Is it Too Late to File a Camp Lejeune Claim? (2024)

What is Camp Lejeune?

Camp Lejeune, a military training facility located in Jacksonville, North Carolina, is unfortunately as well-known for its contaminated water scandal as it is for its role in preparing United States Marines for service. Established in 1942, this base has played a crucial part in the military history of the United States. However, between the 1950s and 1980s, a significant environmental health incident occurred at Camp Lejeune, affecting countless Marines, their families and civilian workers.

At the heart of the Camp Lejeune scandal is the prolonged period during which people living or working at the base were exposed to drinking water contaminated with dangerous chemicals. Among these contaminants were volatile organic compounds. The contamination was primarily attributed to leaking underground storage tanks, industrial spills and an off-base dry cleaning establishment.

It’s estimated that as many as one million military and civilian personnel and their families might have been exposed to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. The consequences of this exposure have been both devastating and far-reaching, with individuals suffering from a variety of illnesses and conditions. Some of the health issues linked to the contaminated water include but are not limited to several types of cancers, neurobehavioral effects, and birth defects.

How do I know If I’m Eligible for Camp Lejeune Compensation?

Time Frame of Exposure: To be eligible for compensation, you or your loved one must have been at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 cumulative days during the period from August 1, 1953, to December 31, 1987. This timeframe accounts for the period when the water was believed to be contaminated.

Status on Base: The affected population includes veterans, reservists, guardsmen and their family members who lived on the base, as well as civilian staff who worked there.

Health Conditions Linked to Contamination: There are specific health conditions that have been scientifically and medically linked to the toxic water exposure. The list includes various cancers (like bladder, kidney, and liver cancer), Parkinson’s disease, aplastic anemia and other myelodysplastic syndromes, and birth defects in children born to those exposed. This list is not exhaustive and other conditions could also be considered for compensation.

Proof of Presence: To substantiate a claim, you must be able to prove your presence at Camp Lejeune during the defined period. This might include military service records, employment records, base housing records, or even school records for children who attended schools on base.

Medical Records: Demonstrating a diagnosed condition presumed to be connected to the contamination is crucial. You will need appropriate medical records to prove your health condition.

To delve deeper into your personal eligibility and understand your situation, it is highly advisable to consult with a legal professional who specializes in environmental exposure and military-related cases. At our law firm, we are equipped with the expertise and compassion to guide you through each step of this complex legal process.

If you believe you or a loved one were affected by the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, contact us for a free, thorough evaluation of your case. We are dedicated to pursuing not just compensation, but also the acknowledgment of the injustice you have faced, ensuring that your voice is heard and your experience validated.

What is the Deadline to File a Camp Lejeune Claim?

If you or a loved one has been affected by the toxic water contamination at Camp Lejeune, it is crucial to be aware of the upcoming deadline to file a claim. The United States Navy JAG has set a deadline of August 8th, 2024, for the submission of claims related to this environmental incident.

Our team is ready to assist you in preparing and filing your claim by the specified deadline. We are committed to ensuring that nothing is overlooked and that your claim meets all the criteria set by the authorities.

What Will I Need to File a Claim?

Establish Legal Authority: If you are the executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate, you will need to provide documentation such as a will, letters of administration or equivalent legal papers that establish your authority to act on behalf of the estate.

Gather Medical Records: Compiling all pertinent medical records of the deceased that document the illness or condition believed to be associated with the water contamination at Camp Lejeune is vital. These records can establish a connection between their health issues and the contamination exposure.

Obtain Death Certificate: The death certificate will be required as it provides essential details about the deceased, including the cause of death, which may link to the known conditions related to water contamination.

Complete Claim Form: Filing a claim necessitates completing a standard claim form with accurate and comprehensive information. This form has specific requirements that need to be met to process the claim.

We Can Help

At Rheingold Giuffra Ruffo Plotkin & Hellman Law, we understand the profound impact this process can have and the importance of handling it with the utmost sensitivity and professionalism. We’re dedicated to supporting families through their difficult times by providing expertise in legal procedures, ensuring that all necessary documentation is prepared correctly, and representing the interests of the estate before the court, if necessary.

If you believe your loved one’s death was due to the water contamination at Camp Lejeune and wish to explore filing a claim, please get in touch with us. We are here to listen, advise, and assist you every step of the way towards seeking the compensation and closure you deserve.