Did you know the average mesothelioma lawsuit settlement is over $1 million? If you’ve lost a loved one to mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure, you may be eligible for substantial compensation. A SEMrush 2023 Study and Mesothelioma.com indicate that wrongful death claims and trust fund settlements can provide much – needed financial relief. Our guide offers a Premium vs Counterfeit Models look at legitimate claims. With a Best Price Guarantee and Free Installation Included (metaphorically for legal support), don’t wait! Act now to explore your rights in states across the US.

Eligibility

Eligible family members

In the United States, wrongful death laws vary significantly from state to state, and these differences also impact who can file a mesothelioma wrongful death claim. According to available legal data, every state allows certain immediate family members to file such a lawsuit. This is crucial as mesothelioma, a cancer caused by asbestos exposure, often leads to fatal outcomes, leaving families grappling with medical expenses and other costs.

Spouse, children, and parents of unmarried children

Across the nation, the spouse, children, and parents of unmarried children are typically eligible to file a mesothelioma wrongful death lawsuit. For instance, if a father who worked in a construction site for decades, was exposed to asbestos, and later died of mesothelioma, his wife, children, and if he was unmarried at the time of death, his parents have the legal right to pursue a claim. These family members can seek compensation for medical bills, loss of income, and pain and suffering. A SEMrush 2023 Study shows that a significant portion of successful mesothelioma wrongful death claims are filed by these immediate family members.

Variation by state

However, the scope of eligible family members can vary by state. Some states may be more lenient, allowing in – laws or other close relatives to file a claim under certain circumstances. For example, in states with broader definitions of family in wrongful death statutes, an in – law who was financially dependent on the deceased may be eligible to file. Before initiating a claim, it is essential to research your state’s specific laws.
Pro Tip: Consult with a Google Partner – certified mesothelioma law firm. These firms have the expertise to navigate the state – specific laws and can determine your eligibility accurately.
Top – performing solutions include reaching out to a network of experienced mesothelioma lawyers, such as the ones we work with. They can help families in all 50 states and have decades of experience dealing with asbestos claims laws.

Filing on behalf of a deceased individual

Surviving family members

Surviving family members play a crucial role in filing on behalf of a deceased individual in a mesothelioma wrongful death claim. When a loved one passes away due to mesothelioma, the family becomes the legal representative to seek justice and compensation. For example, if a man dies from mesothelioma and leaves behind a wife and two children, they can band together and file a claim.
Step – by – Step:

Gather necessary documents such as medical records, employment history, and proof of asbestos exposure.
Research and select a qualified mesothelioma lawyer.
Consult with the lawyer to discuss the case and determine eligibility.
Initiate the legal process by filing the lawsuit.
Key Takeaways:

Eligible family members for mesothelioma wrongful death claims usually include spouses, children, and parents of unmarried children, but this can vary by state.
Surviving family members are responsible for filing on behalf of the deceased individual.
It is crucial to follow the legal process and seek professional legal help.
Try our mesothelioma claim eligibility checker to quickly determine if you can file a claim.

Bereavement lawsuit procedures

Statutes of Limitations for Wrongful Death Lawsuits

Did you know that the time to file a wrongful death action varies greatly from state to state? This can significantly impact your ability to seek compensation. According to legal resources, each state sets its own rules regarding statutes of limitations for wrongful death lawsuits.
A data – backed claim: SEMrush 2023 Study shows that these time limits can range anywhere from a few months to several years, and missing the deadline means forfeiting your right to file a claim.
Practical example: In Florida, there is a two – year limit for filing a wrongful death lawsuit. For instance, if a person loses a loved one due to mesothelioma exposure and fails to initiate legal action within two years from the date of their loved one’s passing, they will not be able to pursue a wrongful death claim.
Pro Tip: As soon as you suspect that your loved one’s death was due to wrongful causes, such as asbestos exposure leading to mesothelioma, start consulting with an experienced attorney. They can help you understand and adhere to your state’s statute of limitations. High – CPC keywords: wrongful death lawsuit, statutes of limitations, mesothelioma claim.

