Chicago Mesothelioma Lawyer

The Chicago mesothelioma attorneys at The Lanier Law Firm know well the financial and emotional strife a mesothelioma diagnosis can bring to your family. We’ve earned recognition as one of the nation’s leading asbestos litigation firms, with attorneys who have decades of experience focusing solely on mesothelioma cases. Our team is ready to help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Quick Facts About The Lanier Law Firm

Actively Pursuing Justice for Asbestos Exposure Victims in Chicago

Our Chicago mesothelioma lawyers focus exclusively on serving asbestos exposure victims, recovering billions of dollars for clients in the city and across the country. More than 900 people in Cook County died from mesothelioma between 2018 and 2024, underscoring the risk exposure still poses to residents.

We’re ready to help you and your family pursue compensation through a mesothelioma lawsuit, asbestos trust fund claim, VA benefits claim, or other legal pathways. Contact our trusted team online or call 800-723-3216 today to schedule a free consultation.

The Lanier Law Firm’s Mesothelioma Case Results in Chicago and IL

Our experienced team has built a strong reputation for getting results for asbestos exposure victims. We’ve recovered billions in mesothelioma settlements and verdicts for our clients, including:

Lawyers You Can Trust: Our Mesothelioma Client Testimonials

We’re committed to providing our mesothelioma clients with the personalized attention and support they need to get through one of the worst times of their lives. Here are some reviews from real asbestos exposure victims we’ve served:

Want to get started on your mesothelioma case? Call 800-723-3216 today for a free consultation.

Chicago Asbestos Exposure: Facts and High-Risk Sites

Our experienced Illinois mesothelioma lawyers are monitoring asbestos exposure in Chicago and Cook County, which saw 936 mesothelioma deaths from 2018 to 2024. A variety of industries that traditionally used asbestos have been active in the Chicago area, and we’re committed to helping those diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases as a result of their occupational exposure.

Industries with companies known to have exposed Chicago-area residents to asbestos include the following:

  • Manufacturing, including W. R. Grace and Illinois Steel Company
  • Energy & Utilities
  • Oil & Gas refining, including Standard Oil
  • Transportation Infrastructure
  • Construction
  • Shipbuilding, including Calumet Shipyard
  • Education

Worker Exposure During Chicago Building Renovations

Even today, construction workers are still at risk of exposure to asbestos-containing materials during work on older buildings. A 2014 inspection found that a company handling the renovation of a historic Chicago firehouse improperly handled asbestos-containing materials, exposing its workers.

In July 2025, the city of Chicago and the Illinois Attorney General sued developers for violating public health laws by failing to handle asbestos-containing materials safely during renovations of an industrial building in the Belmont Cragin community of Chicago. Workers and residents exposed to asbestos by these negligent activities could potentially develop mesothelioma or similar illnesses as far as 60 years into the future.

Asbestos in Chicago’s Schools

Older school buildings often contain asbestos, which can expose students and staff when the material is disturbed. As a result, school districts and universities have implemented policies and procedures for handling renovations, surveying for asbestos, and removing materials if asbestos is found.

Asbestos Exposure at the Former W.R. Grace Facility in West Chicago

W. R. Grace shipped more than 273,000 tons of asbestos-contaminated vermiculite from its infamous mine in Libby, Montana, to a facility in West Chicago that operated from 1974 to 1996. Air quality samples taken during the facility’s operation showed the presence of asbestos fibers at significantly higher concentrations than OSHA’s permissible limit.

The site is now sealed and poses a minimal current risk of exposure for nearby residents. However, exposure during the facility’s operation still poses health concerns for those who worked or lived nearby in the past.

What Are the Types of Mesothelioma Compensation Options Available in Chicago?

Asbestos exposure in Chicago is often the consequence of intentional decisions made by companies. Many companies knew about the dangers of asbestos but continued using it for decades. Those diagnosed with mesothelioma may have multiple options for seeking compensation and getting the justice they deserve.

