Support When an Overseas Injury Threatens Your Future

Civilian contractors working abroad face dangerous, unpredictable environments—from combat zones to construction sites to military support operations. When an injury occurs, the consequences can be life-changing. Lost income, long-term medical needs, and pressure from employers or insurers can make an already stressful situation overwhelming.

Military Justice Attorneys understands the urgency of these claims. As former Marine Corps Judge Advocates, our team brings disciplined legal strategy to help contractors secure medical coverage, disability benefits, and compensation while protecting their livelihood. Whether you are a former servicemember now contracting overseas or a civilian impacted by high-risk work conditions, a Defense Base Act lawyer in Georgia can advocate for you at every stage of the process.

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What Is the Defense Base Act?

The Defense Base Act (DBA) is a federal workers’ compensation system designed to protect civilian contractors injured while supporting U.S. military operations abroad. Administered through the Department of Labor, DBA benefits may apply if you:

  • Worked for a U.S. government contractor overseas
  • Supported military bases, embassies, or public works projects
  • Served in roles ranging from security to logistics, aviation, or construction

Coverage includes medical treatment, wage replacement benefits, and compensation for permanent disabilities. The U.S. Department of Labor’s official DBA overview outlines eligibility rules, benefit types, and procedural requirements for overseas contractor injuries.

While the law is intended to protect injured workers, insurance carriers often dispute claims, delay benefits, or attempt to minimize compensation. Having an experienced Defense Base Act attorney in Georgia ensures your claim is presented clearly and aggressively.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for DBA Claims

  • Experienced Guidance Through a Complex Federal System - The DBA process involves strict timelines, documentation standards, and procedural rules. Your attorney helps meet all legal requirements and prevents avoidable delays. The claims process is governed by federal regulations found in the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA), referenced by the Department of Labor here: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/owcp/dlhwc.
  • Skilled Handling of Disputed or Denied Claims - If an insurer denies liability, challenges medical findings, or disputes wage loss, your attorney develops evidence, obtains expert opinions, and fights for the benefits you are owed.
  • Clear Communication and Strategic Case Development - We assist with medical records, injury reports, formal filings, and gathering statements that strengthen your claim and demonstrate the full extent of your damages.
  • Support for Long-Term Recovery and Permanent Disability Issues - If your injury results in chronic pain, mobility limitations, PTSD, or loss of earning capacity, your attorney ensures these long-term effects are fully accounted for in your compensation.
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Is the Defense Base Act Relevant to My Situation?

The DBA may apply if you:

  • Were injured overseas while working for a U.S. defense contractor
  • Developed occupational illnesses or mental health conditions related to deployment
  • Suffered injuries during training, transport, or non-combat duties supporting the mission
  • Previously served in the military and later became a contractor abroad

Common DBA injuries include:

  • Blast-related trauma
  • Orthopedic injuries
  • Hearing loss
  • PTSD and anxiety disorders
  • Vehicle or aircraft accidents
  • Repetitive stress injuries
  • Chemical or environmental exposure

If your employer minimizes your injury, pressures you to return to work early, or disputes your claim, speaking with a Defense Base Act lawyer in Georgia as soon as possible strengthens your position.

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 Process What to Expect

1. Injury Reporting and Initial Claim Filing

Your attorney helps ensure your injury is properly documented, reported to your employer, and filed with the Department of Labor under the correct timelines.

2. Medical Treatment and Documentation

Strong evidence begins with accurate medical evaluations. We help coordinate records and support your right to choose your own physician under the DBA.

3. Benefit Calculation and Dispute Resolution

If insurance carriers challenge your eligibility or benefit level, your attorney develops evidence, negotiates aggressively, and prepares your case for formal hearings if necessary.

4. Hearing Preparation and Long-Term Advocacy

If your case proceeds before an Administrative Law Judge, we prepare testimony, expert opinions, and documentation to maximize your compensation.

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After Your DBA Claim What Comes Next

DBA cases often involve long-term medical needs and recurring disputes over treatment, disability ratings, or wage-loss benefits. Our defense base act lawyers remain available to guide you through supplemental claims, modification requests, or appeals. If your injury worsens or your employer attempts to limit ongoing benefits, we ensure your rights stay protected throughout the entire recovery period.

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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?

Deep Understanding of Military and Contractor Environments

As former Marine Corps Judge Advocates, our attorneys understand the operational realities contractors face abroad and how those conditions factor into DBA claims.

Proven Success Navigating Complex Federal Claims

We know how to counter insurance company tactics, develop strong evidence, and present claims that withstand scrutiny before the Department of Labor.

Dedicated Support for Injured Contractors

Clients receive direct access to their attorney, clear communication, and advocacy grounded in the mission-oriented values our firm is built upon.

Together, these strengths make Military Justice Attorneys a trusted Defense Base Act attorney in Georgia for civilian contractors seeking full and fair compensation.

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Defense Base Act in Georgia FAQs

Do I qualify for DBA benefits if I was not injured in combat?

Yes. The DBA covers any injury or illness arising out of your overseas employment, not just combat-related events.

Can I choose my own doctor for a DBA claim?

Yes. You have the right to select your treating physician, which can significantly impact your case.

What if my employer disputes my injury?

Your attorney can gather medical evidence, witness statements, and documentation to challenge the dispute and support your claim.

Are mental health conditions covered under the DBA?

Yes. PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health issues related to overseas employment are compensable.

How long does a DBA claim take?

Timelines vary based on disputes, medical evaluations, and carrier involvement. Early legal guidance helps prevent unnecessary delays.

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Your Recovery Deserves Strong Advocacy

Schedule a confidential consultation today with a Defense Base Act lawyer in Georgia and take the next step toward securing the benefits you earned.

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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