For over three decades, harmful chemicals have contaminated the water supply at Camp Lejeune, a Marine Corps military base in Jacksonville, North Carolina. Most military service members were exposed to polluted water at Camp Lejeune.
Suppose you or a loved one served at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days between 1 August 1953 and 31 December 1987 and developed a condition or disease linked to the water contamination, then you can get compensation from the US government. Here is the list of diseases that are eligible for compensation:
- Cancers
- Female Infertility and Miscarriage
- Birth Defects
- Heart Disease
- Parkinson’s Disease
However, getting this compensation requires a lot of evidence, paperwork, and legal experience. It is one of the main reasons why you need an experienced attorney who can help you file a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit.
In this article, we will share some of the reasons why hiring a Camp Lejeune attorney is beneficial for your case.
Familiar with Military Laws and Expertise in Environmental Contamination Cases
Camp Lejeune has a specific set of military laws and regulations that vary from civilian jurisdictions. Basically, Camp Lejeune attorneys have a good understanding of these military laws. At the same time, they also have experience in handling environmental contamination cases. They have a good understanding of the complex science behind contamination claims and hold these liable parties. So an attorney will help victims get compensation and justice for health problems related to exposure.
File Your Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Claim Without Errors
An experienced attorney will help you avoid the common mistakes that could delay or reject your claim. They will guide you in gathering the necessary evidence to prove your eligibility. The following documents are important in a Camp Lejeune water contamination claim:
- Documents proving time at Camp Lejeune
- Military service records that indicate locations and dates served
- Medical and travel records
- Records on VA benefits or disability benefits
They will help you fill out the required forms and submit them to the appropriate agency, whether it is the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Moreover, they can also help the surviving family members file wrongful death claims.
Argue with VA on Your Behalf
An attorney can argue with the VA on your behalf and protect your rights. The VA may deny or delay claims, especially for Camp Lejeune veterans who have been exposed to the contaminated water.
The attorney will help you avoid the hassles of dealing with the VA and make sure your claim is handled fairly. Here are the ways an attorney can help you:
- Appeal a denied or low claim
- Request a higher disability rating
- Request a hearing before a VA judge
- Present new and relevant evidence to support your claim
- Challenge any errors or inaccuracies in your claim file
Help You Meet the Deadline for a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit
The Camp Lejeune Justice Act has a strict statute of limitations that requires victims to file their cases by August 10, 2024. So, the plaintiff has just two years from the date the Camp Lejeune Justic Act of 2022 was passed.
A Camp Lejeune attorney can help you meet the deadline for filing a case by:
- Keeping track of the relevant dates and deadlines for your claim
- Preparing and submitting your claim documents in a timely manner
- Communicating with the DOJ and the court on your behalf
- Advising you on the best course of action
Final Thoughts
Hiring a Camp Lejeune attorney can benefit your case in many ways. Keep in mind that an experienced attorney can provide you the legal assistance and representation you need to get the justice and fair compensation.
