You probably have seen the commercials or the news about Camp Lejeune: The Camp Lejeune Justice Act (CLJA) was signed into law. Service members and their families could receive payment for medical issues from contaminated water. You are hearing about lawyers making claims and possible damages for cancer and other injuries. If you were at Camp Lejeune, what should you do?
Because the CLJA is new, many people have questions about whether they will qualify. The attorneys at Johnson & Groninger are North Carolina lawyers and able to practice in the Eastern District of North Carolina where all cases will be decided. We want to provide answers to questions we are getting from our clients and others about the law and the possible compensation.
How was the water poisoned at Camp Lejeune?
Toxic chemicals known to cause cancer, such as TCE (trichloroethylene), benzene, and PCE (perchloroethylene) leaked into the water from an off-base dry cleaning facility, from underground storage tanks, and cleaning sources.
How do I know if I qualify?
You or a family member must have lived or worked or been exposed to the water at Camp Lejeune between August 1953 and December 1987 for at least 30 days. You must show evidence that the water at Camp Lejeune caused harm to the person.
What if my family member has died?
You may still make a claim for the conditions or injuries that your family member suffered from the contaminated water. There are extra requirements but it is certainly possible.
How long will I have to file a claim?
Most, but not all, people will have two years to file a claim from the date the CLJA became law on August 10, 2022.
What if I was not in the service but worked on base at Camp Lejeune?
If you were exposed to the Camp Lejeune water, you can file a claim.
Do I need a North Carolina lawyer to help me file?
We understand that many lawyers from across the country are signing up clients. An out of state lawyer is allowed to take on these cases, but they will have to hire a North Carolina lawyer in order to appear in court in North Carolina.
The experienced lawyers at Johnson & Groninger can help you understand your legal rights and the steps you need to take to make sure your case is handled in the way that is best for you and your family.
Author Bio
Valerie Johnson
Founder
Valerie Johnson is a North Carolina personal injury and workers’ compensation attorney dedicated to helping injured and working people across the state. A board-certified specialist since 2000, she is the Immediate Past President of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice and author of North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Law: A Practical Guide to Success at Every Stage of a Claim.
