Camp Lejeune Settlement

Veterans, military personnel, workers and their families were exposed to toxic water at North Carolina’s Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune from Aug. 1953 through Dec. 1987. People harmed by the contaminated water may be able to receive a payout for their injuries. Learn more about the facts of a Camp Lejeune settlement.

What is a Camp Lejeune settlement?

The water contamination at Camp Lejeune harmed thousands of veterans, military workers and their families. The passage of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 opened a window for people harmed by the toxic water to seek compensation for their injuries. 

Because the bill was so highly publicized, some of the information currently circulating about how it operates and what people can expect is not accurate. In fact, some lawyers promising high Camp Lejeune water contamination settlement amounts may be part of a Camp Lejeune scam. 

Some payouts have been made to people who filed claims through the U.S. Navy. Settlements have also been reached to resolve litigation filed by a number of victims, while many other cases are still ongoing. 

How to pursue Camp Lejeune compensation

In order to seek awards under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, Camp Lejeune victims must follow the following process:

1. Determine eligibility. In order to qualify for any type of Camp Lejeune compensation (an administrative claim, elective option payout or lawsuit), people must meet a few criteria. First, they must have lived or worked at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987. Second, they must have developed a qualifying condition. Qualifying conditions may include bladder cancer, kidney cancer, leukemia, liver cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma and renal toxicity.
2. File an administrative claim. Individuals wishing to pursue compensation must first file a claim with the Department of the Navy (DON). 
3. Determine next steps. Individuals decide how they wish to proceed with their claim. If a DON administrative claim is denied or the DON takes longer than 6 months to make a decision about a DON administrative claim, individuals may then file a Camp Lejeune lawsuit. 
4. Elective Option Settlements. When reviewing an administrative claim, the DON may also determine a claimant is eligible for  the new elective option for settlement and offer a claimant the opportunity to settle. The elective option was announced in September 2023 as a way to “fast track” claims and settle them more quickly. Attorneys with experience in these matters are worried it may result in insufficiently low payouts for deserving people. Camp Lejeune lawyers can help people decide whether to pursue the elective option or file a lawsuit.

Contact a reputable toxic exposure attorney

If you or a loved one developed severe health conditions from Camp Lejeune, a trusted toxic exposure attorney can help you weigh your options for compensation. We are available at any time by email, or you can call 866.855.9017 for more information.

Contact a Camp Lejeune lawyer today

When will Camp Lejeune compensation be paid?

The first Camp Lejeune elective option settlement payouts were announced in November 2023. The elective option payouts are decided using a set matrix that considers the duration of exposure to the contaminated water and how much evidence supports the connection between the water and the claimant’s injury. The matrix sets a payment range of $100,000 – $500,000, per person depending on these factors.

It is difficult to estimate how long it will take for the DON and Justice Department to process claims and elective option settlements, how long it will take to resolve a Camp Lejeune lawsuit, and when anyone whose lawsuit is successful will be paid. It is unclear if filing a Camp Lejeune lawsuit or accepting the elective option will result in a greater recovery for an individual, and no result can be guaranteed.

Speak with a Camp Lejeune lawyer to learn more about how to seek Camp Lejeune compensation.

Our history representing veterans

Motley Rice is proud to represent veterans, military workers and their families. We have litigated matters involving:

• 3M earplugs and hearing loss
• EFP roadside bombs manufactured by terrorists
• Exposure to asbestos and other toxic materials
• Exposure to toxins released from burn pits at military facilities

Our law firm has the experience to file your claim, litigate your case and negotiate for a Camp Lejeune settlement or argue your case to verdict.

Read more on our work in support of veterans.