Wisconsin Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

For decades, the water at Camp Lejeune was contaminated with toxic chemicals, impacting thousands of people and leading to severe health conditions.

For Wisconsin residents who were affected, the battle for justice in the form of a Wisconsin Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit has been long and arduous.

If you or someone you care about has been adversely affected due to exposure to the contaminated water of Camp Lejeune, our dedicated team at Schmidt & Clark, LLP, is ready to extend our support.

As a law firm with a national reputation for specializing in plaintiff’s cases, our main objective is to help you obtain the justice and rightful compensation you are entitled to.

Wisconsin Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 stands as a powerful ally for Wisconsin residents impacted by the water contamination. This important legislation provides a means to pursue compensation through court action, offering support to those dealing with the aftermath of the contamination.

The Act creates a route for compensation for individuals who resided in Wisconsin, developed particular types of cancer, and lived or worked at Camp Lejeune from 1953 to 1987. The stakes are high.

The cost of healthcare is on the rise, making it difficult to anticipate the amount of money needed to cover medical costs, especially for those dealing with severe illnesses due to toxic exposure at Camp Lejeune.

Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit, pursued under the Federal Tort Claims Act, strives to offer compensation for these medical costs and additional damages. However, the journey to justice is not without its challenges.

The process of filing a Camp Lejeune lawsuit requires meticulous preparation, including gathering substantial evidence and working with competent legal representation in Camp Lejeune litigation.

Also Read: Toxic Water Served for Decades

Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Justice Act of 2022

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 represents a major landmark in the struggle for justice for Camp Lejeune victims, particularly those affected by the Camp Lejeune water contamination [1].

The Act enables Wisconsin residents, including Camp Lejeune veterans, to submit claims for illnesses resulting from exposure to polluted water at the Marine Corps base.

The procedure to file a claim under the Act follows a strict protocol. Plaintiffs must first submit their claim to the Department of Defense, the appropriate federal agency for Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits. This agency then has six months to approve or reject the claim.

If the claim is denied, plaintiffs may then pursue a civil lawsuit based on wrongful death and survival claims under North Carolina law. This process, albeit complex, provides a much-needed avenue for victims to seek compensation.

Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Updates

Staying updated on the recent developments in the Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits is crucial for those impacted. Currently, lawyers representing the US government and plaintiffs have requested that the cases be consolidated under one judge or that the Court oversee pre-trial proceedings in the litigation in a coordinated fashion.

Moreover, the government has allocated a whopping $22 billion for Camp Lejeune settlements. This figure underscores the gravity of the situation and the commitment of the government to provide justice to the victims.

However, it is important to note that since the first claimants became eligible in February, the volume of Camp Lejeune civil lawsuits filed each month has been steadily decreasing.

The Cause Of the Contamination in the Groundwater at Camp Lejeune

Grasping the origin of the contamination is a key step in the pursuit of justice. Investigations into the Camp Lejeune water contamination have revealed that it was primarily caused by three sources:

1. The use of harsh chemicals for military gear cleaning by on-base divisions
2. A drycleaning facility located in the vicinity
3. A substantial fuel leak of 800,000 gallons from underground fuel tanks at Camp Lejeune.

Each of these sources contributed to the pollution of the water supply, leading to widespread health issues among the residents of the base. This contamination was not a one-off event but a sustained exposure to harmful chemicals over several decades.

Among the chemicals found in the groundwater, PCE was identified as the most influential factor in the water contamination and the resulting injuries and fatalities at Camp Lejeune. This revelation underscores the gravity of the situation and the devastating impacts of unchecked pollution.

Related Article: What Caused Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?

What Toxic Chemicals Were Found in the Groundwater at Camp Lejeune?

Toxic chemicals that were found in the groundwater at Camp Lejeune include Benzene, PCE (perchloroethylene), and TCE (trichloroethylene) in concentrations 340 – 2400 times higher than the safe exposure levels for humans [2]. These chemicals are known for their harmful effects on human health, particularly when exposure is prolonged.

One should be aware that exposure to these chemicals heightens the risks of:

• cancer
• injuries to unborn children

Research has also indicated that Benzene may be linked to:

• Leukemias
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Health Issues Due To Exposure to These Chemicals

The contact with toxic chemicals in Camp Lejeune’s water supply has resulted in numerous health problems among the base’s residents. Research has indicated that exposure to PCE in Camp Lejeune’s water supply may be linked to:

• Reproductive Issues
• Birth Defects
• Leukemia
• Multiple Myeloma
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Bladder Cancer
• Kidney Cancer
• Liver Cancer
• Renal Toxicity
• Esophageal Cancer
• Breast Cancer
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
• Hepatic Steatosis
• Prostate Cancer
• Miscarriage Fetal Death
• Neurobehavioral Effects
• Lung Cancer
• Scleroderma
• Aplastic Anemia
• Cervical Cancer

These health issues not only affect the quality of life of the victims but also place a heavy financial burden on them due to the high costs of medical care, reinforcing the importance of seeking compensation through the Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits.

Who Qualifies For A Wisconsin Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Settlement?

Individuals who resided at the Marine Corps Base for a minimum of 30 days during the contamination period, active duty and former service members, family members of deceased persons, families of in-utero victims who were not born yet when residing at Camp Lejeune, and non-military personnel residing on the base.