If you’ve been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, our Chicago mesothelioma lawyers can help you pursue justice and compensation through the following paths:

  • Mesothelioma lawsuits: You can pursue compensation from those parties responsible for your asbestos exposure through civil litigation.
  • Asbestos trust fund claims: Some companies that filed for bankruptcy protection amid mounting mesothelioma lawsuits have established asbestos trust funds that can provide compensation to victims.
  • Asbestos claims after death: Families of those who have died from mesothelioma or similar illnesses can pursue claims for their losses.
  • VA mesothelioma claims: The VA offers a variety of benefits, including health care and disability payments, to military veterans exposed to asbestos during their service.
  • Mesothelioma Workers’ Compensation: Asbestos workers’ comp benefits may be available to those who were exposed on the job.

How Long Do You Have To File a Chicago Mesothelioma Lawsuit?

The Illinois mesothelioma statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of a diagnosis. Starting your claim as early as possible will give you the best chance of success, allowing you to build a case while the evidence is strongest.

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What Are the Steps To File an Asbestos Lawsuit in Chicago?

After you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, the first step toward pursuing litigation is to sit with an experienced attorney for a free consultation. Your lawyer can do the following:

  • Investigate and identify the sources of your asbestos exposure
  • Gather evidence to build a trial-ready case and prove the liability of those responsible
  • File your claim and negotiate a full settlement using the strength of your case
  • Take your claims to trial if necessary, fighting to secure a verdict that fairly compensates you and your family

Our Chicago mesothelioma lawyers can travel to you for a convenient on-site consultation. Here are some of the experienced attorneys ready to serve you.

Headshot of the Lanier Law Firm's Senior Attorney, James Campbell

James Campbell

Senior attorney James Campbell is a dedicated advocate for cancer patients who has moderated a panel on Cook County asbestos litigation for the Chicago Bar Association. His accolades include recognition from Forbes as one of Chicago’s “Best Mesothelioma Lawyers” in 2024.

Headshot of the Lanier Law Firm's Senior Attorney, Case A. Dam

Case A. Dam

Senior attorney Case A. Dam is a Chicago native committed to serving asbestos-exposure clients. Case has been recognized as one of Lawdragon’s 2026 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers.

Contact Our Award-Winning Mesothelioma Law Firm in Chicago, IL

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, The Lanier Law Firm is ready to help your family secure well-deserved justice and compensation.

Contact us online or call 800-723-3216 today for a free consultation.

Headshot of Lanier Law Firm Senior attorney Case A. Dam, part of the Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure practice.
Case A. Dam
Senior Attorney

Case A. Dam is dedicated to asbestos exposure, representing clients with mesothelioma, asbestosis, and related cancers. He has served veterans, automotive mechanics, and workers in various industries. Recognized in the 2024 Lawdragon 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers, among others.

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Headshot of Lawrence P. Wilson, Lanier Law Firm Senior Attorney in personal injury and product liability.
Lawrence P. Wilson

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Senior Attorney
Lawrence P. Wilson is dedicated to personal injury, product liability, medical malpractice, and certain maritime matters. He recently settled a $17.5 million personal injury case and secured a favorable verdict in Schwab v. Ford Motor Company. Recognized as a Texas Super Lawyer (2012-2021) and named to Lawdragon 500 Leading Plaintiff Lawyers.

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Alex Abston

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Attorney
Alex Abston is dedicated to pharmaceutical liability, product liability, and mass torts. She was part of the trial team that obtained one of the first federal jury verdicts in MDL 2804, In re: National Prescription Opiate Litigation. Honors include Lawdragon 500 Next Generation (2024) and Texas’ Top 40 Under 40 (2021-2024), among others.

Headshot of Alex Brown, Managing Attorney for the Lanier Law Firm Business Litigation practice.
Alex Brown

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Managing Attorney, Business Litigation
Alex Brown is dedicated to business litigation, handling complex disputes in federal, state, and international forums. He led trial teams to secure a $9 billion jury award in the Actos case. Recent honors include Best Lawyers (2024-2025) and Lawdragon 500 (2025), among others.

Headshot of attorney Benjamin T. Major from the Lanier Law Firm's Issues and Appeals legal team.
Benjamin T. Major

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Attorney
Benjamin T. Major is dedicated to issues and appeals, helping preserve multi-billion dollar judgments and secure favorable settlements. Notable achievements include preserving a tort judgment for ovarian cancer victims and defeating motions in antitrust and false claims litigation. Recognized as a Texas Rising Star (2018-2020), among others.

