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Give Military Justice Attorneys a phone call at (843) 755-6535 Contact Us

Overview of the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Crisis

For more than 30 years, Marines and their families stationed at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune were exposed to harmful industrial chemicals in their drinking water. Numerous serious health conditions, including multiple forms of cancer, Parkinson’s disease, congenital disabilities, and infertility, have been linked to this exposure.

For decades, individuals harmed by the contaminated water were denied legal recourse. That changed in August 2022, when the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 was signed into law, allowing eligible individuals to pursue compensation through administrative claims and federal lawsuits.

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Who May Be Eligible for Compensation

You may be eligible to file a claim if you or a loved one:

  • Lived or worked at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River
  • Were present for at least 30 cumulative days
  • Were exposed between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987
  • Have been diagnosed with or experienced a qualifying medical condition

Candidates include active-duty Marines, reservists, civilian employees, dependents, and individuals exposed in utero during pregnancy.

Case Results We’ve been in the fight & know how to win

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NO GOMOR ISSUED

Fort Cavazos, Texas. Army Officer Rebuts Allegations of Online Social Media Misconduct; No GOMOR Issued.

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GOMOR LOCALLY FILED

Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. Army Major (O-4) reprimanded for extramarital sexual conduct, GOMOR locally filed.

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NO ADVERSE ACTION

Fort Stewart, Georgia. An Army Sergeant (E-5) was flagged for allegedly violating a restriction of movement (ROM) order following a suspected case of COVID-19.

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GOMOR REMOVED

Fort Stewart, Georgia. GOMOR removed for Army Ranger arrested for DUI less safe after failing to submit to a field sobriety test.

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GOMOR LOCALLY FILED

Fort Knox, Kentucky. Army Major (O-4) facing an investigation and possible removal from the Army contacted MJA to help him respond appropriately.

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MARINE SNCO PROMOTED

Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Marine Staff Sergeant (E-6) refused NJP, avoids court-martial and earns promotion.

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PROMOTED AFTER GOMOR

United States Army Japan. An Army First Lieutenant (O-2) received a permanently filed GOMOR for allegedly being drunk and disorderly in violation of USF Japan liberty policy.

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GOMOR WITHDRAWN AND DESTROYED

Army Reserve Support Command. Army Sergeant First Class (E-7) reprimanded for alleged aggravated sexual contact.

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GOMOR LOCALLY FILED

1st Theater Sustainment Command, Middle East. Army Major (O-4) reprimanded for allegations of extramarital sexual conduct.

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GOMOR TRANSFERRED

Department of the Army Suitability and Evaluation Board (DASEB). Army Captain (O-3) reprimanded for drunk and disorderly.

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View All Results
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The Camp Lejeune Justice Act Explained

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act is part of the broader Honoring Our PACT Act. It creates a federal cause of action allowing individuals harmed by contaminated drinking water at Camp Lejeune to file claims and lawsuits against the United States.

The law prohibits the government from asserting immunity and requires claimants to prove that exposure to contaminated water was the cause of their injuries. Claims must be filed within two years of the law’s enactment.

Qualifying Medical Conditions

The Department of Veterans Affairs has identified several conditions associated with Camp Lejeune water contamination, including:

Presumptive Conditions

  • Adult leukemia
  • Aplastic anemia and myelodysplastic syndromes
  • Bladder cancer
  • Kidney cancer
  • Liver cancer
  • Multiple myeloma
  • Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
  • Parkinson’s disease

Additional Conditions Identified by the VA

  • Breast cancer
  • Esophageal cancer
  • Female infertility
  • Hepatic steatosis (fatty liver disease)
  • Lung cancer
  • Miscarriage
  • Neurobehavioral effects
  • Renal toxicity
  • Scleroderma

VA healthcare benefits are separate from claims filed under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act. You do not need to file a lawsuit to receive VA benefits, but legal counsel is strongly recommended if pursuing a federal claim for monetary damages.

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Client Testimonials Their Words. Their Cases. Their Results.

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"The Government Came to Bury Me, Josh Hill Buried Their Case Instead"

If you’re reading this review,...

"If you’re reading this review, there’s a fair chance you’re in trouble with the military. The answer is YES—hire Josh Hill. He is worth every penny and more. Don’t gamble with your VA benefits, your military pension, or your freedom. You only get one shot at defending your future. Trust me, this is the guy you want in your corner. When I first hired Josh Hill as my civilian military lawyer, I was staring down a mountain: 28 specifications across 6 charges in a military court-martial. The government basically made a giant mud ball, threw it at the wall, and waited to see what would stick. The stakes couldn’t have been higher—my freedom, my career, my reputation, and my benefits were all on the line. But from day one, Josh brought unmatched experience, surgical strategy, and a level of confidence that gave me hope when I needed it most. Josh Hill is a master of his craft. He navigated the UCMJ like a seasoned warrior—dissecting every allegation, exposing every weakness in the government’s case, and challenging every false assumption thrown my way. His preparation was meticulous, his presence in court was commanding, and his cross-examinations were absolutely relentless. He left no stone unturned and no argument unanswered. Because of Josh’s leadership, we went from what felt like an impossible situation to walking out of that courtroom not guilty on all charges. That wasn’t just a win—it was a total and complete vindication. And it’s 100% because of Josh Hill’s commitment, brilliance, and refusal to let the government steamroll me. Josh Hill didn’t just defend me—he saved my life. I will forever be in his debt for the sacrifices he made and the time he dedicated to my case. One last note: When he calls—ANSWER IT. Drop what you're doing, it can wait. That phone call might be the one thing that changes your future. If you want to hear my story firsthand, Josh has my permission to give you my contact info. I’ll gladly tell you exactly how he absolutely destroyed the government’s case, so I can continue with my life."
-STAFF SERGEANT, USMC

"He is an articulate pitbull in the courtroom."

My career, my life, my futu...

I know Mr Healy quite well. He represented me in a case where the odds were stacked against me. This was the most difficult time of my life considering some other circumstances that were added on. However, he fought for me tooth and nail even though his caseload was very high at the time. It seemed he devoted every ounce of effort to find me justice and in the end, because of his efforts, I was fully acquitted of several charges.

I will never forget that feeling for as long as I live. Upon the announcement of the verdict I nearly collapsed. My career, my life, my future was completely in his hands and he took it as seriously as I did. He is an articulate pitbull in the courtroom. I highly recommend his services if you expect to have any chance of seeing the justice you truly deserve.

-Corporal, USMC

"Mr. Hodge was relentless in his defense of me"

Mr. Hodge was relentless in hi...

Mr. Hodge was relentless in his defense of me . . . and absolved me of any wrongdoing under the UCMJ.
-Corporal, USMC

"His dedication to me as a client was unprecedented."

Josh is a hard nosed and dedic...

Josh is a hard nosed and dedicated attorney that will stand by you every step of the way in your defense. His dedication to me as a client was unprecedented.
-Staff Sergeant, USA

"I would hire them again in a heartbeat."

Gerry and Josh are absolute pr...

Gerry and Josh are absolute professional monsters in the courtroom. I would hire them again in a heartbeat and wouldn’t want anyone else in my corner!
-Private First Class, USA

"I trusted him with my career on the line, and he was outstanding."

Mr. Hill tore apart the govern...

Mr. Hill tore apart the government's theory piece by piece . . . I trusted him with my career on the line, and he was outstanding.
-Petty Officer Third Class, USN

"I would not want my fate in anyone else’s hands."

Gerry Healy is an outstandi...

Gerry Healy is an outstanding attorney. In the courtroom he is confident, knowledgeable, and aggressive. I would not want my fate in anyone else’s hands.
-Airman First Class, USAF
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History of Contaminated Drinking Water at Camp Lejeune

In the early 1980s, dangerous contaminants were discovered in several wells supplying water to Camp Lejeune. The primary pollutants included:

  • Benzene
  • Tetrachloroethylene (PCE)
  • Trichloroethylene (TCE)
  • Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene (DCE)
  • Vinyl chloride

Studies identified Hadnot Point and Tarawa Terrace as major sources of contamination. By the mid-1980s, the most contaminated wells had been shut down, and water treatment plants had been closed or replaced. It is estimated that nearly one million people were exposed to unsafe drinking water during this period.

