AI Insights Key Takeaways
- Important update: the Camp Lejeune Justice Act filing deadline was August 10, 2024. The U.S. Department of the Navy is no longer accepting new administrative claims under the Act.
- If you filed a claim on time, it may still be in process — and if a timely-filed claim was denied, you generally have 180 days from the denial to appeal in court.
- If you already filed and need help checking your claim's status or appealing a denial, Schehr Law PLLC can help — free consultation, no fee unless we recover for you.
General information, not legal advice. Every case is different — talk to an attorney about yours.
From 1953 to 1987, countless individuals stationed at Camp Lejeune were exposed to toxic chemicals in the water supply, an exposure later linked to serious illnesses. The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 opened a two-year window to file claims — but that window closed on August 10, 2024, and the U.S. Department of the Navy is no longer accepting new administrative claims. If you already filed a timely claim, Schehr Law PLLC — serving Charlotte and veterans and families throughout North Carolina — can help you with its status and, if a claim was denied, with an appeal.
Overview of the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination
The water contamination at Camp Lejeune has a deep-rooted history. It was caused by hazardous chemicals such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), benzene, trichloroethylene (TCE), and perchloroethylene (PCE), which seeped into the water supply from various sources, including leaking storage tanks and improper waste disposal practices. This contamination spanned over three decades, from the 1950s to the 1980s, affecting thousands of military personnel, their families, and civilian workers.
Health Impacts of Contamination
The health consequences of exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune are profound. Victims have reported numerous health issues, including various forms of cancer (such as leukemia and bladder cancer), neurological disorders, and birth defects. These health problems have significantly impacted the quality of life of the affected individuals, often resulting in long-term medical treatments and ongoing health complications. Proper medical documentation is essential to support a claim and ensure victims receive appropriate compensation.
Legal Rights and Compensation
People who filed timely Camp Lejeune claims have specific legal rights as those claims are reviewed and resolved. Compensation can include coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Because the filing window has closed, the focus now is on moving already-filed claims forward and, where a timely claim was denied, pursuing an appeal within the applicable deadline.
How Schehr Law PLLC Can Help
At Schehr Law PLLC, we provide legal support to people who have already filed Camp Lejeune claims, advocating for their rights as the claim moves forward. Our services include:
- Free claim review — a no-cost review of your already-filed claim and your options.
- Gathering evidence and documentation — meticulously collecting and organizing evidence and medical records to support your claim.
- Managing the claim as it proceeds — handling the paperwork and communications as your timely-filed claim is reviewed.
- Negotiating settlements — negotiating with the responsible parties to secure fair compensation.
- Appeals and court representation — if a timely-filed claim is denied, pursuing the appeal and representing you in federal court.
Our client-centered approach focuses on personalized legal strategies tailored to each client’s unique circumstances. We provide regular updates and maintain clear communication throughout the process, demonstrating our commitment to achieving the best possible outcome.
Where Your Claim Goes From Here
New administrative claims can no longer be filed, but timely-filed claims are still being reviewed and resolved. Here is what the process looks like from this point.
If You Already Filed
- Confirm your claim's status — locate your filing and any correspondence from the government so you know where the claim stands.
- Keep your records current — continue gathering medical evaluations and documentation that support your claim.
Administrative Review & Settlement
- Responding to the review — provide the evidence and information the government requests as it evaluates your claim.
- Negotiating a resolution — where appropriate, we negotiate with the responsible parties to seek fair compensation.
Appealing a Denied Claim
- The 180-day window — if a timely-filed claim is denied, you generally have 180 days from the denial to file suit in federal court.
- Gathering additional evidence — collect further evidence to strengthen the appeal.
- Court representation — we represent clients in federal court to protect their rights.
Why Choose Schehr Law PLLC
Choosing the right law firm can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Our team has a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by Camp Lejeune victims and knows how to navigate the legal landscape effectively. We have represented numerous clients and take a strategic, thoroughly prepared approach to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. At every step, we treat each client with compassion and respect, developing a customized legal strategy and keeping you informed and involved throughout the process.
Contact Schehr Law PLLC for a Free Case Evaluation
The sooner you consult an experienced attorney, the sooner you can take control of your life again. We handle the complexities of your legal claim, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we push for the full compensation you deserve. For dedicated assistance from a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawyer in Charlotte, NC, contact us today or call (704) 900-0336 to schedule a free, confidential case evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still file a new Camp Lejeune Justice Act claim?
No. The filing deadline under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act was August 10, 2024, and the U.S. Department of the Navy is no longer accepting new administrative claims under the Act.
I already filed a Camp Lejeune claim. Can Schehr Law PLLC help?
Yes. If you filed a timely claim, we can help you understand its status and represent you as it moves through the administrative review and, if needed, the court process.
My Camp Lejeune claim was denied. What are my options?
If a timely-filed administrative claim was denied, you generally have 180 days from the denial to file suit in federal court. We can review the denial and handle the appeal.
Who was affected by the Camp Lejeune water contamination?
Service members, their families, and civilian workers who lived or worked at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987 may have been exposed to contaminated drinking water linked to serious illnesses.
How much does it cost to hire Schehr Law PLLC?
We work on a contingency fee basis, so there are no upfront fees. We are only paid if we recover for you, keeping our interests aligned with yours.