More than a million service members, families, and civilians who lived or worked on the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune from 1953 to 1987 were exposed to toxic drinking water on the base, and are now at high risk of developing cancer and other illnesses. Congress has been slow to compensate the victims of Camp Lejeune water contamination. But the Camp Lejeune Justice Act under the Honoring Our PACT Act, signed into law by President Biden on Aug. 10, 2022, changed that.
The Camp Lejeune Justice Act allows people exposed to the dangerous chemicals in drinking water on the base who became ill or whose loved one died from their water-contamination illness to file new Camp Lejeune lawsuits seeking compensation for their medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. But there is a short deadline for filing claims; if you miss this deadline, you lose this opportunity.
These claims are complex, and there are several steps and deadlines you must meet in order to qualify for these benefits. An experienced Camp Lejeune lawyer can guide you through the process, file your claims on time, and ensure you get the benefits and compensation you deserve.
Who Qualifies for a Camp Lejeune Claim?
The following individuals may be eligible to file a claim for compensation under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act:
- Active-Duty Personnel: Current or former active-duty U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, or U.S. Coast Guard personnel who served at Camp Lejeune between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, and were exposed to the contaminated water during that time.
- Family Members: Spouses or dependent children of the above-mentioned active-duty personnel who lived on Camp Lejeune during the period of water contamination may also qualify to file a claim.
- Civilian Employees: Some civilian employees who worked at Camp Lejeune during the period of water contamination and experienced exposure to the contaminated water may also be eligible to file claims.
What Damages Are Available in a Camp Lejeune Claim?
Several types of damages may be available under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act to compensate the affected individuals for the harm they have suffered due to the water contamination. The specific damages available will depend on the circumstances of each case, the extent of the injuries, and the applicable laws. Here are some of the common types of damages that may be sought in a Camp Lejeune lawsuit:
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- Medical expenses: This includes the cost of past, current, and future medical treatments, doctor visits, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any other healthcare-related expenses directly resulting from the water contamination.
- Lost wages: If individuals missed work or lose income due to their health conditions, they may be entitled to compensation for past and future lost wages.
- Pain and suffering: This type of damage seeks to compensate for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the water contamination and any resulting health issues.
- Loss of consortium: If the illness has affected relationships between spouses, a claim for loss of consortium may be made to compensate for the loss of companionship, support, and intimacy.
- Wrongful death: In cases where the illness has resulted in the death of an individual, their surviving family members may be entitled to seek damages for their loss, including funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.
How Can a Camp Lejeune Lawyer Help with My Claim?
Here's why you may need a lawyer for a Camp Lejeune lawsuit:
Legal expertise
A lawyer who specializes in environmental law, toxic torts, or military law will have the necessary knowledge and experience to navigate the complexities of a Camp Lejeune lawsuit. They understand the relevant laws, regulations, and precedents that apply to your case and can use this expertise to build a strong legal strategy.
Gathering evidence
A lawyer can assist in gathering evidence to support your claim. This may include obtaining medical records, conducting investigations into the water contamination, and identifying liable parties.
Establishing causation
Proving that the health issues you or your family members are experiencing are directly linked to the Camp Lejeune water contamination can be challenging. An attorney can help establish the connection between the exposure and your health conditions through expert testimony and medical evidence.
Dealing with paperwork and deadlines
Lawsuits involve a significant amount of paperwork, legal filings, and strict deadlines. A lawyer will ensure that all necessary documentation is properly completed and submitted on time, preventing any procedural errors that could harm your case.
Negotiating settlements
In many cases, defendants or their insurers may try to offer a settlement to avoid a lengthy and costly trial. A lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for the damages you have suffered.
Court representation
Though it's highly unlikely the government will take your case to court, having a lawyer by your side is essential if your case does go to trial. They will present your case before the court, cross-examine witnesses, and argue on your behalf, increasing your chances of a favorable outcome.
Emotional support
Dealing with the effects of water contamination, especially when it involves serious health issues, can be emotionally taxing. A lawyer can provide support, answer your questions, and guide you through the legal process.
Contact an Experienced Camp Lejeune Lawyer Today
The availability and extent of damages in a Camp Lejeune lawsuit can vary depending on the specific facts of each case. Given the complexities of these lawsuits, consulting with an experienced attorney who has handled Camp Lejeune cases can be crucial. Our lawyers can help you understand your rights, evaluate your potential claims, and guide you through the legal process to seek the appropriate compensation for the harm you have experienced.
Our lawyers have years of experience helping service members like you recover compensation for your losses. Contact our lawyers today at 866-467-0943 or complete our online contact form for a free consultation and case evaluation.