Across the country, concerns about social media addiction are growing. Lawsuits have been filed claiming Silicon Valley’s algorithms are endangering young people and causing real harm. (1)
These lawsuits were grouped together into a multidistrict litigation (MDL). James Bilsborrow, Weitz & Luxenberg practice group co-chair, was appointed to the Plaintiffs’ Steering Committee Membership for the Social Media Adolescent Addiction/Personal Injury Products Liability Litigation MDL in November of 2022.
Social media platforms want you to keep checking your Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter accounts. To do this, they aim to provide “rewarding experiences that generate dopamine in the brain.” (2)
Dopamine is the same substance your brains produce when you eat cake or have sex. That is your brain’s way of giving you a really good feeling — so you want more. And to get this rush, you start checking your social media accounts more and more often. (3)
Overusing social media poses a greater danger to children because their developing brains are more impressionable. In teenagers, their reward system tends to become even more activated, but their self-control doesn’t develop fully until around age 21. (4)
“Starting around age 10, children’s brains undergo a fundamental shift that spurs them to seek social rewards, including attention and approval from their peers.” Children and teens are increasingly drawn to social media for “entertainment and connection.” (5)
However, the biology of your child or teen may make them particularly vulnerable to social media. “This biological vulnerability” puts young people at risk of developing body image issues. (6)
In worst-case scenarios, children and teens can be so obsessed with their body image they develop eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia. Other very real concerns include depression, sleep deprivation, and suicide. (7)
Unlike adults, “Teens have a less fixed sense of self.” They tend to rely more on feedback from their peers. Also, children and young adults “have a less mature prefrontal cortex.” This area of the brain “regulates emotional responses to social rewards.” (8)
“Social media use, just as use of alcohol or drugs, can highjack the dopaminergic pathways more quickly and reliably than naturally derived awards such as studying hard and getting a good grade.” What this means is working hard to get good grades is slow to send a rush of feel-good reward chemicals. On the other hand, checking Snapchat or other social media platforms can give “a rush of dopamine that provides immediate gratification.” (9)
The “almost instant dopamine rush becomes addictive and can result in depression, anxiety, and other mental illness.” (10)
If your child has been harmed due to social media addiction, contact us today to understand your legal rights.
Get a Free Case Review“There are many components of excessive social media usage that can contribute to psychological issues whether in the short-term or later on in life. Addiction is the most threatening of these issues.” (11)
“Social media creates an environment where people compare themselves with each other, which can be harmful for mental well-being. Social media addiction” also causes dissatisfaction with life. (13)
Increased self-consciousness may also lead to social anxiety disorder. Another concern is cyber bullying. Cyber bullying can lead to suicide. (14)
Teens who use social media more than three hours a day “may be at heightened risk of mental health problems.” And the “obsessive use of social media by adolescents and teens can lead to … impulsive disorder, disruption of proper mental functions, [and] paranoia.” (15)
Social media can also put a lot of pressure on teens “to create the stereotype that others want to see.” They may take extreme measures to be seen as popular. This pressure can lead to depression. (16)
Depression is not limited to use of Facebook. Other social networking sites can also cause psychological problems. In fact, “individuals who are involved in social media, games, texts, mobile phones, etc. are more likely to experience depression.” (17)
According to the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) investigated Facebook. WSJ found Facebook knew that “mental health risks” were “linked to the use of its Instagram app but kept those findings secret.” Also, it seems use of “Instagram worsened body image issues for one in three teenage girls, and all teenage users of the app linked it to experiences of anxiety and depression.” (18)
“Social media is criticized for being addictive by design and for its role in the spread of misinformation.” Research suggests “how much someone engages with photo-related activities like posting and sharing photos on Facebook or Instagram is associated with less body acceptance and more obsessing about appearance.” (19)
Has social media addiction harmed your child? Contact us today for a free case review.
Get a Free Case ReviewIf your child developed a significant psychological or mental disorder after becoming addicted to a social media platform such as Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok, you may want to file a lawsuit.
Even worse, if your child attempted to commit suicide or died due to the harmful effects of social media, you may be eligible to join our ongoing lawsuits.
Weitz & Luxenberg is investigating cases where families were harmed by the algorithm and actions of social media companies. Our lawsuits are based on these claims:
Multiple lawsuits are “alleging that social media hubs are intentionally designed to foster addiction, which causes mental health problems for children.” The lawsuits also state these social media companies “fail to warn minor users and their parents about the risks posed by the products.” (20)
You may be able to join with others in seeking justice for your loved one.
Weitz & Luxenberg has filed lawsuits against several companies for causing social media addiction and harm to users, especially teens. These corporations we are suing include Meta Platforms, Inc., formerly known as Facebook, as well as Snap, TikTok, and ByteDance.
We want to help families who have suffered severe harm due to these social media platforms and their actions. Examples of the severe harm caused include eating disorders, self-harm, attempted suicide, or even death.
For more information about filing your own lawsuit, please contact us. We can help you consider your legal options.
Weitz & Luxenberg’s Consumer Protection team is fighting against negligent, irresponsible social media companies. These corporations should not be endangering lives in their efforts to make money — particularly the lives of your children and other young adults.
W&L is a national firm with a reputation of standing up to large companies when their actions and choices harm others. We have the resources and are fully prepared to take this fight as far as it needs to go to secure justice for our clients. And we have a solid history of winning.
