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.
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.
