{"id":101795,"date":"2026-11-04T02:14:13","date_gmt":"2026-11-04T02:14:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/mesothelioma\/navy-veteran-asbestos-mesothelioma-florida\/"},"modified":"2026-11-04T02:14:22","modified_gmt":"2026-11-04T02:14:22","slug":"navy-veteran-asbestos-mesothelioma-florida","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/mesothelioma\/navy-veteran-asbestos-mesothelioma-florida\/","title":{"rendered":"Navy Veteran Mesothelioma Florida: Claims Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark chg-hero\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-60 has-background-dim wp-block-cover__gradient-background has-background-gradient\" style=\"background:linear-gradient(90deg,rgba(32,36,46,1) 0%,rgba(32,36,46,1) 55%,rgba(32,36,46,0.7) 100%)\"><\/span><img class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-101793\" alt=\"A retired construction worker sits quietly with his family at home.\" src=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/a-retired-construction-worker-sits-quietly-with-his-family-a-photo-5.jpg\" width=\"1376\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/a-retired-construction-worker-sits-quietly-with-his-family-a-photo-5-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/a-retired-construction-worker-sits-quietly-with-his-family-a-photo-5-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/a-retired-construction-worker-sits-quietly-with-his-family-a-photo-5-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/a-retired-construction-worker-sits-quietly-with-his-family-a-photo-5-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/a-retired-construction-worker-sits-quietly-with-his-family-a-photo-5.jpg 1376w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 825px) 825px, 100vw\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\"\/><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"chg-eyebrow has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Mesothelioma Claims | Serving Florida Veterans and Families<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Navy Veterans and Mesothelioma: Understanding Your Claim in Florida<\/h1><p class=\"has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.625), 1.25rem);text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Mesothelioma can appear decades after asbestos exposure. This guide explains how a claim may be built around where and how a veteran was exposed, and what families can do next.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Request a Free, Confidential Consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Request a Free, Confidential Consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#6b7280;margin-bottom:1.5rem\">By CHG Lawyers \u00b7 Published November 3, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n\n<p>A Navy veteran with <a href=\"\/resources\/mesothelioma\/\">mesothelioma<\/a> in Florida may have legal options. This is true even when the asbestos exposure happened decades ago. These options can include a lawsuit, a claim against an asbestos bankruptcy trust, and VA disability benefits. This page explains how military records can help show where exposure may have happened.<\/p>\n<h2>Who This Page Is For: Navy Veterans and Their Families<\/h2>\n<p>This page is for Navy veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma. It is also for the spouses, children, and relatives helping them through it.<\/p>\n<p>Many families are still trying to understand the diagnosis when they first search for answers.<\/p>\n<p>Here is what this page covers:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>How asbestos exposure happened during Navy service<\/li>\n<li>Which military records help show where and when exposure may have occurred<\/li>\n<li>How mesothelioma lawsuits and asbestos trust claims work, in general terms<\/li>\n<li>What VA benefits may apply, and who decides them<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A claim may exist even if the veteran never worked in a shipyard or in a ship&#8217;s engine room. Navy exposure happened on ships, in shipyards, and on shore bases.<\/p>\n<p>This is general information for Florida readers. It is not medical advice. Please follow the care plan set by the treating doctors.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#x27;re a Navy veteran in Florida facing a mesothelioma diagnosis, you don&#x27;t have to sort out the service records alone. Our team can talk through your history with you. Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-doctor-reviews-a-patient-s-ct-scans-on-a-digital-tablet-in-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Medical professional reviewing CT scans on a digital tablet in grayscale.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>How Asbestos Exposure Happened in Navy Service<\/h2>\n<p>Navy veterans were exposed to asbestos through the materials on ships and bases. They were also exposed through the work done on them.<\/p>\n<p>Asbestos was used in many parts of ships and bases. These parts include insulation, gaskets, pumps, valves, and boilers.<\/p>\n<p>Mesothelioma is a rare cancer linked to asbestos. It affects the thin lining around the lungs, chest, or abdomen. The CDC&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.atsdr.cdc.gov\/asbestos\/health-effects\/index.html\">ATSDR<\/a> notes that its signs may appear 30 to 40 years after exposure.<\/p>\n<p>That long delay is why many veterans don&#8217;t connect a diagnosis today to service that ended long ago. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.atsdr.cdc.gov\/asbestos\/about\/index.html\">Exposure to amphibole asbestos is associated<\/a> with an increased risk of mesothelioma.<\/p>\n<p>A claim turns on where and how the person was exposed. The ship, duty station, and job assignment usually matter most. Exposure during shipyard overhaul or repair work is also part of that review.<\/p>\n<h2>Records That Help Show Where You Were Exposed<\/h2>\n<p>The DD-214 and the service file are usually the first documents reviewed. Gather whatever papers you have, even if the set is incomplete.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty):<\/strong> Lists the branch, dates of service, and military occupational specialty (the job the veteran held).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ship assignments and transfer orders:<\/strong> Show which vessels and bases the veteran served on, and when.