Weitz & Luxenberg represents victims of workplace injuries in New York state. New York has enacted specific laws to protect its workers.
These special laws include Labor Laws 200, 240, and 241. In particular, Law 240, helps workers injured in construction related accidents.
Construction workers perform some of our country’s most dangerous work. New York recognizes the inherent danger of construction work. The legislature has enacted certain enhanced protections for construction workers in New York state.
Labor Law Section 240 is also known as the scaffold law. This law addresses the dangers of gravity on a jobsite. Basically, owners and contractors are fully liable when they fail to protect workers on a construction site from gravity related risks. (3)
Law 240 protects workers who are at risk of falls from heights while on the job. This could mean falling from an elevated platform — such as a scaffold or a ladder. Or by getting struck by something falling from above. (4)
These and other devices are supposed to properly protect workers erecting, demolishing, repairing, or altering a building or structure. (6)
If you have suffered an on-the-job-injury from construction equipment, contact us today for a free case evaluation.
Get a Free Case ReviewLabor Law 241 addresses construction, excavation, and demolition work. Labor Law 241(6) basically says an owner or contractor must provide safeguards at a building or construction site — so workers are protected from potential dangers. This group of regulations is known as the NYCRR. Many specific regulations make up the New York Industrial Code. (7)
The owner of a property where construction is taking place, and the general contractor, can both be sued for the negligent acts of a subcontractor. This is true even if they did not control the work being performed on any given day. They can also be held responsible even if they did not know what the subcontractor’s employees were doing on a day-to-day basis. (8)
New York State Labor Law 241(6) recognizes the unique risks involved at a construction site. This regulation holds owners and general contractors accountable if they violate certain regulations. (9)
An owner or contractor hires someone — or hires someone to hire someone else. If the person hired violated a labor law regulation, the owner or contractor is responsible if something goes wrong. (10)
Labor Law 200 covers workplaces in general. Basically, employers have a duty to protect the health and safety of employees. This regulation is meant to cover everything about your workplace, including how it is: (11)
Employers must “provide reasonable and adequate protection to the lives, health and safety” of its employees or people “lawfully frequenting such places.” Also, all machinery, equipment, and devices at workplaces must be “operated, guarded, and lighted as to provide reasonable and adequate protection to all such persons.” (12)
There are some potential limitations to Labor Law 200. According to New York law, “Employees are entitled to lawful pay for the work performed, to a safe work environment and to be treated in a non-discriminatory manner.” (13)
But also, “Employers are entitled to their Employees’ full performance of legally assigned duties, timely attendance, and compliance with employment policies and procedures.” An employee “can be disciplined or terminated for not keeping up their side of the bargain.” (14)
The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection Office of Labor Policy & Standards is New York City’s “central resource for workers.” This department protects and promotes “labor standards and policies that create fair workplaces to ensure all workers can realize their rights, regardless of immigration status.” (15)
The department’s website includes an overview of the protections available to New York workers. In addition, the site provides a Workers’ Bill of Rights. (16)
If you believe your employer has violated your rights, contact the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection Office of Labor Policy & Standards. You can file a workplace complaint online. (17)
Make sure you save all the documents you have to help make your cases. Medical records, time clock information, witness statements, and police reports can help provide proof of your injury.
Employers are responsible for following New York State labor laws. The person who violated your rights can be held responsible if they do not do so.
If this happens, you can file a complaint. Your complaint gets investigated. If found guilty, your employer can be punished.
Suffering from an injury that occurred at a construction site? Contact us to understand your legal rights.
Get a Free Case ReviewEmployers are not allowed to retaliate against an employee for reporting a labor law violation. Retaliation is when an employer takes an action against an employee and punishes you for: (18)
Depending on the circumstances, retaliation can take many forms, including: (19)
There may be instances where you get injured on the job. But your employer believes you intentionally got hurt or did not follow proper protocol, just to start a claim against them.
Employers may retaliate in a way to push you to resign. If so, they are violating labor law.
New York Labor laws are complex. Sometimes the first thing to do if you believe your employer has violated New York labor law is file a complaint.
The appropriate department investigates. Sometimes employers are fined hundreds of thousands of dollars. Sometimes they are given jail time.
In many cases, you want to consult with an attorney. Weitz & Luxenberg always is happy to talk with you and investigate the facts.
In particular, when it comes to construction accidents, we might be able to assert separate claims both under New York State Labor Law Section 240(1) and New York State Labor Law Section 241(6), and other statues and regulations.
Generally, New York law prevents workers from suing their employer. Often, if you are injured at work, you can file a workers compensation claim against your employer’s insurance company.
The insurance company then covers your medical bills. They may also pay you a portion of any lost wages you may have accrued if you are physically unable to work while recovering from your injury.
However, in some circumstances, New York State’s Labor Law offers enhanced protections. For example, New York Labor Laws also allow injured workers at a construction site to file additional claims against the job site’s property owner. You can also file a lawsuit against the general contractor who oversaw the project.
Weitz & Luxenberg is often called upon by clients and other law firms to investigate whether, in addition to a workers compensation claim, you can file a third-party lawsuit. If we believe property owners and general contractors at construction sites violated certain sections of the New York State Labor Law, we can file a lawsuit against those negligent parties.
Attorneys at W&L have won many successful cases for our construction clients. Their employers had to pay for violating New York labor laws.
At Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, military personnel and civilians were exposed to toxic chemicals through the water supplied to the base. This water was concentrated in two out of the base’s eight water treatment systems, Tarawa Terrace and Hadnot Point. (2)
The water at Camp Lejeune was found to be contaminated with trichloroethylene (TCE), tetrachloroethylene (PCE), vinyl chloride (VC) and benzene. (3) Two of these toxic chemicals, TCE and PCE, are of particular concern and were the primary contaminants found in the water supplying the base. (4)
Exposure to carcinogens can put you at greater risk for bladder cancer. TCE is a known carcinogen. (5) PCE has been found to be a “likely” carcinogen. (6) PCE can break down into TCE and has been linked to bladder cancer. (7) (8)
“PCE concentration was estimated to have exceeded the current EPA maximum contaminant level of 5 μg/L [micrograms per liter] in drinking water at the Tarawa Terrace water treatment plant for 346 months during November 1957-February 1987,” reports the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) (9)
TCE maximum levels detected in drinking water at the Hadnot Point Treatment Plant were “1,400 μg/L in May 1982. The current limit for TCE in drinking water is 5 μg/L,” ATSDR also reports. (10)
One of the primary sources of contamination for these water systems has been traced to a local dry cleaning business. Industries, such as dry cleaners, use certain toxic chemicals — including TCE and PCE. These were used as solvents and degreasers in dry cleaning and in the cleaning of metal parts by the military. (11)
When these volatile organic chemicals get into the groundwater, they break down slowly and remain there for long periods of time. (12)
Contaminated water can be absorbed through your skin, through bathing and swimming. But it can also be ingested, by drinking, eating, or cooking with contaminated water. Exposure also happens from breathing water vapor containing TCE or PCE. (13) (14)
Exposure can occur from working directly with these toxic chemicals. So workers — both civilian and military — can have an increased risk of developing bladder cancer. The risk varies, depending on your level and length of exposure. (15)
The American Cancer Society (ACS) projections are, “About 16,710 deaths from bladder cancer” in 2023. “Overall, the chance men will develop this cancer during their lifetime is about 1 in 28. For women, the chance is about 1 in 91. But each person’s chances of getting bladder cancer can be affected by certain risk factors.” (16)
The contamination at Camp Lejeune was entirely preventable.
If you have suffered from bladder cancer after living or working on or near Camp Lejeune, a lawsuit can help you gain compensation for medical expenses. It may also get you compensation for your pain and suffering.
For your lawsuit to be successful, you need to provide proof of exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune during the specified time period.
A successful claim depends on your attorney showing the court there is a connection between Camp Lejeune and your condition. It is best for you to supply as much evidence as possible to your attorney. Your attorney uses that evidence and helps you further explore your legal options.
You need to prove you had significant exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. To do this, you need to show you lived or worked on or near the base and were present in the contaminated areas for at least 30 days, in total, between August 1953 and December 1987.
If you were exposed because you were a family member of someone who lived or worked on the base, you need to supply proof of relationship.
Have you been victimized by the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune? If you have experienced bladder cancer, or other serious side effects, you can now file a lawsuit against the U.S. federal government. Your lawsuit can help you to gain compensation for your medical expenses, as well as pain and suffering.
A new law signed by President Biden — the Honoring Our PACT Act of 2022 — allows Camp Lejeune victims to file suit against the U.S. federal government. However, you only have a narrow window of time to file your claims, so you need to act quickly.
You want to obtain an attorney with experience in these types of large-scale environmental and toxic tort cases. An attorney with experience in personal injury lawsuits is the most likely to bring your case to the conclusion you deserve.
Weitz & Luxenberg is a leader in mass toxic tort litigation. Our attorneys have years of successful experience representing military veterans and their families.
W&L has already filed claims for people who were at Camp Lejeune and got cancer from the contaminated water. We believe this legislation can finally bring justice to veterans, their family members, as well as other victims of Camp Lejeune water contamination. We will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
W&L has successfully pursued several types of litigations at the national level against multimillion dollar corporations and government agencies. Here are some of our success stories:
By far the most common causes of injuries in retail and grocery stores are slips, trips, and falls, with customers “at risk for many more accidents than employees.” (1) The National Safety Council (NSC) ranked falls as the second leading cause of preventable injuries in 2023, with a total of 47,026 deaths. (2) The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports 885 fatal work-related falls, slips, and trips across all sectors in 2023. (3)
In the case of slips, trips, and falls, “The severity of the injury is typically based on the velocity of the impact (how far and how fast you fall); the hardness and other characteristics (smooth, rough, etc.) of the surface that you land on; and the orientation of the body upon impact,” according to Loss Prevention Magazine. (4)
In retail trade there were 40 fatal fall, slip, and trip injuries reported in private industry during 2023, according to the BLS. (5)
The BLS also states there were 308 fatalities overall in the retail industry during 2023. (6)
Additionally, BLS data for private industry retail in New York shows there were 18 occupational fatalities in 2023. (7)
Injuries from supermarket and retail store accidents are a growing concern. Among the common injuries customers or employees may experience are: (8)
If you or a loved one have been injured at a retail store or supermarket, contact us today for a free case evaluation.
Get a Free Case ReviewThe causes of these injuries are often preventable. In most cases, the supermarket or store could have prevented your injury if they had taken actions to protect you.
