Filing a claim for the Camp Lejeune lawsuit goes through three stages. These include a preliminary investigation regarding the claim, filing a notice of intention, and finally a formal complaint. The preliminary investigation includes everything that relates to the victim being present at Camp Lejeune for at least thirty days from 1953 to 1987.
It should include evidence that the Camp Lejeune victims were exposed to contaminated water and suffered several types of illnesses and injuries. Most Camp Lejeune victims have medical records and military documents that prove their statements. Sometimes, photographs and letters written back home show the presence of the victims on the base.
Notice of intention for filing the Camp Lejeune claim is the next step. According to the new Act, the claimant can't bring an action without giving notice to the Department of the Navy. Besides, the notice should contain information related to identification such as the name of the claimant, date of birth, illness experienced due to the exposure, and the damages caused.
After that, the Department of Navy has one hundred eighty days to review the application for a claim. Upon expiration of the said period or denial, the victim should approach the federal court for filing a formal complaint.
Next, the case will head over to a process called discovery, which is an integral part of the claim procedure. In this process, both parties will exchange crucial information. The discovery process is regulated highly because there would be so many cases.
It is highly anticipated that most cases will resolve and settle during the litigation stage of the case. Even if you had started receiving compensation from the Veterans Affairs because of your exposure to the contaminated water supply at Camp Lejeune, you can file a lawsuit if you want.
The new Act gives you the opportunity to do so. Moreover, you won't risk losing the benefits you are getting currently. If you or a loved one worked or lived at Camp Lejeune for more than thirty days and have been diagnosed with serious illness between 1953 and 1987, contact a reputed Camp Lejeune lawyer and work with an expert.