“Any person who believes they qualify for relief under the CLJA must first submit a claim to the Department of the Navy.”- U.S. Navy Office of Information

This broad range of eligibility criteria ensures that all those affected by the contamination have a chance to seek justice. However, it is important to note that each claimant must provide substantial documentary evidence to establish their residency criteria for a Camp Lejeune civil lawsuit.

Damages That You Can Recover From a Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

Victims of the Camp Lejeune water contamination have the right to pursue compensation for a variety of damages. These include compensation for:

• Medical expenses related to the treatment of these illnesses
• Loss of income and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Punitive Damages
• Wrongful death (in cases where the contamination resulted in death)

The amount of compensation awarded depends on the extent of the victim’s injuries and the ability of the drinking water contamination lawyer to link the injuries or death to toxic water.

Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit Settlement Amounts in Wisconsin

The Camp Lejeune settlement figures for the water contamination lawsuits in Wisconsin present a key element of the victims’ legal journey. These amounts are determined based on several factors, including the extent of the victim’s injuries and the ability of the drinking water contamination lawyer to link the injuries or death to toxic water.

The government has allocated a significant sum for Camp Lejeune settlements – a staggering $22 billion. This underscores the magnitude of the issue and the government’s commitment to providing relief to the victims.

However, it is important to note that obtaining this compensation is not a straightforward process. Each claimant must navigate a complex legal landscape, and the success of their case depends largely on the strength of their evidence and the competence of their legal representation.

Potential Outcomes for Current and Future Wisconsin Camp Lejeune Claims

With the ongoing legal developments, the outcomes for current and future Wisconsin Camp Lejeune claims could be influenced. Recent legal developments include updates in the Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits and the resistance to the government’s attempt to prohibit jury trials for the victims.

These developments could potentially sway the outcomes in favor of the plaintiffs, enabling them to secure more advantageous terms in their lawsuits.

Recent Payouts and Precedents in Camp Lejeune Lawsuits

Recent payouts and legal precedents in Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits may impact Wisconsin residents’ claims. Since the first claimants became eligible in February, the volume of Camp Lejeune civil lawsuits filed each month has been steadily decreasing.

However, the government has allocated a whopping $22 billion for Camp Lejeune settlements, demonstrating the government’s commitment to compensating the victims.

Filing a Wisconsin Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

To file a Camp Lejeune claim is a significant move towards seeking justice for Wisconsin residents affected by the Camp Lejeune water contamination. The process involves consulting with a lawyer and submitting a brief online contact form.

The procedure to file a lawsuit is not a simple task. It requires meticulous preparation, gathering substantial evidence, and working with competent legal representation. However, despite these challenges, the pursuit of justice is a worthy endeavor.

Gathering Evidence for Your Camp Lejeune Claim

Collecting evidence is a vital part of the process when filing a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit. Submitting a lawsuit necessitates a considerable amount of evidence and documentation, including:

• Medical records
• Evidence of exposure to contaminated water
• Documentation of health issues linked to the contamination
• Any other pertinent supporting documents.

The Role of Medical Records in Proving Camp Lejeune Water-Related Illnesses

Medical records bear significant importance in establishing illnesses linked to Camp Lejeune water contamination.

These records provide crucial evidence of the health conditions that individuals have acquired due to exposure to polluted water at Camp Lejeune.

Doctors’ diagnoses give medical proof of the particular illnesses or conditions, aiding in establishing a connection between the illness and the water contamination.

Related Articles:

• West Virginia Camp Lejune Water Contamination Lawsuit
• Virginia Camp Lejune Water Contamination
• Washington Dakota Camp Lejune Water Contamination Lawsuit

See all related toxic tort lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

FAQs

1. What Resources Are Available to Assist With Filing a Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit?

Legal assistance from specialized attorneys, veterans’ organizations, and online resources are available to help individuals file Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits and navigate the legal process.

2. What Are the Long-Term Health Impacts of the Chemicals Found in Camp Lejeune’s Water?

Long-term health impacts include various cancers, neurological disorders, reproductive issues, and other chronic diseases linked to chemicals like TCE, PCE, benzene, and vinyl chloride.

3. How Can Individuals Prove Their Exposure to Contaminated Water at Camp Lejeune?

Individuals can prove exposure by providing military service records, employment documents, and medical records showing residency or work at Camp Lejeune during contamination periods.

4. Are There Any Class Action Lawsuits for Camp Lejeune Water Contamination That Wisconsin Residents Can Join?

Yes, Wisconsin residents may join existing class action lawsuits, which consolidate claims to streamline the legal process and potentially increase the chances of compensation.

Get Your Free Consultation From Wisconsin Camp Lejeune Water Lawyers

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP we are committed to providing support during challenging times. If you, or someone you care about, have experienced harm due to exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, don’t hesitate to contact us.

We believe in your right to be fully informed about your legal rights and potential eligibility for a Camp Lejeune cancer lawsuit. Please note that our consultations are always free, and we only charge if we successfully secure a favorable outcome for your case.

Get in touch with Schmidt & Clark today for a thorough assessment of your case. Allow us to be your reliable ally in this journey.

Reference:

1. https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/veteranservices/learning/pact-act-2022/-pact-act-va-fact-sheets/2022_NVLSP_Camp_LeJeune_FAQ_.pdf
2. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/sites/lejeune/chem_descriptions.html