Protection for Injured Contractors

Civilian contractors play a crucial role in supporting U.S. military operations overseas, often in hazardous and unpredictable environments. When injuries occur, the Defense Base Act (DBA) exists to protect those workers; however, the claims process can be confusing, slow, and aggressively contested by insurers. Many contractors in Florida, especially those who are former service members now working overseas, are unsure of their rights or assume that help is out of reach. At Military Justice Attorneys, we help injured contractors pursue the full benefits they are owed under the DBA with focused, experienced representation.

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What Is the Defense Base Act?

The Defense Base Act is a federal workers’ compensation law that provides benefits to civilian employees injured while working overseas on U.S. government contracts or contracts with contractors. It applies to U.S. citizens and certain foreign nationals working on military bases, under public works contracts, or supporting national defense operations abroad. Covered benefits include medical treatment, wage replacement, and compensation for permanent disability or death. DBA claims are governed by federal law and administered through the U.S. Department of Labor under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, with oversight from the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP).

The Benefits of Defense Base Act Representation

  • No Upfront Legal Fees: Defense Base Act cases are handled on a contingency basis, meaning you do not pay anything out of pocket to pursue your claim.
  • Access to Ongoing Medical Care: Properly filed DBA claims ensure continued medical treatment for work-related injuries, even long after returning to the United States.
  • Wage Replacement and Disability Benefits: Eligible contractors may receive compensation for lost wages, temporary disability, or permanent impairment.
  • Protection Against Insurance Pushback: Insurers frequently dispute DBA claims, and experienced legal advocacy helps protect your rights throughout the process.

Is a Defense Base Act Claim Right for Me?

You may have a valid DBA claim if you were injured while working overseas as a civilian contractor on a U.S. government contract. This includes former military members now working for defense contractors, logistics companies, or security firms abroad.

DBA coverage applies regardless of fault and includes injuries caused by accidents, hostile activity, or hazardous working conditions. Contractors in Florida often return home without realizing they are entitled to benefits under federal law, even if the injury occurred months or years earlier.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our defense base act 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
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The Defense Base Act Claims Process What to Expect

1. Initial Claim Review

We review your employment contract, injury details, and medical records to confirm DBA coverage and identify the benefits available under federal law.

2. Claim Filing and Evidence Development

Our team prepares and submits the required DBA claim forms and supporting documentation to the Department of Labor, ensuring compliance with OWCP requirements.

3. Dispute Resolution and Advocacy

If the insurance carrier challenges your claim, we advocate on your behalf through conferences, medical evaluations, and litigation if necessary.

4. Ongoing Case Management

We continue to manage your case as medical treatment progresses, addressing benefit adjustments, settlements, and permanent disability determinations.

Additional guidance on DBA claims and contractor coverage is available through the U.S. Department of Labor and OWCP, which administers Defense Base Act benefits.

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After Your Defense Base Act Claim What Comes Next

Once benefits are awarded, we help ensure continued compliance by the insurer and address any changes in medical condition or work status that may arise. If disputes arise over treatment, compensation rates, or long-term disability, we remain involved to protect your interests. The goal of our defense base act lawyers is not just to file a claim, but to support you throughout the entire recovery and benefits process, from the time of injury through to resolution.

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Client Testimonials Their Words. Their Cases. Their Results.

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"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
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Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Military Justice Attorneys was founded to defend those who defend us, and that mission extends to civilian contractors injured while supporting U.S. operations abroad.

Former Military Leadership

Our attorneys are former Marine Corps officers and Judge Advocates who understand the transition from military service to civilian contracting, as well as the risks that accompany it.

Focused DBA Representation

We represent Defense Base Act clients nationwide, with a particular focus on U.S. citizen contractors and former service members who have been injured overseas.

Unmatched Accessibility

DBA clients work closely with our team and have direct access to their attorneys, as well as dedicated support from our DBA paralegal to guide them through every step of the process.

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Defense Base Act Lawyers Serving Florida FAQs

Do I have to live in Florida to file a DBA claim?

No. DBA claims are federal and are based on where the injury occurred and the nature of the contract, not where you currently live.

Do I pay anything upfront for a DBA case?

No. Defense Base Act claims are handled without upfront costs, and attorney fees are paid separately under federal law.

Does the Defense Base Act cover psychological injuries?

Yes. In some cases, mental health conditions such as PTSD related to overseas employment may be compensable under the DBA.

What if my employer or insurer denies my claim?

Denied claims can often be challenged through the Department of Labor’s dispute resolution process, where experienced legal representation is critical.

Is the Defense Base Act different from VA benefits?

Yes. DBA benefits are separate from VA benefits and apply to civilian contractors, not active-duty service members.

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Get Help With Your DBA Claim

You focused on the mission, and now it’s time to focus on your recovery. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule a confidential consultation about your Defense Base Act claim in Florida.

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

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