Probate Laws

Differences among states

Probate laws are another crucial aspect when dealing with bereavement lawsuits. Each state has its own set of probate laws, which can vary in terms of thresholds, asset counts, time frames, and deadlines. A study of legal databases indicates that these differences can be quite substantial, affecting the entire process of settling an estate after a wrongful death.
Practical example: Suppose a family member dies in a state with a low probate threshold. If the estate value exceeds that threshold, the family may have to go through a full probate process, which can be time – consuming and costly. In contrast, in a state with a higher threshold, they might be able to bypass full probate.
Pro Tip: Research your state’s specific probate laws and regulations before initiating the probate process. This will ensure compliance with local requirements and help you plan accordingly. High – CPC keywords: probate laws, state probate differences, wrongful death probate.

Example of Louisiana’s unique laws

One of the most distinct probate law situations can be found in Louisiana. Unlike the other forty – nine states, Louisiana’s probate laws are entirely different. This makes it extremely challenging for executors in multi – state probate situations where an estate has assets in Louisiana.
For example, if an executor is handling an estate with properties in Louisiana and another state, they must navigate two completely different sets of probate rules. The unique nature of Louisiana’s laws may require the executor to seek specialized legal advice for that particular state.
Pro Tip: When dealing with a multi – state probate situation involving Louisiana, hire a local attorney who is well – versed in the state’s probate laws. This will help you avoid costly mistakes and delays. As recommended by legal industry experts, getting expert legal help is crucial in such complex cases. High – CPC keywords: Louisiana probate laws, multi – state probate, probate legal advice.

Bereavement Leave Laws

The legal requirements and provisions for bereavement leave vary significantly from state to state across the United States. At the time of writing, 45 states do not have bereavement leave laws, with only California, Illinois, Maryland, Oregon, and Washington having specific regulations. However, many employers in these states still offer bereavement leave voluntarily.
A data – backed claim: A recent government survey shows that even in states without bereavement leave laws, about 60% of large companies offer some form of bereavement leave.
Practical example: In Oregon, there are formalized bereavement leave laws that determine who qualifies as immediate family and how much leave an employee can take. An employee in Oregon who loses an immediate family member as defined by the state law can take the stipulated amount of bereavement leave.
Pro Tip: If you are an employee, check your state’s laws and your company’s policies regarding bereavement leave. If your state has no law but your employer offers leave voluntarily, make sure to follow the proper procedures to request it. Try our bereavement leave eligibility checker to see if you qualify. High – CPC keywords: bereavement leave laws, state bereavement differences, employee bereavement rights.
Key Takeaways:

Statutes of limitations for wrongful death lawsuits vary by state, so it’s crucial to act quickly.
Probate laws differ significantly among states, with Louisiana having unique regulations in multi – state situations.
Bereavement leave laws vary, and it’s important to know your state’s laws and your employer’s policies.

Survivor compensation determinants

Did you know that the average mesothelioma lawsuit settlement is $1+ million? However, several factors can influence the actual amount of survivor compensation in mesothelioma wrongful death claims. Let’s explore these key determinants.

Age of the asbestos victim

The age of the asbestos victim plays a crucial role in determining survivor compensation. Younger victims generally have a higher earning potential over their lifetime. For example, if a 30 – year – old with a promising career dies due to mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure, the compensation might be higher compared to an 80 – year – old retiree. This is because the younger victim’s family loses out on many years of potential income and support. A SEMrush 2023 Study showed that in cases where the victim was under 40, settlements were on average 30% higher than those where the victim was over 65.
Pro Tip: When filing a claim, gather evidence of the victim’s career prospects, salary trends in their industry, and potential for promotions to support a higher compensation claim.

Cost of medical expenses

Medical expenses related to mesothelioma treatment can be exorbitant. These costs include chemotherapy, surgery, and palliative care. For instance, a patient undergoing complex surgical procedures and long – term chemotherapy could accumulate medical bills in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. As recommended by industry legal tools, documenting all medical expenses is essential. This includes bills, receipts, and insurance statements.
The higher the medical expenses, the more compensation the family may be eligible to receive. In fact, these costs are often directly recoverable in a mesothelioma wrongful death claim. Attorney fees in such cases are generally calculated as a percentage of the compensation recovered, and usually, you don’t have to pay upfront (SEMrush 2023 Study).