When you have been seriously hurt in a supermarket or retail store, it is important to know if the store should be held liable.
Businesses are responsible for both safe business practices and maintaining a safe premises. They can be held responsible when they do not.
Store owners and operators have a duty to their customers and employees. They must ensure hazards are identified, and then removed or adequately repaired.
To win your case, you must show a court the store failed to implement safe practices or maintain a safe premises. You must prove the store breached its duty of care.
For example, a business must post warning signs or rope off areas posing a danger. This is required to prevent someone slipping, tripping, or falling and then becoming injured.
A store also has an obligation to implement safe storage and cleaning practices. This avoids exposing workers or customers to toxic chemicals, or to being struck or crushed by falling objects.
Any breach of this duty might be considered negligence or fall under premises liability.
Negligence is a legal concept based upon what a reasonable person would do under similar circumstances. (22)
“All members of the community owe a duty to act as a reasonable person in undertaking or avoiding actions with the risk to harm others.” (23)
Your case may also fall under the concept of premises liability. Premises liability dictates, while you are on someone’s property, they are responsible if you become injured due to owner or operator negligence. (24)
Success in these types of cases can be very challenging, so you want to hire an attorney to help you file your lawsuit.
If you have suffered an injury from an accident at a supermarket or retail store, contact us today to understand your legal rights.
Get a Free Case ReviewThe first step to filing your lawsuit in New York state, is to determine where to file it. If you are filing the lawsuit, you are the plaintiff. You must begin legal action in the county where you — or the party you are suing — lives, works, or conducts business. The party you are suing is the defendant. (25)
When filing a suit in New York City, “If no party has residence, employment, or transacts business within the City, the action must be filed in the county where the cause of action arose.” (26)
Filing your lawsuit means submitting an application for a Pro Se Summons and paying a fee to the clerk of the court. The clerk of the court then assigns an index number to the case, and issues a summons and complaint to the defendant. (27)
The summons and complaint must be served on the defendant, who has approximately 20 days to answer in court. Once the defendant answers the summons and complaint, a court date is set. (28)
A favorable outcome to your lawsuit can mean the court awards you money for any harm done to you. Some of the forms of damages you may be awarded include:
Many times, lawsuits are settled outside of court through negotiations. Settlements usually provide monetary compensation for many of these categories.
Either way — through a jury trial or a settlement — an attorney can help you achieve the best outcome in your case.
W&L has a team of personal injury attorneys who have years of experience in complex store accident cases. We have won verdicts and judgments — and negotiated settlements — on behalf of our clients who were seriously injured.
Updated July 2025
Weitz & Luxenberg is suing the Hershey Company and Lily’s, LLC, for deceptively advertising and marketing many of their dark chocolate candy bars. These chocolate bars contain high levels of heavy metals like lead and cadmium. Customers like you purchase these products, not knowing they have potentially harmful ingredients.
“Research has found that some dark chocolate bars contain cadmium and lead—two heavy metals linked to a host of health problems in children and adults,” according to Consumer Reports. Their “scientists recently measured the amount of heavy metals in 28 dark chocolate bars. They detected cadmium and lead in all of them.” (2)
Many leading chocolate makers, as well as some smaller companies, were identified by Consumer Reports as manufacturing products with elevated heavy metals. Consumer Reports named all of these brands as having high levels of lead, cadmium, or both in their candy: (3)
All of these specific dark chocolate bars were identified as containing high levels of lead, cadmium, or both:
Eating or drinking heavy metals can lead to serious consequences. Both lead and cadmium can be toxic if you consume high levels.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), “Exposure to high levels of lead during times of active brain development can lead to neurological effects such as learning disabilities, behavior difficulties, and lowered IQ.” The FDA adds, “For adults, chronic lead exposure is associated with kidney dysfunction, hypertension, and neurocognitive effects.” (4)
Consumer Reports indicates that cadmium, along with other heavy metals, leads to health problems. (5) These include developmental issues in children. “And over time, cadmium exposure can lead to kidney, bone, and lung diseases.” (6) It can also cause reproductive toxicity. (7)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also found exposure to cadmium over time can, “cause kidney disease and fragile bones. Cadmium is considered a cancer-causing agent.” (8)
Lawsuits are being filed across the country. Weitz & Luxenberg has filed its own class action lawsuit against the leading chocolate manufacturers.
If you purchased any of these dark chocolate products with high levels of lead, cadmium, or both, you may be able to receive compensation for your economic injuries. Manufacturers of these dark chocolate bars were not honest with consumers. Their business practices were deceptive and misleading.
“Consumers purchased dark chocolate candy bars with dangerous ingredients,” says James Bilsborrow, partner and co-chair of Weitz & Luxenberg’s Environmental, Toxic Tort, & Consumer Protection group. “If you knew these products contained lead and cadmium, you likely would not have purchased them.”
Mr. Bilsborrow has represented clients in complex consumer protection litigation nationwide. He points out, “There are so many different chocolate products on the market to choose from. Most of us would have purchased something safe, something without dangerous levels of heavy metals.”
“Not only did manufacturers fail to disclose the dangerous levels of lead and cadmium, they failed to warn consumers about the potential dangers of these substances,” Mr. Bilsborrow continues.
“Lead, cadmium, and other substances can build up in the body over time. Even small amounts can lead to significant health problems in some people,” he adds.
