1. Why retain a law firm that concentrates its practice in mesothelioma cases as opposed to a general practice law firm?  A law firm that regularly represents individuals with mesothelioma appreciates and understands what its clients are experiencing, such as medical treatments and potential side effects.  Our attorneys understand the importance of prosecuting a mesothelioma case as quickly as possible and in a way that does not interfere with our clients’ medical treatment.
    Mesothelioma can be an aggressive cancer and time is always of the essence. You need a law firm that understands the process of prosecuting a mesothelioma case. This involves many aspects, including which companies are responsible for the exposure to asbestos and the proper way to hold these companies accountable. For instance, Lipsitz, Ponterio & Comerford has represented tradesmen who worked at Bethlehem Steel in Buffalo, New York, and at Kodak in Rochester, New York.  We have in-depth knowledge of these facilities; the asbestos products used at these facilities; and, most importantly, the manufacturers and distributors responsible for these asbestos-containing products. This type of knowledge is gained from our years of experience in representing clients with mesothelioma.
  2. Why file your case in New York? Under New York State law, you are entitled to a trial date within one year of the commencement of your mesothelioma lawsuit. Although this may seem like a long time, the average civil lawsuit in the United States takes approximately four to five years. Additional provisions of New York State law allow us to preserve your testimony in very short order. No matter where you reside, this can be completed at your convenience. If you reside outside of New York State, you will not have to travel to New York. You will be able to testify in your home or at a location near your home.
  3. Do you need to associate with a law firm in your state? This is usually not necessary. Our firm will handle all aspects of your mesothelioma case. We have worked with many litigants residing outside of New York State. If you currently reside outside of New York State, but you were exposed to asbestos while you were living in New York State, it may not be necessary for you to retain an attorney in your home state. Our attorneys have assisted clients who live in many states, including Florida, Nevada, Michigan, North Carolina, Massachusetts and Washington.
  4. What can Lipsitz, Ponterio & Comerford do for me in my case? We will not refer your case to an outside law firm, and your case will not be part of a class action lawsuit. Three potential avenues to recovery include: a lawsuit against responsible companies; filing of proofs of claim against companies that are bankrupt; and filing under New York State Workers’ Compensation Law. If you or a loved one retains our firm, you will deal with a Lipsitz, Ponterio & Comerford attorney from start to finish. One of our attorneys will meet with you; prepare you for your deposition; attend the deposition with you; appear in court on your behalf; handle all of the aspects of your case; and represent you at trial, if a trial is necessary.
  5. What expenses am I responsible for?  All expenses incurred during the prosecution of your case will be paid for by our firm. You do not have to pay any money out of pocket to work with our firm. A retainer agreement with Lipsitz, Ponterio & Comerford provides that all out of pocket costs, incurred by our firm in order to pursue your case, will be deducted from the total sum we recover on your behalf. We advance all necessary costs and expenses, and we are ultimately reimbursed from your recovery.