MASSENA -- Belluck & Fox LLP, a mesothelioma, lung cancer, and personal injury law firm started the first asbestos trial in the state since COVID-19. The trail began Monday, Sept. 14 in St. Lawrence County.

This will be the first asbestos case tried in New York since coronavirus restrictions were put in place by the New York Office of Court Administration, a press release from Belluck & Fox said.

Attorneys Joseph Belluck and Adam Cooper will try the case for plaintiff George Burns, who worked as a foreman at Reynolds Aluminum Co. in Massena, where he was exposed to asbestos.

The client was diagnosed with lung cancer on November 14, 2017 and died on May 29, 2018. The case is being brought on behalf of his family.

“Lung cancer and mesothelioma are devastating diseases that have affected hundreds of North Country residents. We are thankful to the NY Office of Court Administration for allowing our clients to seek justice. The trial will be conducted in a safe manner with appropriate social distancing. On behalf of all asbestos victims and people with personal injuries, we are glad that the courts of New York are once again fully open for business,” said Belluck.

The judge presiding over the case will be the Honorable Richard Aulisi.