Utah Mesothelioma Lawyers

Finding and Choosing a Utah Mesothelioma Lawyer

When choosing a mesothelioma lawyer in Utah, look for attorneys with experience in asbestos litigation and knowledge of the state’s legal landscape, which tends to favor defendants. Utah recently began allowing secondary exposure claims, making it essential to work with lawyers who understand how to navigate these complex cases.

Salt Lake County is the primary jurisdiction for mesothelioma lawsuits in Utah. Many parts of the state have a history of asbestos exposure linked to mining, power plants and manufacturing. Experienced firms like Nemeroff Law Firm have secured settlements and verdicts in Utah, leveraging their knowledge of the state’s history with asbestos and exposure sites.

While Utah doesn’t rank among the nation’s top states for asbestos lawsuit filings, the state still sees new mesothelioma diagnoses each year. In 2022, Utah reported 15 new mesothelioma cases with an incidence rate of 0.60 per 100,000 people, according to the latest CDC data. Residents diagnosed with asbestos cancers like mesothelioma have legal rights to pursue compensation. A trusted Utah law firm can provide strategic advocacy grounded in the state’s specific litigation rules to help maximize your compensation.

Nationwide Asbestos Law Firms Helping Clients in Utah

Nationwide asbestos law firms have decades of experience and extensive resources including licensed attorneys who regularly work with Utah residents. They often travel to meet clients at no extra cost or offer virtual consultations for convenience.

Top national firms like Simmons Hanly Conroy and Weitz & Luxenberg have a proven record of securing significant mesothelioma compensation in Utah. For example, Simmons Hanly Conroy has s a large team of specialized investigators, medical experts and researchers. The firm helped an Army veteran from Salt Lake City who was diagnosed with mesothelioma secure a $3.99 million settlement. 

National firms handle lawsuits within Utah and can evaluate whether filing in another state is more strategic, especially if key defendants are headquartered elsewhere or exposure occurred out of state. They also help people file asbestos trust fund claims if the company responsible for their exposure declared bankruptcy and created a compensation fund.

Compensation From Asbestos Filings in Utah

In Utah, as is the case nationally, most lawsuits end in a mesothelioma settlement rather than a jury verdict. Though Utah presents unique legal challenges for asbestos claims, the right mesothelioma lawyer with a record of success in the state can help you build a strong case and pursue the compensation you deserve.

A Salt Lake City jury awarded more than $5.2 million in damages to mesothelioma patient Vickie Warren in 2010. She developed mesothelioma from using asbestos-containing joint compound. The jury found Georgia-Pacific and Hamilton Materials liable for making the asbestos product. It also found Union Carbide liable for supplying the asbestos.

While public records show few asbestos trial verdicts in Utah, experienced firms have secured confidential settlements for clients. These settlements often resolve cases without the uncertainty and length of trial, providing compensation for medical expenses, lost income and other damages.

How Does an Asbestos Lawyer Handle Your Claim in Utah

An asbestos lawyer in Utah manages your mesothelioma claim through a structured process designed to build the strongest case possible while meeting the state’s legal requirements. Understanding these steps can help you know what to expect as your attorney works on your behalf.

Steps to a Mesothelioma Claim

1. Initial consultation: You meet with an experienced mesothelioma attorney who reviews your diagnosis, exposure history and legal options. This consultation typically costs nothing and helps establish a plan tailored to your situation.
2. Evidence gathering: Your lawyer collects all necessary documentation, including medical records, employment history, military service records and asbestos trust fund information. This evidence links your illness to specific asbestos-containing products and responsible companies.
3. Filing the claim: Once sufficient evidence is compiled, your lawyer files lawsuits or trust fund claims on your behalf, following Utah’s statutes of limitations. This legally initiates your pursuit of compensation.
4. Discovery phase: Both parties exchange information, including depositions and additional evidence. Your lawyer uses this phase to strengthen your case and prepare for possible settlement talks or trial.
5. Settlement negotiations or trial: Most cases settle out of court after negotiations between your lawyer and the defendants. If a fair settlement isn’t reached, your lawyer prepares for trial to seek maximum compensation.
6. Compensation and follow-up: Your attorney ensures awarded funds are received and can assist with appeals or additional claims if needed.