Mr. Bilsborrow has won millions of dollars for residents of two New York communities whose water had been contaminated with toxic chemicals. He also continues to lead many of the firm’s initiatives seeking justice on behalf of victims of toxic chemical exposure, including in cosmetics, children’s products.
All of the brands identified by Consumer Reports have been promoted and distributed across the country. The deceptive conduct at issue here affects numerous people from coast to coast.
To join this nationwide lawsuit against dark chocolate manufacturers, all you have to do is reach out to us. Choose Weitz & Luxenberg because our firm has a national presence. We are well-positioned to help people across the country who purchased these products without realizing the chocolate contained harmful levels of heavy metals.
Plus, our firm has a solid history of success in overseeing class action lawsuits and standing up to large multibillion-dollar companies.
We encourage you to contact W&L today. By answering just a few questions, you may qualify to join our suit. Once you reach out to us, we can advise you regarding the rest of the legal process.
Weitz & Luxenberg is a national law firm with nearly 40 years of experience handling lawsuits for people harmed by companies putting money above your health. Over the years, we have secured more than $19 billion dollars on behalf of our clients harmed by the actions or inactions of large corporations.
Join our class action against the manufacturers who misrepresented their products. You may be able to receive compensation for any economic injuries resulting from your purchase. And we have a strong record of success.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD), sometimes called chronic renal disease, “is a condition characterized by a gradual loss of kidney function over time,” explains the National Kidney Foundation. (3)
Renal toxicity means there is an acute kidney injury that can result in CKD. Once you are diagnosed with a kidney injury after being exposed to toxic chemicals, you can face “the rapid loss of renal function and the precursor of acute renal failure.” (4)
“In end-stage renal disease, your kidneys no longer work as they should to meet your body’s needs,” according to the Mayo Clinic. When you have end stage renal disease, your kidneys stop functioning and you may need dialysis or a kidney transplant. (5)
There are various causes of CKD and acute kidney injury. However, exposure to toxic substances is both common and largely preventable.
Several of the toxins found in the water at Camp Lejeune were volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including trichloroethylene (TCE), tetrachloroethylene (PCE), benzene, and vinyl chloride. (6)
TCE and PCE are industrial chlorinated solvents. TCE and PCE were found in significant amounts in the ground water at Camp Lejeune. The U.S. Navy itself set parameters for allowable contamination in potable drinking water, limiting organic compounds to 200 parts per billion (ppb) and other types of chemicals called chlorinated hydrocarbons to 100 ppb. (7)
At their most concentrated, TCE was measured in one water supply well to be as high as 18,900 ppb, and PCE at 1,580 ppb in another.
TCE and PCE were often used as solvents, degreasers, and spotting agents. They mainly entered the groundwater through runoff from military equipment, munition storage, fuel and waste disposal, and, notoriously, from a local dry cleaners.
A growing body of evidence supports the link between TCE and PCE, and renal toxicity. These kidney issues include end stage renal disease and cancer. (8)
These studies found, “in both humans and animals, chronic exposures to high doses of either TCE or PCE cause kidney pathology.” And there was “suggestive evidence of an association with exposure to TCE, PCE, or solvent mixtures” and kidney cancer. (9)
Analysis by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) of several epidemiological studies has confirmed that there is sufficient evidence TCE causes kidney cancer and disease. (10)
ATSDR also identified the concentration of contaminants — and the length of time of exposure — to be key components in determining if someone will become sick. ATSDR determined that those with higher doses of exposure over prolonged periods of time were more likely to develop serious kidney disease. (11)
Those in contaminated areas in Camp Lejeune experienced high levels of direct and concentrated exposure because TCE was present in the water they used to bathe, drink, and cook. (12)
Have you been diagnosed with renal toxicity, including CKD and kidney cancer? If so, a lawsuit can help you obtain compensation for medical expenses, as well as for your pain and suffering.
A law — called the Camp Lejeune Justice Act — helps people who were present at Camp Lejeune, while they lived or worked there, or were serving in the military. This law makes it possible for those exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune to file lawsuits against the federal government.
Anyone who has experienced end stage renal disease or other serious kidney injuries from the water at Camp Lejeune can file a lawsuit for compensation. People with other recognized health side effects may also be eligible.
As of January 2023, all of these lawsuits are still ongoing and have not been resolved. No settlements or trial verdicts have been reached or compensation awarded.
We are currently filing legal claims over exposure to toxic water at Camp Lejeune. You should consider a lawsuit if you spent time on the base and are having medical problems with your kidneys, among other health conditions.
Anyone, including veterans and their families, who is sick with kidney-related illnesses and was at Camp LeJeune Marine base between August of 1953 and December of 1987 is eligible. If you were not in the military, but worked or lived on the Marine base, you may also be eligible.
A successful lawsuit often depends on having attorneys who are experienced in environmental pollution cases. You want attorneys on your side who understand how exposure to toxic chemicals can affect your health.
Working with an experienced environmental pollution personal injury attorney — and a law firm with the resources to sue the federal government — helps you have the best chance of success.
Weitz & Luxenberg is a nationally recognized personal injury law firm with a wealth of experience in complex environmental lawsuits. We have taken on government agencies and multimillion-dollar corporations in large scale litigations.
