Effects from Chemical Exposure at Camp Lejeune

May 26, 2023 by

People who used Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune’s contaminated water from 1953 through 1987 suffered from of illnesses that were eventually traced to the water. They were affected from chemical exposure at Camp Lejeune. The presence of three primary VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), benzene, and vinyl chloride, plus several others. These chemicals were regularly ingested by military personnel, their families, and civilian workers at rates thousands of times higher than the EPA’s levels considered safe.

patient exposed to camp le jeune contamination talking with nurse

Ingestion through drinking, bathing, and other uses allowed the chemicals to build up in their systems. Many VOCs have a longer half-life, taking much longer to be metabolized out of the body. Health effects associated with exposure to these chemicals can vary widely and depend on factors such as the duration and intensity of exposure, as well as individual susceptibility.

People who spent time at Camp Lejeune during the affected period reported a wide range of illnesses that were seemingly unrelated at the time. Many years later, after the government admitted the contamination, did anyone make the connection? Observations made over time indicate a series of specific effects that can be traced directly back to the contamination. These are called presumptive conditions since they are known to be directly related.

Cancers

Multiple types of cancers have been traced to the Camp Lejeune contamination, including:

• Kidney
• Liver
• Bladder
• Breast
• Leukemia
• Lung
• Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma

There are only a few that have enough evidence to prove causality. Other cancers, such as brain, lung, gallbladder, or prostate cancer, may also be caused by water, but not enough research yet exists. This doesn’t mean someone can’t file a claim for their illness, however.

Neurobiological Effects

These are conditions that directly impact how the brain communicates with the central nervous system. This can manifest in a wide range of issues that may not have been previously attributed to the chemical exposure at Camp Lejeune, whether physical, emotional, or behavioral. The symptoms depend on how much exposure the brain has had that led to damage.

Individuals who experience neurobehavioral effects often describe alterations in mood, personality, attention, and memory. Additionally, neurological symptoms may manifest as motor dysfunction, which can include difficulties with coordination or balance.

Neurological illnesses can include:

• Parkinson’s Disease
• ALS, aka, “Lou Gehrig’s Disease”
• Depression or anxiety
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Tremors
• Learning problems
• Trouble concentrating
• Mood or personality changes
• Involuntary muscle movements
• Motor problems, i.e., balance, coordination

Short-term exposure may be reversible. But long-term exposure can cause permanent and severe damage that impacts a person’s ability to work and function independently.

Reproductive Disorders

Infertility of both men and women, miscarriages, and birth defects were also prevalent at Camp Lejeune. Some women suffered more than one miscarriage or stillbirth. Many children of women who had a successful pregnancies had birth defects because of the in-utero impact of the chemicals in the water.

The water contamination also led to these reproductive effects:

• Menstrual disorders
• Delayed menarche (beginning of menstruation)
• Changes in sex hormone levels
• Diminished libido and potency
• Premature menopause
• Impaired semen quality
• Reduced fertility in both males and females

Exposure to trichloroethylene also increased a baby’s risk of immune disorders and cardiac defects.

Liver And Kidney Issues

Cancer isn’t the only water-related condition affecting the kidneys. Chronic kidney dysfunction as well as other damage and dysfunctions resulted from long-term exposures to the VOCs. Fatty liver disease, also called Hepatic steatosis, has been shown to be from exposure.

These are some of the known effects of the contamination. If you or someone you know spent time at Camp Lejeune and became ill later, it’s very possible that their illnesses were caused by chemical exposure, even if their illness isn’t a presumptive condition.

Camp Lejeune Claim? Contact The Herren Law Firm Today

Until recently, only veterans could request help through the VA for their medical conditions. After the signing of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022, family members and civilian workers can now file a claim for compensation due to the harm they suffered from the contaminated water.

If you or someone you know became ill after working or being stationed at Camp Lejeune, contact us immediately for help filing your claim. We’ve helped over 4,000 people, and we can help you as well. Contact us today by calling (713) 682-8194 or using our online contact form our consultation is free, and you won’t owe us a fee until we win your case.

