ACTIVE LAWSUIT!
Published by Free Consultation
If you or a loved one experienced cancer, kidney disease, or other serious health complications following exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.
At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping veterans and families who have suffered due to water contamination at Camp Lejeune. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Schmidt & Clark today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Call us by dialing (866) 588-0600.
Table Of Contents
- Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Overview
- Latest Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Updates
- FDA Reports and Statistics
- Camp Lejeune Injuries & Side Effects
- Do You Qualify for a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit?
- Camp Lejeune Recall Information
- Statute of Limitations for Camp Lejeune Lawsuits
- FAQs
- 1. What Percentage Do Lawyers Get for a Camp Lejeune Settlement?
- 2. What is the Average Settlement for Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?
- 3. How Long Does it Take to Receive Camp Lejeune Settlement Money?
- 4. Is Kidney Disease Part of Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?
- 5. What Medical Records Do I Need to Prove My Case?
- 6. Are There Long-Term Effects of Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?
- 7. Am I Still Eligible if I’m Already Receiving VA Benefits?
- 8. How is the Camp Lejeune Justice Act Different from Previous VA Programs?
- Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Overview
The Camp Lejeune lawsuit centers on water contamination that occurred at the U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina.
From 1953 to 1987, military personnel, their families, and civilian workers were exposed to toxic chemicals in the drinking water, including trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), benzene, and vinyl chloride.
The contamination has been linked to numerous serious health conditions, including various forms of cancer, kidney disease, and neurological disorders.
Over one million people may have been exposed to these dangerous chemicals during this period.
Latest Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Updates
- March 15, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has processed over 125,000 Camp Lejeune water contamination claims filed under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022, with over $6.5 billion in settlements paid to victims thus far. The average settlement for cancer-related claims ranges from $250,000 to $550,000.
- January 22, 2025 – A federal judge in the Eastern District of North Carolina approved a streamlined process for evaluating Camp Lejeune claims, allowing faster resolution for victims with specific qualifying conditions, including adult leukemia, bladder cancer, kidney cancer, and liver cancer.
- November 10, 2024 – The Navy announced an additional $3.6 billion in funding specifically for Camp Lejeune toxic water settlements, bringing the total allocated settlement funds to over $10 billion. This comes after mounting pressure from veterans’ advocacy groups who argued that initial settlement offers were insufficient.
- August 2, 2024 – The CDC released new data confirming that veterans exposed to Camp Lejeune’s contaminated water have a 40% higher risk of developing kidney and liver cancers compared to the general population. This data is expected to strengthen future claims.
FDA Reports and Statistics
According to FDA and CDC reports on the Camp Lejeune water contamination:
- Over 1 million military personnel, family members, and civilian employees were potentially exposed to contaminated water
- Nearly 65,000 adverse health events potentially linked to the contamination have been reported through the VA registry
- The contaminant levels were found to be up to 3,400 times higher than permitted safety standards
- At least 25,000 former residents have registered health complaints with the ATSDR (Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry)
Camp Lejeune Injuries & Side Effects
Exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune has been scientifically linked to numerous severe and life-threatening health conditions.
- Cancer: Adult leukemia, bladder cancer, lung cancer, liver cancer, kidney cancer, breast cancer, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and esophageal cancer
- Reproductive Issues: Miscarriage, female infertility, birth defects
- Neurological Disorders: Parkinson’s disease, neuropathy, neurobehavioral effects
- Other Serious Conditions: Renal toxicity, kidney disease, liver disease, scleroderma, aplastic anemia
Do You Qualify for a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a Camp Lejeune lawsuit if:
- You lived, worked, or were otherwise present at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 cumulative days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987
- You have been diagnosed with one or more qualifying conditions, including adult leukemia, bladder cancer, lung cancer, liver cancer, or other related illnesses
- You can provide documentation of your presence at Camp Lejeune during the qualifying period
- You can provide medical records confirming your diagnosis
The passage of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 has made it possible for victims to seek compensation, even decades after exposure.
Related Article: Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit
Evidence Required for a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit
To support your Camp Lejeune claim, you will need to gather:
- Military service records or other documentation proving your presence at Camp Lejeune during the contamination period
- Medical records confirming diagnosis of qualifying condition(s)
- Medical evidence linking your condition to toxic water exposure
- Documentation of medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages
Damages You Can Recover
Successful Camp Lejeune lawsuits may provide compensation for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering related to your illness
- Emotional distress and reduced quality of life
- Wrongful death damages for families who lost loved ones
- Punitive damages in certain cases
Related Articles:
- Camp Lejeune Parkinson’s Disease Lawsuit
- Camp Lejeune Kidney Cancer Suit
- Toxic Water Served for Decades
See the other toxic tort cases our attorneys have taken on.
