JPML Transfers Camp Lejeune Benzene Cases, Creates MDL in Georgia

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation has agreed to create a coordinated docket for pretrial proceedings in all Camp Lejeune cases alleging exposure to benzene, transferring four cases immediately to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia. In re: Camp Lejeune, North Carolina Water Contamination Litigation, MDL No. 2218 (JPML).

In a transfer order released Feb. 4, the JPML designated Judge J. Owen Forrester to oversee the proceedings. The JPML heard arguments Jan. 27 as to whether coordination was appropriate.

While neither party opposed the creation of a coordinated docket, the United States …