Filed Under: Camp Lejeune Justice Act, Long Term Disability Tagged With: , ,

Death from Camp Lejeune Exposure

May 19, 2023 by

Much has been said about people who were made sick for many years after exposure to Camp Lejeune’s contaminated water. This is why, in part, the Camp Lejeune Justice Act was finally signed into law. What isn’t as widely discussed is what happens if death occurred as a result of Camp Lejeune exposure. What happens if those who had illnesses stemming from that exposure have already died before the signing of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act in 2022?

doctor consoling patients wife due to camp le jeune exposure

We now know that the US Marine Corps (USMC), despite being aware of its existence, failed to disclose the presence of benzene in the water to soldiers, their families, residents, and workers. Additionally, they stated that the EPA did not currently enforce “safe” thresholds for toxic chemicals like TCE and PCE. Reports indicate that the USMC deliberately omitted the information about benzene in the drinking water from their 1992 federal health review, despite having prior knowledge of its presence.

Wrongful Death Lawsuit

This term is usually related to other personal injury cases such as car and other accidents. A claim for wrongful death is filed by a surviving spouse, children, or other family members, or the estate of a person who died due to someone else’s wrongful actions. Filing a wrongful death claim helps the survivors seek compensation for the damages and losses suffered after losing the deceased person following their untimely death.

Many people are filing claims against the government after their exposure-related illnesses from the Camp Lejeune water contamination. But others who were sickened did not live long enough to have this opportunity. Survivors of someone who died after exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune can similarly file a wrongful death claim for a deceased spouse, parent, or child.

The lawsuit allows survivors to seek compensation for the suffering and expenses of the deceased’s illness.

Unlike a personal injury-related wrongful death claim, there isn’t an option for “pain and suffering” for these claims. You will only be able to recover medical expenses, lost wages, and potentially lost wages on behalf of the deceased.

Qualifying

Much like filing a claim for illness, survivors filing a wrongful death lawsuit must also qualify their deceased loved one by showing:

• They spent at least 30 days at Camp Lejeune during the affected period, from 1953 through 1987
• They lived and/or worked there; you must prove their time there using:

o Medical documentation
o Pay stubs
o Military service records
o Other relevant records

• They experienced one or more medical conditions related to the contamination that caused their death

This may be difficult because of how long ago the exposure occurred. William Herren, an established Veterans disability attorney, is focusing his practice on Camp Lejeune cases and he can make it easier to obtain the required documents and properly file a claim.

Why File A Camp Lejeune Wrongful Death Claim?

It may seem counter-intuitive to file a claim for someone who died from their illnesses. But for survivors, a settlement from such a claim can help ease financial burdens after caring for a loved one.

A financial settlement can cover expenses that your family experienced during their illness and death that weren’t covered by the VA, Medicare/Medicaid, or private health insurance. It can also replace some of the lost wages and lost future wages that your loved one would have provided if they were still alive and able to earn income throughout their life.

If your loved one spent time at Camp Lejeune and later died from a serious illness that may have been related, speak with a Houston Camp Lejeune water contamination attorney today to learn more about filing a wrongful death claim for them.

Camp Lejeune Claim? Contact The Herren Law Firm Today

After the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 was signed into law, family members and civilian workers can now file a claim for compensation due to the harm they suffered from the contaminated water. If there was a death from Camp Lejeune exposure, they can also file on behalf of a loved one who died before the act was signed.

Contact us today if you need help filing your claim.

We’ve helped over 4,000 people, and we can help you as well. Contact us today by calling (713) 682-8194 or using our online contact form our consultation is free, and you won’t owe us a fee until we win your case.

Filed Under: Camp Lejeune Justice Act, Long Term Disability Tagged With: , ,

Has Anyone Received a Settlement in a Camp Lejeune Case?

April 29, 2023 by

Since the Camp Lejeune Justice Act was passed into law last August 2022, the influx of lawsuits for compensation shows no sign of slowing. If you’ve already filed yours, or you’re considering one, you may wonder if anyone has received any settlement in a Camp Lejeune case yet.

Settlement in Camp Lejeune case

To date, there have been no settlements for Camp Lejeune water contamination cases. This is not good news for someone who has been waiting a long time to finally get some kind of compensation. Some estimates put the total collective payout of settlements at $6.7 billion. Individual settlement estimates are currently just that—estimates. The Navy’s Judge Advocate General (JAG) has not yet established a system for settlement distribution, even though the deadline for filing a claim is just 18 months away.

What About Consolidation?

To date, claims are individually filed. Currently, there are more than 15,000 claims already filed, with more cases expected.  It is estimated that thousands more of these claims will be filed before the end of the filing period in early August 2024.