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Areas of Exposure at Camp Lejeune

Contaminated water systems served numerous locations, including:

  • Barracks and family housing
  • Schools and recreational areas
  • Base administrative offices
  • Hospitals and industrial areas

Exposure occurred not only through drinking water but also through inhalation of vapors during bathing, showering, and household use.

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Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our attorneys are all former military officers who served on active duty. We work as a team on your case, leveraging each of our attorneys’ unique perspectives and vast experience to win on your behalf.

Gerry Healy

Owner and Founder

Gerry founded Military Justice Attorneys to provide service members with principled, trial-tested defense rooted in firsthand experience inside the military justice system.

  • Former Judge Advocate in the U.S. Marine Corps
  • Recognized Criminal Defense Attorney and Litigator
  • Represents Military Community in Complex Mass Torts
Gerry Healy

Josh Hill

Managing Partner

Josh oversees the firm’s military justice practice, bringing a strategic and detail-driven approach to complex litigation, appeals, and high-stakes administrative matters.

  • Former Military Prosecutor and Defense Counsel
  • Admitted to Practice in all Military Appellate Courts
  • Burton Award for Distinguished Legal Writing
Josh Hill

Chip Hodge

Partner

Chip draws on senior-level military justice experience to advise and defend service members facing courts-martial, investigations, and career-altering administrative actions.

  • Retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel
  • Served as Deputy SJA, Marine Forces Reserve
  • Deployed to Afghanistan in Support of OEF
Chip Hodge

Paul Murray

Partner

Paul represents contractors injured while working overseas in support of US agencies and forces, combining significant litigation experience with a deep commitment to helping injured workers.

  • Former Major in the U.S. Marine Corps
  • Admitted to the Bar in South Carolina, Georgia, and Illinois
Paul Murray

Jon Shelburne

Senior Counsel

Jon brings decades of courtroom and appellate experience, focusing on serious criminal allegations and complex military justice matters worldwide.

  • 30+ Years of Trial Experience
  • Co-Chair, Veterans Committee for Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
Jon Shelburne

Amy Thomas

Of Counsel

Amy provides strategic counsel on military and employment-related matters, informed by senior leadership experience and advanced legal training.

  • Retired Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps
  • Master's in Jurisprudence in Labor & Employment Law
Amy Thomas
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Marines Defending Marines

Large mass-tort firms aggressively advertise Camp Lejeune claims, but many lack military experience. At Military Justice Attorneys, every attorney served on active duty as a Marine. Our practice is built around representing service members and veterans, rather than focusing on volume-based litigation. This case is personal to us. We understand the culture, the service, and the sacrifices involved, and we approach these claims with the seriousness they deserve.

Common Myths About the Camp Lejeune Justice Act FAQs

Is this a scam?

No. The Camp Lejeune Justice Act is a valid federal law creating a legal cause of action.

Can I get the same relief through the VA?

No. VA benefits and Camp Lejeune Justice Act claims are separate. The Act allows for monetary damages through federal litigation.

Has there been a settlement?

As of mid-2023, there has been no global settlement. Claims must be individually proven.

Why hire an attorney?

Claims require medical evidence, service records, expert analysis, and federal court litigation. Veteran service organizations do not litigate these claims.

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Contact Military Justice Attorneys

If you or a loved one lived or worked at Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River between August 1953 and December 1987 and has been diagnosed with a qualifying condition, contact Military Justice Attorneys to determine eligibility.

Call (843) 773-5501 to speak with a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawyer.

You May Be Eligible to file a Camp Lejeune Toxic Water Lawsuit

If you or a loved one were stationed at Camp Lejeune between August 1, 1953 and December 31, 1987 fill out the form below to see if you qualify.

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