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Job rating:<\/strong> Some roles worked closer to asbestos-containing equipment and materials than others.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ship histories and shipyard records:<\/strong> Add detail about the work done aboard and during repairs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Statements from former shipmates or coworkers:<\/strong> Can describe the work and conditions in their own words.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Don&#8217;t see your ship on a published list? A missing ship does not end the review. The review looks at the veteran&#8217;s assignments and the work actually performed.<\/p>\n<h2>Mesothelioma Claims, Trust Claims, and VA Benefits<\/h2>\n<p>Families may have several routes to explore. These include a lawsuit, an asbestos trust claim, and VA benefits.<\/p>\n<p>Each route follows its own rules. They can be reviewed together.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Lawsuits.<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0774\/Sections\/0774.205.html\">Florida law allows an asbestos civil action<\/a> in Florida courts if the person lives in Florida. It also applies if exposure that is a substantial contributing factor to the physical impairment on which the claim is based happened in Florida. Florida law also requires a plaintiff in an asbestos or silica claim to include with the complaint or other initial pleading a written report and supporting test results showing physical impairment. For claims pending when the act took effect, that report must be filed at least 30 days before a trial date is set, and claims filed in this state on or after the effective date must also include a sworn information form. See <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0774\/Sections\/0774.205.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 774.205<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Asbestos bankruptcy trusts.<\/strong> Some companies that made asbestos products went through bankruptcy. Those companies set up trusts. The trusts may pay claims separately from a lawsuit. Each trust has its own forms and records.<\/p>\n<p><strong>VA benefits.<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.law.cornell.edu\/uscode\/text\/38\/1110\">Federal law provides VA disability compensation for disability<\/a> from disease contracted in line of duty in active military, naval, air, or space service during a period of war, for veterans discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable, but no compensation is paid if the disability results from the veteran&#8217;s own willful misconduct or abuse of alcohol or drugs. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecfr.gov\/on\/2026-10-13\/title-38\/section-3.303\">VA rules also allow service connection<\/a> for a disease diagnosed after discharge when the evidence shows it began in service. The VA decides eligibility. Confirm details directly with the VA.<\/p>\n<p>Some matters may be referred to, or handled together with, another law firm. The firm will tell the client when that happens.<\/p>\n<h2>What a Mesothelioma Claim Can Address<\/h2>\n<p>What is available depends on the facts of each case.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Medical costs:<\/strong> Treatment, hospital care, medications, and related travel the family may be paying for now.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Lost income:<\/strong> For the veteran, and for a family member who reduced work to provide care.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life:<\/strong> The effects the illness has had on daily life.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Wrongful death:<\/strong> For families who have lost a veteran, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0768\/Sections\/0768.21.html\">Florida law lets a surviving spouse recover<\/a> for lost companionship and mental pain and suffering. Minor children may recover for lost parental guidance. A survivor who paid medical or funeral bills may recover those costs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0774\/Sections\/0774.207.html\">Florida law does not allow punitive damages<\/a> in asbestos claims. A claim therefore focuses on the losses described above.<\/p>\n<p>No outcome or amount can be promised for any family.<\/p>\n<h2>How the Process Works, Step by Step<\/h2>\n<p>The process starts with a free, confidential first consultation. After that, the firm reviews the records and the medical diagnosis together.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>First consultation.<\/strong> This is free and confidential, with no obligation to continue. Bring the DD-214, medical records, and any service or work history you have.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Records review.<\/strong> The firm reviews military records, job assignments, and ship and base history. The goal is to find possible sources of exposure.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Claim options.<\/strong> The firm identifies possible routes. These include lawsuits, asbestos trust claims, and VA benefits, which are to be confirmed with the VA.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Filing and pursuit.<\/strong> Florida deadlines apply. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0774\/Sections\/0774.206.html\">For asbestos and silica claims not barred<\/a> as of the act&#8217;s effective date, Florida law does not start the time limit until the person discovers, or through the exercise of reasonable diligence should have discovered, physical impairment from an asbestos-related or silica-related condition. These rules can be complicated. Contact the firm promptly.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>CHG charges no attorney&#8217;s fees and no case costs unless there is a recovery.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Why Florida Veterans Contact CHG Personal Injury Lawyers<\/h2>\n<p>CHG Personal Injury Lawyers is a Florida-based personal injury firm. It serves people across Florida, including Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Responsible lawyer:<\/strong> Igor Hernandez is the responsible lawyer for this page.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Licensed attorneys:<\/strong> The firm&#8217;s lawyers are licensed attorneys admitted to The Florida Bar.