Filing a California Mesothelioma Lawsuit: Interview With Asbestos Attorney Ron Herron

Asbestos was widely used throughout California for decades in construction, shipbuilding, manufacturing, and other industries. As a result, many workers and families across the state have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.

Asbestos litigation is complex, and for families facing a mesothelioma diagnosis, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A knowledgeable California mesothelioma lawyer can help victims understand their legal options and pursue compensation.

To help explain how these cases work and what patients can expect, we spoke with California mesothelioma attorney Ron Herron, a seasoned litigator and partner at Simmons Hanly Conroy, with decades of experience handling asbestos claims.

In the interview below, Ron shares insights into how asbestos exposure occurs, why companies are still being sued today, and how an experienced legal team can help families find a path forward.

Who is at risk of asbestos exposure in California?

In California, the risk of asbestos exposure has been widespread. I’ve represented clients who were exposed while working in shipyards, construction, factories, and on military bases across a wide number of industries.

Asbestos was used so heavily across the state that many were exposed simply by doing their jobs, often without being warned of the dangers.

What makes these cases especially tragic is that most exposures were preventable. Many companies knew asbestos was dangerous long before they stopped using it, leaving workers and their families in the dark.

For someone recently diagnosed with mesothelioma, what are the first steps they should take to protect their legal rights?

The first and most important step is to get in touch with an experienced mesothelioma law firm as soon as possible. Asbestos cases are time-sensitive, and the sooner we can begin investigating a patient’s work history and exposure, the better positioned we are to protect their legal rights.

At the same time, patients should focus on getting specialized medical care right away. In many cases, we’re able to help connect clients with mesothelioma specialists and treatment centers, so they’re not navigating that process alone.

My goal is to ease as much of the burden as possible during an incredibly difficult time. While patients focus on their health, my team works to uncover the full truth of how and where asbestos exposure occurred and to hold the responsible companies accountable.

How do California mesothelioma attorneys​ identify the specific asbestos products or companies responsible for a client’s exposure?

At Simmons Hanly Conroy, we rely on decades of experience and an extensive body of research to identify where and how a client was exposed. Over the years, we’ve compiled detailed databases that track asbestos-containing products, manufacturers, suppliers, and job sites throughout the state.

It’s not uncommon for me to have handled asbestos claims involving the same worksites, trades, or products as previous clients. That history allows me to recognize patterns quickly and connect a client’s work history to known sources of asbestos exposure that we already have evidence for.

My job is to uncover the full truth, even when exposure happened decades ago. By combining experience, investigation, and firm-wide resources, I’m able to identify the responsible companies and pursue accountability on behalf of my clients.

What should families expect when filing a California mesothelioma lawsuit?

Families should expect that their legal team will handle the heavy lifting. When someone comes to me after a mesothelioma diagnosis, my goal is to take as much stress off their shoulders as possible.

I manage the investigation, filings, and negotiations, and I make sure families are kept informed at every stage so they always understand what’s happening with their case.

Mesothelioma lawsuits are about leveling the playing field against powerful asbestos companies that put profits ahead of safety. My role is to stand between those corporations and the families they harmed, building a strong case and pursuing the compensation my clients deserve.

How long does a California asbestos lawsuit typically take?

The timeline for a California asbestos lawsuit can vary, but many claims move faster than people expect. Once a client provides information about their work history, job sites, and background, my team and I take over from there.

We handle the investigation, filings, and legal strategy, so families don’t have to spend their time chasing paperwork or deadlines. Because mesothelioma is a serious illness, California courts often allow these cases to be expedited.

In many situations, clients may begin seeing compensation within months rather than years. Every case is different, but my focus is always on moving efficiently while building the strongest possible claim.

What types of compensation are available for California mesothelioma patients and their families?

Mesothelioma compensation can make a meaningful difference for families. Through lawsuits against asbestos companies, we often secure settlements that help cover medical bills and lost income and provide long-term financial security for families.

Many clients are also eligible for asbestos trust fund payments, which can deliver money more quickly and help families stay afloat while other claims move forward. For veterans, VA benefits can provide monthly disability payments and access to medical care.

My goal is to pursue every available source of compensation so families aren’t left worrying about money and can focus on treatment, care, and time together. The financial support these claims provide can help families plan for the future and regain a sense of stability.

Can a mesothelioma lawyer in California​ help families who’ve lost a loved one to this cancer?

When a diagnosis ends in death, I can help surviving family members pursue a wrongful death claim on behalf of their loved one. These claims can provide financial support for funeral costs, lost income, and future needs, and they recognize the profound loss families have suffered.

Losing someone to mesothelioma is heartbreaking, and many families are left not only grieving but also facing expenses and financial uncertainty. I take care of the legal work and pursue compensation that can make a meaningful difference for the people left behind.

What misconceptions do people often have about filing California mesothelioma claims?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that filing a mesothelioma claim is complicated or time-consuming. In reality, it’s far more manageable than most people expect, especially with an experienced attorney on your side.

Once a family provides key information about their work history and exposure, my team and I handle the heavy lifting. Maybe we’ll call with a few questions or to get your signature, but for the most part, everything happens in the background of your life.

Another misconception is that you have to go to trial to receive compensation. Most mesothelioma cases resolve through settlements, meaning families often receive money without ever setting foot in a courtroom.

How long do families have to file a California mesothelioma lawsuit?

In California, time is limited, and acting quickly matters. Under California law, someone diagnosed with mesothelioma generally has to file a personal injury lawsuit within 1 year of the date they first knew about their illness.

If a loved one has passed away from the disease, surviving family members typically have 1 year from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim.

Those deadlines are strict, and if you wait too long, you can lose your right to hold the companies responsible and pursue compensation.

That’s why it doesn’t hurt to find out about your options as soon as possible. There’s nothing to lose by talking to a lawyer who understands asbestos law, and potentially much to gain in compensation and peace of mind.

Get Help From Top Mesothelioma Attorneys in California​

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you don’t have to face this alone. LawFirm.com works with top mesothelioma attorneys in California like Ron who know how to pursue the compensation families need and deserve.

Our legal partners handle the entire process, from investigating asbestos exposure to filing claims and negotiating settlements, so you can focus on your health and your family.

“The way Ron took care of the case and his professionalism and everything that he did, now I consider him a good friend. He did everything he said, and he worked hard to get things done on time.”

– David Rosedale, Mesothelioma Victim & Ron Herron Client

There are no upfront costs or hourly fees when you work with the California mesothelioma law firms in our network. Together, our legal partners have recovered over $10.7 billion for families across the country.

Call (888) 726-9160 right now or get a free case review to take the first step toward justice and compensation.