According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Florida has consistently ranked among the top ten states in the U.S. for mesothelioma-related deaths. Between 1999 and 2020, over 3,500 Floridians lost their lives to this preventable disease, many of them exposed through their occupations or military service.
A mesothelioma diagnosis is life-changing. It brings a wave of medical, emotional, and financial burdens, not only on the individual diagnosed but on their entire family. In these moments, choosing a law firm that understands Florida’s legal and industrial landscape isn’t just reassuring, it’s absolutely essential.
As a top-rated Florida mesothelioma law firm, we’ve helped hundreds of families across the state take action. From the shipyards of Tampa to the naval stations of Jacksonville, we’ve helped clients all over the state fight for accountability and justice. Our team handles every case in-house with personal care, never handing off your matter to third-party contractors or out-of-state firms. We’re proud to be a trusted Florida asbestos attorney for clients seeking personal and legal clarity after toxic exposure.
Workers across sectors like construction, shipbuilding and public service were often exposed to asbestos without proper protection. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, Shrader & Associates L.L.P is ready to help you pursue answers and compensation.
Understanding Asbestos Exposure in Florida
What is asbestos and how does it lead to mesothelioma?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral once praised for its fire-resistant properties. It was used in insulation, piping, floor tiles, and more. When disturbed, asbestos releases microscopic fibers that, if inhaled or ingested, can embed in the body and eventually cause serious illness. Mesothelioma, a rare, aggressive cancer that is directly linked to asbestos exposure.
Where Asbestos Exposure Happens in Florida
We help clients identify asbestos exposure sites in Florida, from old construction zones to industrial plants, and thousands of Floridians were exposed to asbestos through no fault of their own. Whether through their own occupation or secondary exposure via a loved one, the risk was widespread across industries and public infrastructure.
High-Risk Industries
- Shipbuilding and repair (Tampa Shipyards, Jacksonville Shipyards)
- Military service (NAS Jacksonville, Eglin AFB, Patrick SFB)
- Oil refineries and power generation
- Construction and renovation (This includes asbestos in Florida construction projects before the 1980s, where materials often contained asbestos.)
- Manufacturing and chemical plants
- Public buildings, including schools and hospitals
This long history of exposure contributes to the ongoing risk of asbestos exposure in Florida, especially among workers and their families.
Military Exposure in Florida
Florida’s significant military presence contributed to high asbestos exposure rates among veterans. Navy ships and military bases commonly used asbestos in:
- Pipe insulation
- Fireproofing materials
- Engine rooms
- Mess halls and barracks
We also assist with Florida veterans asbestos exposure claims, including those related to service on Navy ships.
Mesothelioma Lawsuits in Florida: Your Legal Rights
Understanding your rights after a mesothelioma diagnosis is critical. Florida law allows victims and families to pursue legal action against those responsible for the asbestos exposure.
Statute of Limitations in Florida
- Personal Injury: Four years from the date of diagnosis
- Wrongful Death: Two years from the date of passing
However, these deadlines are not always absolute. In some cases, there may be ways to extend or work around the standard statute of limitations. Because timing can be critical, it’s important to seek legal advice as early as possible to protect your rights. If you’re considering a Florida mesothelioma lawsuit, don’t delay. These cases are time-sensitive.
Eligibility
You may be eligible to file a claim if:
- You’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness
- You’ve been diagnosed and are seeking mesothelioma legal help in Florida
- You’re unsure if your claim qualifies as a Florida asbestos lawsuit
- You can identify likely sources of asbestos exposure
- You or your loved one lived or worked in Florida at relevant times
Filing a Lawsuit: Our Legal Process
At Shrader & Associates L.L.P, we offer a straightforward process:
- Free Case Evaluation
- Investigation – We research exposure sites and gather medical and employment records
- Filing – We prepare your case and pursue claims in the best possible jurisdiction
- Resolution – We negotiate settlements or take your case to court if needed
We handle everything — so you can focus on your health and family.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
At Shrader & Associates L.L.P, we help clients recover compensation that reflects the true cost of their suffering and losses. Families deserve answers, and compensation for mesothelioma cases in Florida should reflect both the financial and emotional loss, including:
Medical costs – such as surgeries, chemotherapy, and hospital stays. In many cases, ongoing treatments and palliative care are also covered, providing much-needed relief from rising healthcare expenses.
Loss of income – If your illness has forced you to stop working, compensation may include wages you’ve already lost as well as projected future earnings you’re no longer able to earn. In wrongful death cases, surviving spouses and dependents may also be eligible for loss of financial support and other related benefits.
Non-economic damages – Such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and the loss of companionship or care in the home.
Funeral and burial expenses – For families pursuing a wrongful death claim, these costs may also be covered.
Asbestos trust funds – These are special funds set up by bankrupt companies that were once responsible for exposing workers and consumers to asbestos. Even if your former employer or a product manufacturer is no longer in business, these funds may be available even if you are filing a Florida mesothelioma settlement claim from an older exposure
Our team at Shrader & Associates L.L.P is experienced in both types of claims – direct litigation and trust fund claims. We take the lead in gathering documentation, building your case, and ensuring all deadlines are met. Our goal is to secure the maximum possible compensation with the least amount of stress to you and your loved ones.
Why Choose Shrader & Associates L.L.P for Your Florida Mesothelioma Case
We’re not a call center or a national referral chain. We are real attorneys who litigate real cases. Our legal team works closely with mesothelioma clients throughout Florida.