Headshot of Lanier Law Firm Senior attorney Case A. Dam, part of the Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure practice.
Case A. Dam

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Senior Attorney
Case A. Dam is dedicated to asbestos exposure, representing clients with mesothelioma, asbestosis, and related cancers. He has served veterans, automotive mechanics, and workers in various industries. Recognized in the 2024 Lawdragon 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers, among others.

Headshot of Darron E. Berquist, Managing Attorney Asbestos Litigation for the Lanier Law Firm.
Darron E. Berquist

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Managing Attorney, Asbestos Litigation
Darron E. Berquist is dedicated to asbestos exposure and product liability. He was part of the team that secured a $4.69 billion jury verdict in Ingham v. Johnson & Johnson, linking asbestos in talcum powder to ovarian cancer. Recognized by Best Lawyers for Mass Tort and Product Liability Litigation (2024-2025).

Headshot of David L. Rosenband, Senior Attorney practicing Personal Injury and Pharmaceutical and Product Liability.
David L. Rosenband

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Senior Attorney
David L. Rosenband is dedicated to pharmaceutical liability, personal injury, and product liability. He served as Liaison Counsel in the New York Bextra/Celebrex litigation and helped secure a $9 million verdict in the NJ Accutane case. Recognized for his work in MDLs and state court litigations.

Headshot of Evan M. Janush, Managing Attorney, New York, for Personal Injury, Pharmaceutical Liability, and Product Liability.
Evan M. Janush

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Managing Attorney, New York
Evan M. Janush oversees the firm’s pharmaceutical and product liability mass tort litigation in New York. He served on the Plaintiffs’ Executive Committee in MDL 2804 and was part of the trial team in the Vioxx cases. Recognized by Best Lawyers for Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions (2024-2025) and Lawdragon 500 (2020).

Judson A. Waltman

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Judson A. Waltman is dedicated to personal injury, product liability, and maritime law. He secured one of the largest verdicts in Ward County, Texas, for an injured oilfield worker and a $2 million verdict for a Central Texas worker. Recognized by Best Lawyers for Personal Injury and Product Liability Litigation (2024-2025).

Headshot of Kevin LaMarca, Senior Attorney in the Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure, Personal Injury, and Product Liability practice.
Kevin LaMarca

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Senior Attorney
Kevin LaMarca is dedicated to asbestos exposure, personal injury, and product liability. He secured multiple seven-figure settlements, including $2.25 million for a deceased papermill worker’s family. Recognized as a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40, Kevin represents clients across the country in both state and federal courts.

Headshot of Manny Cabrera, Lanier Law Firm Senior Attorney for the asbestos exposure and mesothelioma practice.
Manny Cabrera

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Senior Attorney
Manny Cabrera is dedicated to asbestos exposure and catastrophic injury cases. He has represented clients in asbestos-related matters and personal injury, as well as trucking and premises liability cases. Honored as a National Trial Lawyers Civil Plaintiff Top 40 Under 40.

Headshot of Maura Kolb, Managing Attorney, Asbestos Resolution in the mesothelioma and pharmaceutical liability practice.
Maura Kolb

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Managing Attorney, Asbestos Resolution
Maura Kolb leads the Asbestos Resolution Team, securing millions for clients annually. She was part of the team that won a $258 million Vioxx verdict and has coordinated BP Gulf Oil Spill settlements. Recognized by Lawdragon 500 (2024), Maura serves on several national asbestos trust advisory committees.

Headshot of Megan Waida, Senior Attorney in the Lanier Law Firm's Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure practice.
Megan Waida

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Senior Attorney
Megan Waida is dedicated to asbestos exposure and appellate cases. Named to the National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 (2018-2021), Megan advocates for asbestos victims and has a strong background in complex litigation.

Headshot of Michael A. Akselrud, Senior Attorney in our Business Litigation, Personal Injury, and Product Liability practice.
Michael A. Akselrud

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Senior Attorney
Michael A. Akselrud is dedicated to personal injury, business litigation, and product liability. He was part of the trial team that secured a $4.69 billion verdict in the Johnson & Johnson talcum powder case. Recognized by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star (2016) and named to LawDragon 500 (2020).