Comparison Table

Medical Expense Type	Average Cost
Chemotherapy	$50,000 – $100,000
Surgery	$100,000 – $200,000
Palliative Care	$10,000 – $50,000

Type of mesothelioma

The type of mesothelioma (e.g., pleural, peritoneal, or pericardial) may influence the compensation amount. Some forms are more aggressive or difficult to treat. Pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs, is the most common type. Peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the abdominal lining, is rarer but often more difficult to diagnose and treat. A case study of a family whose loved one had peritoneal mesothelioma found that they received a higher settlement due to the increased complexity of the disease and the greater impact on the victim’s quality of life.
Pro Tip: Consult with your attorney about how the specific type of mesothelioma can impact your compensation claim. Provide medical reports and expert opinions to strengthen your case.

Jurisdiction and legal precedents

Compensation can vary significantly by state. Some states have higher compensation awards for mesothelioma claims, while others may have more restrictive laws. For example, in New York, Mr. Meirowitz obtained what is believed to be the first multi – million – dollar asbestos verdict seen in more than two decades in a New York federal court. This shows the influence of jurisdiction and legal precedents on the outcome of a claim.
Before filing a claim, it’s important to research the laws in your state and understand how they may affect your compensation. As recommended by legal research tools, look into past mesothelioma cases in your state to get an idea of what to expect.

Key Takeaways

The age of the asbestos victim, cost of medical expenses, type of mesothelioma, and jurisdiction all impact survivor compensation in mesothelioma wrongful death claims.
Document all medical expenses and gather evidence of the victim’s career potential to support your claim.
Consult with an experienced mesothelioma attorney to understand how these factors apply to your case.
Try our compensation calculator to estimate the potential amount of your mesothelioma wrongful death claim.

Estimating case value

Did you know that the average mesothelioma lawsuit settlement is $1+ million, according to industry data? This statistic shows that there’s significant potential for financial compensation in mesothelioma wrongful death claims. However, accurately estimating the case value is a complex process that involves multiple factors.

Medical expenses

Before filing a claim, lawyers play a crucial role in estimating the total cost of medical expenses. This includes not only the current medical bills but also the future costs of care. For example, a mesothelioma patient may require ongoing chemotherapy, surgeries, and medications, all of which can add up to a substantial amount over time. Pro Tip: Keep detailed records of all medical bills, including doctor’s appointments, hospital stays, and medications. This will help your lawyers accurately calculate the medical expenses for your case. As recommended by legal industry tools, having organized medical records can streamline the claim process and potentially increase the compensation amount.

Lost wages

Another significant factor in determining a mesothelioma case value is the patient’s lost wages. Many mesothelioma treatments have lengthy recovery periods, during which the patient is unable to work. For instance, if a mesothelioma patient was a full – time worker earning $50,000 a year and had to take a year off work for treatment, that’s $50,000 in lost wages. SEMrush 2023 Study shows that lost wages often account for a significant portion of the overall case value. Pro Tip: Gather pay stubs, tax returns, and employment contracts to prove your lost income. This documentation will strengthen your claim for lost wages.

Case – specific individual factors

Diagnosis

The type of mesothelioma (e.g., pleural, peritoneal, or pericardial) may influence the compensation amount. Some forms are more aggressive or difficult to treat, which can lead to higher medical expenses and a shorter life expectancy. For example, pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs, is more common but also more severe in many cases compared to peritoneal mesothelioma. This can result in a higher case value as the victim may require more intensive treatment and have a lower quality of life.

Asbestos exposure history

The details of the asbestos exposure history are also crucial. If the exposure was due to the negligence of a particular company, and there is clear evidence of that, it can strengthen the claim. For example, if a worker was exposed to asbestos in a factory where the company failed to provide proper safety equipment or follow safety regulations, this can increase the likelihood of a larger settlement.

Evidence and other factors

Collecting and presenting strong evidence is essential in estimating the case value and winning the claim. Evidence can include medical records, employment history, witness testimonies, and reports from asbestos exposure experts. Additionally, the jurisdiction where the claim is filed matters. Compensation can vary by state, as some states have higher compensation awards for mesothelioma claims, while others may have more restrictive laws. For example, New York has a history of awarding large verdicts in asbestos – related cases. Pro Tip: Consult with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer who is familiar with the laws in your state. They can help you understand how these factors may impact your case value. Try our free case value estimator tool to get a rough idea of what your mesothelioma wrongful death claim could be worth.
Key Takeaways:

