When you hear that your mesothelioma case might go all the way to trial, it can feel intimidating. Many people in New Orleans and Baton Rouge wonder what happens inside that courtroom. Unlike settlements, trials involve juries, expert witnesses, and evidence that sometimes stretches back 40 or 50 years.
Choosing the Jury
Jury selection is one of the first big steps. Lawyers ask jurors questions to see if they can handle a case involving asbestos exposure that happened decades ago.
Some might think old exposures are too distant to matter or believe big companies cannot be held responsible after so many years. Attorneys can remove jurors who show strong biases, which is critical because the jury needs to focus on the facts, not assumptions.
Telling Your Story With Science and Records
Once the trial begins, the focus shifts to building your case. Doctors explain how inhaling asbestos fibers leads to cancer over time. Occupational experts discuss workplace conditions and detail which materials contained asbestos. Attorneys also rely on old company manuals, diagrams, and fiber analysis to prove exactly where and how exposure happened.
In the Gehant v. Foster Wheeler Energy Corp. case, for example, a Navy boilerman presented product manuals and technical drawings to show how he was exposed to asbestos in ship boilers. Even though the defense argued that the Navy controlled the specifications, the court ruled there was enough evidence for a jury to decide.
Similarly, in Pierce v. Ameron International Corp., the plaintiff used co-worker testimony and historical company records to prove that pipe coatings contained asbestos, leading to a strong argument against the manufacturer. These examples show how important detailed evidence and strong expert support are in court.
Work With Us to Build a Strong Case
At Pourciau Law Firm, we know how difficult it is to battle both cancer and a legal fight at the same time. We help clients in New Orleans and Baton Rouge put together the strongest possible story using real evidence and expert support. If you are worried about what a trial might look like or how to prepare, we are here to help. Contact our law firm by email or by calling 504-305-2375. Let us stand by you when it matters most.