December 18, 2025
A mesothelioma cancer trial against Reynolds Metals Company came to a sudden halt when the defendant agreed to a confidential settlement with Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel client Ricky Williams — a former employee who developed mesothelioma decades after working at the company’s Chicago-area plant.
Williams worked at the Reynolds facility in 1974 and again in 1977–1978. His father, who spent decades at the same plant as an overhead crane operator, also raised his family nearby. Tragically, Ricky’s father passed away in 1986.
In 2023, Ricky was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, a cancer caused by asbestos exposure. He has endured two years of chemotherapy and continues to fight with remarkable strength.
Trial Power Brings Corporate Defendant to Settlement Table
The case reached a critical turning point during the cross-examination of a Reynolds corporate representative — just 40 minutes into testimony — when the company chose to settle. The resolution underscores how the firm’s readiness and ability to take complex asbestos cases to trial often lead corporate defendants to the negotiating table. Terms of the agreement are confidential.
“Our team was fully prepared to take this case to verdict because that’s what justice demanded,” said WKPS partner Suzi Chester. “When corporate defendants know we’re ready and willing to go to trial, it changes the dynamic. That readiness often brings them to the table — and that’s how our clients get results.”
WKPS Attorney Matt Bufford handled all pretrial work-up and served as Second Chair. The trial team also included attorneys Chase Johnson and Hugh Waters.
Aging Workers Face Cancers from Asbestos
While the dangers of asbestos and its links to mesothelioma and asbestosis have been widely known throughout much of the 20th century, generations of workers in a wide range of manufacturing and industrial settings were exposed to asbestos particles without adequate protective equipment or warnings from their employers.
As a result, Americans continue to be diagnosed with mesothelioma and other cancers from asbestos. Mesothelioma is particularly deadly because of the latency period between exposure and the onset of symptoms.
Some people face a higher risk of developing mesothelioma because of asbestos exposure. Jobs in construction, shipyards, power plants and insulation work often involve handling materials like insulation, cement and brake linings that contain asbestos. Manufacturing, demolition and building maintenance can also be dangerous, as disturbing older materials can release harmful fibers into the air.
Asbestos exposure isn’t limited to the workplace. Certain consumer products, including some talcum powders, contain asbestos. Understanding these risks is important for anyone who may have come into contact with asbestos, whether on the job or in everyday life.
Signs and Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma often develops decades after asbestos exposure, which raises the common question: How long does mesothelioma take to develop? In most cases, mesothelioma symptoms do not appear until 20 to 50 years after initial exposure. This long latency period makes early detection especially difficult, and by the time of diagnosis, the cancer is often at a very serious stage.
Early signs of mesothelioma may include:
Anyone with a history of asbestos exposure who begins experiencing these warning signs should seek medical evaluation promptly.
How We Help Victims of Asbestos Exposure
Seek justice with the help of our experienced asbestos attorneys. Our asbestos law firm has represented individuals like you affected by asbestos exposure for over 20 years, aggressively fighting the corporate giants responsible for their dangerous products. If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos or suffered from a disease caused by asbestos, like mesothelioma, we can help.
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.
