Camp Lejeune Injury

Service veterans in the past who incurred a disease or disabling condition because of exposure to toxins during their time of duty previously faced the burden of proving their medical condition was indeed service-related. That requirement has now been set aside for several diseases associated with toxins and burn pits by the enactment of the PACT Act, signed into law by President Biden in August 2022.

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Camp Lejeune Injury

Camp Lejeune Attorneys in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Service veterans in the past who incurred a disease or disabling condition because of exposure to toxins during their time of duty previously faced the burden of proving their medical condition was indeed service-related. That requirement has now been set aside for several diseases associated with toxins and burn pits by the enactment of the PACT Act, signed into law by President Biden in August 2022.  

The PACT Act – short for “The Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act” – now lists several diseases that have a “presumption of service connection.”  

In other words, just having served at a particular site, in a particular role, and at a particular time is proof enough that you incurred your diseases due to your service. No proof is needed other than showing that you served at an affected site during the period in question.   

The PACT Act covers events connected with defense and military operations from Vietnam and forward, but also extends benefits to those who were exposed to toxic drinking water while being stationed at Camp Lejeune, a Marine Corps base in North Carolina founded in 1942 to train “the world’s best fighters.”  

The PACT Act itself doesn’t directly cover Camp Lejeune, but the associated Camp Lejeune Justice Act, signed into law at the same time, does. As a result, those who were stationed at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987 and later developed a presumptive disease are now eligible for VA medical benefits, even if they previously applied for such benefits and were denied. Family members are also eligible if they resided at Camp Lejeune with their spouse.  

If you or a loved one – now located in or around Tulsa, Oklahoma – were stationed at Camp Lejeune during the period covered and later developed one of the act’s specified presumptive diseases, or even an unlisted disease, contact the Law Offices of Jeff Martin to pursue your deserved VA benefits.  

Our “Heavy Hitter” Team has a combined four decades-plus experience in helping others recover benefits and compensation for injuries and illnesses suffered because of the negligence of others. We also proudly serve clients throughout Eastern Oklahoma, including Muskogee, Bartlesville, and McAlester.

 

Water Contamination at Camp Lejeune 

Several inquiries and investigations into the water treatment plants at Camp Lejeune turned up a multitude of problems that caused the drinking water to become toxic. The number-one outside source was a nearby dry-cleaning plant that dumped PCE (perchloroethylene or tetrachloroethylene) into the wastewater system. 

To make matters worse, the Marines themselves dumped oil and industrial wastes into storm drains. Dogs used in radioactive testing were buried on the base’s property. In 1980, when a contractor showed up to dig for a parking lot, the dog carcasses were uncovered, and along with them, strontium-90. The parking lot was being erected on the former site of the base’s Naval Research Laboratory. 

By the time all analysis had been completed, it was determined that the water at Camp Lejeune was 240 to 3,400 times contaminated above what is considered current safe drinking levels. 

 

Injuries and Illnesses Considered to Be Presumptive 

The PACT Act itself lists several diseases and conditions resulting from toxic exposure or burn pits that are to be considered to have a “presumption of service connection.” In other words, if you apply for benefits under the PACT Act, you do not have to prove the origin or cause of your disease, provided it is listed and connected to your service place and time.

The list includes, but is not limited to: 

  • Cancers – head, neck, respiratory, gastrointestinal, brain, kidney, reproductive, pancreatic 
  • Lymphatic cancer of any type 
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease 
  • Chronic bronchitis 
  • Chronic sinusitis 
  • Interstitial lung disease 
  • Chronic rhinitis 
  • Glioblastoma 
  • Asthma 
  • Hypertension 

 

Camp Lejeune Families Act of 2012 

A previous law, the Camp Lejeune Families Act of 2012, provided access to the Veterans Administration health care system for any service member who spent at least 30 days while on active duty at Camp Lejeune during the period from August 1, 1953, to December 31, 1987. 

The act also listed 15 presumptive diseases that qualified the veteran for free health care (there is a copay otherwise). These diseases include but are not limited to, adult leukemia, bladder or liver cancer, multiple myeloma, female infertility, Parkinson’s disease, and more. 

 

Claim or Lawsuit? 

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act now allows anyone who was at Camp Lejeune for 30 days, consecutive or not, between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, to file a claim or lawsuit to receive VA health care benefits for exposure to toxic water at the base.  