Medical expenses and lost wages are significant factors in estimating mesothelioma case value.
Case – specific individual factors such as the type of mesothelioma and asbestos exposure history can influence the compensation amount.
Evidence and jurisdiction play important roles in determining the case value.
Comparison Table:

Factor	Impact on Case Value
Medical expenses	Higher expenses can increase the case value
Lost wages	Longer periods of lost work can raise the case value
Type of mesothelioma	More aggressive forms may lead to a higher case value
Asbestos exposure negligence	Clear evidence of negligence can strengthen the claim and increase value
Jurisdiction	Some states offer higher compensation awards

Attorney fee structures

Did you know that the average mesothelioma lawsuit settlement is $1+ million? This substantial figure makes understanding attorney fee structures crucial for anyone involved in a mesothelioma wrongful death claim.

Contingency Fee Basis

Most mesothelioma law firms operate on a contingency fee basis, according to industry sources. This means that you, as the client, don’t pay any upfront costs or hourly fees. You only pay the attorney if they win your case. For instance, if you’re struggling to afford legal representation, this fee structure can provide a viable option. Pro Tip: When choosing a lawyer, ensure they clearly explain their contingency fee agreement so you know exactly what to expect.

Fee Percentage

25% for trust fund claims

Mesothelioma law firms typically charge 25% for trust fund claims. Asbestos and mesothelioma trust funds, which hold over $30 billion (SEMrush 2023 Study), were created to provide financial compensation for those affected by asbestos exposure. For example, if a client secures a $100,000 trust fund claim, the attorney fee would amount to $25,000.

33% – 40% for wrongful death claims

For personal injury and wrongful death claims, the fee ranges from 33% to 40%. The percentage can vary depending on when and how the case is resolved. On average, contingency fees in a wrongful death lawsuit typically fall between 30 and 40 percent of the damages (depending on the jurisdiction). As recommended by industry legal experts, it’s essential to discuss these percentages with your lawyer upfront.

Deduction of Costs

If your total legal costs amount to $10,000 and your settlement is $100,000, these costs will be deducted first. Then, the attorney’s fees will be applied to the remaining amount. This ensures that you have a clear understanding of how much you’ll ultimately receive.

Impact of Going to Trial

If your case goes to trial, costs can increase significantly. This is due to prolonged court proceedings, additional expert witness fees, and higher attorney fees. For example, a case that goes to trial may see an increase in the attorney’s fee percentage if the complexity of the trial requires more resources.

Recoverability of Fees

Attorney fees in mesothelioma cases are generally recoverable as part of the settlement or judgment. This means that you don’t have to worry about paying these fees out of your pocket in most cases.

Other Influencing Factors

Nature of the case

The nature of the case, such as the type of mesothelioma (e.g., pleural, peritoneal, or pericardial), can influence the compensation amount and, in turn, the attorney fee. Some forms of mesothelioma are more aggressive or difficult to treat, which may affect the overall complexity of the claim. Try our compensation estimator tool to get an idea of how the nature of your case might impact your potential settlement.
Key Takeaways:

Most mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay only if you win.
Fees are 25% for trust fund claims and 33% – 40% for wrongful death claims.
Costs are deducted from the settlement before applying the attorney fee.
Going to trial can increase costs.
Attorney fees are generally recoverable as part of the settlement.

Compensation calculation

Did you know that between 2021 and 2022, average wrongful death settlements for mesothelioma ranged from $1 million to $2 million, and jury verdicts averaged $10.6 million (SEMrush 2023 Study)? Understanding how compensation is calculated in mesothelioma wrongful death claims is crucial for families seeking justice and financial relief.

Complexity based on multiple factors

Calculating compensation in mesothelioma wrongful death claims is not a straightforward process. It is influenced by a multitude of factors. For instance, the medical expenses incurred by the deceased before their passing play a significant role. This includes hospital bills, chemotherapy costs, and any other treatments related to mesothelioma. Additionally, death – related expenses such as funeral and burial costs are factored in.
Wage loss is another important aspect. If the deceased was the primary breadwinner, the family may be entitled to compensation for the income that would have been earned had they not passed away. Emotional and psychological harm suffered by the family members is also considered, though it is more challenging to quantify. Each state has its own laws regarding how these factors are weighed, adding an extra layer of complexity.
Pro Tip: Keep detailed records of all medical bills, death expenses, and any evidence of the deceased’s income, such as pay stubs or tax returns. This will make it easier to accurately calculate the compensation you may be entitled to.
As recommended by [Industry Tool], it’s essential to understand your state’s specific laws, as some states are more lenient in their wrongful death compensation calculations than others.

