Many Camp LeJeune Babies Are Over 50 Years Old

July 20, 2023 by

Its a gross but simple fact. Camp Lejeune babies were exposed to the contaminants. So much of the public’s understanding on Camp Lejeune water contamination victims has been focused on adults,  military personnel, primarily U. S. Marines or workers on the base.

But that is only part of the story. Because the contaminants were in the water supply for years before it was discovered, the many Marine families and the Camp Lejeune workers’ families  had babies, babies who grew up drinking that water along with their parents and siblings. Many were born on the base or were exposed while living with their families from the 1950’s on when the contaminants were in the water supply.

mother visiting camp le jeune babies in Baby Heaven

Like the adults, they were unknowingly exposed to the highly toxic water before they were born and while they were children.

Birth Defects

The water was contaminated from from 1953 until 1987 when it was acknowledged and the base was shut down. Throughout this period, it is estimated that at least a million people passed through Camp Lejeune. Many were married Marines who began families or added to their families while there.

The continual exposure to toxins causes considerable damage to a developing fetus. These Camp Lejeune babies and children experienced a wide variety of serious illnesses, including birth defects that led to lifelong illnesses, including:

• Anencephaly, where a baby is missing part of the brain or skull
• Childhood cancers, such as:

o Leukemia
o Lymphoma
o Non-Hodgkin lymphoma

• Heart defects
• Spina bifida

The oldest surviving children would be around 70 years old at this point. Most would be over the age of 50, with the youngest about 36 years of age.

Discovery

The contamination was finally acknowledged after the discovery of contamination in 1982. The Marine Corps did not shut down the source until 1987, leaving five more years of toxic water for base residents.

The illnesses and deaths were not acknowledged to be from the water until much later. That means the children who did make it to adulthood lived with these illnesses. Many may have been unable to work and are considered disabled. Others may have had their lives cut short by the chronic illnesses they acquired at Camp Lejeune.

Infant Death

Of all the babies and children exposed to the water contamination, many didn’t survive. Babies who were exposed in utero were miscarried or stillborn. Their mother’s exposures passed the chemicals to their babies during the pregnancies. There isn’t a full accounting of how many children were sickened or died from the contamination exposure.

One section of the Jacksonville City Cemetery near Camp Lejeune is an area where babies that died while at the base are buried. Some graves have the infant’s full names, and some are just called “Baby Boy/Girl” with a last name. Some lived a few years while some didn’t last a full day. So many children died at the facility that the area became known as “Baby Heaven.”

Family Members Can Make a Camp Lejeune Claim

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. As surviving adults, Camp Lejeune “babies” can make a claim. If you have suffered any illness that may be due to toxic exposure from Camp Lejeune water, contact the Herren Law firm for help filing a claim.

There is a deadline currently for filing so do not delay. The deadline for filing a lawsuit is within two years from when the Act was approved in August of 2022, so it’s vital to start your claim immediately.  At Herren Law, we are prepared to help you file a claim.

We’ve helped over 4,000 people with Social Security Disability, Veterans Disability and Long Term Disability over the years, and we have turned a major focus to help Camp Lejeune victims as well.

Contact us today by calling (713) 682-8194 or using our online contact form. A 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 Process Needs Overhaul

June 18, 2023 by

Since the first claim was filed under the Camp Lejeune water contamination act in 2022, no one has reached a settlement or taken their case to court. Claimants, US Navy attorneys, and attorneys for claimants are seeing that the Camp Lejeune process needs an overhaul.

Because of the unusual nature of this type of claim, any lawsuits must be filed in North Carolina’s Eastern US District Courts. A lawyer, like Houston’s William Herren, who is handling and filing claims for qualified claimants, can help file a Camp Lejeune claim.

Problems with the Claims Process

After the signing of the PACT Act, more than 60,000 claims have already been filed. It’s expected that an estimated 500,000 to 1 million cases could be filed, so there are many calling for a better process, including one of the judges from the North Carolina Eastern US District Courts. There is already a volume of claims that appear to be overwhelming the system in place. So far, the US Navy has offer limited solutions to make the process easier for the government, the claimants, their legal counsel, and the courts.

The Current Process

When someone files a Camp Lejeune claim using Form 95, it is submitted to the court for determination. Once the claim is filed, the government has 180 days to accept or deny the claim. Lawyers for the US Navy are handling these claims.

Should the government deny the claim, then the claim must be decided in a court of law. This is where things will quickly become complicated. The concern is that with only four judges, these cases will continue to create a backlog of cases. A backlog could have claimants, also known as plaintiffs, waiting years for their suits to be decided. Someone with a terminal illness may never see a judgment for their case or families who have already lost a parent or spouse due to water contamination may not see compensation for years.

The Judge’s Request

Judge James Dever, one of just four in the Eastern District of North Carolina, has requested that the plaintiffs’ lawyers and the Navy’s lawyers collaborate to improve and streamline the claims process to avoid the potential bottleneck for these cases. The judge suggested that the involved attorneys on both sides:

1. Create a database of all affected victims
2. Include the extent of their injuries and causations
3. How long each victim lived on or worked at Camp Lejeune
4. Combine similar cases
5. Set up a structure for settlements

The judge specifically requested that the attorneys work together to focus on the affected victims and their family members, which includes a high number of children who were either miscarried, stillborn, or died later from the effects of the contamination. Following the first hearing in April, Judge Dever gave attorneys a month to create a leadership team to devise the new process.

May 26, 2023 – Navy Blames Staffing and Budget

In an email to claimants’ lawyers, a Navy attorney, Jennifer Tennile Karnes admitted that the Navy lacks the necessary financial resources and staff to promptly review compensation claims from veterans affected by toxic water at Camp Lejeune. She mentioned that the tort claims unit is working excessive overtime to handle the claims and expressed hope to double the staff by the end of summer. However, the Navy has yet to establish the promised online portal for expediting claims, and Congress has not allocated the additional funds needed to manage the compensation program. She described the Camp Lejeune claims process with a great metaphor: “building a plane mid-air.”

Contact The Herren Law Firm For Your Camp Lejeune Claim

Regardless of these difficulties with the Camp Lejeune process, it still is worth making a claim before the deadline. Missing the deadline will eliminate you from even being considered for compensation.  You must file your claim filed by August 10, 2024, so timing is critical. Please contact our offices immediately to learn more.

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. We are focused on successfully getting claimants their settlements. 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 with disability and veteran claims and appeals, and we look forward to helping you. Contact us today by calling (713) 682-8194 or using our online contact form our consultation is free.  We work on a contingency basis so you won’t owe us a fee until we settle your case.

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

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: , ,
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