Mesothelioma is a rare, very aggressive cancer of the lining of the lungs (pleura) or abdomen (peritoneum), and less commonly, the sac around the heart (pericardium). The cause is almost always asbestos. This material was used for decades in construction, shipbuilding, the automotive industry, and manufacturing. Many affected individuals inhaled the fine fibers; symptoms may not appear for decades. This makes it difficult to trace the exact location and time of exposure.

The early symptoms of long-term exposure to asbestos fibers are often coughing, shortness of breath, or a tight feeling in the chest, caused by inflammation produced by the mineral fibers. This so-called asbestosis can lead to lung cancer or mesothelioma.

Because the risks of asbestos as a material have long been known and protective measures could have been taken, numerous companies in the USA have been held liable for neglecting workplace safety measures for their employees. For those who have fallen ill and for survivors, this can lead to significant compensation – sometimes from special asbestos trust funds financed by former manufacturers.

People living outside the U.S. often wonder if a claim is even considered in the United States. The crucial factor is whether there is a substantial connection to the U.S. This could be activity or residence in the U.S., employment with a U.S. company (sometimes even abroad), or contact with products from a U.S. manufacturer or distributor. Without such connections, a lawsuit in the U.S. is generally not possible. In addition, each state has its own deadlines; early assessment is therefore important.

Urban Thier & Federer has been assisting international clients with U.S. legal proceedings for over 25 years. We work closely with selected U.S. law firms specializing in asbestos and mesothelioma cases. This allows for much of the coordination to be handled digitally and in multiple languages, without affected individuals needing to travel to the U.S. constantly.

How does this work in practice? First, we clarify the initial situation and possible US connections in a brief conversation. Then, we secure evidence: medical records, professional milestones, references to construction sites, shipyards, or products, and the names of colleagues or witnesses. Based on this, we select a suitable US partner law firm together with you and determine the course of action: legal proceedings, applications to trusts – often both in parallel. Meanwhile, we keep communication lean and understandable, with clear expectations regarding chances, risks, deadlines, and possible duration.