Signed into law on August 10, 2022, the Camp Lejeune Justice Act is a significant component of the “Honoring Our PACT Act.” This legislation empowers individuals to file claims for recovery and damages due to injuries caused by exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. Specifically, those who resided or worked at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, have the right to pursue damages.
Developed collaboratively by the Justice Department and the Department of the Navy, the Elective Option serves as an expedient way to settle Camp Lejeune Justice Act claims. Compared to traditional lawsuits, this transparent process aims for quicker resolutions.
To initiate any claim, including one under the Elective Option, individuals must first file an administrative claim form with the Department of the Navy. As of September 2023, the Navy has received more than 93,000 Camp Lejeune Justice Act claims.
The Elective Option targets specific criteria such as the type of injury, illness, or condition, and the length of time spent at Camp Lejeune, allowing for quicker validation and settlement of claims.
The Department of the Navy will offer settlements to those with diseases or conditions linked to the contaminants at Camp Lejeune by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). These conditions fall under either Tier 1 or Tier 2 based on the strength of the causation evidence.
Under the Elective Option, settlements vary based on the type of condition and the duration of residency or work at Camp Lejeune. Tier 1 and Tier 2 conditions have different settlement tiers, including additional amounts for death or wrongful death claims.
Settlements under the Camp LeJeune Elective Option should not affect existing or future VA disability benefits or medical care eligibility.
Berry Law has Marines and lawyers on staff to answer your calls at 910-713-1881. We are here to guide you through the complex claims process.
The Act allows you to file claims with the Department of the Navy for damages due to water contamination at Camp Lejeune.
Individuals exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987 who also suffer from specified conditions can file a claim.
Call Berry Law’s Marines at 910-713-1881 to get started with your claim form.
The Navy has not consistently reviewed claims within the six-month time frame stipulated by the Act.
Settlements under the Elective Option range from $100,000 to $550,000 based on your condition and time spent at Camp Lejeune.
Conditions range from Kidney Cancer to Systemic Sclerosis or Scleroderma.
Elective Option payments will not affect your VA benefits.
You have the option to file a lawsuit in Federal court.
No, you can wait for the Department of the Navy to review your claim.
No, if you’re eligible, you must file a separate claim with the Department of the Navy.
For more information, reach out to Berry Law at 910-713-1881. We are committed to helping you navigate through the complexities of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act and the Elective Option.
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