Camp Lejeune Litigation

Protecting the Rights of Veterans and Families Affected by Water Contamination

At Cooper Masterman, we are dedicated to representing individuals affected by the severe water contamination at Camp Lejeune. Our goal is to secure justice and compensation for veterans, their families, and civilians who suffered health issues due to toxic exposure at the base.

Understanding the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination

Camp Lejeune, a Marine Corps base in North Carolina, experienced significant water contamination from 1953 to 1987. During this period, the base’s water supply was polluted with hazardous chemicals, including trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), benzene, and vinyl chloride. These chemicals, found in concentrations far exceeding safe limits, have been linked to various serious health conditions.

Health Risks and Conditions Linked to Contamination

Exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune has been associated with numerous severe health conditions, including:

• Cancers: Bladder cancer, kidney cancer, liver cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, and esophageal cancer.
• Hematological Diseases: Leukemia, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
• Neurological Disorders: Parkinson’s disease and other neurobehavioral effects.
• Other Conditions: Renal toxicity, hepatic steatosis (fatty liver disease), scleroderma, and infertility.

Legal Framework: The Camp Lejeune Justice Act (CLJA) of 2022

The CLJA of 2022 has provided a legal pathway for victims to seek compensation. This Act allows veterans, their families, and civilians who lived or worked at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, to file claims for injuries caused by the contaminated water.

Steps to Take If You’ve Been Affected

If you or a loved one has suffered health issues related to the Camp Lejeune water contamination, it is crucial to act promptly. Here are the steps you should take:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Ensure you receive a comprehensive medical evaluation to document any health conditions linked to toxic exposure.
2. Document Your Case: Keep detailed records of your medical history, including diagnoses, treatments, and any communications with healthcare providers.
3. Contact Cooper Masterman: Schedule a free consultation with our team to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

The Claims and Litigation Process

The legal process for Camp Lejeune claims involves several steps:

1. Filing an Administrative Claim: All claims must first be filed with the Department of the Navy. This step is crucial to initiate the legal process and ensure your claim is considered.
2. Elective Option: This option provides quicker, fixed compensation amounts based on specific illness categories and duration of exposure. It aims to expedite payouts but may result in lower compensation compared to traditional settlements.
3. Track System: Cases are divided into tracks based on the type and severity of illnesses. Track 1 includes bladder cancer, kidney cancer, leukemia, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and Parkinson’s disease, with trials set to begin in 2024.
4. Settlement Master: A Settlement Master may be appointed to facilitate settlements outside of court, aiming to resolve claims more efficiently.
5. Litigation: If your claim is not resolved through the administrative process or the Elective Option, it may proceed to litigation. Recent rulings have indicated that Camp Lejeune cases will be heard by a judge, which could expedite the resolution of these cases.

Recent Developments and Current Status

As of early 2024, the Camp Lejeune litigation process continues to evolve, with significant milestones and developments:

• Administrative Claims: Over 176,662 claims have been filed with the Department of the Navy, and more than 1,662 lawsuits are currently pending.
• Settlement Payments: The government has made settlement payments totaling nearly $6 million to date, with the Elective Option providing a faster resolution for eligible claimants.
• Track 1 Depositions: Nearly complete, with secondary depositions and interviews of treating physicians underway. This is crucial for building strong cases for the upcoming trials.
• Track 2 Illnesses Announced: Track 2 illnesses include breast cancer, kidney disease, liver cancer, lung cancer, and kidney cancer. These cases will follow the resolution of Track 1 cases.
• Case Management Orders: Recent orders aim to streamline the discovery process and limit opt-outs to enhance litigation efficiency.

Health Risks and Conditions in Detail

Understanding the health risks associated with the Camp Lejeune water contamination is essential for affected individuals. Here are some detailed explanations of the conditions linked to the toxic exposure:

• Bladder Cancer: Exposure to TCE and PCE has been linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer. Symptoms include blood in the urine, frequent urination, and pelvic pain.
• Kidney Cancer: Contaminants in the water have been associated with kidney cancer, which may present symptoms like blood in the urine, persistent back pain, and unexplained weight loss.
• Leukemia: This type of cancer affects blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow and lymphatic system. Symptoms can include fever, fatigue, frequent infections, and easy bruising.
• Parkinson’s Disease: Exposure to VOCs like TCE has been linked to Parkinson’s disease, a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. Symptoms include tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination.
• Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: This cancer originates in the lymphatic system and can present with symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, and weight loss.

Why Choose Cooper Masterman?

Our team of experienced attorneys at Cooper Masterman is dedicated to ensuring that justice is served for those harmed by the Camp Lejeune water contamination. We provide comprehensive legal support and representation, leveraging our deep understanding of environmental and toxic exposure litigation to build strong cases for our clients.

• Experienced Legal Team: Our attorneys have a proven track record in handling complex litigation and achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.
• Personalized Attention: We offer compassionate, individualized legal services, understanding the profound impact these cases have on affected families.
• No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the basis of the Camp Lejeune lawsuits? The lawsuits allege that the water supply at Camp Lejeune was contaminated with harmful chemicals, causing serious health issues for those exposed. The CLJA allows affected individuals to seek compensation for these health impacts.

1. What types of damages can I claim in a Camp Lejeune lawsuit? Damages can include medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other related costs. Our attorneys will work to secure the maximum compensation for your case.
2. How long do I have to file a claim? The statute of limitations for filing a claim under the CLJA is two years from the enactment of the Act, which means the deadline is August 2024. It’s important to contact us as soon as possible to ensure your case is filed within the appropriate time frame.
3. How does a contingency fee arrangement work? Under a contingency fee arrangement, you pay no upfront costs. Our legal fees are only collected if we win your case, ensuring that you can pursue justice without financial burden.

Our Commitment to Justice

At Cooper Masterman, we believe in holding powerful entities accountable for their actions. Our commitment to justice drives us to fight tirelessly on behalf of those harmed by the Camp Lejeune water contamination. We aim to secure the compensation you deserve and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

Contact Us

If you have been affected by the Camp Lejeune water contamination, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team is ready to provide the support and legal expertise you need to navigate this challenging situation. Contact Cooper Masterman today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward justice.