We have a proud history of winning settlements and verdicts. Here are some examples of our success:
Chemical hair straightening products actually change the structure of your hair. They straighten or relax it. Permanent hair straightening product effects can last several months. (1)
Scientists are uncovering a strong link between an increased risk of cancer in women and the use of chemical hair relaxers and pressing products. Previous research suggested hair straightening chemicals might be linked with an increased risk of ovarian cancers. (2)
Now, new research suggests hair relaxers and cancer are linked. Black women may face a greater risk of developing uterine cancer because they use these products frequently. (3)
According to a National Institutes of Health (NIH) study, “Women who used chemical hair straightening products were at higher risk for uterine cancer compared to women who did not report using these products.” (4)
NIH did not name specific brands in its study. However, researchers noted several chemicals found in hair straighteners “could be contributing to the increased uterine cancer risk observed.” Toxic chemicals that make people sick include: (5)
Exposure to dangerous chemicals, especially those found in straighteners, could be more alarming than the use of other personal care products. The reason is you may absorb more of these chemicals through your scalp, due to burns and lesions from straighteners. (6)
Major cosmetic companies are now faced with lawsuits for hair relaxers causing cancer in women.
The first lawsuits were filed against these companies:
If you or a loved one have developed uterine cancer by using these hair products, contact us today to understand your legal rights.
Get a Free Case ReviewAccording to the NIH study, frequent use of hair relaxers or chemical hair straightening products is a critical risk factor. Frequent use was “defined as more than four times in the previous year.” Women who used these products frequently “were more than twice as likely to go on to develop uterine cancer compared to those who did not use the products.” (7)
Black women often start using chemical hair straightening products at an earlier age. And their risk may be greater. (8)
“Approximately 60% of the participants who reported using straighteners in the previous year were self-identified Black women … Although, the study did not find that the relationship between straightener use and uterine cancer incidence was different by race, the adverse health effects may be greater for Black women due to higher prevalence of use.” (9)
Both Latina and Black women may turn to chemical products because their hair is not naturally straight. The beauty standards in our society often prize straight hair. And women with naturally curly or wavy hair may feel pressured to conform to be accepted. (10)
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Hair straightening products can contain hazardous chemicals. These chemicals can disrupt a woman’s hormonal balance and introduce cancer-causing properties. (11)
In addition to formaldehyde, dangerous chemicals in hair products include diethanolamine, phthalates, benzophenone-3, and triclosan. Some of these compounds may not only endanger human health but are also environmental hazards. (12)
These toxic chemicals may lead to respiratory problems, endocrine disruption, “developmental and reproductive toxicity, dermal effects, environmental persistence, and bioaccumulation.” (13)
Hair relaxers rely on chemicals. These chemicals work on highly coiled hair by breaking the hair’s disulfide bonds. The chemicals then restructure these bonds. (14)
Chemical hair straightening products usually come in kits. The kits include “a protective gel, a relaxing cream, a liquid activator, and a neutralizing shampoo.” (15)
Keratin or Brazilian hair straightening products refer to two different types of treatments. Brazilian keratin treatments usually contain formaldehyde along with other keratin smoothing treatments. The formaldehyde “forms cross-links with the keratin amino acids in hair,” straightening it. Use of a heated flat iron adds to the effect. (16)
Japanese heat straighteners combine keratin straighteners and hair relaxers. The treatment process involves two steps. First, a chemical treatment breaks the disulfide bonds in your hair. Next, a neutralizing chemical and the application of heat restructure these bonds. (17)
Hair straightening products also can be painful. They can burn when you use them. (18)
If you have developed a serious health condition as a result of using chemical hair products, contact us today for a free case review.
Get a Free Case ReviewLaw firms are already filing federal lawsuits against L’Oreal and other companies on behalf of women who suffered serious injuries after using chemical hair straighteners. The lawsuits are claiming the dangerous chemicals are to blame. Women who used these products developed uterine cancer and other severe health complications. (19)
Some health complications that could result include:
These health effects are extremely serious. Several women have already undergone a hysterectomy. Others said their uterine cancer has spread aggressively. The cancers are most likely to affect a woman’s reproductive organs, such as her uterus, cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. The changes are life changing and may be life-threatening. These cancers are also incredibly painful. (20)
Any woman who has developed uterine, endometrial, or ovarian cancer after frequent use of hair straightening products should reach out to an attorney. Choose a hair relaxer cancer lawyer with a national presence and with experience handling medically complex product liability cases. Someone with a history of going up against some of the largest companies out there — and winning.
We encourage anyone who has been severely harmed by hair relaxers or straightening products to contact us. Already, we have filed uterine cancer lawsuits against negligent cosmetic companies and others that have put your lives at risk.
We can provide you with information about your legal options and help you with your hair relaxer cancer claim. We can guide you through the process each step of the way.
The attorneys at W&L may be able to help you receive compensation for your pain and suffering — past, present, and future.
W&L is recognized as an experienced national personal injury firm with success in consumer protection cases. We make it a point to stand up to large companies when their actions and choices endanger people’s lives.
We have the necessary resources at hand and are fully prepared to take this fight as far as it needs to go. We stop at nothing legally to secure justice for our clients. And we have a solid history of winning. Examples include:
Ms. Relkin, whose practice focuses on medical device and pharmaceutical product liability, as well as toxic tort matters, has represented thousands of plaintiffs injured by defective medical products including hip and knee implants, hormonal contraceptives, other drugs, CPAP machines, and vapes.
