Bergman Draper & Frockt attorney and former Washington State Senator Brian Weinstein lectured last week in Dallas, Texas on the issue of which types of asbestos cause mesothelioma, a fatal cancer nearly always caused by exposure to the dangerous substance. Mr. Weinstein made the presentation to a group of attorneys gathered in Dallas to share information concerning the representation of clients suffering from mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos. Mr. Weinstein has long been recognized as a forerunner in the field of asbestos and mesothelioma litigation, first representing workers suffering from asbestos-related disease back in 1981. Well known in Washington State asbestos litigation, Mr. Weinstein has successfully tried numerous asbestos cases to verdict around the country and has an equally impressive track record handling asbestos and mesothelioma cases on appeal.

Last week, Mr. Weinstein discussed evidence refuting the claim by asbestos manufacturers that some types of asbestos do not cause mesothelioma. In particular, manufacturers of products containing chrysotile asbestos often claim that their asbestos products did not cause mesothelioma, despite the view of numerous U.S. federal agencies and distinguished groups of U.S. and world scientists that exposure to chrysotile asbestos does indeed cause mesothelioma. Chrysotile asbestos is a form of the mineral found in abundant supply in the Quebec region of Canada, where the carcinogenic substance has been mined for decades. In support of their position, the chrysotile asbestos manufacturers often rely on research by A.C. And J.D. McDonald, research that was conducted in Canada and funded by the Quebec Asbestos Mining Association. In his presentation, Mr. Weinstein outlined the evidence establishing central flaws in the McDonald studies, which were obviously intended to deflect criticism from the chrysotile asbestos mining industry operating in Canada. Lawyers from across the country were present to hear Mr. Weinstein’s lecture.