Camp Lejeune

At the U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, hundreds of thousands of residents were exposed to contaminated drinking water over a period of four decades, increasing their risk of developing cancer and other serious illnesses.

Contact JMW Solicitors today to discuss whether you are able to make a claim, call us on 0345 872 6666 or complete our online enquiry form and one of our specialists will be in touch.

What happened at Camp Lejeune?

Two of Camp Lejeune's eight wells were contaminated between 1953 and 1987 with dangerous chemicals that are known to cause cancer and other serious illnesses. Local children in childcare or school, military families who used the water for drinking and bathing, hospital patients, and service members and civilian employees at their places of employment all ingested polluted drinking water from these wells. The contaminated water at Camp Lejeune has been connected to 15 various diseases, including many types of cancer, reproductive issues, birth deformities, and Parkinson's disease.

For many years, Camp Lejeune residents and employees were unaware that contaminated water on the base had exposed them to dangerous substances. However, thousands of military families have suffered serious illness, permanent disabilities or the loss of a loved one as a result of the water poisoning at Camp Lejeune.

But throughout the years, victims of Camp Lejeune water poisoning were unable to seek compensation from the US government due to legal restrictions, leaving them without any recourse to justice.

However, in August 2022, President Biden passed the “Camp Lejeune Justice Act” which has opened the door to support and compensation for those affected by the contaminated water.

If you or a loved one spent 30 days or more stationed at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987, you may be entitled to compensation. Since claims must be filed by 10th August 2024, it is crucial to seek legal advice as soon as possible.

How JMW Can Help

We have extensive experience of dealing with military claims, with a team in place who specialise in dealing with claims made by service personnel and their families. We understand the unique aspects of service life and the evidence needed to bring a successful military claim.

The military solicitors at JMW will work to get you the best possible result. We will assess your case and advise you on your right to claim compensation. Our solicitors will explain the whole claims process so that you understand exactly what will happen once liability has been accepted by the defendants, and you will receive advice throughout to give you peace of mind that you have the best available representation.

FAQs

What led to Camp Lejeune water contamination?

Toxic chemicals were found in the water supplied by two main water treatments plans.

Who was affected by Camp Lejeune water contamination?

At Camp Lejeune, not all of the water was carcinogenic. People who lived and worked in regions served by Hadnot Point and Tarawa Terrace, two of the major water distribution systems, were exposed to hazardous substances and carcinogens in their drinking and bathing water. At Camp Lejeune, there were barracks, family housing (both temporary and permanent), daycares, schools, and a large number of workplaces. Toxins in the water at Camp Lejeune may have had an impact on anyone who spent at least 30 days living or working in an area served by these water distribution systems.

Who can make a Camp Lejeune water contamination claim?

Any veteran or family member who, after living or working at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days between 1st August 1953 and 31st December 1987, has developed serious diseases or illnesses as a result of being exposed to the contaminated water may be eligible to make a claim. If your loved one died as a result of their exposure, you may be able to bring a claim on behalf of their estate.

How much time do I have to file a Camp Lejeune lawsuit?

Since claims must be filed within two years starting on August 10, 2022, under the new US law, it is crucial to seek legal advice as soon as possible.