For decades, those who lived or worked at Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base unknowingly faced a hidden danger: toxic water contamination.
If you or a loved one were infected, there’s been a flurry of news in 2024 about the landmark lawsuit. As we step into 2024, the question on everyone’s mind is whether this year will bring closure and justice, or prolong the anguish for those affected. The truth is, it’s all a bit confusing. There are some promising developments, whereas others are causing new worries.
In this blog post, we’ll look at what happened this year and what it means to get justice.
Understanding the Camp Lejeune Lawsuit
Camp Lejeune, a United States Marine Corps camp in North Carolina, made headlines due to decades-long water contamination, exposing thousands of military personnel and their families to toxic chemicals.
The legal battle that ensued seeks accountability and compensation for the health issues stemming from this environmental disaster. Plaintiffs allege that the contamination led to several health issues, including cancer, birth defects, and psychological impairments, among others.
To be considered for the Camp Lejeune lawsuit, you should have lived, worked, or been otherwise exposed at the base for a minimum of 30 days from 1953 to 1987.
Those who have a valid claim may be entitled to financial compensation. This includes military members and their family members, civilian employees, and even individuals who may have been visiting the base during that time. As for the question of what is the average payout for the Camp Lejeune lawsuit, the answer is not that simple.
The settlement amounts can vary significantly based on the specific health conditions and the extent of the individual’s exposure. However, TorHoerman Law estimates that the average payout could range from $10,000 to $1,000,000, depending on the severity of the claims. If you believe you might have a claim, it’s crucial to understand this legal process and how it affects your right to compensation.
What Health Conditions Are Covered by the Camp Lejeune Lawsuit?
The Camp Lejeune lawsuit covers over 16 water contamination illnesses. This includes various types of cancer, scleroderma, infertility, and neurological disorders like ALS and Parkinson’s disease. The list of covered conditions is extensive, reflecting the far-reaching impact of the environmental disaster.
Setbacks Continue for the Victims
While there were some positive steps forward in 2023, 2024 welcomed Camp Lejeune victims with some major setbacks.
A concerning 2024 Reuters report reveals that the victims seeking compensation are running out of options. The legal battle has taken a frustrating turn as judges denied jury trials for victims. Instead, the judges will preside over the trials. This comes as a massive shock for victims who were hoping for jury trials as it could lead to better compensation.
The ruling adds devastating uncertainty for people whose health was already compromised by the contaminated water. The news received anger and disappointment from the affected via Facebook groups. However, the plaintiffs’ leadership team will be appealing against this result. Ed Bell, the lead lawyer for the plaintiffs, revealed via email that they will continue with cases and seek trials as soon as possible.
Moreover, there’s a growing resentment about the elective option (EO) payouts being much lower than what a jury might award. This is evident from the fact that 56 EO settlement offers were made, of which only 17 were accepted. In total, payments of $5,950,000 have been issued. The US Department of Justice also opted not to make a statement.
Furthermore, family members of those directly exposed are finding it more difficult to file claims. These secondary victims, who may have also suffered health consequences, face stricter requirements to prove their connection to Camp Lejeune. The sluggish pace of this lawsuit and the countless sets of requirements are causing victims to lose any hope of a reasonable settlement.
As of April 2024, the Department of Justice reports over 1,660 Camp Lejeune claims still awaiting resolution. Moreover, just about 176,665 administrative claims made with the Navy are outstanding. This backlog underscores the slow pace of the legal process and the prolonged suffering endured by victims.
No wonder, it just adds yet another burden to those already struggling with health challenges.
How Long Do Camp Lejeune Claims Take to Process?
The processing time for Camp Lejeune claims can vary, but the Veterans Affairs Dept. estimates it may take up to a year or more to review and approve eligible claims. This is due to the sheer volume of claims and the need for thorough investigation and verification of each case.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you intend to file a Camp Lejeune lawsuit, the 2024 updates make action even more urgent. Deadlines are a real concern, and the legal landscape continues to shift.
It’s understandable to have questions about payouts, but the focus must also be on preserving your right to even file a complaint. If you already have a case pending, these changes might cause delays or alter the potential settlement amount. Stay in communication with your attorney, as they’ll be closely monitoring the situation and advise you on any steps you need to take.
What Is the Deadline to Submit a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit?
The cut-off date to submit a Camp Lejeune lawsuit is August 10th, 2024, two years after the passage of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act. This deadline is crucial, as it represents the final opportunity for those affected to seek justice and compensation for the harm they have endured.
In conclusion, the Camp Lejeune lawsuit is far from over. The developments of 2024 show that the fight for justice will likely have ups and downs for years to come.
As we look to the future, we must maintain the momentum and camaraderie within the veteran community. It’s up to us to ensure that the voices of those affected are heard and that the necessary resources and support are provided. It is only by working together that we can transform the heartbreak of the past into a future filled with hope, and marked by meaningful reforms.