Introduction: Why Veterans Need Specialized Legal Help
If you’re a U.S. military veteran who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, you’re not alone. Veterans — particularly those who served in the Navy, Army, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard — account for nearly 30% of all mesothelioma cases in the United States.
Between the 1930s and 1980s, the U.S. military used large amounts of asbestos in:
- Ships (especially in the Navy)
- Submarines
- Military vehicles
- Barracks and base housing
- Aircraft
- Boilers and engine rooms
Unfortunately, many veterans were unknowingly exposed to asbestos while serving their country.
Today, specialized mesothelioma law firms help veterans:
- File lawsuits against asbestos manufacturers (not the military or government)
- Secure compensation from asbestos trust funds
- Apply for VA benefits like disability compensation and pensions
Top Mesothelioma Law Firms for Veterans (USA)
Here is a curated list of highly-rated mesothelioma law firms with proven success helping veterans secure compensation.
1. Simmons Hanly Conroy
Headquarters: Alton, Illinois
Veterans Services: Yes
Website: www.simmonsfirm.com
Why They’re Best for Veterans:
- Over \$9 billion recovered for mesothelioma victims.
- Dedicated Veterans Department with former military personnel on staff.
- Offers free VA claim assistance along with legal filing.
- Has successfully represented hundreds of Navy veterans.
Key Features:
- National firm, handles cases in all 50 states.
- Free consultations.
- Contingency fee (you pay nothing unless they win).
2. The Gori Law Firm
Headquarters: Edwardsville, Illinois
Veterans Services: Yes
Website: www.gorilaw.com
Why They’re Best for Veterans:
- Over \$4 billion in asbestos-related verdicts and settlements.
- Known for aggressively pursuing asbestos manufacturers.
- Offers VA assistance to military veterans exposed during service.
Key Features:
- Over 50+ attorneys specializing in asbestos litigation.
- National reach with multiple offices.
- Easy online case evaluations.
3. Weitz & Luxenberg
Headquarters: New York, NY
Veterans Services: Yes
Website: www.weitzlux.com
Why They’re Best for Veterans:
- Recovered billions in asbestos verdicts and settlements.
- Strong track record with Navy veterans and shipyard workers.
- Known for pursuing both trust fund claims and lawsuits.
Key Features:
- Offers a large team of attorneys with over 30 years of asbestos litigation experience.
- Personal support and detailed case management.
- Free case evaluation for veterans.
4. Cooney & Conway
Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois
Veterans Services: Yes
Website: www.cooneyconway.com
Why They’re Best for Veterans:
- Has handled asbestos cases for over 40 years.
- Known for representing veterans from all branches, especially those in shipyards.
- Extensive case history in Illinois and nationwide.
Key Features:
- Strong focus on mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestos exposure.
- Handles both legal and trust fund filings.
- Free consultation and support for veterans’ benefits.
5. Nemeroff Law Firm
Headquarters: Dallas, Texas
Veterans Services: Yes
Website: www.nemerofflaw.com
Why They’re Best for Veterans:
- Represented thousands of veterans, especially from the Navy.
- Deep experience with asbestos exposure on military ships.
- Offers complete legal + VA claim handling.
Key Features:
- Boutique, personalized service.
- Nationwide availability.
- Strong reputation for compassionate representation.
6. Kazan Law
Headquarters: Oakland, California
Veterans Services: Yes
Website: www.kazanlaw.com
Why They’re Best for Veterans:
- One of the oldest asbestos law firms (since 1974).
- Deep knowledge of asbestos-containing naval materials.
- Often files cases in California courts, known for large settlements.
Key Features:
- Handles lawsuits, trust funds, and wrongful death claims.
- Personalized legal teams for each case.
- Free veteran-focused legal evaluations.
7. Shrader & Associates, L.L.P.
Headquarters: Houston, Texas
Veterans Services: Yes
Website: www.shraderlaw.com
Why They’re Best for Veterans:
- Known for securing multi-million dollar verdicts for Navy veterans.
- Offers aggressive representation in court or for settlements.
- Focuses solely on asbestos and toxic exposure cases.
Key Features:
- One-on-one attorney attention.
- Extensive military background research tools.
- Compassionate legal team with national reach.
What a Mesothelioma Law Firm Will Do for Veterans
✔ Investigate military service records
✔ Identify asbestos exposure locations
✔ Determine responsible manufacturers
✔ File trust fund claims
✔ Help with VA benefits and compensation
✔ File wrongful death lawsuits (if applicable)
✔ Recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain
VA Benefits vs. Legal Compensation — You Can Have Both
Many veterans believe they can’t file a lawsuit if they’re receiving VA benefits — this is a myth.
- You are not suing the military or government.
- Legal action is against private companies that supplied asbestos materials to the military.
A good mesothelioma law firm will help you apply for VA benefits and also pursue legal compensation through the courts or trust funds.
Questions to Ask When Hiring a Mesothelioma Law Firm as a Veteran
✅ Do you have experience with military asbestos exposure cases?
✅ Can you help me file for VA benefits?
✅ Will you assist in filing trust fund claims?
✅ Do I need to pay anything upfront?
✅ How many veterans have you helped in the past?
Conclusion: Justice for Those Who Served
As a veteran, you made sacrifices to serve your country — and unknowingly, you may have been exposed to dangerous asbestos materials that led to mesothelioma or other illnesses. You deserve justice, care, and compensation.
Choosing the right mesothelioma law firm can make all the difference in:
- Getting maximum compensation
- Handling both VA and legal processes
- Ensuring your family’s future is secure
The law firms listed above have proven experience, compassionate teams, and national reach. Most offer free consultations and only get paid if you win.
Your service mattered — now it’s time to protect your rights.
Contact a top mesothelioma law firm today to discuss your options confidentially and without obligation.