Ms. Garcia works on our Drug and Medical Device Litigation practice group team. She has dedicated herself to helping consumers harmed by defective devices and products, including JUUL e-cigarettes, hair relaxers, and CooperSurgical IVF.
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Many hair relaxer brands are being sued for causing uterine, endometrial, or ovarian cancer. These include: Dark & Lovely, Optimum, Mizani, Luster’s Pink Oil. Design Essentials, ORS Olive Oil, African Pride, Dr. Miracle’s, Just For Me, S&B Botanicals, Soft & Beautiful, TCB Naturals, UltraSheen, Africa’s Best, Affirm and Hawaiian Silky, among others.
Women who consistently used hair relaxer products more than five times in a year for multiple years and were then diagnosed with uterine, endometrial, or ovarian cancer.
No hair relaxer products have actually been recalled for causing uterine, endometrial, or ovarian cancer as of December 2024. However, newly found studies show that frequent use of hair relaxers is linked to causing uterine and ovarian cancer, due to the harmful chemicals in the products.
Updated January 2025
The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2021 allows people who were in the military, or lived near or worked on base, to sue the U.S. federal government for compensation. This includes for pain and suffering. You must have developed liver cancer, or another recognized illnesses, and spent significant time on the base between August 1953 and December 1987. (2)
Testing was done on two wells supplying Camp Lejeune and surrounding areas with drinking water. The testing confirmed there were high levels of toxic chemicals in the wells at Hadnot Point and Tarawa Terrace. (3)
These chemicals were detected in the water supply at Camp Lejeune: (4) (5)
According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), levels of these contaminants in Camp Lejeune water were well above the “current U.S. maximum contaminant levels” (MCL). (10)
The MCL for TCE, vinyl chloride, and PCE are 5 parts per billion (ppb). The MCL for benzene is 2 ppb. The report goes on to say, “TCE and PCE levels above their current MCLs were likely present in the distribution systems since the 1950s.” (11)
ATSDR reports, “In the Hadnot Point system, the median monthly estimated average concentrations of TCE, PCE, vinyl chloride and benzene was 366 ppb, 15 ppb, 22 ppb and 5 ppb, respectively. In the Tarawa Terrace system, the median monthly estimated average concentrations of PCE, TCE and vinyl chloride were 85 ppb, 4 ppb and 6 ppb.” (12)
ATSDR found there was sufficient evidence vinyl chloride and TCE cause liver cancer. (13) “Since the liver is working to breakdown TCE, high dose exposures will cause an increase in some liver enzymes in the blood…the liver works to break down alcohol in a similar way as it breaks down TCE. Exposure to TCE may increase your risk for liver cancer.” (14)
Other studies agree with ATSDR. Researchers note they, “identified more than 80 studies that evaluated cancer and TCE exposure, concluding that the evidence more firmly supported associations of TCE exposure with liver and kidney cancer while providing some support for associations with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).” (15)
Lawsuits are being filed on behalf of those diagnosed with liver cancer due to exposure to toxic chemicals in the water at Camp Lejeune.
On August 10, 2022, President Biden signed the Honoring our PACT Act. This act includes the Camp Lejeune Justice Act. It allows you to sue if you were made ill from the water at Camp Lejeune. (16)
Almost immediately, lawsuits began being filed. These lawsuits are claiming Camp Lejeune water contamination is causing liver cancer. More lawsuits are being filed on an ongoing basis.
It is important to file a lawsuit as quickly as possible because the law provides only a small window of time to make your claim.
Understanding if you are eligible to file a claim is key. Here are the criteria you must meet to file a lawsuit:
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) says “Scientific and medical evidence has shown an association between exposure to these contaminants during military service and development of certain diseases later on.” (18)
Anyone affected by the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune and diagnosed with liver cancer should consider all of your legal options.
If you or a loved one were exposed to toxic water at Camp Lejeune — and got cancer from it — you should file a lawsuit.
You need a law firm with experience representing veterans and their families. You also want a firm with experience in contaminated water litigation.
For nearly four decades, W&L has legally represented veterans, as well as their families. We have stood up for them against large corporations in contaminated groundwater cases, and we are now taking cases against the U.S. federal government.
W&L knows the law and understands the complexities of environmental pollution issues. We have a team of qualified, experienced, and compassionate attorneys. Our team is fighting for clients harmed by toxic chemicals in your water supply.
With our help, clients have achieved successful outcomes and received compensation for actual injuries, in addition to pain and suffering.
Here is a snapshot of some of our accomplishments for clients:
Also called “forever chemicals”, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), accumulate in the human body and they remain there for years. Also, these chemicals do not break down in the environment. (4)
Even more alarming is the range of baby products with PFAS in the market which include wipes, diapers, strollers, car seats, pillow protectors, and upholstered furniture. PFAS are used in coatings for children’s clothing to make them stain, oil, and water-resistant. (5)
You purchase these items for your children, thinking you are keeping them safe. In many cases, you pay top dollar for a product containing toxic chemicals without knowing it. This is because the labels do not always list the PFAS.
“Exposure to PFAS does real harm. Companies sell products, knowing they contain PFAS, yet do not make consumers aware of that fact. Those companies turn a blind eye to the harm their products do and must be held accountable,” insists James Bilsborrow, W&L partner and co-chair of our Environmental, Toxic Tort and Consumer Protection group.
