When Firefighting Exposure Creates Lasting Harm

PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals used for decades because of their resistance to heat, water, and oil. These properties made them common in firefighting foam, protective gear, and station materials. However, PFAS do not break down easily and can accumulate in the body over time.

Firefighters, military personnel, federal employees, and civilians were repeatedly exposed without adequate warnings. Military Justice Attorneys (MJA) represent firefighters seeking accountability and compensation for harm linked to occupational PFAS exposure.

Topography textured background

What Is Firefighter PFAS Litigation?

Firefighter PFAS litigation involves claims against manufacturers that produced PFAS-containing foams and gear without adequately warning users of known risks. PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” can persist in the body and environment for extended periods.

Scientific concern surrounding PFAS exposure has been documented by federal agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency, which outlines exposure pathways and health risks at https://www.epa.gov/pfas.

Available 24/7 to Help Anyone in the World

Contact us media

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for Firefighter PFAS Cases

  • Focused Advocacy for Occupational Exposure Claims. We understand how PFAS exposure occurs in firefighting environments and how to connect occupational history, product use, and long-term health impact in legally sound claims.
  • Coordination Within National Mass Tort Litigation. Firefighter PFAS cases often proceed as part of larger coordinated actions. We ensure your claim is properly documented, filed, and positioned within national litigation structures.
  • No Upfront Legal Fees. Firefighter PFAS cases are handled on a contingency basis, meaning there is no fee unless compensation is recovered, allowing clients to pursue justice without added financial strain.
  • Strategic Case Development Built on Evidence. We work with medical records, exposure history, and scientific findings to build strong claims that demonstrate manufacturer responsibility and long-term harm.
Banner media

Is a Firefighter PFAS Case Relevant to My Situation?

You may have a potential claim if you worked as a firefighter and regularly used PFAS-containing foam, wore turnout gear treated with PFAS, or served at stations where these chemicals were present. Many exposures occurred without adequate warnings or protective guidance.

Firefighters who later experienced serious health conditions often discover the connection only after PFAS risks became publicly known. Legal guidance can help determine whether your exposure history supports a viable claim.

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 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
Topography textured background

The Firefighter PFAS Legal Process What to Expect

Step One: Exposure and Work History Review

We begin by reviewing your firefighting service, including departments served, equipment used, foam exposure, and duty locations. This history establishes how and where PFAS exposure likely occurred.

Step Two: Medical and Documentation Assessment

Medical records and diagnosis timelines are reviewed to determine whether health conditions may be linked to PFAS exposure. Federal health research, including findings from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry at https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov, helps inform exposure analysis.

Step Three: Claim Preparation and Filing

We prepare and file claims within the appropriate mass-tort framework, ensuring documentation meets litigation requirements and aligns with broader coordinated cases involving PFAS manufacturers.

Step Four: Ongoing Litigation and Resolution

Mass-tort cases progress over time through discovery, motion practice, and potential settlement phases. We keep clients informed, advocate consistently, and pursue outcomes that reflect the seriousness of occupational exposure.

Topography textured background

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

View All Results

NO GOMOR ISSUED

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

Textured background

GOMOR LOCALLY FILED

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

Textured background

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.

Textured background

GOMOR REMOVED

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

Textured background

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.

Textured background

MARINE SNCO PROMOTED

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

Textured background

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.

Textured background

GOMOR WITHDRAWN AND DESTROYED

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

Textured background

GOMOR LOCALLY FILED

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

Textured background

GOMOR TRANSFERRED

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

Textured background
Topography textured background

After a Firefighter PFAS Claim What Comes Next

Firefighter PFAS litigation is designed to secure compensation for harm already suffered, but it also contributes to broader accountability and future safety improvements. Some claims resolve through settlements, while others continue through extended litigation.

Military Justice Attorneys remain involved throughout the process, answering questions, providing updates, and ensuring your claim remains properly positioned as cases develop nationally.

Military Justice Attorneys logo

Client Testimonials Their Words. Their Cases. Their Results.

View All Testimonials

"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
Topography textured background

Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Deep Experience With Federal and Military-Related Claims

Our attorneys have extensive experience handling complex federal litigation involving service members, veterans, and occupational exposure. We understand how military and government service intersect with mass-tort accountability.

Proven Strategic Litigation Approach

MJA participates in coordinated national litigation efforts and builds each claim carefully, using evidence-driven strategies that align individual exposure histories with broader legal theories against manufacturers.

Dedicated Client Support

Clients work directly with attorneys who provide clear communication and realistic expectations. We recognize the uncertainty mass-tort cases can create and remain committed to transparency and responsiveness throughout. We pursue accountability with discipline, credibility, and respect for those who served.

Topography textured background

Firefighter PFAS Claims FAQs

Why is PFAS dangerous?

PFAS are synthetic chemicals used in firefighting foam and gear that can accumulate in the body over time. Federal agencies have linked prolonged exposure to serious long-term health concerns.

Do military firefighters have PFAS claims?

Yes. Military and federal firefighters often used the same PFAS-containing products as civilian departments, making them eligible to pursue claims when exposure and harm can be demonstrated.

Is there a deadline to file a PFAS claim?

Time limits vary depending on jurisdiction and individual circumstances. Speaking with an attorney promptly helps preserve your ability to pursue compensation.

Do I have to pay legal fees up front?

No. Firefighter PFAS cases are handled on a contingency basis, meaning there is no fee unless compensation is recovered.

When should I contact an attorney?

As soon as you suspect your health condition may be linked to firefighting exposure. Early evaluation helps protect your rights and strengthens potential claims.

Textured background

Explore Your Legal Options

If firefighting exposure may have affected your health, you deserve answers. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn whether a Firefighter PFAS claim may apply to your situation.

Contact Us When Your Future Is On The Line

Our decentralized approach to military defense ensures that we can represent service members from any branch of the military, of any rank, at any military base or installation stateside or abroad.

Available 24/7 to Help Anyone in the World

(843) 755-6535
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
Submit Information
Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (843) 755-6535.
Contact Us