What about the lawyers?

When should victims engage a lawyer?

As soon as possible. The cases will be mostly heard in the sequential order of filing.

Lawyers are calling and emailing victims — what should they do?

If lawyers call you, please use discretion, ask questions and make sure you are clear before signing any documentation. Ask them for their record. How many clients have they represented in either criminal or civil litigation and what is their win/loss record?

How Can Victims Determine the Quality of the Law Firm?

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. In general, it is important to have an experienced trial attorney with a strong track record.

Ask them how long they have practiced law?

Ask about the lawyer's expertise and whether the lawyer is a veteran or beginner attorney. Is there a chance someone who is fresh out of law school will be handling your case once it is signed?

What is their win/loss record? How many trials have they completed?

Don’t be shy. Ask about the attorney's track record including the number of cases won or settled.

What Do They Know About the Water Contamination at Camp Lejeune?

What type of cases do they generally handle? What percentage of their practice is devoted to Camp Lejeune victims?

Ask about the attorney's practice and how much of it is devoted to the victims of Camp Lejeune.

When did they get involved and gain an understanding of the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination lawsuit?

As we all know, many attorneys have jumped on the bandwagon because, sadly, there are so many victims. Make sure the attorney you select is familiar with all of the nuances of the case and is not a Johnny-Come-Lately.

Other than a law degree, what kind of special training or knowledge do they have about Camp Lejeune, the Department of Defense, United States Department of the Navy and the evidence that spans decades?

Be sure to inquire whether the law firm is educated about the water contamination at Camp Lejeune, have expert witnesses on staff or available for trial. This case is complex and it is important to choose a firm who understands it and is willing to fight for your case.

What If a Victim’s Case Was Lost Before?

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.

What About Legal Fees?

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 is the advantage of agreeing to a contingency fee structure over a retainer structure?

We have been asked many times about the 30% to 40% contingency fees many lawyers are requesting. Remember, this is a complicated case and each one will take time to move it to trial. It is not as straightforward as filling out VA paperwork.

If you choose to pay fees or a retainer, you may pay as much as $5,000 a month for two years, plus expenses. There is always a chance you won’t receive a 100% of your settlement or reimbursement for legal fees. However, if the lawyer works on your behalf, invest their time and money, and you lose, you don’t lose your investment — the attorney loses theirs. It may also incentive for attorneys to work harder and smarter knowing they will only get paid if they win their cases.

Also remember, 100% of $0 is $0. Working off of a contingency structure lowers risks for victims and places the financial burden of preparing and going to trial on the law firm.

How Will the Law Firm Keep Clients Informed Throughout the Duration of Their Case?

How will they let you know what's happening with your case?

Communication is key when working with a lawyer.

Ask the lawyer how often you will hear from them and via what platform.

For example, if they send emails, you may want to have a special folder or/and an alert set-up in your email account to receive their mail so you never miss it.

How long will gaps be in correspondence?

Because there are long periods of waiting on government response, a lack of correspondence may be perfectly fine.

What if victims can’t access email or have slow internet speeds and can’t join webinars?

If victims have issues with receiving emails and would prefer to receive texts or postal mail, be clear with the lawyer about how to effectively communicate.
Some law firms are offering webinars. If there are concerns about accessing these via the computer, ask for a phone number. Most likely, there is an audio-only option.

What happens if a victim does not have a computer or needs help with correspondence?

If they need someone in their family or network of friends to work as a proxy for communication, please ask the lawyer how to arrange this legally.

Is There a List of Lawyers Available Who Have Been Vetted by Lejeune Justice?

Does Lejeune Justice have recommended lawyers?

Please know that we are advocates for victims, not lawyers. We are not recommending specific attorneys at this time.