It will be very difficult for the government to litigate every one of these cases. One possibility that is being discussed is the consolidation of all the claims. The federal government and plaintiffs’ lawyers have recently and jointly requested that the court consolidate these Camp Lejeune lawsuits in some measure for both discovery and for the eventual settlement distribution.

The court has not yet responded, but it is widely expected that the court will agree with consolidation. While this will not become a class action lawsuit, it will be similar since the US government will settle the claims more or less at once.

Settlement Amounts

There isn’t a formula to determine what you might receive in a settlement. Some experts are making suggestive estimates based on the type of illness someone might have, but they are just educated guesses.

If you are filing a claim for Camp Lejeune water contamination, you will need to show proof of all the damages you suffered, including:

• Medical expenses

• Lost income/wages

• Lost future wages and earning capacity

• Scarring and disfigurement

• Disability

Because this isn’t a normal type of personal injury case, a settlement may not include pain and suffering like it would be for an auto accident, slip and fall, or other type of personal injury cases.

Camp Lejeune Claim? Contact The Herren Law Firm Today

If you served at or worked at Camp Lejeune and are now suffering a chronic illness, you may have a claim under this act. For more than 30 years, the Herren Law firm has helped veterans and other disabled people with their benefits claims and appeals.  Given the short window to file, we have turned our expertise and resources to Camp Lejeune cases. We have extensive experience dealing with governmental agencies and the claims that are filed with them.

If you or someone you know became ill after being stationed at Camp Lejeune, get in touch with us immediately. You may have a claim. There is a strict deadline of two years to file a claim so do not wait.

We’ve helped over 4,000 people, and we can help you as well. Contact us today by calling (713) 682-8194 or using our online contact form. Our consultation is free, and  it is best to discuss it with us to find out if you may have a claim.

Filed Under: Camp Lejeune Justice Act, Veterans Disability Tagged With: , ,

Factors for a Camp Lejeune Compensation Claim

April 24, 2023 by

Veterans, family members, and civilian workers impacted by the water contamination at Camp Lejeune are finally able to get justice after nearly 30 years. The Camp Lejeune Justice Act established a two-year time frame for filing for a Camp Lejeune compensation claim. All claims must be filed by August 10, 2024, two years after the signing of the bill into law. 

camp lejeune compensation claim

Settlements for each Camp Lejeune compensation claim case will be decided based on a variety of factors, including:

• How much time did the person spend at Camp Lejeune during the period of the contamination

• The extent and severity of resulting illness(es)

• How much the person’s life was affected by the illness(es)

• If there was permanent disability from the illness(es)

• If the affected individual will recover

• Total amounts of related medical expenses

• Other financial losses: income, future earning capacity, and potential benefits from employment (health insurance, bonuses, etc.)

• The extent of pain and suffering—physical, mental, emotional—suffered from the illness(es) and subsequent medical treatments

• Loss of enjoyment of life and consortium

• The total impact the illness(es) had on the person’s quality of life, including unexpected damages associated with their conditions

Each claim must have documentation that details the victim’s time at Camp Lejeune and all losses associated with the resulting illness(es).

Death as Result of Camp Lejeune Time

Not everyone who became ill from the water at Camp Lejeune survived their illnesses. In the case of Freshwater vs. the United States of America (7:23-cv-00167), the deceased plaintiff, Mary, lived at Camp Lejeune during the affected period. She gave birth to two children who ultimately died from birth defects in 1977 and 1979 and later suffered a miscarriage. Later, diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia herself, Mary passed away in 2013. Her surviving daughter filed the wrongful death lawsuit on February 27, 2023, on her behalf.

Survivors can now file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the deceased, for damages such as:

• All medical expenses that the victim incurred as a result of their chronic illness from the contamination

• Pain and suffering caused by their illness(es) due to water contamination

• Lost income, future earning capacity, including future earnings and benefits, had they survived

• The survivor’s lost inheritance

• The value of the services, companionship, consortium, protection, and care that the decedent would have provided to their family

• The value of the parental guidance, love, and care that they would have provided to their surviving children

• Interest payments on the settlement, initiated at the time of the death of the victim

• Funeral, burial, and other related costs

Contact The Herren Law Firm for Camp Lejeune Claims

If you served or worked at Camp Lejeune and are now suffering a chronic illness, you may have a Camp Lejeune compensation claim under this act. For over 30 years, the Herren Law firm has helped veterans and disabled people with their benefits claims and appeals. With the passing of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, we have shifted our resources and energy to this critical area for veterans and their loved ones. We have extensive experience dealing with governmental agencies and claims filed with them.

