identification — Our legal team identifies every asbestos trust your loved one qualifies for (often 10 or more).
3. Claim Filing — We prepare and submit claims with medical and occupational documentation.
4. Approval & Payment — Once approved, most payments are issued within weeks.

Each trust fund has its own criteria, but CPR’s decades of experience ensure no eligible claim is overlooked.

Deadlines (Statutes of Limitations)

Each state sets its own deadline for filing asbestos wrongful death claims, usually starting from the date of death.

• Typical range: 1 to 3 years (depending on state law)
• Trust fund claims: Often follow similar timeframes but may allow exceptions for “good cause.”

It’s crucial to speak with an experienced asbestos attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights. Missing a deadline could mean losing eligibility for compensation.

How CPR Supports Grieving Families

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth, we understand that filing a claim after a loss is not just about money — it’s about closure, accountability, and security.

Our role is to handle the legal process with compassion and respect. We:

• Investigate work and exposure history to find every eligible claim
• Gather necessary records without burdening the family
• Coordinate trust fund and court filings efficiently
• Provide clear, ongoing communication throughout the process

Our attorneys have recovered hundreds of millions for asbestos victims and families nationwide. But just as important, we’ve helped countless families find peace knowing justice was done.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still file if my loved one never filed a claim?
Yes. The estate or surviving family can file new claims even if the victim never pursued compensation while alive.

What if my loved one already had a pending case?
You can continue it as the estate representative. CPR ensures the claim transitions smoothly.

Do I need to testify or go to court?
Not usually. Most asbestos cases and trust fund claims settle or are processed without in-person hearings.

Can I receive money from multiple trusts?
Yes. Many families qualify for payments from several asbestos trust funds.

How long does it take to receive compensation?
Wrongful death lawsuits may take several months to years depending upon the circumstances. Trust fund payments are often received within 2–8 weeks after approval.

Next Steps — Talk with an Experienced Asbestos Attorney

You don’t have to navigate this alone.
Even after a loved one’s death, you may still have the right to hold asbestos companies accountable — and secure the compensation your family deserves.

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth, we handle these cases with deep compassion and decades of proven results. We take care of every legal detail while treating every family with the respect and care they deserve.

Contact our team today for a free, confidential case review.
We’ll help you understand your options, preserve your loved one’s legacy, and seek the justice they earned.

Understanding the Long Latency Period — and Why Early Legal Action Still Matters

Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive cancer caused almost exclusively by exposure to asbestos fibers.
One of the most confusing and frustrating aspects of this disease is how long it takes to appear.
You may have been exposed to asbestos decades ago — at work, in the military, or even through secondhand contact — and only now, symptoms are showing.

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth (CPR), we’ve represented asbestos victims for over 40 years. We help families understand when and how asbestos exposure leads to disease, and what legal rights still exist even after so much time has passed.

What Is the Latency Period for Mesothelioma?

The latency period is the time between first asbestos exposure and the development of disease.
For mesothelioma, that latency is exceptionally long — typically:

• 15 to 60 years, with an average of 35 years between exposure and diagnosis.

This means someone exposed in their 20s may not develop mesothelioma until their 60s or later.

According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this delayed onset is a defining feature of asbestos-related diseases. (Source: NCI, “Malignant Mesothelioma—Patient Version”).

Why It Takes So Long for Symptoms to Appear

When asbestos fibers are inhaled or swallowed, they can become lodged in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart.
Over decades, these fibers cause chronic inflammation, DNA damage, and scarring that slowly lead to cancerous changes.

This process takes so long because:

1. Asbestos fibers are biologically persistent — the body cannot dissolve or expel them easily.
2. The immune system’s slow inflammatory response causes gradual tissue damage.
3. The cancer itself often remains undetected until it has spread.

By the time symptoms appear, the disease is often advanced — one reason early recognition of exposure history is so critical.

Early Warning Signs to Watch For

Because mesothelioma symptoms develop slowly, they’re often mistaken for less serious conditions. Common early symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest or abdominal pain
• Persistent cough
• Fatigue and weight loss
• Fluid buildup (pleural effusion)

Anyone with a history of asbestos exposure who develops these symptoms should tell their doctor and request imaging or specialist evaluation.

Why Timing Matters for Legal Claims

Even though exposure happened long ago, your legal rights may still be protected.
The statute of limitations for asbestos claims begins at diagnosis, not at the time of exposure.

This means:

• You can still file lawsuits or trust fund claims even if exposure was 40+ years ago.
• Families can also file wrongful death claims if a loved one has passed away from mesothelioma.

However, each state sets its own filing deadlines (often 1–3 years from diagnosis or death). Prompt legal help ensures your claim is preserved.

How CPR Helps Victims Exposed Decades Ago

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth, we specialize in identifying exposure sources long after the fact.
Our team has access to decades of jobsite records, product databases, and corporate archives that allow us to trace asbestos use back to the 1940s.