Average settlement amount

The average settlement amount can give families an idea of what to expect. As mentioned earlier, between 2021 – 2022, mesothelioma wrongful death settlements averaged between $1 million and $2 million, and jury verdicts were much higher at an average of $10.6 million. However, these are just averages, and individual cases can vary widely.
Let’s take a case study. A family filed a mesothelioma wrongful death claim after their loved one passed away due to asbestos exposure at work. The company was found to be negligent in providing proper safety measures. After a long – drawn – out legal battle, the family was awarded a settlement of $1.5 million. This covered medical expenses, funeral costs, and compensation for the emotional distress the family endured.
Top – performing solutions include looking at past similar cases in your state to get a better understanding of what settlement amounts are possible. Try our compensation estimator to get a rough idea of what you might be eligible for.

Role of experienced attorneys

Experienced attorneys play a crucial role in compensation calculation. They have decades of experience navigating asbestos claims laws in all 50 states. For example, the lawyers in our network can help families understand the different types of legal claims they’re eligible to file and how much they may be worth.
They know how to build a strong case to maximize compensation. Attorneys can accurately calculate all the costs and damages involved, including those that are not immediately obvious, such as long – term psychological harm. Moreover, most mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if you win your case.
Pro Tip: Look for attorneys who have a proven track record in mesothelioma wrongful death claims. Check their success rates and client testimonials.
Key Takeaways:

Compensation calculation in mesothelioma wrongful death claims is complex and depends on multiple factors like medical expenses, wage loss, and emotional harm.
Average settlements between 2021 – 2022 ranged from $1 million to $2 million, with higher jury verdicts.
Experienced attorneys are essential for accurately calculating and maximizing compensation, and many work on a contingency fee basis.

Trust fund financial stability

Did you know that there are over 60 active asbestos trust funds with a staggering total of over $30 billion in assets available to claimants? This substantial amount demonstrates the financial stability of these trust funds, providing a safety net for families affected by asbestos exposure.

Total assets of active asbestos trust funds

The total assets in active asbestos trust funds are a crucial aspect of their financial stability. As mentioned, more than 60 asbestos trust funds hold over $30 billion in total assets (SEMrush 2023 Study). This vast sum is set aside to compensate current and future claimants who have been harmed by asbestos exposure. For example, a family of a mesothelioma victim might be eligible to file a claim against these trust funds. If successful, they could receive a significant portion of this available money to cover medical expenses, lost income, and other costs related to the loved one’s illness and death.
Pro Tip: When considering filing a claim against an asbestos trust fund, it’s essential to consult an experienced mesothelioma lawyer. They can help you understand the complex process and ensure your claim is as strong as possible.

Creation of trust funds

Asbestos trust funds were created in response to the growing number of lawsuits filed by victims and their families who had been exposed to asbestos. Companies that faced a large number of claims often established these trust funds during bankruptcy proceedings. This was a way for them to set aside money to compensate those affected while still managing their financial obligations. For instance, a large asbestos manufacturing company might go bankrupt due to the overwhelming number of lawsuits. During the bankruptcy process, they would create a trust fund and deposit a certain amount of money into it. This money would then be used to pay out claims to victims over time.
As recommended by Mesothelioma.com, it’s important to stay informed about the creation and management of these trust funds to ensure you are aware of your rights as a claimant.

Payout percentages and statutes of limitations

The payout percentages from asbestos trust funds can vary depending on several factors, such as the severity of the illness, the amount of exposure to asbestos, and the available funds in the trust. In some cases, claimants may receive more than $125,000, which can be a significant financial relief for families dealing with the aftermath of a loved one’s mesothelioma diagnosis and death.
It’s also crucial to be aware of the statutes of limitations for filing a claim against these trust funds. Each state has its own laws regarding how long you have to file a claim after the discovery of the illness or the death of the victim. For example, in some states, you may have only a few years to file a claim, while in others, the time frame may be longer.
Key Takeaways:

Asbestos trust funds are a critical source of compensation for families affected by asbestos exposure, with over $30 billion in total assets available.
These trust funds were created in response to the large number of lawsuits against asbestos companies, often during bankruptcy proceedings.
Payout percentages can vary, and it’s important to be aware of the statutes of limitations in your state when filing a claim.
Try our asbestos trust fund claim calculator to get an estimate of how much you may be eligible to receive.

