Even though there is so much information available about the Camp Lejeune water contamination, we still get many of the same questions from clients. Here, we’ll answer a few of those questions.
1. How much money will I receive?
It’s a popular question but does not yet have an answer. Because no one yet knows the total amount of the eventual settlement, there is no way to know how much your individual settlement will be when the time comes.
2. How much has been paid out in settlements so far?
There have been no settlements yet.
There have, however, been multiple scams associated with Camp Lejeune settlements. Government communications are on Department of The Navy letterhead, by first-class mail, or via the official CL Claims email address. Delete any email or destroy any letter you receive that claims a settlement has been reached and that they must respond immediately to accept or it will expire. If you have an attorney for a Camp Lejeune claim, they can clarify any communications for you.
3. Do I have to have an attorney to file a Camp Lejeune claim or lawsuit?
Having a lawyer is not a requirement, but we highly recommend one. These are complicated claims, and an attorney has the experience and understanding of the law that can help make sure that the claim or lawsuit is filed correctly.
4. Is there a class action lawsuit for Camp Lejeune?
Currently, there isn’t one. All lawsuits are individually filed on behalf of each plaintiff. Because there are so many similar cases being filed in the same court in North Carolina, it’s what’s called a “mass tort.” This is different from a class action lawsuit.
5. How do I qualify to file a claim?
You must have spent a minimum of 30 days at Camp Lejeune during the time the contamination occurred: August 1, 1953, and December 12, 1987. Veterans, their families (spouses, children, etc.), and civilian workers are all qualified to file a claim if they can show they spent time at the base.
6. How will this affect my VA benefits for conditions that are related to Camp Lejeune?
If you already receive benefits from the VA (or Medicare) for Camp Lejeune conditions, your benefits will not be terminated. However, you may be required to repay some of your benefits from the eventual settlement. You will not be required to pay them out of your own pocket.
7. How will this affect my VA benefits for conditions unrelated to Camp Lejeune?
These benefits will not be impacted by filing a claim under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act (CLJA). If you are filing a VA claim already and awaiting your decision, your eligibility for VA benefits will not be affected by a Camp Lejeune claim.
The deadline for filing a claim is August 9, 2024. If you believe you have cause for a claim, contact our office immediately for a consultation, or you will lose your only opportunity to file a claim. If you have lost a family member to illnesses from Camp Lejeune, you can file a wrongful death claim. But you must start immediately.
Camp Lejeune water contamination Claim? Contact The Herren Law Firm Today
For over 30 years, the Herren law firm has helped veterans and disabled people with their benefit claims and appeals regarding Camp Lejeune water contamination. We have extensive experience dealing with governmental agencies and the claims filed with them.
If you or someone you know became ill after being stationed at Camp Lejeune, contact 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. Your consultation is free, and you won’t owe us a fee until we win your case.