March 3, 2026
A mesothelioma diagnosis is devastating, no matter where you live.
But pursuing justice for asbestos exposure can feel especially difficult for those living outside the United States. Many countries have limited compensation systems and no meaningful way to hold asbestos companies accountable in their domestic courts
Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure, has fueled decades of litigation in the United States. While lawsuits are routinely filed by American workers and families, cross-border plaintiffs — individuals living outside the U.S. who may have been exposed to asbestos by American manufacturers or other means — can also turn to the expertise of U.S. attorneys specializing in mesothelioma litigation and the American civil justice system to seek compensation.
What is Asbestos and Why is it Dangerous?
Asbestos has been classified as a known human carcinogen by several federal and international agencies, including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring mineral fibers valued for their exceptional strength, durability and resistance to heat, fire and chemicals. Starting in the late 1800s, asbestos became widely used in manufacturing because it handled heat so well and was so versatile.
It has been woven into textiles, used extensively in building materials like insulation, roofing and flooring, incorporated into automotive brakes and clutches, and added to cement products.
The danger arises when asbestos fibers are inhaled. These tiny fibers can become trapped in the lungs, causing tissue damage, inflammation, and, over time, genetic changes in mesothelial cells. This is what leads to the development of mesothelioma.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that develops in the mesothelium – the thin layer of tissue lining internal organs, most commonly the lungs (pleural mesothelioma) or the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma).
Exposure to asbestos fibers is the only known cause of this disease. Symptoms associated with asbestos-related exposure include shortness of breath, wheezing, chronic cough, chest pain, swelling in the face and difficulty swallowing.
Mesothelioma often takes decades – anywhere from 15 to 50 years or even longer – to develop after the initial exposure occurred, meaning a diagnosis today almost always stems from contact with asbestos many years in the past.
‘Can I Sue for Asbestos Exposure?’ How We Can Help You
If you’re asking yourself, “Can I sue for asbestos exposure?”, know that you’re not alone, and we’re here to help explore your options.
How We Help with International Mesothelioma Litigation
For many individuals suffering from mesothelioma outside the United States, the U.S. civil justice system offers the strongest path to financial recovery and accountability. Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel has successfully represented cross-border plaintiffs in litigation involving asbestos exposure, as well as complex injury disputes. The Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel legal team has hard-earned experience and resources to hold U.S. corporations accountable when exposure victims live in other countries.
Our Results
Historic settlement for over 1,300 survivors of clergy and adult abuse within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles, marking a pivotal moment for justice.
A Philadelphia jury awarded a record verdict against ExxonMobil for failing to warn about cancer risks due to benzene in its petroleum products.
Private equity firm and co-defendants agree to pay $25M in Medicaid fraud case alleging mental health services provided by unqualified providers.
That’s the first question everyone asks. The truth is it’s impossible to know. But we can tell you this. Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel has what it takes to fight against big corporate interests and win.
