What does a mesothelioma lawyer do?
Mesothelioma lawyers provide representation and legal advice to clients that suffer from mesothelioma. They gather the necessary information and evidence to build viable cases to enable their clients to receive the compensation they deserve. They determine negligence of employers that lead to harmful asbestos exposure. They explain legal options and procedures to clients and provide essential emotional support. Mesothelioma lawyers help clients determine the amount of needed compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, funeral expenses, and other expenses of being diagnosed with the illness. They obtain medical records, interview clients and witnesses, and research necessary legal and medical information.
What kind of training does a mesothelioma lawyer need?
Mesothelioma lawyers must have a bachelor degree and law degree from an accredited law school. All law schools require candidates to receive a satisfactory score on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) to become accepted. Law school provides intensive instruction and exposes students to a variety of practical learning experiences. Many law schools require students to complete an internship prior to graduation. Many aspiring mesothelioma lawyers complete internships or clerkships at law firms that specialize in mesothelioma lawsuits to gain practical experience and increase probability of employment opportunities after graduation. All states require mesothelioma lawyers to pass the written bar examination to become licensed. Many states also require an additional ethics examination. Mesothelioma lawyers must complete regular continuing legal education to maintain their licenses, keep their skills current, and stay abreast with advances and changes in the field.
What are the prospects for a career as a mesothelioma lawyer?
Employment of all lawyers, including mesothelioma lawyers is expected to grow about as fast as average for all professions, increasing 13% from 2008 to 2018 (1). The aging population and increase in mesothelioma lawsuits will drive job growth of mesothelioma lawyers.
Job prospects should be good with keen competition. Mesothelioma lawyers with excellent academic records and extensive experience will have the best job opportunities.
How much do mesothelioma lawyers make?
As of February 2010, the average annual salary for mesothelioma lawyers is $99,000; average mesothelioma lawyer salaries are 53% higher than average salaries for all nationwide job postings (2).
A career as a mesothelioma lawyer is a great choice for people with a strong interest in mesothelioma litigation and providing representation and legal advice to a variety of clients. Mesothelioma lawyers must have a solid understanding of the concepts, laws, and procedures related to mesothelioma lawsuits. Patience, perseverance, detail orientation, analytical thinking, and good problem solving skills are necessary characteristics. Mesothelioma lawyers must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to help clients feel at ease. They must be quick on their feet and be able to make effective decisions under stress and pressure.