We help by:

• Reconstructing work histories to pinpoint exposure
• Filing asbestos trust fund claims for bankrupt companies
• Pursuing lawsuits against remaining responsible parties
• Coordinating medical evidence to support diagnosis

Our attorneys handle the process with compassion, clarity, and experience — because we know each case represents a lifetime of work, family, and resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can mesothelioma develop after only a few months of asbestos exposure?
Yes. Even brief exposure can cause disease decades later if fibers remain in the body.

Can latency be shorter for some people?
Yes — especially for those exposed to very high levels of asbestos .

What if I don’t remember where I was exposed?
That’s common. CPR’s investigative team can help identify likely exposure sites through old employment or union records.

Does latency affect compensation eligibility?
No. Long latency is expected and does not limit your right to file claims.

Next Steps — Get Help Understanding Your Options

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma — even decades after exposure — you still have legal rights.

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth, we’ve helped thousands of families nationwide recover compensation from asbestos manufacturers and trust funds. We combine deep legal experience with compassionate client care to make the process clear and manageable.

Contact us today for a free, confidential case review.
We’ll help identify where exposure occurred, explain available claims, and begin pursuing justice on your family’s behalf.

Understanding Your Rights — and How Cohen, Placitella & Roth Helps Veterans and Families Seek Justice

If you’re a U.S. veteran diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer  or another asbestos-related disease, you may be wondering whether you can take legal action for your exposure.

The answer is yes —they can sue the private manufacturers that supplied asbestos-containing products to the armed forces.

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth (CPR), we’ve represented veterans and their families for more than 40 years. We understand the unique challenges military service creates in asbestos cases — and we’re honored to help those who served secure the compensation and justice they deserve.

How Veterans Were Exposed to Asbestos

From the 1930s through the late 1970s, asbestos was widely used throughout the U.S. military.
The Navy, Army, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard relied on asbestos for its fire-resistant and insulating properties — not realizing its deadly long-term effects.

Common sources of exposure included:

• Ship engine rooms, boilers, and pipe insulation
• Vehicle brake pads and gaskets
• Aircraft components
• Construction and barracks materials
• Asbestos-wrapped wiring and valves

Because of this widespread use, veterans account for nearly one-third of all mesothelioma diagnoses in the United States (Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Public Health: Asbestos Exposure).

Who Veterans Can Sue — and Who They Can’t

Veterans cannot sue the U.S. government or the military directly due to sovereign immunity laws.
However, the companies that made or sold asbestos products to the military can be held legally responsible.

This includes:

• Manufacturers of asbestos insulation, gaskets, pipes, or flooring
• Shipbuilding and construction contractors
• Equipment suppliers that failed to warn the military about the dangers of asbestos

Key point: These lawsuits are against private companies — not the U.S. government or your branch of service.

Types of Compensation Available

Veterans with asbestos-related diseases may be entitled to several forms of compensation, including:

1. Asbestos Trust Fund Payments
   Over 60 bankrupt asbestos manufacturers created trust funds — with more than $30 billion still available.
2. Civil Lawsuits Against Active Companies
   Veterans can sue solvent manufacturers for negligence and failure to warn. These claims often yield significant settlements.
3. VA Disability and Survivors’ Benefits
   The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides monthly benefits to veterans diagnosed with service-related mesothelioma or lung cancer.
   VA benefits do not prevent you from filing separate legal claims.

How VA Benefits and Legal Claims Work Together

Many veterans assume that receiving VA benefits means they cannot file other claims — but that’s not true.

• VA benefits compensate for service-related disability or death.
• Lawsuits and trust fund claims hold private companies accountable for selling dangerous products.

You can pursue both simultaneously. In fact, CPR coordinates with veterans’ service officers (VSOs) to ensure claims complement each other — never conflict.

How CPR Supports Veterans Nationwide

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth, we are proud to stand beside veterans who served our country and are now facing asbestos-related diseases.
Our approach combines legal precision with deep respect for military families:

• Investigating exposure history: We review your service records, duty stations, and ship or base assignments to identify where asbestos was present.
• Coordinating medical documentation: We work with doctors familiar with VA and trust fund standards.
• Filing and tracking claims: From trust fund submissions to civil suits, we manage every step to minimize stress.
• Honoring your service: We treat every veteran and family with compassion, dignity, and gratitude.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue if I was exposed in the Navy or at a shipyard?
Yes. Shipyard and naval exposures are among the most common bases for asbestos lawsuits and trust fund claims.

Will suing affect my VA benefits?
No. Civil lawsuits and trust fund claims are independent and do not reduce your VA compensation.

What if I don’t know which products I worked with?
That’s common. CPR uses decades of product and ship records to identify asbestos sources linked to specific military occupations.

Can surviving family members file after a veteran’s death?
Yes. Spouses, children, and estate representatives can file wrongful death, Survival and trust fund claims.

How long do I have to file?
Most states allow 1–3 years from diagnosis or death to file a claim. Don’t wait — early filing preserves all rights.

Next Steps — Get a Free Case Review for Veterans

If you or a loved one served in the military and developed mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, you still have legal options.

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth, we’ve helped thousands of veterans recover compensation from asbestos companies — while ensuring VA benefits remain intact.

Contact our team today for a free, confidential case review.
We’ll honor your service by fighting for the justice you earned.