If you or someone you know became ill after being stationed at Camp Lejeune, contact us immediately. There is a strict deadline of two years to file your claim, so do not wait to find out if you may have one.  Contact us today for a free consultation by calling (713) 682-8194 or using our online contact form. 

Filed Under: Camp Lejeune Justice Act Tagged With: , ,

Should I File a Camp Lejeune Claim?

March 20, 2023 by

You may be wondering if you should file a Camp Lejeune claim. Perhaps you have suffered from an illness that may be traced back to your exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. If you were stationed at the Camp Lejeune military facility in North Carolina between 1953-1987 and became ill after a minimum of 30 days of exposure, you may have a claim. Additionally you may want file a claim if you lived at or worked for Camp Lejeune, because this act allows family members and civilian workers to also bring a claims for compensation.

Like other types of personal injury claim, you’ll need to provide proof that you have suffered losses related to this accidental exposure. For best guidance on filing a claim under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, contact a qualified and experienced disability Lawyer, like Houston’s own William Herren.

camp lejeune claims by a military veteran

For Former Military

Marines and other service members stationed at Camp Lejeune can get medical care and disability through the Veterans Administration for related illnesses. They can qualify even if they don’t live in North Carolina anymore, no matter when they were diagnosed. Veterans must produce medical records that they developed a health condition (including cancers) after their time at the base, and that the health condition is linked to chemical exposure. Only veterans who were dishonorably discharged are ineligible.

Unfortunately, the VA mishandled about 1 in 3 of veterans’ claims for Camp Lejeune, with many underpaid because of an incorrect effective date. More than 17,000 veterans saw their claims denied because VA staff failed to send a letter asking for additional documentation. These mistakes resulted from staff not understanding how to process the claims.

Because the VA is notorious for denying veterans’ claims, The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 paves the way for veterans to get the care they need for their conditions as well as compensation. Your settlement  will be offset by other benefits and payments, such as VA Disability, Medicare, Medicaid, or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI.) But you can file even if you’ve received healthcare from the VA for these illnesses.

Survivors of a Marine or other military member may also be able to file a claim or a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of their loved one. The same requirements apply, including proving 30 days or longer on base and proof of medical conditions related to the contamination.

For Civilians

Military veterans are not the only ones who may have been made ill from the contaminated water. Military spouses, children, and civilian workers were also exposed to the toxic water by using and drinking it regularly. But civilians aren’t eligible to receive assistance from the VA, until now.

Claims are filed with the Office of the Judge Advocate General (JAG) of the Navy’s Tort Claims Unit (TCU), with two years to file. If your claim is denied, and no settlement is reached, the next step is to file a lawsuit U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina.

Just like veterans, a civilian filing a claim must show residency for 30 days during the affected period and a medical diagnosis connected to the toxic water. The list of health conditions attributed to water contamination is long. Birth defects, stillbirths, miscarriages, and neurobehavioral effects are included. Hundreds of babies are believed to have died in utero or at birth because of the contaminated water their mothers were exposed to while at the base.

A Camp Lejeune lawsuit is a personal injury lawsuit against the government to recover losses for pain and suffering, medical costs, and lost wages due to negligence. Survivors can also file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the deceased by their estate. Just like military members, any financial settlement will be offset by any benefit payments already received.

Must File Within Two Years of Passage of Act in 2022

We’re not going to tell you that you should file a claim or not. But we do suggest you at least have a consultation with a disability attorney specializing in Camp LeJeune cases and consider the possibility while the opportunity is available to recover compensation for medical bills and other losses related to your illness. The window of time for filing a claim is short, closing in August of 2024, so you need to start the process immediately.

If you’re still undecided, don’t wait. Speak with a Camp Lejeune water contamination attorney immediately and learn about the options you have and if you have a case. Use the free consultation with your attorney to decide whether it’s something you should pursue. Once you understand what’s involved, you’ll be able to decide if you should file a claim.

