If you don’t win, we don’t get paid: 855-913-1134
Ver en Español

Our Forever Chemicals Lawyers Can Aid Your Legal Claim

Environmental protection is the responsibility of both businesses and citizens. When negligent actions harm the environment and people, we are ready to hold the powerful accountable.
Contact Us
Rate by Super Lawyers badge

Environmental Law > Forever Chemicals

What Are Forever Chemicals?

“Forever chemicals” is a common name for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a large group of manufactured chemicals, many of which break down very slowly in the environment. PFAS have been used in certain firefighting foams, water-resistant clothing, stain-resistant materials, and grease-resistant products. Some PFAS can accumulate in people and animals over time.

How Can PFAS Contamination Affect People?

PFAS can enter air, soil, and water through manufacturing, product use, and disposal. Exposure may occur through contaminated drinking water, food, dust, or certain workplace activities. Health risks depend on the particular chemicals, exposure amount, frequency, duration, and individual factors. PFAS do not all have identical properties or health effects.

Examples of Potential PFAS Exposure Concerns

  • Drinking-water contamination: Testing identifies PFAS in a public water supply or private well used by residents.
  • Firefighting foam releases: Use of PFAS-containing foam at an airport, training site, or other facility contributes to nearby soil or groundwater contamination.
  • Industrial releases: Operations involving PFAS contaminate surrounding air, water, or land.
  • Workplace exposure: Workers encounter PFAS while manufacturing chemicals or using certain firefighting foams.

What Facts May Affect a Potential California Claim?

Exposure to PFAS, a positive test result, or a health condition alone does not establish eligibility for compensation. A legal review may examine the specific substance, suspected source, exposure dates, responsible parties, alleged harm, claim type, and applicable law.

For example, contamination that substantially interferes with property use may raise a private nuisance issue when the required elements are met. A personal injury claim requires evidence supporting the alleged connection between exposure and injury. Scientific or medical expert analysis may be necessary, and different claims have different requirements and deadlines.

What Information May Help a Legal Review?

Preserve water or soil testing results, utility notices, agency correspondence, relevant medical records, address and work histories, and documented expenses. Keep available product names or safety information that may help identify a suspected source. Retain only records you are lawfully entitled to possess.

For additional information, visit our PFAS pollution page.

Sources: ATSDR: PFAS and Your Health; ATSDR: PFAS Health Effects and Exposure Factors; and California Civil Jury Instructions: Private Nuisance.

Request a Free Case Review

Concerned about PFAS contamination affecting your health or property? Matern Law Group can review your circumstances and explain potential legal options.

California forever chemicals workplace rightsForever chemicals cases involve complex issues and require an experienced environmental law attorney who knows how local, regional and federal environmental regulations apply.

“Forever chemicals” is a colloquial term often used to refer to a group of synthetic chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These chemicals are called “forever chemicals” because they are extremely persistent in the environment and do not break down easily, leading to long-lasting contamination.

Forever chemicals have been used in a wide range of industrial and consumer products for decades due to their unique properties, such as water and grease resistance, making them useful in applications like non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, firefighting foams, and more.

Consumer rights regarding exposure to PFAS and other “forever chemicals” are similar to those concerning other hazardous substances, and they generally include the following aspects:

  • Right to Information: Consumers have the right to be informed about the presence of forever chemicals in products they purchase. This includes labeling requirements and disclosure of forever chemical content in consumer goods, especially those that come into contact with food, water, or the body.
  • Right to Safety: Consumers have the right to expect that products they use are safe and do not pose health risks due to PFAS exposure. Manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure their products meet safety standards and do not contain harmful levels of forever chemical.
  • Recourse for Harm: If consumers suffer harm as a result of forever chemical exposure from products or environments, they may have legal recourse to seek compensation for medical expenses, damages, and other related costs. Lawsuits can be filed against responsible parties, such as manufacturers or entities responsible for environmental contamination.
  • Advocacy and Regulation: Consumer advocacy groups and individuals have the right to advocate for stricter regulations on PFAS , forever chemicals, and similar hazardous chemicals. They can work toward stronger environmental protection laws, better labeling practices, and enforcement of existing regulations.
  • Access to Safe Products: Consumers have the right to choose products that are free from harmful chemicals, including PFAS. This may involve supporting businesses and products that prioritize safety, sustainability, and transparency in their supply chains.
  • Environmental Protection: Consumers also have the right to live in an environment free from contamination by harmful chemicals like PFAS. Advocacy for clean water, air, and soil and supporting policies and initiatives aimed at reducing environmental contamination are important aspects of consumer rights.

Concerned about forever chemicals (PFAS) contamination? Forever chemicals cases are complex and require an  lawyer with in-depth knowledge of PFAS litigation.

Our attorneys understand the intricacies of local, state, and federal environmental regulations pertaining to PFAS contamination, including:

  • The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA): Establishes enforceable drinking water quality standards for public water systems.
  • The Clean Water Act (CWA): Regulates the discharge of pollutants into waterways.
  • The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA): Also known as Superfund, addresses the cleanup of hazardous waste sites.
  • The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA): Regulates the introduction of new chemicals into commerce.

Consumers can support efforts to monitor and regulate forever chemical use and contamination while making informed choices to reduce their own exposure. If there are concerns about forever chemical exposure or contamination, consulting with local environmental agencies and healthcare professionals is advisable.

If you believe you have been harmed by an exposure to any type of forever chemicals, you may have a legal claim. You can talk with our experienced forever chemicals pollution lawyers to learn more about your rights and legal options.

By working with an environmental law attorney, you can ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your PFAS contamination case.

Our Approach

Our Practices are Guided by Integrity. We’ll protect what you deserve.

We work tirelessly and fight tenaciously to hold rights abusers accountable.

If you’ve experienced a distressing incident related to an issue like this, call us for a free case evaluation.

Did You Know?

PFAS Exposure
People are exposed to PFAS in different ways, such as drinking water or eating food that is contaminated with these chemicals, using products that contain PFAS, or breathing in air that has PFAS particles. Because PFAS break down very slowly, they can build up in our bodies over time.

Is It Illegal, or Just Unfair?

Legal cases can be lengthy, complicated, and confusing, but you don’t have to take on the system all by yourself. If you believe someone has violated your individual rights, or the rights of a large group of people in your community, we can help you find the right course of action.

Complete the form below or call: 855-913-1134 for a FREE consultation today.

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Name*
Texting Consent*
* Do you give us permission to send you text messages about your inquiry?
Published: | Updated: