How to Find and Choose a Nevada Mesothelioma Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma in Nevada, seek a lawyer experienced in cases like yours. From 2018 to 2022, Nevada recorded 124 new mesothelioma diagnoses, translating to an incidence rate of 0.70 per 100,000 people. This underscores the need for specialized legal assistance to navigate the complexities of asbestos exposure and its related health implications.

When choosing a mesothelioma lawyer in Nevada, consider their track record of securing successful verdicts or settlements in similar cases. Local attorneys can offer regional familiarity, but there are also benefits of working with a national law firm. These firms often possess extensive resources, a wealth of documented evidence related to asbestos exposure, and a deep understanding of the companies responsible. 

A nationwide firm with a proven history of success in Nevada. For example, national firm Simmons Hanly Conroy has secured more than $106 million for Nevadans. The mesothelioma attorneys at these firms can provide the expertise and resources needed to maximize your chances of a favorable outcome. Navigating a mesothelioma diagnosis can be overwhelming, and finding the right legal representation is crucial. 

Weitz and Luxenberg
  • $8.5 Billion Recovered
  • Serves Clients Nationwide
  • Rated #1 by U.S. News & World Report for 2022
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  • $8.9 Billion Recovered
  • Serves Clients Nationwide
  • Rated a Tier 1 Law Firm in 2022 by U.S. News & World Report

Compensation From Asbestos Filings in Nevada

Nevadans have successfully pursued mesothelioma compensation through lawsuits, settlements and asbestos trust fund claims. While Nevada has fewer documented asbestos cases than states with heavier industrial histories, plaintiffs have still secured significant awards.

For example, a Washoe County jury awarded $15.6 million to John Wagner in 2021. A Fernley electrician, he developed mesothelioma after decades of exposure to Eaton Corporation’s asbestos-containing electrical components. Wagner worked with Eaton’s motor starters and controllers throughout his 50-year career as an electrician in Nevada. The verdict represents one of the largest asbestos awards in the state.

Nationally, settlements in mesothelioma cases often range from $1 million to $2 million. According to Mealey’s, the national average asbestos lawsuit trial verdict rose to $20.7 million in 2024. Compensation amounts depend on factors including the severity of illness, length of exposure, number of liable parties, and whether the case is settled or goes to trial.

How Does an Asbestos Lawyer Handle Your Claim in Nevada?

Nevada mesothelioma attorneys guide you through the legal process while you concentrate on treatment and spending time with loved ones. An experienced lawyer builds your asbestos lawsuit, connecting your diagnosis to specific exposure sources in Nevada.

Steps to a Mesothelioma Claim

  1. Case review: Your mesothelioma attorney evaluates your medical diagnosis and discusses your exposure history to determine if you have viable claims against manufacturers, employers or property owners.
  2. Identify liable parties: Your legal team investigates Nevada exposure sites linked to your illness, such as Harrah’s Casinos, where the company paid $6,930 in fines for 12 serious asbestos violations in 2006 after failing to provide workers with proper protective gear during asbestos removal.
  3. Meet filing deadlines: Your lawyer ensures all claims comply with Nevada’s 2-year mesothelioma statute of limitations, which begins at diagnosis for personal injury claims or from the loss of a loved one for wrongful death claims under Nevada’s discovery rule.
  4. Build evidence: Your attorney gathers employment records, medical documentation, and expert testimony to establish causation between your asbestos exposure and mesothelioma diagnosis.
  5. Pursue multiple avenues: Your legal team files claims with asbestos bankruptcy trust funds while simultaneously preparing personal injury lawsuits against solvent defendants to maximize your total recovery.
  6. Advocate for compensation: Your lawyer presents your case through settlement negotiations or takes it to trial in Nevada courts, fighting for fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Your attorney handles depositions, court appearances, and all legal communications, allowing you to avoid the stress of procedural requirements. Many cases resolve through settlement, though your lawyer prepares fully for trial to ensure defendants take your claim seriously.

Asbestos Exposure Risks in Nevada

Nevada residents have been exposed to asbestos in the environment and within asbestos products in the workplace. Occupational exposure is likely the primary source of asbestos exposure statewide. Workers in power plants, chemical plants and casinos also faced some of the greatest exposure.

Sites in Nevada Known for Asbestos Exposure

  • Flamingo Hotel and Casino: An investigation in 2007 found that remodeling at the Las Vegas facilities had exposed workers and casino patrons to airborne asbestos dust.
  • Harrah’s Casinos: The company has a history of asbestos scandals, paying $6,930 in fines for 12 serious asbestos violations in 2006. It failed to provide workers with proper protective gear during asbestos removal.
  • Johns-Manville: The company operated in Nevada, where facilities in Las Vegas and other cities received and processed more than 37,000 tons of asbestos-contaminated vermiculite ore between 1948 and 1993. After decades of legal battles, the company established a $2.5 billion asbestos trust fund in 1988.
  • Nevada Power Company: Much of the equipment used at power plants contained asbestos. Turbines, boilers, arc chutes, pipes and other equipment used asbestos insulation and gaskets for their heat-resistant properties. 
  • Southern Pacific Company: The former railroad has been named in many asbestos exposure incidents. Asbestos was used extensively in the railroad industry for decades until the 1980s.
  • Union Pacific System: Hazardous asbestos materials were used in the railroad’s buildings, yard offices, locomotives, rail cars, signal houses and rail repair operations.
  • U.S. Gypsum Company: The company operated facilities in Nevada cities including Las Vegas, where it received and processed asbestos-contaminated vermiculite ore. Between 1920 and 1978, U.S. Gypsum sold and manufactured countless asbestos-containing products nationwide. The company declared bankruptcy in 2001 after thousands of asbestos lawsuits and formed an asbestos trust fund in 2006.

Investors in Nevada have moved forward on a project to redevelop the former Three Kids Mine site in Clark County. Asbestos was present at the mine, and after it shut down in 1961, companies dumped more loose asbestos there. Work crews performing asbestos cleanup operations have to take precautions because of frequent wind.

Nevada’s Natural Asbestos Deposits

Researchers from the University of Nevada discovered naturally occurring asbestos in Clark County and Nye County in 2011. Local county officials repeatedly attempted to stop the publication of these findings.

The hazardous ore has been found in and around Las Vegas, at Nellis Dunes, near Boulder City and outside of Henderson. On windy days, asbestos fibers can appear near residential districts, schools and other places where families spend time.

Scientists estimate Southeastern Nevada asbestos deposits cover more than 50,000 acres. Dry conditions and frequent winds nearby may explain the higher-than-normal rates of mesothelioma in Clark County. The full extent of exposure may not be known for decades.

Occupational Asbestos Exposure in Nevada

Nevada workers were at risk of asbestos exposure in occupations such as construction, manufacturing and industrial work. Some residents and workers were also exposed to the toxic material in older casinos in Las Vegas and Reno.

Jobs With Higher Exposure Rates in Nevada 

  • Casino construction, repair and demolition
  • Chemical production
  • Government worker
  • Manufacturing
  • Military occupations
  • Power generation
  • Teacher 
  • Vermiculite processing

If secondhand asbestos exposure caused your mesothelioma, speak with a Nevada mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible to pursue damages against the responsible businesses. Secondhand asbestos exposure happens when someone who works with asbestos brings home the dangerous fibers, usually on clothing.

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Asbestos Manufacturers

How Your Lawyer Supports You in Nevada’s Changing Asbestos Litigation

Nevada laws don’t prevent you from filing claims in other states. Depending on your exposure, nationwide mesothelioma law firms can help you pursue claims against multiple defendants, including product manufacturers in Nevada and elsewhere.

Nevada Legislative Changes

  • Statute 11.190: In Nevada, the statute of limitations for asbestos-related personal injury claims is 2 years from the date of diagnosis. Family members also have just 2 years to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
  • Statute 41.031: The state of Nevada and city governments can also be defendants in asbestos and mesothelioma lawsuits, but your attorney must prove deliberate negligence, such as willfully ignoring evidence of asbestos hazards in the community.
  • Statute 41.085: In Nevada wrongful death claims, each heir or personal representative can receive non-economic damages for grief, suffering, loss of support and loss of companionship. Your attorney must show proof of family connections and damages.
  • Statute 42.005: Nevada courts allow punitive damages, but these are capped at 3 times the compensatory damages awarded. For example, if a jury awards $2 million for medical costs, the punitive damages can’t exceed $6 million.
  • Statute 617.460: Nevada courts consider illnesses related to asbestos and silica to be occupational diseases, which means you can also file claims for workers’ compensation benefits. The limit for filing is 1 year from the date of diagnosis. Accepting benefits prevents you from taking your employer to court.

An experienced Nevada asbestos lawyer can help you navigate different options. You may be eligible for multiple claims, including bankruptcy trust fund payouts. You deserve to get fair compensation as soon as possible.

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