Camp Lejeune Claim? Contact The Herren Law Firm Today

If you served at or worked at Camp Lejeune and are now suffering a chronic illness, you may have a claim under this act. For more than 30 years, the Herren Law firm has helped veterans and other disabled people with their benefits claims and appeals. We have extensive experience dealing with governmental agencies and the claims that are filed with them. With the passage of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act in August 2022, Mr. Herren has added focus in his practice on this section of the population, especially since the window to file a claim is only 2 years from August 2022.

If you or someone you know became ill after being stationed at Camp Lejeune, get in touch with us immediately. Given the deadline to file a claim, do not wait to find out if you may have a claim. Please make a call or schedule a consultation with Herren Law!

We’ve helped over 4,000 people, and we can help you as well. Contact us today by calling (713) 682-8194 or using our online contact form our consultation is free, and you won’t owe us a fee until we win your case.

Filed Under: Camp Lejeune Justice Act, Veterans Disability Tagged With: , ,

What is the Camp Lejeune Justice Act?

March 10, 2023 by

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act is a piece of legislation signed in 2022 allows both veterans and their families to recover compensation for illnesses caused by toxic contaminated water at Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Lejeune near Jacksonville, North Carolina. Between 1953 and 1987, over one million military members, their families, and civilian workers were exposed to high levels of toxins in the base’s water supply, leading to serious illnesses. The Marine Corps discovered the contamination in 1982.

Until recently, veterans and civilians had little recourse for these illnesses. But last year, The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 changed that. Sponsored by Representative Matt Cartwright (D-PA-8), the bill allows individuals to bring suit and prohibits the U.S. government from asserting specified immunity from litigation in response to such a lawsuit.

camp le jeune lawyer

The PACT Act

The VFW-championed Honoring Our PACT Act of 2022 was signed into law in August. Section 804 of the PACT Act, known as the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, authorizes veterans and military families who were exposed to toxic water at Camp Lejeune to file a federal tort claim for harm caused by such exposure. Veterans applying for VA benefits frequently saw their claims denied for toxic exposure cases. The PACT Act  is the law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances

The full name is The Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act. The intent is to increase the availability of healthcare to veterans that suffered illnesses and injuries from burn pits used for waste disposal in recent years. The PACT ended a requirement that veterans prove that their illnesses were caused by the burn pits in order to receive healthcare and other benefits. The VA denied 78% of claims submitted by veterans from 2007 through 2020 that were exposed to burn pits. Veterans who were previously denied disability for burn pit claims can receive retroactive back pay.

Specifically Section 804 of the PACT Act-the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022’s intent is to specifically allow injured parties to file a claim for compensation. Prior to the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, only veterans could get VA disability for illnesses suffered from contaminated water. Civilians were prohibited from filing a claim, or receiving any restitution, and could not receive any assistance from the VA. They were further prohibited by North Carolina’s ten-year statute of repose, which disallowed any suits after ten years. This made it difficult for victims whose illnesses weren’t linked to the water contamination until much later.

What The Camp Lejeune Act Means For Everyone

For anyone—military or civilian—who spent 30 days or more at Camp Lejeune and became ill later with a presumptive condition can now file a claim for compensation, which can include:

• Financial compensation for prior medical care related to the illness

• Continuing healthcare for those illnesses from the government

• Health and disability benefits for those rendered unable to work by illness from the contamination

Survivors may also file a wrongful death claim on behalf of a deceased loved one.

While there is a list of presumptive illnesses, even those whose illnesses aren’t considered presumptive may still have a claim.

“Presumptive” only means that there is a definite link to the contamination exposure. The U.S. government will be prohibited from asserting specified immunity, meaning that someone who can demonstrate exposure and illness can file a claim for themselves.

There is a two-year time frame for filing claims and lawsuits, which must be filed by August 10, 2024. Claims take time to build, so it’s imperative to start immediately. If you’re considering filing a claim, contact a Camp Lejeune water contamination attorney today to begin the process.

Camp Lejeune Claim? Contact The Herren Law Firm Today

If you served at (military personnel) or worked (non military worker) at Camp Lejeune and are now suffering a chronic illness, you may have a claim under this act. If you are a family member of military personnel who was also exposed at Camp Lejeune, you may have a claim under this Act. For more than 30 years, the Herren Law firm has helped veterans and other disabled people with their benefits claims and appeals. Bill Herren has indicated that he can bring suit if warranted for illnesses not on the presumptive illness list. While there is a list of presumptive illnesses, even illnesses that aren’t considered presumptive may still have a claim.

