A Lifeline After an Overseas Injury

An injury on deployment can turn your life upside down. Pain, uncertainty about employment, rising medical costs, and fear of being denied benefits can overwhelm even the most resilient contractors. Many Hawaii-based contractors and former service members do not realize they have powerful federal protections under the Defense Base Act.

Military Justice Attorneys—a team of former Marine Corps Judge Advocates—represents U.S. citizen contractors around the world in securing compensation, medical treatment, and lost-wage benefits. We understand the culture, risks, and realities of contractor work overseas, and we stand ready to protect your rights so you can rebuild with confidence.

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What Is the Defense Base Act?

The Defense Base Act (DBA) is a federal workers’ compensation law that protects civilian contractors working overseas for U.S. government agencies, military branches, or government-funded contractors. The U.S. Department of Labor provides official Defense Base Act guidance at https://www.dol.gov/agencies/owcp/dlhwc/DBA.

Administered through the U.S. Department of Labor, the DBA ensures that injured contractors receive medical treatment, disability payments, and compensation for long-term impairments. The DBA applies regardless of fault. Coverage extends to injuries, illnesses, psychological conditions, and aggravations of preexisting issues. DBA claims are administered through the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP), which outlines the claims process at https://www.dol.gov/agencies/owcp/dlhwc.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for Defense Base Act Claims

  • Strong Case Development and Evidence Strategy - A defense base act attorney experienced in DBA claims gathers medical evidence, employment documents, witness statements, and deployment history to build a compelling case that satisfies Department of Labor requirements.
  • Protection Against Insurance Company Tactics - Contractors often face aggressive adjusters who minimize injuries or deny coverage. A defense attorney ensures your rights are protected and prevents insurers from exploiting gaps in documentation or procedure.
  • Accurate Evaluation of Disability and Compensation - An attorney helps you understand the full value of your wage-loss benefits, permanent disability rating, medical coverage, and future-care needs—ensuring you do not settle for less than you deserve.
  • Skilled Advocacy for Long-Term Benefits - Whether negotiating with insurers or presenting your case to the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP), a military attorney ensures your claim reflects the seriousness of your injury and the realities of contractor service.
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Is the Defense Base Act Relevant to My Situation?

The DBA applies to injured civilian contractors who worked overseas on U.S. military bases, U.S. embassies, construction projects, security missions, logistics operations, and other government contracts.

You may qualify if you are a U.S. citizen contractor living in Hawaii who was injured while working abroad for a U.S. employer or subcontractor. Many eligible contractors previously served in the military and transitioned into civilian roles supporting deployed units.

The DBA may also apply if your injury developed over time, resulted from a traumatic event, or involves PTSD, anxiety, or other deployment-related conditions. Mental health coverage under the DBA follows the same standards applied under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, which is explained by the Department of Labor at https://www.dol.gov/agencies/owcp/dlhwc/lhwca. If you are unsure whether your role or injury qualifies, you should contact an attorney immediately.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our defense base act lawyers 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. Initial Claim Filing and Medical Documentation

Your attorney helps you submit the initial claim to the employer and insurer while ensuring medical evidence is complete and timely. Early documentation is critical because insurers often dispute whether injuries occurred during covered employment.

2. Investigation and Insurance Company Review

Insurers review medical records, deployment information, and employment contracts to determine coverage. Many contractors experience delays or denials at this stage, making legal guidance essential. The Department of Labor’s guidance under the Longshore Act provides the standards insurers must follow.

3. Formal Claims Process Through the Department of Labor

If the insurer refuses benefits, your attorney escalates the claim through the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs. This may involve mediation, depositions, or hearings before an administrative law judge. At each step, legal representation ensures your injury is properly evaluated under federal law.

4. Final Decision and Ongoing Benefits

Once a decision is issued—either through settlement or judgment—you may receive compensation, medical care, or long-term disability benefits. Your attorney also helps monitor compliance and fights any attempt by insurers to terminate benefits prematurely.

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After Your Defense Base Act Claim What Comes Next

A successful DBA claim provides compensation and medical coverage, but your needs may continue long after the initial outcome. Some contractors require long-term treatment, mental-health support, or reevaluation of disability status.

If your benefits are suspended, delayed, or improperly reduced, an attorney can intervene to enforce compliance. Contractors may also need periodic documentation or reassessment, and Military Justice Attorneys remains available to support you through every stage of your recovery and benefits management.

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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 Military Justice Experience

All attorneys at Military Justice Attorneys are former Marine Corps Judge Advocates with extensive experience navigating federal administrative systems, complex injury claims, and contractor-related legal issues.

Proven Results and Strategic Defense

Our team has handled cases involving combat injuries, training accidents, contractor support missions, and deployment-related trauma, giving us a strategic advantage when presenting claims to insurers and the Department of Labor.

Dedicated Support for Contractors and Veterans

We provide direct access to your attorney, clear communication, and a team-based approach that ensures every angle of your claim is thoroughly prepared and defended.

Together, these strengths make MJA a trusted ally for injured contractors seeking fair compensation and long-term security.

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Defense Base Act Attorney Serving Hawaii FAQs

Do I qualify for DBA benefits if my injury happened off duty?

Yes. The DBA covers injuries that occur off duty if they arise out of the conditions of employment or are linked to the overseas environment. Many contractors qualify even when the incident did not occur on the job site.

How long do I have to file a DBA claim?

You should report your injury immediately, but formal claims are generally filed within one year. Delays can harm your case, especially when insurers dispute the cause or severity of the injury.

Can I choose my own doctor under the DBA?

Yes. Contractors have the right to select their own physician for treatment. This is critical, as insurer-appointed doctors may minimize injuries or recommend early return to duty.

What if the insurance company denies my claim?

Denials are common. Your attorney can escalate the claim to the Department of Labor, gather additional evidence, and request a hearing before an administrative law judge to secure benefits.

Does the DBA cover mental health conditions?

Yes. PTSD, anxiety, and depression linked to overseas employment are compensable under the DBA. Proper documentation and expert evaluations can significantly strengthen your claim.

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Protect Your Rights After an Injury

Schedule your confidential consultation today to learn how Military Justice Attorneys can help you pursue a Defense Base Act claim in Hawaii.

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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