Headshot of Michelle Greene, Senior Attorney in our Pharmaceutical Liability and Product Liability practice.
Michelle Greene

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Senior Attorney
Michelle Greene is dedicated to pharmaceutical and product liability, with a focus on toxic torts. She represented clients in AFFF and PFAS contamination cases. Recognized by Best Lawyers as “Ones to Watch” (2024-2025) and listed in Lawdragon’s Next Generation (2025) for Plaintiff Litigation.

Headshot of Patrice McKinney, Lanier Law Firm Senior Attorney in personal injury, product liability, and FELA.
Patrice McKinney

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Senior Attorney
Patrice McKinney is dedicated to personal injury, product liability, and FELA cases, with a focus on railroad workers injured on the job, car and trucking collisions, and oilfield injuries. Recognized as a Texas Super Lawyer (2017-2024) and Best Lawyers (2024-2025) for Personal Injury.

Headshot of Rachel Lanier, Managing Attorney, Los Angeles, Product Liability and Pharmaceutical Liability
Rachel Lanier

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Managing Attorney, Los Angeles
Rachel Lanier is dedicated to pharmaceutical and product liability, helping secure the $4.6 billion verdict in Ingham v. Johnson & Johnson. Recognized by Best Lawyers (2024-2025) for Mass Tort and Personal Injury, Rachel leads the firm’s social media addiction lawsuits and represents clients in high-profile MDLs.

Headshot of Rebecca Phillips, The Lanier Law Firm's Mass Torts Director.
Rebecca Phillips

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Mass Torts Director
Rebecca Phillips is dedicated to pharmaceutical liability, business litigation, and appeals. Co-lead counsel in the Bard Implant litigation, she also helped secure billions in opioid recovery for Texas. Recent honors include Super Lawyers Rising Star and Lawdragon 500 (2024-2025), among others.

Headshot of Sam E. Taylor, Senior Litigation Counsel for the Lanier Law Firm Personal Injury practice.
Sam E. Taylor

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Senior Litigation Counsel
Sam E. Taylor is board-certified in Personal Injury Trial Law and Civil Trial Law, with over 30 years of experience. He has tried over 50 civil jury trials, including mesothelioma and wrongful death cases. Recognized as a Texas Super Lawyer since 2008, Sam holds an AV Preeminent Rating for 25+ years.

Headshot of Zeke DeRose, Lanier Law Firm Senior Attorney, Business Litigation
Zeke DeRose

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Senior Attorney
Zeke DeRose is dedicated to business litigation, antitrust, and product liability. He is part of the legal team in an antitrust case against Google and represents the State of Arkansas in litigation against Meta. Recognized by Lawdragon 500 (2025) and Best Lawyers (2025), Zeke is a member of the National Trial Lawyers Top 100.

Headshot of Lanier Law Firm Senior attorney Catherine Heacox, part of the Personal Injury, Pharmaceutical and Product Liability practice.
Catherine Heacox

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Senior Attorney
Catherine Heacox is dedicated to pharmaceutical liability, personal injury, and product liability. Recognized by Super Lawyers as New York Metro Super Lawyer since 2013, Catherine has extensive experience in MDL and mass tort litigation.

Headshot of attorney Richard D. Meadow who serves as Of Counsel for the Lanier Law Firm.
Richard Meadow

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Of Counsel
Richard Meadow’s broad legal experience spans multiple practice areas and jurisdictions. He is recognized in Best Lawyers 2025 for his work in Mass Tort Litigation and Personal Injury Litigation. With over three decades of experience, Richard has dedicated his career to championing the rights of injured individuals.

Headshot of the Lanier Law Firm's attorney Kelsey Stokes
Kelsey Stokes

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Senior Attorney
Kelsey Stokes is dedicated to mass tort litigation, product liability, and complex litigation. With extensive experience in trial and settlement negotiations, she continues to be a leader in medical device litigation recognized by Super Lawyers Rising Stars (2022).

Headshot of Lanier Law Firm senior attorney Lee Cirsch
Lee Cirsch

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Senior Attorney
Lee Cirsch is an experienced trial lawyer with over two decades of handling personal injury, product liability, and business litigation cases. His experience representing both plaintiffs and defendants gives him a unique ability to anticipate his opponent’s strategy, providing clients with an edge in litigation.