Most Utah mesothelioma cases settle before trial. Your attorney handles negotiations with defendants and their insurers while protecting your rights under Utah’s legal framework.

Asbestos Exposure in Utah

Utah’s sources of asbestos exposure included naturally occurring asbestos deposits and mining operations. The mineral appears naturally in the state’s Wasatch Mountains, Avintaquin Canyon and Baer Canyon. 

Mining was one of Utah’s most prosperous occupations. But it put many workers at risk of inhaling asbestos. The Tremolite No. 1 Mine was Utah’s only mine dedicated to asbestos. Asbestos fibers were also found in calcite and marble mines in the state.  

Sites in Utah Known for Asbestos Exposure

• Highland Boy Mine
• Hunter Power Plant
• King David Mine
• Millcreek Power Generation
• Naughton Power Plant
• North Salt Lake Refinery
• Pack Rat Tremolite Prospect
• Salt Lake City Refinery
• Woods Cross Refinery
• Tremolite No. 1 Mine

Workers who handled asbestos at any stage between its natural state and its use as a finished product may have inhaled loose fibers. Utah residents exposed to asbestos fibers are at risk of developing mesothelioma and related diseases.

Utah’s Most Well-Known Exposure Site: Tremolite Asbestos Mine

The Tremolite Asbestos Mine near Sulphurdale, Utah, was part of the Antelope Spring Mining District and primarily produced tremolite asbestos. Mining at Sulphurdale began in the late 19th century, with the town developing around the sulfur and asbestos extraction industries. Workers extracted large amounts of tremolite, which was used in fireproofing and insulation materials and shipped to various industrial sites across Utah.

The mining and processing of tremolite asbestos posed significant health risks to miners and nearby residents. Exposure to airborne asbestos fibers from the mine and associated industrial facilities led to increased cases of asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma. The mine has long been closed, but environmental and health impacts persist because of residual contamination. Tremolite asbestos mining activities, along with other contaminated sites in Utah, contribute to the state’s ongoing asbestos exposure risks.​

Occupational Asbestos Exposure in Utah 

Occupational exposure in Utah occurred in commercial and industrial sectors. Power plants, refineries and factories across Utah used asbestos for insulation purposes. Asbestos prevented serious fires in oil refineries, for example. Mining operations used asbestos in machinery parts. 

These facilities commonly used contaminated insulation on their machinery. Workers risked inhaling the fibers when they operated, installed or repaired equipment. Families of asbestos workers can be at risk of secondary asbestos exposure. 

Higher-Risk Jobs in Utah

• Chemical production worker
• Construction worker
• Manufacturing worker
• Military personnel
• Mining worker
• Power generation worker
• Steel mill worker
• Vermiculite processing worker

The greatest risk of exposure took place in asbestos-contaminated mines. Miners often used rough techniques to remove the mineral from the earth, releasing the fibers into the air where they could be inhaled. However, even workers who didn’t encounter the material in the mines may have inhaled it when they operated mining equipment.

Utah companies have exposed workers to different types of asbestos products. Examples include Utah Power and Light, Vermiculite Intermountain and Intermountain Products. 

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

Utah has enacted several laws that make asbestos litigation more complex and place additional burdens on plaintiffs. Experienced mesothelioma lawyers understand these requirements and help clients meet Utah’s strict filing standards.

Utah Legislative Changes

• 2016 Asbestos Litigation Reform Bill: Requires plaintiffs to disclose all asbestos bankruptcy trust claims and provide complete documentation after filing suit. The law prioritizes claims by individuals showing physical impairment from asbestos exposure and pauses statutes of limitations for those exposed but not yet sick.
• 2021 Utah Supreme Court Decision: Boynton v. Kennecott Utah Copper, LLC established that companies can be held liable for secondary asbestos exposure from workers bringing asbestos home on clothing. While this ruling allows secondary exposure lawsuits in Utah, the case resulted in a defense verdict at trial in 2024.
• House Bill 328: Enacted in 2023, it equires plaintiffs to disclose detailed exposure facts within 21 days of filing, including dates, locations, frequency and product identification. The law aims to prevent over-naming defendants and requires stronger proof before claims proceed.

These legislative changes make timing and documentation critical in Utah asbestos cases. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer ensures you meet all disclosure requirements and deadlines while building the strongest possible case for compensation.

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