Those eligible include not only service members and their families, but also civilian workers, contractors, and others who spent time on the base. There is a two-year window for doing so, and then the process closes. 

Those who developed a presumptive medical condition from being at Camp Lejeune during the covered period should first file a claim for benefits with the Judge Advocate General (JAG) of the Navy’s Tort Claims Unit (TCU) in Norfolk, Virginia. A claim form is available online and can be emailed to TCU to expedite the process. 

If you are denied benefits by the TCU, you can then file a suit under the Justice Act. In fact, even if you are already receiving VA or other benefits, you can still file a suit. However, any award you receive will be offset – reduced, in other words – by any benefits you receive or have received from other sources and programs, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). 

The PACT Act and the associated Camp Lejeune Justice Act are still new, only a few months in existence, and claims are mounting at a rapid pace. The system may be quickly overwhelmed and become somewhat dysfunctional. Delays will no doubt be inevitable. 

Rather than go it alone and try to file a claim with the TCU for Camp Lejeune benefits, rely on the resources of experienced attorneys who are dedicated to advocating and fighting for people’s rights to benefits and compensation for injuries and illnesses caused by the negligence of others.

Contact Us ASAP - Our dedicated team of experienced Camp Lejeune injury attorneys are here to help you recieve the maximum compensation that you deserve. With a deep understanding of Oklahoma's laws and a commitment to advocating for our clients, we will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case. Don't delay, and let us help you reclaim your peace of mind.
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FAQs

What Happened At Camp Lejeune?

At Camp Lejeune, a United States Marine Corps base located in North Carolina, it is profoundly troubling to acknowledge the prolonged exposure of marines, their families, and civilian workers to contaminated water between the 1950s and 1980s. Investigations revealed that the water at Camp Lejeune was contaminated with a harmful array of industrial solvents, benzene, and other chemicals, primarily due to leaking underground storage tanks, waste disposal sites, and industrial spills.

This contamination resulted in one of the largest waterborne exposures to toxic substances in our nation's history, potentially affecting the health of an estimated one million individuals who lived or worked at Camp Lejeune during that period.

As an advocate for those affected, we understand how deeply distressing this must be. Those who may have suffered from a variety of health issues linked to this contamination deserve clarity and support.

Please know that we are here to provide experience and guidance, helping you to navigate through the complexities of this situation with comprehensive counsel and a commitment to achieving justice for those impacted. The actions we propose aim directly to support the well-being and rights of our clients as they seek the acknowledgement and reparations they rightfully deserve.

 

Who Is Eligible To File A Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Claim?

Eligibility for filing a claim regarding the water contamination at Camp Lejeune is determined based on several factors. Those who lived or worked at the base for a minimum of 30 days between August 1953 and December 1987, and who have since been diagnosed with certain health conditions believed to be linked to the exposure, may be entitled to pursue a claim. This group includes veterans, reservists, guardsmen, their family members, and civilian contractors present during the specified time frame.

We recognize the breadth and gravity of the pain inflicted - not only physical suffering but also the emotional and financial distress. Our firm stands ready to examine your case with both precision and empathy.

Rest assured, our experienced professionals are versed in the nuances of these claims and are dedicated to facilitating the process. Our commitment is to help you receive the remuneration and closure you are owed, walking alongside you at every step in this pursuit of justice.

 

What Types Of Health Issues Are Associated With Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?

The spectrum of adverse health issues associated with the water contamination at Camp Lejeune is deeply concerning and includes several serious conditions. Scientific and medical studies have identified a link between the contaminants found in Camp Lejeune's water and several debilitating illnesses, including various forms of cancer, such as leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and bladder cancer.

Additionally, individuals exposed may suffer from Parkinson's disease, aplastic anemia, and other myelodysplastic syndromes, as well as birth defects in the children of those who were exposed.

In the face of this reality, we stand as an unwavering source of support, committed to providing our clients with critical information and understanding regarding their health concerns.

Our team is prepared to leverage extensive knowledge and resources to ensure you are not facing these challenges alone. We endeavor to ensure that any pain endured is acknowledged and that comprehensive support and guidance toward obtaining rightful compensation are readily available.

 

How Long Do I Have To File A Camp Lejeune Personal Injury Claim?

The window for filing a personal injury claim for those affected by the Camp Lejeune water contamination is subject to the rules and deadlines set forth by law—a framework that can be challenging to navigate. It is crucial to understand that these time limits, known as statutes of limitations, vary by state and the unique circumstances of each individual case. Typically, these legal deadlines begin from the date the harm was discovered or should have been reasonably discovered.