Experience & Focus
- 20+ years of focused asbestos litigation
- Deep knowledge of construction workers, oil refinery workers, and navy ships with asbestos
- Direct relationships with Florida clients
Resources
Our firm is equipped with:
- A dedicated legal team
- Investigators to trace exposure history
- Access to leading medical and asbestos experts
- Support for long-term financial planning
Track Record of Results
- Millions recovered in verdicts and settlements
- Proven history of settling asbestos claims efficiently
- Tailored litigation strategies, no one-size-fits-all templates
What Our Clients Say
“My case was complex, but you untangled the details of my asbestos exposure so that they were clear in court. I couldn’t have done it without you..” – Sam
“I hesitated to file suit because I thought going to trial would be a hassle. The professionals at Shrader & Associates did the work, hassle-free, and ensured I was able to leave a legacy for my family.” – Raymond
Whether you’re looking for a Miami mesothelioma lawyer, a team in Jacksonville, or help with Tampa mesothelioma attorney claims, we can guide you. Meet our Florida mesothelioma lawyers including Ross Stomel and William Shrader who lead our mesothelioma cases.
Previous Florida Case Results
Each case is unique, but our results reflect our thorough, experienced approach. At Shrader & Associates L.L.P we deeply understand that past results matter. Our firm’s track record in Florida reflects meaningful victories, litigation and settlements that brought real compensation and closure to asbestos victims and their families.
In a noted case involving a welder at a Florida refinery, our firm helped secure substantial compensation for both medical costs and long-term care needs. The exact figure illustrates our ability to navigate complex employer and manufacturer liability situations. For more about that case, see this example of a refinery-related mesothelioma claim trusted by our clients.
Florida courts have seen significant jury verdicts. In Broward County last April, a jury awarded an $18 million verdict in a peritoneal mesothelioma case. The plaintiff had been exposed to brake dust as a child from family mechanics, demonstrating that mesothelioma claims can succeed even in cases of secondhand exposure.
Another Florida Supreme Court decision reinstated a $6.6 million jury verdict for a construction supervisor who developed peritoneal mesothelioma after working with high-purity Union Carbide asbestos products. The state’s highest court reversed a lower-court decision and restored the award, underscoring how appellate advocacy can protect client rights.
Together, these outcomes reflect the legal landscape in Florida, clearly demonstrating both the potential for substantial verdicts and the powerful value of skilled negotiation. At Shrader & Associates L.L.P, our litigation strategies and familiarity with the courts position us to pursue the greatest possible recovery, whether through settlement or trial.
Getting Started with a Florida Mesothelioma Lawyer
When you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, time is of the essence. The sooner you speak with an experienced Florida mesothelioma attorney, the better your chances of preserving evidence, meeting legal deadlines, and securing the compensation you deserve. At Shrader & Associates L.L.P, we understand the urgency and emotional weight of these cases and we’re here to help.
Our team offers:
- Free, confidential consultations with no obligation
- Contingency-based representation – you pay nothing unless we win
- Over two decades of focused experience handling mesothelioma and asbestos claims
We are ready to act quickly on your behalf, whether you’re just starting to explore your legal options or are already deep in the process of dealing with a diagnosis. Every step of the way, our attorneys will provide clear answers, honest guidance, and unwavering advocacy.
Don’t wait. Get the help you need, right here in Florida.
Contact Shrader & Associates, L.L.P. today for a free and completely confidential consultation.
FAQ
What is the average settlement for a mesothelioma lawsuit?
Most mesothelioma settlements range from $1 million to $2.4 million, but the exact amount depends on several factors. These include how and where the exposure occurred, the severity of the illness, the age and financial responsibilities of the victim, and how many defendants are involved. Some cases, especially those that go to trial, may result in larger verdicts. At Shrader & Associates L.L.P, we work to maximize every claim based on the unique details of your situation.
Do I need to live in Florida to file a mesothelioma lawsuit here?
Not necessarily. If your asbestos exposure took place in Florida, for example, during your time working at a Florida job site, military base, or facility, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit in the state, even if you now live elsewhere. Our legal team can help determine the best jurisdiction for your case based on where the exposure happened and other case details.
How long does a case typically take to resolve?
The average mesothelioma case takes about 12 to 18 months to resolve. Some are settled more quickly, especially if strong evidence is available early. Others may take longer if they involve multiple defendants or go to trial. Throughout the process, our goal is to keep things moving efficiently while keeping you informed every step of the way.
What if the responsible company has shut down or filed bankruptcy?
You may still be eligible for compensation through asbestos trust funds, which were established by companies that filed for bankruptcy but were required to set aside money for current and future victims. These trust claims are separate from lawsuits, and our firm has years of experience handling both. We can assess your eligibility and pursue every available option for recovery.
Can family members file if their loved one has passed away?
Yes. Under Florida law, spouses, children, or representatives of the estate may file a wrongful death lawsuit if their loved one passed away from mesothelioma. These claims must be filed within two years of the date of death. Compensation may include funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and the financial impact of the loss.
What does it cost to hire a mesothelioma lawyer?
At Shrader & Associates L.L.P, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you never pay upfront or out of pocket. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation on your behalf. This structure ensures that every family, regardless of financial situation, has access to skilled, experienced legal representation.
Schedule your free case review now
For more information, visit our asbestos exposure page. Fighting for justice. Focused on mesothelioma. Proud to serve Florida.