What types of settlements are available in asbestos-related lawsuits?

In asbestos litigation cases related to District of Columbia law, there are several types of settlements available. These include compensatory damages, punitive damages, and abatement. Compensatory damages compensate a plaintiff for physical harm or economic loss caused by exposure to asbestos, such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering. Punitive damages are awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. Lastly, abatement is a form of relief that requires any remaining asbestos or asbestos-containing materials in a plaintiff’s home or workplace to be removed or contained to protect against further exposure. Compensatory and punitive damages may be awarded in a single settlement or through multiple settlements, depending on the case. Additionally, some court settlements involve the establishment of trust funds or settlements that allow a defendant to pay the plaintiff over time. All settlements are typically reviewed by a judge for approval. In some cases, a plaintiff or their family can receive a structured settlement or a lump sum if the damages amount is large. This is when the defendant agrees to make periodic payments to the plaintiff or their family over an extended period of time. Settlements will vary depending on the specifics of the case, but all settlements should aim to provide some level of restitution to the plaintiff.

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What types of settlements are available in asbestos-related lawsuits?

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