Welcome to our law firm blog. Today, we shed light on a significant piece of legislation that has had profound implications for veterans and their families: the Camp LeJeune Justice Act. As experienced attorneys, we are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of this litigation and advocate for the rights of those affected.
Understanding the Camp LeJeune Justice Act:
The Camp LeJeune Justice Act is a piece of legislation aimed at providing legal recourse to veterans and their families who were exposed to toxic water at Camp LeJeune, a large Marine Corps base in Onslow County, North Carolina. Between the 1953s and 1987, the base's water supply was contaminated with hazardous chemicals, including benzene, perchloroethylene (PCE), trichloroethylene (TCE), and vinyl chloride. Long-term exposure to these chemicals is linked to several serious health conditions, such as various cancer, neurological disorders, renal disease, birth defects and female infertility.
The Journey to Justice
For years, many victims of this contamination fought to seek justice for their suffering. However, statutes of limitations and statutes of repose often posed significant barriers, preventing many from filing lawsuits against the government and private businesses for their injuries, and/or lawsuits being dismissed with prejudice by federal courts.
The Camp LeJeune Justice Act resolved those issues. This legislation essentially "resets" the clock on the statute of limitations for those affected by the Camp LeJeune contamination. Specifically, those injured by the contaminated water have until August 10, 2024 to file an administrative claim and/or lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina for his or her injuries.
Additionally, an injured person does not have to prove liability against the US Government. The government admits liability, meaning, the US Government acknowledges that the water was contaminated. A claimant must only establish 30 days of exposure to the contaminated water between 1953-1987; and, that the exposure was at least as likely as not to have caused the injury. This burden of proof is lower than what is typically required in a civil case.
Camp LeJeune Justice Act Litigation
Following the enactment of the Camp LeJeune Justice Act, there has been a surge of litigation initiated by veterans and their family members seeking compensation for their injuries. The Act has given many people a renewed hope and a pathway to justice.
Our Role as Experienced Attorneys
As legal professionals with experience representing clients in federal court, Wilson Law, P.A. will help veterans and their families understand the intricacies of the Camp LeJeune Justice Act and its implications for their potential cases. Our aim is to ensure that those affected by the Camp LeJeune contamination receive the compensation they rightly deserve.
We guide our clients through the litigation process, facilitating the collection of necessary medical records, military records, and representing them aggressively during the administrative claims process or in federal court.
Challenges and Hope Ahead
While the Camp LeJeune Justice Act represents a significant step towards justice, the litigation process is not without its challenges. Proving the link between the contamination and health conditions can be complex and time-consuming. However, Kimberly Wilson White, founding partner of Wilson Law, P.A. has decades of experience working with medical and scientific experts in the area of oncology, toxicology and epidemiology.
Closing Thoughts
The Camp LeJeune Justice Act is a crucial milestone in the quest for justice for veterans and their families affected by the Camp LeJeune water contamination. As we strive to navigate this complex landscape, our commitment to fighting for the rights of those impacted remains unwavering. If you or a loved one have been affected by the Camp LeJeune contamination, do not hesitate to reach out to Wilson Law, P.A. to better understand your rights under the Camp LeJeune Justice Act.
Remember, the path to justice may be long, but with the right legal representation, there is always hope.
Call us to discuss your options under the Camp LeJeune Justice Act: 919-890-0180. Or, email Kimberly Wilson White at: kim@wilsonlawpa.com.