Facing these timeline constraints can be daunting, but rest assured, our firm is prepared to approach your case with the urgency it demands. We are dedicated to ensuring that your right to seek justice is upheld – that the opportunity for you to act and pursue the compensation you deserve is firmly in your grasp.

Our team will assist you in understanding the applicable statutes of limitations and will guide you meticulously through the necessary steps. By acting promptly and decisively, we safeguard your interests, allowing you to focus on healing and recovery.

Please allow us the privilege of advocating for your rights at this critical juncture. Your trust in us is a responsibility we take to heart, and it drives our commitment to deliver the support, understanding, and results you need.

 

Can Family Members Of Veterans File A Claim For Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?

Absolutely, family members of veterans who have endured the repercussions of the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune are not left to face these burdens alone. Spouses and dependent children who resided on the base during the affected period, who now suffer from conditions that are scientifically connected to the toxic exposure, are also entitled to seek compensation. This recognition extends to the unborn, as pregnant mothers exposed to the contaminated water could have unknowingly impacted the health and well-being of their children.

We hold a profound respect for the sacrifices made by military families, and it is with a deep sense of duty that we stand ready to advocate on your behalf. Our lawyers are not only skilled in the legal landscape of environmental litigation but are also sensitive to the nuances of military family life and the unique challenges you may face.

Our pledge is to provide you with comprehensive support, ensuring that your concerns are heard and that the justice you pursue is not just an outcome, but a pathway to healing and peace. We are here to shoulder the administrative and legal burdens, enabling you and your loved ones to focus on personal recovery and wellbeing.

 

What Compensation Can Be Claimed In A Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Case?

The question of compensation in a Camp Lejeune water contamination case is a critical one, addressing not only the medical expenses incurred but also the broader implications of suffering caused by this injustice. Victims are eligible to claim for a multitude of damages, which include but are not limited to, current and future medical bills, lost wages, reduction in quality of life, pain and suffering, and if applicable, wrongful death expenses.

It is our steadfast goal to ensure you are fully apprised of the compensation to which you may be rightfully entitled. With a thorough understanding of the complexities surrounding these claims, our firm is adept at meticulously calculating the extent of the damages suffered. We aim to provide not merely a legal service, but a compassionate partnership that reaffirms your rights and supports your journey towards a rightful resolution.

We invite you to engage with us – to allow our seasoned professionals to evaluate your circumstances with precision and pursue the fullest compensation on your behalf. Our empathy towards your situation fuels our determination to champion your cause and deliver the restitution you and your loved ones rightly deserve.

 

What Evidence Is Needed To Support A Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Claim?

To substantiate a claim of harm from the water contamination at Camp Lejeune, a robust compilation of evidence is imperative. Evidence requirements encompass medical documentation confirming diagnoses and treatments that correspond with the known effects of the contaminants. Personal records indicating residence or service on the base during the affected years are equally crucial, as well as employment history, if financial losses are claimed due to illness.

Our role is to assist you in assembling this critical evidence with absolute attention to detail. We understand that the path to compiling such documentation can be complex and stressful; however, we pledge to navigate this journey with you, providing clear direction and empathetic support. We aim to create a comprehensive and persuasive case on your behalf, ensuring that every piece of pertinent information is considered to fortify your position.

Allow us to take on the meticulous task of evidence gathering so that you may remain focused on your health and well-being. Rest assured, our team is well-versed in the necessary procedures and will undertake every step with diligence and care for the prompt and successful resolution of your claim.

 

How Do I Start The Process Of Filing A Camp Lejeune Claim?

Embarking on the process of filing a Camp Lejeune water contamination claim may seem overwhelming, but it is a path you need not walk alone. To initiate this process, we offer you a guiding hand from the very first step: consultation. We invite you to reach out and schedule a private discussion with one of our skilled attorneys, who will evaluate the particulars of your case with the utmost respect and confidentiality.

During this initial meeting, we will address your concerns, discussing the impact this situation has had on you and your family, and explore the legal avenues available to you. We will outline the key steps and documentation required, ensuring you are thoroughly informed and equipped to move forward with confidence.

We recognize the indispensability of prompt action and are prepared to proceed with diligence and determination. Our commitment extends beyond professional representation; we are steadfast in our advocacy for your rights and in our enduring support throughout every phase of the claims process.