If you or someone you know became ill after being stationed at Camp Lejeune, get in touch with us immediately. There is a deadline of two years to file a claim so do not wait to find out if you may have a claim. We have extensive experience dealing with governmental agencies and the claims that are filed with them.

We’ve helped over 4,000 people, and we can help you as well with your Camp Lejeune lawsuit. Contact us today by calling (713) 682-8194 or using our online contact form our consultation is free, and let us talk about your case.

Filed Under: Camp Lejeune Justice Act, Veterans Disability Tagged With: , ,

How To Find A Camp Lejeune Claim Lawyer

February 24, 2023 by

For those who know they were made ill by the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, they can now seek compensation. Their next step is to find an attorney to help them through the process.

camp le jeune lawyer

There’s no shortage of attorneys ready and willing to take on your Camp Lejeune water contamination claim. Hundreds of ads on TV, radio, and online can be overwhelming and leave you wondering which one to choose. You only have a short time frame for filing your claim. So how do you find a Camp Lajeune claim lawyer for your case?

Take Advantage Of A Free Consultation

You only have one chance at a Camp Lejeune water contamination claim, so it’s important to find the right attorney who can help. You need to feel comfortable with the person you’re working with for something too personal.

Most Camp Lejeune claim lawyers are offering free consultations before hiring. Think of these as two-way interviews. You’re interviewing the attorney to see if he or she is right for you, and they are interviewing you to see if they have a case and if it’s something they can take on.

You don’t have to work with the first attorney you speak with. In fact, you can speak with more than one attorney before deciding on which one to work with for your claim.

Ask Questions

Before signing up with a law firm, there are several things you need to know:

• How familiar they are with the water contamination problem and these kinds of cases

• Their experience with handling federal cases

• Litigation experience

• Their fees for legal services

• What resources do they have to support your case, such as expert witnesses

• Estimates on what types of compensation you might be able to collect

• What you can reasonably expect for your case

• An idea of what kind of timeline you can expect

Before deciding on what attorney to hire, seek out online client reviews, such as Google, to learn how prior clients feel about the attorney and their service.

Remember that this type of claim is not a VA disability claim. It’s a claim against the US Government that may eventually become a lawsuit. The attorney you choose must be prepared to go to trial if necessary.

Additionally, most lawyers do not ask for their legal fees out of pocket. Rather, they use what’s called a “contingency fee” arrangement, which means their fees come from the money they win for their clients. When they discuss your case with you, they know whether they can win your case beforehand.

Contact The Herren Law Firm Today For Help With Your Claim

For more than 30 years, the Herren law firm has helped veterans and other disabled people with their benefits claims and appeals. We have extensive experience dealing with governmental agencies and the claims that are filed with them.

If you or someone you know became ill after being stationed at Camp Lejeune, get in touch with us immediately.

We’ve helped over 4,000 people, and we can help you as well. Contact us today by calling (713) 682-8194 or using our online contact form our consultation is free, and you won’t owe us a fee until we win your case.

Filed Under: Camp Lejeune Justice Act, Veterans Disability Tagged With: , ,

Making A Camp Lejeune Claim

February 21, 2023 by

If you’ve decided to file a claim after being exposed to the contaminated water at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, what time is now to begin gathering evidence and information and starting your claim? There was a two-year time limit to begin you’re filing your claim, backspace. If you miss that time frame, you will lose the opportunity to collect compensation.

camp le jeune claim case with attorney

Anyone who began having health problems that weren’t part of their family’s medical history following a tour of duty, living or working at Camp Lejeune from 1953 through 1987 may have been exposed to the toxic waters. In 2022, Congress set aside funds for Camp Lejeune victims, but you must file a claim to receive compensation for medical expenses and other losses.

Preparation

You’ll need to gather evidence of your time at Camp Lejeune and proof of one of many illnesses that qualify. Families, dependents, and survivors must also show their relationship to a veteran. Workers must show proof of employment, such as tax returns, W-2 forms, etc. This proof is required along with your claim form.

Submit Your Claim

You’ll first file your claim with the Office of the Judge Advocate General (JAG) of the Navy’s Tort Claims Unit (TCU). You’ll need to file a Camp Lejeune Justice Act claims form, which requires personal information, including your background, the basis of your claim, the type and degree of your injuries, and the dollar amount of your claim.

