Our co-counsel law firm has over 40 years experience, handles 90% of all mesothelioma cases in Northern Illinois, has recovered over $3 billion for clients including many landmark cases that have helped shaped mesothelioma litigation in Illinois and national recognition for precedent-setting court cases.

Asbestos is a group of six different types of minerals that are all composed of microscopic fibers. These fibers are made up of tinsel-like threads that are incredibly dense, durable and virtually indestructible and widely used in industrial construction, in everything from insulation, paints, tiles, fabrics, buildings, vehicles, ships, and aircraft.

When asbestos materials are disturbed or damaged, asbestos fibers can be released into the air and cause dangerous exposure. When people accidentally inhale or ingest the microscopic fibers, the mineral can eventually lead to serious health problems, like mesothelioma. Any amount of asbestos exposure, even limited, is considered dangerous and can later lead to a mesothelioma diagnosis. Anyone working around asbestos can inhale or ingest the microscopic asbestos fibers into the lining of the lungs, abdomen or heart. For up to 50 years, the fibers can slowly, without symptoms, cause inflammation and scarring, which can eventually develop into mesothelioma tumors or other related conditions.

Veterans are at a significantly higher risk of developing an asbestos-related disease such as mesothelioma.

Navy: Veterans serving in the Navy are in the highest risk for asbestos-related illnesses, whether serving on Navy vessels or working in shipyards. The majority of Navy vessels before 1980 were built with hundreds of asbestos-containing products, such as asbestos fireproofing, insulation or lagging on pipes and around boilers, pumps, turbines, heat exchangers, valves, valve packing, and gaskets.

Army: Soldiers spending any time in barracks, older buildings, or transport vehicles are at risk for asbestos exposure. Almost all older barracks were constructed using asbestos. Soldiers operating heavy artillery and other weapons systems often wore gloves and suits that were covered in asbestos to prevent burns. Soldiers who were in combat zones in Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan might have been exposed to airborne asbestos particles and inhaled them as buildings and vehicles exploded, including veterans who have recently served, or who will serve in these overseas areas in the future.

Marines: From transport vehicles, ships, shipyards, HQ buildings, barracks, war zone buildings, and vehicle explosions, the very nature of this elite service and the responsibilities of Marines put them a significant risk. Mesothelioma causing asbestos materials were used in many locations where the Marine Corps served and exposure is still possible today.

Air Force: Many veterans who served in the Air Force were exposed to asbestos in aircraft or barracks, because of asbestos used in insulation, piping, drywall, joint compounds, caulk, ceiling tiles, and flooring tiles. Asbestos was used to fireproof aircraft, to line engines, brakes, gaskets, and electrical wiring.

Coast Guard: Navy and Coast Guard veterans were at risk from asbestos exposure in boiler and engine rooms, insulation, pipes, electrical wiring, flooring, and ceiling tiles, valves, gaskets, and cables.

All veterans who served in any branch of the military are at risk. Although asbestos use discontinued in the 1980s, some companies produced commercial products that contained asbestos well throughout the 1990s and even into the 2000s.

It remained in place in buildings, vehicles, ships, and other structures and anyone who is around it if it is disturbed is at risk of inhaling its microscopic fibers. Military members families may also be at risk because asbestos dust can adhere to military uniforms or clothing and, if worn at home can expose family members or others to asbestos who come into contact with their clothes, especially for those who may be in charge of laundering them. Asbestos materials can also get caught on clothing, hair or skin, exposing other soldiers.

There was approximately $30 Billion set aside in trusts for Veterans who were exposed to asbestos during their service in the United States Military and diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. We can pursue both bankruptcy trust funds and lawsuits on your behalf.

No matter when exposed to asbestos, you are entitled to file a legal claim against the entity that was responsible for your condition. There are several types of claims you can submit, and it is important to retain an attorney soon after diagnosis. There is a statute of limitations that can be as short as 1- 2 years after your diagnosis, but it depends on the local jurisdiction. It is crucial to contact our office today to determine what statute of limitations applies to your claim and to preserve your rights.  You may also be entitled to VA claims. All mesothelioma attorneys should work on a contingency fee arrangement, where you only pay the attorney if you are paid.