To commence your journey towards justice, please contact us at your earliest convenience. Our team is ready to provide the legal experience, empathetic counsel, and unwavering advocacy that you deserve during this pivotal moment in your life. Let us be your trusted ally in seeking the resolution and recovery to which you are entitled.

 

Are There Any Recent Legal Changes Affecting Camp Lejeune Claims?

Recent legislative developments have indeed redefined the landscape for Camp Lejeune claims, allowing for more expansive avenues of recourse for those affected. This evolution in the legal domain is designed to facilitate a broader recognition of the rights of victims and to simplify the claims process. It is crucial to understand how these changes may positively impact your case and potentially widen the scope of compensation available to you.

Our firm stays on the cutting edge of all legal adjustments, ready to interpret and apply these developments to your benefit. We assure you that any transformations in the law will be assessed with meticulous care to determine the most favorable approach for your situation. It is our professional pledge to keep you apprised of all opportunities that arise from such changes, ensuring that your claim is positioned for the best possible outcome.

In your pursuit of justice and restitution, rest easy knowing that our team is vigilant and proactive, safeguarding your interests considering new legal contexts. We invite you to contact us for a detailed discussion on how these legal updates may specifically affect your claim and how we can harness them to enhance your path to healing and closure.

 

How Does The VA Handle Camp Lejeune Contamination Claims?

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) approaches Camp Lejeune contamination claims with a set procedure, designed to evaluate, and recognize the claims of veterans and their family members who suffered exposure to harmful contaminants. It is crucial for claimants to understand that the VA requires specific evidence and documentation to process these claims efficiently and justly.

Navigating the VA system can be complex, and it is not uncommon to feel daunted by the intricacy of its processes. We, as your advocates, provide careful guidance through every step—ensuring that your claim is presented clearly, compellingly, and in a manner that aligns with VA protocols. Should you encounter any obstacles or delays, rest assured that our team possesses the experience and resolve to address these issues head-on, advocating relentlessly on your behalf.

We invite you to lean on our comprehensive knowledge of the VA's regulatory environment, as we tailor our approach to serve your specific circumstances. Please allow us to alleviate the administrative burden, so you may direct your energy toward your health and your loved ones. Contact us to begin the process with a partner that truly understands and has the capability to navigate the VA's requirements for Camp Lejeune contamination claims.

 

Can I File A Claim If I Was Exposed To Contaminated Water At Camp Lejeune Before It Was Recognized As Hazardous?

Certainly. Understanding the historical context of the water contamination at Camp Lejeune is pivotal to the pursuit of your claim. You may be hesitant to file a claim because the harmful effects of the water at the time of your exposure were not yet recognized—an experience shared by many. Our firm stands ready to offer a depth of knowledge and empathetic guidance to assert your rights, even for exposures dating back before official recognition.

Initiating a claim under these circumstances requires strategic navigation of legal nuances. Our attorneys are poised to analyze your unique situation with a lens of historical and legal experience, ensuring that your claim is fully crafted with attention of the law. We are dedicated to advocating for all who have been affected, regardless of when the exposure occurred.

For those uncertain about the viability of their claim, please reach out. Every conversation with us is a step forward in your quest for justice. Allow us the privilege to evaluate your case with the dignity and rigor it deserves, and to assist you in claiming the acknowledgment and compensation to which you are rightly due.

 

What Should I Do If My Camp Lejeune Claim Is Denied?

A denial of your Camp Lejeune claim can indeed be disheartening, but it is important to remember that it is not the end of your pursuit for justice. Often, denials result from administrative oversights or insufficient documentation, those hurdles that are surmountable with the right approach. Our firm excels in providing sophisticated advocacy to counter claim denials, with a record of turning initial setbacks into favorable resolutions.

In the instance of a claim denial, timely and strategic action is essential. Your next steps must be informed and precise. We offer an unwavering commitment to meticulously review the details of your denial, pinpointing the exact areas that need to be addressed. Engaging with our team means equipping your claim with the robust legal acumen it needs for reconsideration. We assure you that throughout this challenge, we will stand beside you, offering not only legal counsel but also moral support.

We encourage you not to view a denial as a closed door but as an invitation to regroup and respond with potent legal advocacy. Allow us the honor to guide you through the process of appeal, with the goal of securing the acknowledgement and compensation you are entitled to. Contact us to discuss the specifics of your claim denial, and together, let us craft a path forward towards a resolution that aligns with your rightful entitlements.

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