Read Blog
related attorneys
Related practice area
The public is generally aware that asbestos is dangerous, but you may be surprised to learn that the U.S. government does not regulate its use in certain household products and school supplies. While many companies exercise due diligence in eliminating this known toxin, others are less careful about protecting consumers, and the results can be devastating. In a recent example, the U.S. Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) uncovered a dangerous amount of tremolite asbestos fibers in all the Playskool crayons they tested. Now PIRG and other advocacy groups are calling for Hasbro (the parent company of Playskool) to recall their crayons, and for the manufacturer, Leap Year Publishing, to review their tests.
Playskool crayons are a staple for some back-to-school shoppers and parents, and they are sold virtually everywhere, from Dollar Tree to Amazon. As they are intended for children, it’s all the more vital that these products be rigorously tested before release. By failing to prevent asbestos from contaminating crayons, Hasbro and Leap Year Publishing may have acted negligently and harmed families across the country in the process. In this post, our mesothelioma attorneys at The Ferraro Law Firm, P.A. will discuss the dangers of this toxic substance, and advise you on what you can do to protect your family if you’ve been exposed.
What Are the Dangers of Asbestos Exposure?
While most people know that asbestos is toxic, not everyone knows what makes this substance so fatal. Asbestos has been used in commercial products and manufacturing for centuries, and it became even more popular after World War II because of its cost-effectiveness. But by the late 1970s, it had been classified as a known carcinogen, and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the use of asbestos in most products. Unfortunately, not all products were included in this ban, and as of today the EPA still refuses to fully ban asbestos, making the U.S. one of the only developed countries in the world that has not done so.
Asbestos exposure is estimated to cause up to 15,000 deaths per year from illnesses like:
- Lung cancer
- Mesothelioma
- Asbestosis, or lung fibrosis
- Ovarian cancer
How Can I Protect My Family from Asbestos?
In the long-term, exposure to asbestos can be fatal. However, if you or your children are at serious risk, there are several early-detection tests that can be performed by a specialist. If you do contract an asbestos-related illness, there are many treatment options, including chemotherapy and radiation treatment.
Ultimately, one of the best ways to protect your family from asbestos exposure is to hold big companies like Hasbro accountable for their negligence, and to demand that they remove this toxin from our environment immediately. The risks are too great to allow corporate greed to affect our families’ health. In cases like these, the civil court can provide a recourse that criminal proceedings cannot, in the form of a product liability lawsuit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
01.
How do I know if I need a mesothelioma lawyer for my case?
If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease—or suspect that you were exposed to asbestos in a work setting or through asbestos-containing products—speaking with a mesothelioma lawyer can help clarify your legal rights. At Ferraro Law, we assess the details of your situation, identify companies responsible, and explain the legal process so you can determine if pursuing a claim aligns with your needs.
02.
What can I expect from working with a mesothelioma law firm?
A reputable mesothelioma law firm like Ferraro Law offers more than legal advice—we provide empathy, transparency, and a strategic approach tailored to your circumstances. Our attorneys will gather evidence, consult with medical experts familiar with asbestos-related illnesses, and explore options such as asbestos trust funds. Throughout the legal process, we remain committed to open communication, ensuring you feel informed and supported.
03.
Will I need to go to court if I’m seeking compensation for asbestos exposure?
Not all asbestos cases require a trial. Many mesothelioma lawsuits lead to settlements that fairly address medical expenses, lost income, and other hardships. However, if a settlement isn’t possible, our experienced trial attorneys are prepared to represent you in trial. Ferraro Law’s priority is to help you pursue compensation that encompasses your full experience, whether it’s achieved through negotiation or litigation.
04.
How long does asbestos litigation usually take?
Every case is unique. Timelines depend on factors like the complexity of your mesothelioma diagnosis, how quickly we can identify liable parties, and the responsiveness of the defense. While some matters resolve in months, others may take longer. At Ferraro Law, we keep you informed at every turn, providing realistic expectations and ongoing guidance so you never feel lost in the legal process.
05.
How can a mesothelioma law firm help me handle the financial burdens of my illness?
From paying medical bills to lost wages, patients diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related disease often face significant financial pressure. Our legal representation focuses on securing the resources you need, whether through mesothelioma settlements, compensation from asbestos trust funds, or, if necessary, court-awarded damages. By holding companies responsible for unsafe conditions and negligence, we strive to ease your financial burdens so you can focus on your health and treatment.
06.
How do I know if my asbestos exposure is connected to my mesothelioma diagnosis?
Establishing a link between asbestos exposure and a mesothelioma diagnosis often involves examining your work history, living conditions, and any direct contact with asbestos containing products. At Ferraro Law, our team will gather evidence, review employment records, and consult with medical experts to confirm exposure sources. This thorough investigation helps us demonstrate the role asbestos-related factors played in your illness, which is essential for building a solid legal claim.
07.
Is it too late to file a mesothelioma claim if I was diagnosed years ago?
Each state has its own statute of limitations affecting how long after an asbestos-related diagnosis you can file a claim. Even if years have passed, it may still be possible to pursue asbestos lawsuits or tap into available asbestos trust funds. Ferraro Law’s attorneys stay informed on these deadlines and will assess your case to determine the best path forward, ensuring you don’t miss an opportunity to seek compensation.