The claim form includes space to list an authorized agent to act on your behalf and their credentials, such as an attorney. It will also list the maximum amount of compensation any claimant can recover. A Camp Lejeune water contamination attorney will ensure that your claim is properly completed and filed timely so you can receive the maximum compensation available.

You will only have two years to file your claim. If you’ve already filed a claim under the Federal Tort Claims Act, you must file a new claim under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act. The sooner you begin, the better.

Once submitted, the government has 180 days to respond. They may either deny your claim or discuss negotiations with you (and your attorney.) Should your claim be denied, you then have the option to file a lawsuit.

Do You Need An Attorney?

A Camp Lejeune claim is filed in federal court in the Eastern District of North Carolina. While you aren’t required to have an attorney, we strongly suggest you have one.

• An attorney can assist with claim preparation, such as gathering evidence, retrieving medical records and other documents, and determining the amount of compensation you can receive

• An attorney can handle negotiations if the government offers a settlement that’s lower than you need

• If negotiations are unsuccessful, an attorney can take the case to court and ensure that it is filed before the end of the two-year period.

These are complex claims with a limited time frame. Make sure your claim is done correctly and leaves nothing to chance.

Camp Lejeune Claim? Contact The Herren Law Firm Today

If you served at or worked at Camp Lejeune and are now suffering a chronic illness, you may have a claim under this act. For more than 30 years, the Herren Law firm has helped veterans and other disabled people with their benefits claims and appeals. We have extensive experience dealing with governmental agencies and the claims that are filed with them.

If you or someone you know became ill after being stationed at Camp Lejeune, get in touch with us immediately. There is a deadline of two years to file a claim so do not wait to find out if you may have a claim.

We’ve helped over 4,000 people, and we can help you as well. Contact us today by calling (713) 682-8194 or using our online contact form our consultation is free, and you won’t owe us a fee until we win your case.

Filed Under: Camp Lejeune Justice Act, Veterans Disability Tagged With: , ,

Illnesses Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Caused

February 17, 2023 by

Chemicals in the groundwater at Camp Lejeune poisoned millions of military members, their families, civilian workers, and others who used the water from 1950 three through 1987.

illness caused by water contamination

These toxic chemicals caused a wide range of illnesses and people who regularly consumed or used the water from the base.

The Chemicals

Two water wells that serviced Camp Lejeune were inadvertently contaminated with toxic chemicals, including:

• Benzene
• Perchloroethylene (PCE)
• Trichloroethylene (TCE)
• Vinyl chloride

These chemicals are known carcinogens. The base shut down these water wells in 1985 when the contamination was discovered. Unfortunately, millions of people had already unknowingly used and consumed this contaminated water prior to discovery.

Illness Resulting From Chemical Exposures

These are considered presumptive illnesses for those diagnosed with them.

• Adult leukemia
• Aplastic anemia and other myelodysplastic syndromes
• Bladder cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Liver cancer
• Multiple myeloma
• Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• Parkinson’s disease

if you’ve been diagnosed with one of these diseases, and you have spent time at Camp Lejeune during the affected period, The illness is considered presumptive, and you will not have to prove causation. You will however be required to prove that you were at Camp Lejeune during that Time frame.

Because there are so many lawsuits related to the Campbell June water contamination issue, your attorney will be required to show through evidence that your illness was “at least as likely as not” the result of the chemicals in the water at Camp Lejeune.

Other Related Illnesses

Many more illnesses may have resulted from chemical exposures. The presumptive illnesses are only those that have been positively identified as being caused five exposure to contamination.

Other illnesses that have been traced to the water contamination include:

• Esophageal cancer
• Breast cancer
• Renal toxicity
• Female infertility
• Scleroderma
• Lung cancer
• Hepatic steatosis (Fatty Liver Disease)
• Miscarriage
• Neurobehavioral effects (such as headaches, lack of coordination, sensory disturbances, cognitive decline, and mental health conditions)

More illnesses that could be related include:

• Adult Leukemia
• ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)
• Appendix Cancer
• Autoimmune Disease, i.e., Lupus
• Bile Duct Cancer
• Birth Defect or Birth Injury, including heart-related (In Utero only)
• Bladder Cancer
• Brain Cancer
• Breast Cancer
• Cervical Cancer
• Colorectal Cancer
• Dental Problems
• Esophageal Cancer
• Gallbladder Cancer
• Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
• Kidney Cancer
• Liver Cancer
• Multiple Myeloma
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Neurobehavioral Effects
• Pancreatic Cancer
• Prostate Cancer
• Rectal Cancer
• Renal Toxicity
• Sinus Cancer
• Soft Tissue Carcinoma
• Spinal Cancer
• Thyroid Cancer
• Other Serious Medical Conditions

Because the full effects of the toxins may not be known for many years, it’s highly possible that cancer or other serious illness without precedent in a person’s family history was caused by contaminated water.

