Affected by the Contaminated Water at Camp Lejeune? Here's What You Should Do

For over 30 years, the drinking water supply at Camp Lejeune and Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River contained harmful chemicals, including trichloroethylene, perchloroethylene, and volatile organic compounds. These contaminants likely originated from leaking underground storage tanks and industrial waste disposal sites.  

For decades, the families that lived in these areas suffered serious health problems potentially linked to this contamination. It was only in 2009 that victims began to file Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits. 

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act was implemented as a means for these victims to finally seek justice and receive compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial burden they've endured. 

Potential Health Effects of Ingesting the Contaminated Water at Camp Lejeune 

Exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune has been linked to several chronic health conditions, including the following:

• Adult leukemia

• Aplastic anemia and other myelodysplastic syndromes

• Bladder cancer

• Kidney cancer

• Liver cancer

• Multiple myeloma

• Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

• Parkinson's disease

• Birth defects

• Miscarriages

Who Can File a Claim?

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act allows veterans and their families to seek compensation for health problems they believe are linked to the contaminated water exposure. 

Here are the categories of people who have the right to file a claim:

Military Service Personnel

Veterans (including activated reservists and National Guard members) who served at least 30 days at Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, and did not receive a dishonorable discharge are eligible.

Family Members

Family members who lived at Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River for at least 30 days during the same period may also be eligible, depending on the circumstances. 

This can include spouses, children (including unborn children who were conceived while the parent was stationed there), and even extended family members who resided in on-base housing.

What You Should Do to Build a Case

Building a strong case is based on your ability to present compelling evidence that links your health problems to the contaminated water exposure at Camp Lejeune. 

Here's what you can do:

Gather Military Records

Request a copy of your military medical records, particularly those from your time stationed at Camp Lejeune. Look for documentation of any illnesses or health concerns you experienced during that period.

Get Your VA Medical Records

If you've received treatment through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for any health conditions, these records can be valuable. Look for diagnoses, treatment history, and any service connection ratings assigned by the VA for conditions potentially related to the contaminated water.

Collect Civilian Medical Records

If you haven't received VA care or your military records are incomplete, gather any civilian medical records you have. These may include doctor's visit summaries, hospital discharge papers, test results, and specialist consultations related to your health conditions.

Document Your Health History

Create a timeline of your health concerns, including the onset of symptoms, diagnoses received, and any treatment you've undergone.

Hire a Lawyer for Your Case

A lawyer fiercely represents your interests and ensures your voice is heard. They'll fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for the hardships you've endured.

A good lawyer will take the time to listen to the story of your time at Camp Lejeune, the health struggles you face, and the impact these have had on you and your family. They'll approach your case with empathy and compassion and also recognize the emotional weight you carry.

When choosing a lawyer for your Camp Lejeune claim, look for someone who specializes in veterans' rights and has a proven track record of success in these cases. Someone who understands the complexities of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act and the unique challenges veterans face.