On August 2, 2022, the U.S. Senate voted to pass the Camp Lejeune Justice Act as part of the PACT Act, or The Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act. The PACT Act was signed into law by President Biden on August 10, 2022, thereby allowing those who were harmed by contaminated water at Camp Lejeune military base to sue the U.S. government. Family members of deceased water contamination victims can also seek damages for the financial and emotional losses associated with their loved one’s passing.
From 1953 to 1987, the water supply at Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, North Carolina was contaminated by several toxic chemicals, including:
- Tetrachloroethylene (PCE or PERC)
- Trichloroethylene (TCE)
- Benzene
- Vinyl chloride
U.S. military officials were made aware of the problem, but they refused to do anything about it. Due to their negligence, many Camp Lejeune residents and workers were injured or developed life-threatening illnesses, such as kidney cancer. Perhaps you are one of these victims and have found yourself wondering, “I was stationed at Camp Lejeune and I have kidney cancer. What are the steps I need to take?” It’s hard to know where to turn, especially when this is a relatively new legislation concerning events that go back many years. Rest assured that our lawyers are here to assist you and recover the damages you deserve from a Camp Lejeune kidney cancer diagnosis lawsuit.
What is Kidney Cancer?
Kidney cancer is a type of cancer that develops in your kidneys due to an abnormal growth of cells. Eventually, the cells will turn into a tumor, which can spread to your other vital organs. Many cases of kidney cancer go undetected in the early stages. However, the following symptoms may appear as the disease progresses:
- Pain in the vicinity of your kidneys
- Blood in the urine
- Being tired all the time
- High blood pressure
- Appetite loss
- Unexpected weight loss
- A lump or mass on the side of your torso / lower back
- Fevers not caused by an infection
- Bone pain
- Anemia
It’s important to seek medical attention right away if you have these symptoms, as early detection is the best way to improve your chance of recovery. Certain risk factors, such as your age, overall health, and lifestyle choices can increase your risk for kidney cancer. However, the disease can also develop from being exposed to carcinogens, like benzene, vinyl chloride, and PCE / PERC chemicals. It was known for many years that the water supply at Camp Lejeune was contaminated with these toxins.
Am I Eligible for a Camp Lejeune Compensation Claim?
Your eligibility for a Camp Lejeune lawsuit will be determined by your ability to prove the following requirements:
- You were a resident or worker at Camp Lejeune for a minimum of thirty days during August 1, 1953 to December 31, 1987.
- Your family member stayed at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days during the contamination period and died prematurely from the effects of kidney cancer.
- You or your loved was not dishonorably discharged from the U.S. military.
Please note that you do not need to be former military to participate in a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit. The Camp Lejeune Justice Act allows anyone who lived or worked at the base from August 1, 1953, to December 31, 1987, for at least 30 days, exposed to the contaminated water and suffered injuries, to file a claim against the U.S. government. Whether you were a civilian employee, visitor, etc., you may still be eligible for a lawsuit as long as you meet the conditions listed above.
Average Value for Kidney Cancer Diagnosis Camp Lejeune Lawsuits
Kidney cancer is a particularly devastating disease due to the toll it takes on your body. Frankly, we expect to see high settlements with these cases, though it’s too early to say what the average Camp Lejeune kidney cancer claim is worth. But if we go by previous lawsuits with similar elements, we estimate that a good number of lawsuits will result in payments ranging from $150,000 to $750,000. Depending on the severity of health complications and what it takes away from the victims’ life, a case may be worth $1 million or more.
Keep in mind that these are only estimates, and that your own case value is based on many factors that are unique to your own circumstances. For a more accurate value of your own Camp Lejeune kidney cancer claim, please take some time to speak with one of our attorneys.
Should I join a Class Action Lawsuit or File my Own Individual Lawsuit?
We expect to see a class action lawsuit for Camp Lejeune kidney cancer victims in the near future. After all, over a million people were affected by water contamination at Camp Lejeune, so it stands to reason that there are many others victims with your condition. We can help you start a class action or join one of these lawsuits as it becomes available. Then again, it’s a good idea to consider all your legal options, as it may be more beneficial to file a lawsuit on your own. But you won’t know for sure until you speak with one of our lawyers. For a free consultation, contact our office at your earliest convenience.
Statute of Limitations for a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit
Aside from questions about the type of legal action you should take, you are probably curious to know, “Is there a time period to file a lawsuit / join a class action lawsuit?”
Yes, all Camp Lejeune injury or wrongful death lawsuits must be filed within 2 years from August 10, 2022, which is the signing date of the PACT Act. If you are diagnosed with kidney cancer at a later date, you have two years to seek damages from the date of diagnosis. Remember that you must file an injury claim and request compensation directly from the federal government before you can file a lawsuit. That means you will need to leave enough time to prepare and file a lawsuit with the appropriate court system. When you look at it that way, two years is not much time at all, so it’s essential to initiate the claims process right away.
How long does it take to Settle these Cases?
Depending on the circumstances in your case, we may be able to settle your Camp Lejeune claim within 6 to 8 months. Some claims may be settled in as little as a few months, depending on how fast the federal agency gets back to us. On the other hand, your case may have complicated issues that can only be resolved through a lawsuit. At that point, there is more work involved as we will have to prepare for the possibility of going to trial. As a result, it may take around two or more years to settle your case.
Where is the Lawsuit Filed?
Camp Lejeune cancer cases are especially complicated as they involve a government agency. There are many strict rules concerning the filing of a government claim, including where the lawsuit has to be filed. The court in charge of handling Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits is the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina. This is just one of many rules that set these cases apart from the average personal injury lawsuit. It can be difficult to comply with all the terms set forth by the PACT Act, but our attorneys are here for you every step of the way. We will take care of all the work that’s needed for your claim and fight tirelessly for the settlement you deserve.
Help from a Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit Attorney
For over thirty years, the U.S. military engaged in acts of negligence that put the lives of countless people at risk. With the passing of the PACT Act, cancer victims and their loved ones can finally achieve justice for their harm and suffering. However, many claimants are hesitant to seek legal advice due to the cost of retaining an attorney.
At Normandie Law Firm, you are never charged upfront for our services. In fact, we don’t get paid at all unless we win your case. In the event we don’t recover your settlement, you owe us absolutely nothing as a promise under our Zero fee guarantee. In short, there is never any risk to you and your finances. Since there is nothing to lose, please take some time to speak with one of our attorneys. We look forward to meeting you and fighting for the payment you are entitled to.
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