Mesothelioma is a rare, very aggressive cancer of the lining of the lungs or abdomen, and less commonly the heart. It is caused almost entirely by asbestos. For decades, asbestos was used in construction, shipbuilding, the automotive sector, and manufacturing. Many people inhaled the tiny fibers; symptoms can surface only decades later, which makes it hard to pinpoint where and when the exposure occurred.
The earlier symptoms of longer term exposure to asbestos fibers are often coughing, shortness of breath or chest tightness due to inflammations caused by the microscopic mineral fibers. This so called asbestosis can lead to mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Because the risks of asbestos as a material were long known and protective measures were feasible, many companies in the United States have been held liable for neglecting the safety of workers exposed to asbestos. As a result, patients and families can obtain substantial compensation—sometimes also from dedicated asbestos trust funds set up by former manufacturers.
People living outside the U.S. often wonder whether they can bring a claim in the United States at all. The key is a solid connection to the U.S. This may be prior work or residence in the U.S., employment by a U.S. company (sometimes even for work performed abroad), or exposure to products made or distributed by a U.S. manufacturer. Without such links, a U.S. lawsuit is typically not possible. In addition, each state has its own deadlines, so early assessment matters.
Urban Thier & Federer has supported international clients in U.S. proceedings for more than 25 years. We work closely with selected U.S. trial firms that focus on asbestos and mesothelioma cases. Much of the process can be coordinated digitally and in multiple languages, without frequent travel to the United States.
How does it work in practice? We start with a short conversation to review your situation and any U.S. ties. We then gather evidence: medical records, work history, details about job sites, shipyards, or products, and names of colleagues or other witnesses. Based on that, we help you choose the right U.S. partner firm and set the course—court action, trust claims, often both in parallel. Throughout, we keep communication straightforward, with clear expectations about prospects, risks, deadlines, and likely timelines.
What compensation is possible? Typically, reimbursement of medical costs (past and future), lost earnings or support, pain and suffering, and—in fatal cases—wrongful death claims for the family. The amounts depend heavily on the evidence, the companies involved, the state law that applies, and the criteria of individual trusts. Serious assessments remain cautious and case-specific.
To make the start easier, these documents help: pathology and oncology reports, a simple list of employers and work sites with dates, any product or manufacturer names, contact details for witnesses, available safety data sheets, pay stubs or pension records. For family claims, add proof of kinship and estate documents. Much of this can be assembled later—earlier is simply better.
Why work with us? Because we combine international coordination with on-the-ground U.S. litigation practice. We speak your language, keep formalities to what’s necessary, and align every step with the best local trial firm for your case. The goal is a clean process: less jargon, more results.
If you or a family member has been diagnosed with mesothelioma and a U.S. connection is possible, contact us for a confidential initial review. We will quickly assess whether and where action makes sense and develop a practical strategy—clear, understandable, and tailored to your situation.