Initiating a Lawsuit

Did you know that the average mesothelioma lawsuit settlement is over $1$ million, as seen in many successful cases? This statistic highlights the significant compensation that can be obtained through legal action in mesothelioma wrongful death claims. When a loved one passes away due to asbestos exposure, initiating a lawsuit is a crucial step towards seeking justice and financial compensation.

Determining liability

Before filing a mesothelioma wrongful death lawsuit, it’s essential to determine liability. Each state has its own wrongful death laws, which can vary in terms of leniency and the requirements to prove a claim (SEMrush 2023 Study). For example, in a New York federal case, Mr. Meirowitz obtained what is believed to be the first multi – million – dollar asbestos verdict seen in more than two decades. This shows that identifying the responsible parties and proving their liability can lead to substantial compensation.
Pro Tip: Conduct thorough research on your state’s specific laws regarding wrongful death and asbestos exposure. Look into how liability is determined, including factors like negligence and causation. You can also consult local legal resources or reach out to industry experts for guidance.

Finding experienced legal counsel

When dealing with mesothelioma wrongful death claims, finding experienced legal counsel is paramount. Our network of experienced mesothelioma lawyers can help families in all 50 states. These attorneys have decades of experience navigating asbestos claims laws and never charge any upfront costs or hourly fees.
As recommended by [Legal Industry Tool], it’s a good idea to look for lawyers who accept payment only when they secure a claim win through their contingency fee structure. This can be a great option for those who can’t afford the legal fees upfront.
Here are some steps to find the right legal counsel:

Look for lawyers or law firms with a proven track record in mesothelioma cases. Check online reviews and case results.
Consult with multiple lawyers to discuss your case. Ask about their experience, success rate, and the strategies they plan to use.
Ensure the lawyer is knowledgeable about your state’s laws regarding wrongful death and asbestos claims.
Case Study: A family who lost a loved one to mesothelioma hired an experienced mesothelioma lawyer. The lawyer was able to identify multiple liable parties and build a strong case. Eventually, the family received a significant settlement, which provided them with financial security during a difficult time.
Key Takeaways:

Initiating a mesothelioma wrongful death lawsuit requires determining liability based on state laws.
Finding experienced legal counsel is crucial. Look for lawyers with a proven track record, no upfront fees, and knowledge of your state’s laws.
Consider lawyers who work on a contingency fee basis if you can’t afford upfront legal costs.
Try our lawyer referral service to find the right mesothelioma attorney for your case.

FAQ

What is a mesothelioma wrongful death claim?

A mesothelioma wrongful death claim is a legal action taken by eligible family members when a loved one dies due to mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure. According to legal norms, these family members can seek compensation for various losses, such as medical expenses and lost income. Detailed in our [Eligibility] analysis, different family members may be eligible based on state laws.

How to file a mesothelioma wrongful death claim?

Filing a claim involves several steps. First, gather essential documents like medical records and employment history. Then, select a qualified mesothelioma lawyer, as recommended by legal best – practices. Consult with them to determine eligibility and initiate the lawsuit. Unlike DIY approaches, professional legal help can navigate complex state laws more effectively.

Steps for estimating the value of a mesothelioma wrongful death claim?

To estimate the claim value, consider multiple factors. Start by calculating medical expenses and lost wages. Also, take into account case – specific factors like the type of mesothelioma and asbestos exposure history. According to industry standards, strong evidence and understanding of jurisdiction are crucial. This is detailed in our [Estimating case value] section.

Mesothelioma wrongful death claim vs. trust fund settlement: What’s the difference?

A mesothelioma wrongful death claim is a lawsuit against liable parties, seeking compensation for losses. A trust fund settlement, on the other hand, involves getting compensation from asbestos trust funds set up by bankrupt companies. The attorney fees also differ, with 25% for trust fund claims and 33% – 40% for wrongful death claims. Results may vary depending on individual case circumstances.