When should victims engage a lawyer?

Currently, the legislation is a bill. It is not a law. That means no one can file a claim at this time. From the date of enactment of the statute, victims will have two years to file.

Victims can develop a working relationship with an attorney, but victims cannot file a court case until after the enactment of the statute.

The U.S. Senate passed the bill on June 16, 2022. There was a small tax issue called a Blue Slip that is delaying the bill slightly but we are optimistic that it is moving through the channels.

Please contact your U.S. Senator and urge them to vote YES for The Honoring PACT Act.

How do victims know if lawyers contacting them are legitimate?

Ask questions. Request references. Inquire about how and why they became involved with representing the victims of Camp Lejeune water contamination.

Does Lejeune Justice have recommended lawyers?

Please know, that we are advocates for victims, not lawyers.

We are sending the impacted individuals and families to Bell Legal Group.

Ed Bell is the lawyer who championed the bill for 14 years alongside Jerry Ensminger and Mike Partain. You can reach them at belllegalgroup.com — if they are too busy, they can refer you to a reputable firm.

To learn more about Jerry Ensminger and Mike Partain’s incredible stories, watch the award-winning documentary Semper Fi: Always Faithful.

What can victims expect of legal fees?

Attorney fees are not governed by the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA). Lawyers can charge what they deem viable, so be sure to ask about fees, out-of-pocket expenses including travel and all details that come to mind.

Do not hesitate to ask the attorney you are considering, or your current attorney, questions.

What if the victim went to court before, or had a case before and lost?

It does not matter. The Lejeune Justice Act allows all victims to restart their cases without prejudice.