If you believe that you became ill after exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, whether military or civilian, contact a Camp Lejeune water contamination attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case.

Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Claim? Contact The Herren Law Firm Today

Until recently, only veterans could request help through the VA for their medical conditions. After the signing of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022, family members and civilian workers can now file a claim for compensation due to the harm they suffered from the contaminated water.

If you or someone you know became ill after working or being stationed at Camp Lejeune, contact us immediately for help filing your claim.

We’ve helped over 4,000 people, and we can help you as well. Contact us today by calling (713) 682-8194 or using our online contact form our consultation is free, and you won’t owe us a fee until we win your case.

Filed Under: Camp Lejeune Justice Act Tagged With: , ,

Camp Lejeune Cancer

January 24, 2023 by

The most prominent illness that resulted from the water contamination at Camp Lejeune is cancer. Contaminant carcinogens in the water system caused a myriad of different cancers from 1953 through 1987 before they were discovered in the base’s water supply.

camp lejeune water contamination

These conditions have been positively identified as cancers that resulted from the contamination. Multiple studies have concluded that drinking water contaminants were responsible for cancers and other diseases found in the base population during that period. Conditions on the definitive list all have sufficient evidence that positively proves their connection, making them “presumptive.”

The Known Conditions

The primary chemicals found in the drinking water included the carcinogens trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE) also known as tetrachloroethene, vinyl chloride, and benzene. Whether a person becomes ill with cancer depends on multiple factors, such as length of exposure and frequency.

Of the 15 identified health conditions, these are all the cancers:

1. Esophageal cancer

2. Breast cancer (in both men and women)

3. Kidney cancer

4. Multiple myeloma

5. Renal toxicity

6. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma

7. Lung cancer

8. Bladder cancer

9. Leukemia

10. Cervical cancer

11. Myelodysplastic syndromes

The VA recognizes these as “presumptive,” meaning that a veteran is presumed to have developed the condition based on his or her service record. Some are eligible for VA disability benefits while others are only eligible for out-of-pocket medical expense reimbursement.

Other Related Cancers

Rectal cancer and soft tissue cancer are also known to be related to the water contamination at Camp Lejeune, along with cancers such as:

• Brain

• Cervical

• Ovarian

• Pancreatic

• Prostate

• Liver

• Bile duct

• Intestinal or colorectal

• Gallbladder

• Sinus

• Thyroid

• Spinal

• Other tumors, cysts, and polyps

These are connected to the contamination but are not yet considered presumptive.

Conditions Not On The List

The list above contains the cancers and other medical conditions that have been positively identified as containing a presumptive condition linked to water contamination. But if you were exposed and have been diagnosed with something different, that doesn’t mean it was unrelated to the chemicals in the water. Other cancers and conditions are “as least likely as not” to have a connection to water contamination.

There are other medical conditions that have not yet been identified as presumptive conditions by the Veterans Administration, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Public Health Service, or the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR.) Cancers and conditions not listed will require medical records and proof of residency or work history at Camp Lejeune.
So many people became ill after living and working there during that time that many illnesses have not yet been connected to water contamination. Others could be identified later, so it’s a good idea to file a claim. You may still qualify for compensation, but you won’t know unless you file.

If you were at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987, speak with a Camp Lejeune water contamination attorney to assess your rights. You will only have until August 2024 to file your claim or lose your right to compensation.

Contact The Herren Law Firm Today For Help With Your Claim

For more than 30 years, the Herren law firm has helped veterans and other disabled people with their benefits claims and appeals. We have extensive experience dealing with governmental agencies and the claims that are filed with them.

If you or someone you know became ill after being stationed at Camp Lejeune, get in touch with us immediately.

We’ve helped over 4,000 people, and we can help you as well. Contact us today by calling (713) 682-8194 or using our online contact form our consultation is free, and you won’t owe us a fee until we win your case.

Filed Under: Camp Lejeune Justice Act, Veterans Disability Tagged With: , ,
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