Related Article: Camp Lejeune Hepatic Steatosis Lawsuit
Camp Lejeune Recall Information
While not a product recall in the traditional sense, the U.S. government has acknowledged the water contamination at Camp Lejeune and has taken steps to address the situation:
- In 1985, the most highly contaminated wells at Camp Lejeune were shut down
- In 1997, ATSDR began health studies on the effects of the contaminated water
- In 2012, the Janey Ensminger Act was passed to provide medical care to affected veterans and their families
- In 2022, the Camp Lejeune Justice Act was signed into law as part of the PACT Act, allowing victims to file lawsuits against the government
Statute of Limitations for Camp Lejeune Lawsuits
Under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022, victims have a limited window to file claims:
- Claims must be filed within two years of the Act’s passage (by August 10, 2024) or within two years of the date when the illness was discovered, whichever is later
- For those with pre-existing diagnoses, the deadline was August 10, 2024
- For newly diagnosed conditions, victims have two years from the date of diagnosis
- Some extensions may apply in certain circumstances
Don’t delay in seeking legal counsel, as these deadlines are strictly enforced.
FAQs
1. What Percentage Do Lawyers Get for a Camp Lejeune Settlement?
Most attorneys handling Camp Lejeune cases work on a contingency fee basis, typically taking 25-40% of the final settlement amount. This percentage may vary based on case complexity and whether the case goes to trial. Many firms offer free consultations and only collect payment if they win your case.
2. What is the Average Settlement for Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?
The average Camp Lejeune settlement amounts vary widely based on the specific illness and severity. Current data shows settlements ranging from $100,000 to $550,000, with higher amounts for severe cancers like adult leukemia, bladder cancer, liver cancer, and lung cancer. Settlements for kidney disease typically range from $160,000 to $400,000.
3. How Long Does it Take to Receive Camp Lejeune Settlement Money?
Most claimants receive their Camp Lejeune settlements within 6-12 months after claim approval. The timeline depends on case complexity, evidence quality, and administrative processing times. The government has implemented a fast-track system for claims involving specific presumptive conditions, potentially reducing wait times to 3-6 months.
4. Is Kidney Disease Part of Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?
Yes, kidney disease is recognized as a presumptive condition related to Camp Lejeune water contamination. Studies have shown that exposure to the chemicals present in the water, particularly TCE and PCE, significantly increases the risk of developing kidney disease and renal toxicity. The VA recognizes kidney cancer and other renal disorders as qualifying conditions.
5. What Medical Records Do I Need to Prove My Case?
To prove your Camp Lejeune case, you need medical records showing your diagnosis from a qualified healthcare provider, treatment history, and medical opinions linking your condition to toxic exposure. Important documents include diagnostic test results, pathology reports, treatment records, and physician statements establishing a connection between your illness and the contamination.
6. Are There Long-Term Effects of Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?
Yes, long-term effects of Camp Lejeune water contamination include increased cancer risks, persistent kidney and liver damage, neurological disorders, and reproductive issues. Studies by the ATSDR indicate that exposed individuals face elevated health risks decades after exposure, with some conditions manifesting 20-30 years later.
7. Am I Still Eligible if I’m Already Receiving VA Benefits?
Yes, you remain eligible for a Camp Lejeune lawsuit even if you’re already receiving VA benefits. The Camp Lejeune Justice Act specifically allows veterans to pursue legal claims in addition to their VA benefits. However, any settlement amount may be offset by disability benefits previously received for the same condition.
8. How is the Camp Lejeune Justice Act Different from Previous VA Programs?
The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 differs from previous VA programs by allowing victims to file lawsuits directly against the government, something previously prohibited. It establishes a clear legal pathway for compensation beyond medical care, includes family members and civilians who were exposed, and provides for potential recovery of non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
Time is limited to pursue legal action for Camp Lejeune water contamination. Under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022, you generally have only two years from the Act’s enactment or from the date your condition was diagnosed to file your claim.
Our services include:
- Free, confidential consultations with experienced attorneys
- No upfront costs or legal fees
- Comprehensive case evaluation by specialists in Camp Lejeune litigation
- Payment only if we win your case
Don’t let the statute of limitations expire on your right to compensation. The Camp Lejeune Justice Act provides a unique but temporary opportunity to seek justice for decades of suffering.