The Benefits and Risks of Settling an Asbestos Case Out of Court

On Behalf of | Aug 26, 2024 | asbestos

If you are exposed to asbestos for a long time, you are at risk of developing chronic lung disease as a result of inhaling asbestos fibers. More often than not, that exposure is life-threatening, and you are liable for compensation from the company that exposed you to the toxic substance. However, how do you go about getting compensation? 

All You Need to Know About Asbestos Cases

When you instigate a lawsuit against an asbestos company, there are usually two ways to get your compensation. One way is through settlement, which refers to the decision you take to get compensation without having to go through the complicated process of a court trial. 

If you decide to take your asbestos-related lawsuit to court, the case will involve a judge or jury who will determine whether the company you are suing is liable for your personal injury. The judge will also decide the amount of compensation you will receive as a victim. However, if there is insufficient evidence to convince the court that the company is responsible for causing you harm, you may lose the trial. 

The Benefits of Choosing to Settle Out-of-Court

  1. If you choose to settle your case out of court, you will enjoy the benefit of having your case settled faster and with certainty. As a victim, you will have access to your funds soon enough, and you can use some of those funds to cover your medical and living expenses soon enough.
  2. It is also less stressful to have a team of negotiators meet with the company and decide on how much compensation you deserve as a victim. The process of negotiating to reach a settlement is not as lengthy, stressful, or expensive if you compare it to a court process. If you are looking for less stress, you should consider a settlement approach. 

The Risks of Choosing to Settle Out-of-Court

There are a few risks associated with choosing to have your case settled out of court, including:

  1. The potential amount you will get from an out-of-court settlement will usually be less than what a jury might award at trial.
  2. The company in question will not have their day in court, and they will be publicly held accountable for wrongdoing. 

Conclusion

You need to carefully evaluate the speed and certainty of settlement compared to a jury verdict before you can decide on the most appropriate step. At Pourciau Law Firm, we specialize in asbestos litigation and offer the expertise needed to navigate these complex decisions, ensuring that the rights and needs of the victims are fully represented and respected.