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Support staff:<\/strong> Our team helps families gather and organize service and medical records.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Practice areas:<\/strong> The firm handles mesothelioma and other asbestos claims. It also handles car accidents, truck crashes, catastrophic injuries, and wrongful death.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Plain language:<\/strong> We explain each step in plain words, so families know what comes next.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/an-older-man-in-a-veteran-s-cap-listens-as-a-doctor-reviews-photo.jpg\" alt=\"An older man in a veteran&#x27;s cap listens as a doctor reviews his chart in a bright clinic room.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Do I have to have been on a ship to have a claim?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. Exposure can also happen in shipyards and on shore bases. The review looks at the full service history.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can my family file if the veteran has died?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Florida wrongful death claims may be available to eligible family members. Each family&#8217;s situation depends on the facts.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Will a VA claim affect a lawsuit or trust claim?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each program has its own rules. The VA and the firm should review them together. Ask the firm about this during your consultation.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Do I need my DD-214 to get started?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It helps, but it is not always required to begin. Bring whatever service papers you have.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What should I do first?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Follow your doctors&#8217; care plan. Then contact the firm promptly about a free, confidential first consultation.<\/p><p>If your family is facing this diagnosis, you don&#8217;t have to sort through the records alone. <a href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Contact our team for a free<\/a>, confidential first consultation, with no obligation to continue.<\/p><\/details><\/article>\n<footer class=\"disclaimer\"><em>This is attorney advertising. The information provided is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome, and contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. Cornish Hernandez Gonzalez, PLLC, 2525 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Suite 300, Coral Gables, FL 33134. Your case may be referred to another lawyer.<\/em><\/footer>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Questions Veterans and Families Often Ask<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--info\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Exposure can happen beyond the ship<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Asbestos exposure is not limited to life aboard a vessel. Shipyards, shore bases, and other work sites may also be part of a veteran&#x27;s history, and a full review looks at every assignment.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--clock\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms can take decades<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mesothelioma often appears many years after the exposure occurred. A long gap between service and diagnosis does not necessarily mean a claim is unavailable.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--document\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Records help tell the story<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Service records, duty assignments, and work history can help show where and how exposure may have happened. Medical records document the diagnosis and treatment.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--shield\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">More than one path may exist<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some asbestos claims are brought against companies in a lawsuit, while others may involve asbestos bankruptcy trusts that pay claims separately. Which options apply depends on the facts of each case.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--users\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Families have a voice<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When a veteran has died, certain family members may have legal options. Each family&#x27;s situation is different, and the facts determine what is possible.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-surface-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Steps to Take After a Mesothelioma Diagnosis<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Follow your doctors&#x27; care<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your medical team leads your treatment. Keep your appointments and ask questions about your diagnosis and care plan.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Gather what you can<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Collect discharge papers, service records, old job or duty assignments, and medical files. Do not worry if some pieces are missing. Start with what you have.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Write down your history<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Note the ships, shipyards, bases, and work areas where you or your loved one served or worked, along with approximate dates and any details you recall.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Contact us promptly<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Legal deadlines apply to these claims. Speaking with a lawyer early helps protect your options. Our team can review your situation with you at no cost.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Do Not Wait to Ask for Help<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Legal deadlines apply to mesothelioma and asbestos claims, and waiting can make it harder to protect your options. Reach out as soon as you can, even if you still have questions about your history.