08.
What if I’m not sure which companies are responsible for my asbestos exposure?
Identifying companies responsible for your asbestos exposure can be complex, especially if decades have passed since you were first exposed to asbestos. We conduct in-depth investigations, consult industry records, and utilize established databases on known asbestos companies. By pinpointing all liable parties, we can build a case that reflects the full scope of their responsibility and work to achieve a favorable outcome.
09.
Can a mesothelioma law firm assist if my loved one passed away from asbestos-related illness?
Yes. If your family member died due to asbestos related disease, including conditions like mesothelioma cancer, you may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit. Ferraro Law’s empathetic attorneys understand the emotional toll this situation places on families. We’ll guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and pursue compensation that acknowledges both the personal loss and financial burdens you’ve endured.
10.
How do mesothelioma settlements differ from other forms of compensation?
Mesothelioma settlements are agreements reached between your mesothelioma law firm and the liable parties’ representatives. Unlike a trial verdict, which involves a judge or jury, settlements are negotiated resolutions. They often provide a more predictable and timely way to cover your medical bills, living expenses, and other losses. At Ferraro Law, we negotiate from a position of strength, aiming for a settlement that genuinely reflects your needs. If a fair agreement cannot be reached, our seasoned trial attorneys are prepared to seek justice in court.
11.
Will hiring a mesothelioma lawyer add to my financial strain?
We understand the financial worries that come with asbestos exposure and a serious diagnosis. Ferraro Law operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you owe nothing unless we achieve a successful outcome. This arrangement removes immediate cost barriers and allows you to focus on your well-being, knowing you have dedicated, risk-free legal representation on your side.
12.
Can Ferraro Law handle my case if I live outside of Florida?
Absolutely. We represent clients nationwide. Our extensive experience in complex litigation and specialized claims means that we can effectively advocate for your rights, no matter where you live.
have more questions?
Featured Articles
our attorneys
James L. Ferraro
Founding Shareholder & President
Marc P. Kunen
Shareholder
James L. Ferraro, Jr.
Shareholder
Andrew J. Ferraro
Litigation Attorney
Angelica L. Novick
Partner
Daniel J. Di Matteo
Partner
The Hon. Leslie Rothenberg (Ret.)
Partner
Ignacio J. Segurola
Litigation Attorney
Client Experiences
When individuals and families face the challenges of mesothelioma and asbestos exposure—coping with complex treatments, escalating costs, and emotional strain—they turn to Ferraro Law for clarity, guidance, and steadfast support. Through meticulous case preparation, empathetic counsel, and strategic representation, our attorneys build compelling cases that secure meaningful settlements to cover medical expenses, provide financial relief, and offer a path toward stability during difficult times.
Stephanie and all the folks at the Ferraro Law Firm were professional and excellent in handling my case. Even more importantly they were very kind and treated me like family. I would wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone. Thank Y’all so much.
Matthew F.
Working with Daniel J. Di Matteo, Attorney and Partner at The Ferraro Law Firm was and is a life-changing forever experience. He is committed to a level of professionalism and attention to detail that is at the 100th percentile. Daniel handled everything with calmness, sensitivity and support that I needed through this difficult time. He always protected me and had my best interests. I am completely satisfied with the results.
If you need an attorney that operates at the highest level, that attorney is Daniel J. Di Matteo.
Harvey W.
Ferraro Law is wonderful and I am forever grateful to them. My attorney Daniel Di Matteo fought like a tiger for me against a multibillion dollar corporation and obtained a substantial settlement for me. This settlement is life changing for me. If you need an attorney call Ferraro Law and if you’re lucky Daniel will take your case.
Florence T.
Not too long ago I picked up the phone and called the Ferraro Law Firm not quite knowing what to expect. From the moment I reached out, the team made me feel heard and taken care of — not just like another case walking through the door.
Nikki Hurtado was my first primary contact. After speaking with her I knew that I had picked the right firm. She walked me through the process in plain understandable language. Even after numerous calls, she never made me feel like I was asking too many questions, and I always felt confident that my case was in expert hands.
My litigator was Daniel Di Matteo. If there was ever anyone that you would want by your side in a court of law, it would be him. He was everything that you would want in an attorney—calm, cool, always prepared, communicative and most importantly–experienced. He knew everything that was going to happen before it occurred but was prepared for any contingency. He is a fantastic attorney.
What really set them apart was their communication. I was kept informed at every stage — no chasing down updates, no wondering what was happening with my case. Calls and emails were returned promptly, and they proactively reached out whenever there was a development.
The professionalism of the entire team — from the attorneys to the support staff — was exceptional. Everyone I interacted with was kind, compassionate, and genuinely invested in my well-being, not just the outcome of my case.
And the outcome? Better than I could have hoped for. They fought hard on my behalf and secured a result that truly reflected the impact this injury had on my life.
You could ask for no better firm or attorney.
Keeth K.
Free Case Consultation
Our Trial and Appellate Attorneys Are Ready to Fight for You
If you were seriously injured, remember that it is crucial to choose the right law firm to represent your interests. We have been doing this for more than 40 years, and have the resources you need to challenge any opponent!