Worse yet, the most likely path of exposure to PFAS for infants is by eating and drinking.
“Newborns can be exposed to PFAS through breast milk or through formula made with water that contains PFAS,” warns one state’s Department of Health. (6)
The health department explains, “over time, the level of PFAS in… bodies may lead to adverse health effects.” It continues “If people ingest PFAS (by eating or drinking food or water that contain PFAS), the PFAS are absorbed, and can accumulate in the body.” (7)
Commercial use of PFAS is widespread. It has been detected in products where consumers least expect to find it, even in those labeled as “green.”
The Silent Spring Institute studies the environment and women’s health. According to this nonprofit research group, “A new study shows many children’s products, including those with green certifications, contain harmful PFAS chemicals that were not listed on the label.” (8)
The problem stems from the fact, “Green certifications are created by third party organizations and offer assurances that a product does not contain certain harmful chemicals. However, certifications vary in their safety standards and they don’t all cover the same list of chemicals,” says the Institute. (9)
If your baby has suffered a serious health effect following exposure to PFAS, contact us today to understand your legal rights.
Get a Free Case Review“More than 9,000 PFAS have been identified,” states the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. (10) So many different harmful chemicals make it difficult to determine which baby product brands to avoid.
Mamavation is an online blog focused on “empowering women through eco-wellness.” (11) The blog has published results from its own toxicity tests of strollers, car seats, and clothing.
Among the brands of baby strollers tested, these are the ones it believes contain the highest levels of PFAS: (12)
Tested car seats with higher levels of PFAS include: (13)
When selecting strollers and car seats, “Look for other chemical fire retardants, heavy metals, PFAS ‘forever chemicals,’ PVC (aka vinyl) plastic, and antibacterial agents like triclosan,” suggests Mamavation. (14)
Children’s clothing brands tested with higher PFOA levels are: (15)
When shopping for baby clothes, be wary of items labeled as stain-resistant, water-resistant, stain-repellant, or water-repellant. These items likely contain PFAS, cautions Mamavation. (16)
Babies and children can suffer health injuries from baby products with PFAS. Some of the adverse health effects from PFAS exposure for babies and children include: (17) (18)
Troubling findings have emerged from studies on the health effects of PFAS on pregnant women, their fetuses, and young children. Scientists now think these chemicals are “meddling with gene regulators and hormones that control two of the body’s most critical functions: metabolism and immunity,” reports The New York Times. (19)
It continues, “More disturbing, PFAS can also alter levels of both mothers’ and babies’ thyroid hormones, which oversee brain development, growth and metabolism, and also play a role in immunity.” (20)
Babies whose mothers were exposed to PFAS, “are more likely to undergo abnormal growth in utero, leading to low birth weight, and later face increased risk of childhood obesity and infections,” adds the newspaper. (21)
If your baby has developed a serious health condition after being exposed to PFAS, contact us today for a free case review.
Get a Free Case ReviewHas your child suffered any of these negative health effects due to exposure to toxic amounts of PFAS? Or have you purchased a product you thought was safe only to learn that it contained toxic PFAS? If so, you want to take steps to make things right. All your legal options should be considered.
One of the most effective legal options you have is to become part of a class action lawsuit. A class action lawsuit looks at the big picture.
To file a class action lawsuit, you need a law firm experienced in multidistrict litigations. You also want a firm used to suing multiple large corporate defendants.
Such cases are challenging. This is why W&L has a team dedicated to consumer protection. Our team of attorneys has the knowledge and experience to get the results you need.
We are concerned about your child’s health and safety. You should not be subject to unknowingly using products you think are safe — but contain dangerous chemicals that can make your children sick.
Our team of attorneys represents people across the country. And we go up against corporate giants to secure justice and compensation for our clients.
As a recognized leader in handling the type of litigation you need, W&L can set the legal process in motion for you. We are there to guide you through each step, from start to finish.
Here are some cases where our clients were exposed to PFAS and other toxic chemicals. In these cases, our clients gained justice and a share of millions of dollars in compensation:
What baby wipes should you avoid? PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances ) ingredient lists for some popular brands of baby wipes have been analyzed by organizations such as Consumer Reports and Made Safe. These groups have compiled lists of baby wipes deemed safe, meaning there are no known risks. (22)
However, baby wipes are a topical form of exposure, while PFAS exposure is usually through eating. There is still not enough data available to determine the effects of topical exposure. (23)
The best way to tell if a product contains PFAS is to read the label. You especially want to avoid products with fragrances because they often contain phthalates, parabens, phenoxyethanol, cocamidopropyl betaine, propylene glycol, and 1,4-dioxane. (24)
Studies show PFAS can affect growth and learning in infants. These chemicals also interfere with natural hormone levels in the body, can affect the immune system, (causing vaccines to be less effective), can increase cancer risks, and increase the risk of high cholesterol and hypertension. (25) Additionally, PFAS can lead to thyroid changes and can affect the liver. (26)
PFAS cause negative health outcomes during pregnancy, birth, and later in life. In utero exposure to PFAS is associated with increased incidences of gestational diabetes, childhood obesity, preeclampsia, and fetal growth restriction. PFAS interfere with placenta function at the molecular level. (27)
Based on an analysis of listed ingredients, Consumer Reports found that these brands of baby wipes pose risks of exposure to PFAS: (28)
Updated January 2025