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Talk With Our Team Today<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Talk With Our Team Today<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4d466591 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--primary,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-base-color has-text-color\">Talk With a Florida Personal Injury Firm About Your Family&#x27;s Options<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-0aa01211 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Request a Free Consultation: Confidential, With No Obligation to Continue<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Request a Free Consultation: Confidential, With No Obligation to Continue<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related practice areas<\/h2><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"\/resources\/mesothelioma\/shipyard-worker-asbestos-mesothelioma-florida\/\">Shipyard and Dock Worker Mesothelioma Claims in Florida<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/\">Resources<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- chg:section-siblings -->\n<nav aria-label=\"More in this section\">\n<h2>More in this section<\/h2>\n<ul><li><a href=\"\/resources\/mesothelioma\/peritoneal-mesothelioma-what-families-should-know\/\">Peritoneal Mesothelioma: What Families Should Know<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/mesothelioma\/shipyard-asbestos-exposure-mesothelioma-florida\/\">Shipyard and Maritime Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma Claims in Florida<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/mesothelioma\/shipyard-worker-asbestos-mesothelioma-florida\/\">Shipyard and Dock Worker Mesothelioma Claims in Florida<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/mesothelioma\/take-home-asbestos-exposure-mesothelioma-florida\/\">Can My Family Make a Claim if I Got Asbestos From My Parent&#x27;s Work Clothes?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/mesothelioma\/veteran-mesothelioma-claim-florida\/\">Veteran Mesothelioma Claim in Florida: Military Asbestos Exposure Explained<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Navy veteran with mesothelioma in Florida? See how asbestos exposure, DD-214 records, trusts and VA benefits may apply. Free, confidential consultation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":74777,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"chg_review":"","chg_sendback":"","chg_canonical":"","chg_lang":"","chg_hreflang":"[{\"hreflang\": \"en\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/mesothelioma\/navy-veteran-asbestos-mesothelioma-florida\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"es\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/es\/mesotelioma\/veterano-naval-asbesto-mesotelioma-florida\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"x-default\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/mesothelioma\/navy-veteran-asbestos-mesothelioma-florida\/\"}]","chg_jsonld":"[{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"about\": [{\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Personal injury\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Personal_injury\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Mesothelioma\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mesothelioma\"}], \"mentions\": [{\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Asbestos\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Asbestos\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"amphibole asbestos\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Q16691796\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"U.S. Navy\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Q11220\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"military occupational specialty\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Q66293801\"}], \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Igor Hernandez\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/our-firm\/\", \"jobTitle\": \"Attorney\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.floridabar.org\/directories\/find-mbr\/profile\/?num=106386\", \"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/igorh\/\", \"https:\/\/profiles.superlawyers.com\/florida\/miami\/lawyer\/igor-hernandez\/cd5f52fd-6cf1-4c47-8c6e-5e8f339a380d.html\"], \"worksFor\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"CHG Personal Injury Lawyers\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/\"}}, \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"CHG Personal Injury Lawyers\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/\"}, \"reviewedBy\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Igor Hernandez\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/our-firm\/\", \"jobTitle\": \"Attorney\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.floridabar.org\/directories\/find-mbr\/profile\/?num=106386\", \"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/igorh\/\", \"https:\/\/profiles.superlawyers.com\/florida\/miami\/lawyer\/igor-hernandez\/cd5f52fd-6cf1-4c47-8c6e-5e8f339a380d.html\"], \"worksFor\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"CHG Personal Injury Lawyers\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/\"}}, \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Do I have to have been on a ship to have a claim?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No. Exposure can also happen in shipyards and on shore bases. The review looks at the full service history.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can my family file if the veteran has died?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Florida wrongful death claims may be available to eligible family members. Each family's situation depends on the facts.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Will a VA claim affect a lawsuit or trust claim?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Each program has its own rules. The VA and the firm should review them together. Ask the firm about this during your consultation.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Do I need my DD-214 to get started?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"It helps, but it is not always required to begin. Bring whatever service papers you have.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What should I do first?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Follow your doctors' care plan. 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