John D. Simmons

About John D. Simmons

John D. Simmons is the founding partner of SimmonsCooper LLC in Alton, Illinois, which he built from eight employees into one of the nation's premier mesothelioma law firms — now with over 60 attorneys and nearly 300 staff dedicated to asbestos victims. Licensed in Illinois and Georgia since 1994, Simmons has personally overseen some of the largest asbestos injury verdicts and settlements in U.S. history. An AV Preeminent-rated attorney and Super Lawyer from 2012 through 2025, he also co-pledged $10.2 million to establish the SimmonsCooper Cancer Institute at Southern Illinois University, reflecting a lifelong commitment to mesothelioma patients that extends far beyond the courtroom.

Why Work With John?

32+ Years Mesothelioma experience

Free Consultation No obligation to hire

No Upfront Fees Contingency — no fee unless we win

Statewide Coverage Serving all of Illinois

Experience & Credentials

Years in Practice 32 yrs Senior Expert

Client Rating 5.0 / 5.0 (15 reviews)

Mesothelioma

Asbestos Exposure

Personal Injury

Mass Tort

Wrongful Death

Illinois Mesothelioma Lawsuit Information

Statute of Limitations 2 years from diagnosis or discovery date

Wrongful Death Deadline 2 years from date of death

Filing Location Illinois Circuit Court (county of exposure or residence)

Average Settlement $1.1M–$1.4M (varies by case factors)

Illinois allows mesothelioma victims to file personal injury lawsuits against responsible asbestos manufacturers. Many victims also receive compensation from multiple asbestos bankruptcy trust funds. Learn more about settlements →

Office Locations

One Court Street, Alton, IL 62002

255 Alhambra Circle, Suite 320, Coral Gables, FL 33134

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a mesothelioma lawsuit in Illinois?

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for mesothelioma personal injury claims is 2 years from diagnosis or discovery date. For wrongful death claims, the deadline is 2 years from date of death. Acting quickly is important — evidence and witness availability can diminish over time. John offers free consultations to help you understand your timeline.

What does it cost to hire John?

John D. Simmons works on a contingency fee basis — Contingency — no fee unless we win. This means you pay nothing out of pocket to get started. Legal fees are only collected if your case is resolved successfully through a settlement or verdict.

What types of mesothelioma cases does John handle?

John D. Simmons handles cases involving Mesothelioma, Asbestos Exposure, Personal Injury, Mass Tort, Wrongful Death. John D. Simmons is the founding partner of SimmonsCooper LLC in Alton, Illinois, which he built from eight employees into one of the nation's premier mesothelioma law firms — now with over 60 attorneys and nearly 300 staff dedicated to asbestos victims. Licensed in Illinois and Georgia since 1994, Simmons has personally overseen some of the largest asbestos injury verdicts and settlements in U.S. history. An AV Preeminent-rated attorney and Super Lawyer from 2012 through 2025, he also co-pledged $10.2 million to establish the SimmonsCooper Cancer Institute at Southern Illinois University, reflecting a lifelong commitment to mesothelioma patients that extends far beyond the courtroom.

Where would my mesothelioma lawsuit be filed in Illinois?

Mesothelioma lawsuits in Illinois are typically filed in the Illinois Circuit Court (county of exposure or residence). John can advise on the best venue for your specific circumstances based on where the asbestos exposure occurred.

What is the average mesothelioma settlement in Illinois?

Average mesothelioma settlements in Illinois range from $1.1M–$1.4M (varies by case factors). The actual value of your case depends on factors such as the extent of asbestos exposure, the severity of your diagnosis, the number of liable parties, and available bankruptcy trust fund claims. John can provide a case-specific evaluation at no cost.