Support When an Overseas Injury Puts Your Life on Hold

Civilian contractors face significant risks while supporting U.S. missions abroad—from hostile environments and heavy equipment to high-stress operational settings. When an injury occurs, the consequences can disrupt your health, income, and ability to return to work. Many contractors in Maryland struggle to get insurance carriers to honor their obligations under the Defense Base Act (DBA).

Military Justice Attorneys understands the challenges facing injured contractors, including delayed medical approvals, denied claims, and pressure to return to work prematurely. Working with a skilled Defense Base Act lawyer in Maryland ensures you have an advocate who will stand up to insurers, protect your rights, and fight for the benefits you are owed.

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What Is the Defense Base Act?

The Defense Base Act is a federal workers’ compensation law that provides disability benefits, wage replacement, and medical care to civilian contractors injured while working overseas for the U.S. government or its contractors.

The statute itself is codified at 42 U.S.C. § 1651 and is available through Cornell Law at https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/42/1651. Administered through the U.S. Department of Labor, the DBA covers traumatic injuries, repetitive-stress injuries, illnesses, psychological conditions, and aggravations of preexisting medical issues.

Claims are administered by the Department of Labor’s Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP), with official guidance available at https://www.dol.gov/agencies/owcp/dlhwc. The statute operates under the framework of the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, and insurers must follow strict federal rules when evaluating claims. The Longshore Act framework governing DBA claims is published at https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/33/chapter-18. Because DBA cases often involve contested medical evidence and aggressive insurance tactics, legal representation is highly beneficial.

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

  • Early Intervention to Prevent Denials and Delays - An attorney ensures your claim is filed correctly, your medical documentation is submitted promptly, and insurers cannot use procedural gaps to deny benefits.
  • Accurate Assessment of Disability and Compensation - A Defense Base Act attorney in Maryland helps you understand your entitlement to medical treatment, lost-wage benefits, temporary disability, permanent impairment, and vocational rehabilitation.
  • Protection From Insurance Company Tactics - Insurers often attempt to limit treatment, dispute the cause of injury, or force contractors into unfavorable settlements. Skilled legal representation ensures federal standards are enforced.
  • Strategic Advocacy Through the Department of Labor Process - Your attorney can negotiate settlements, pursue hearings before administrative law judges, and present compelling medical and factual evidence to secure your benefits.
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Is the Defense Base Act Relevant to My Situation?

You may qualify for DBA benefits if you were injured while working overseas in support of U.S. missions, including roles in construction, security, aviation, logistics, base operations, humanitarian assistance, or other government-funded work.

Many Maryland contractors are former military service members who transition to civilian contracting roles.

Others are specialized professionals deployed abroad through defense and government contractors headquartered in the region. The DBA covers not only traumatic accidents but also conditions such as PTSD, hearing loss, exposure-related illnesses, and injuries that appear gradually over time. If you experienced any medical issue linked to overseas employment, a Defense Base Act lawyer in Maryland can help determine whether you are entitled to benefits.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our 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. Filing the Claim and Securing Medical Documentation

Your attorney ensures the claim is properly filed, all required forms are completed, and your medical care is documented according to Department of Labor standards.

2. Insurance Review and Case Investigation

Insurers evaluate whether the injury occurred during covered employment. They may send contractors to independent medical exams or dispute causation. A strong legal strategy helps counter these challenges.

3. Administrative Claim Proceedings and Negotiation

If benefits are denied or delayed, your attorney escalates the case through the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs. This stage may involve mediation, depositions, discovery, and negotiation with the insurer.

4. Hearing or Settlement

If necessary, your attorney presents your case before an administrative law judge—introducing medical evidence, expert testimony, and legal arguments to secure appropriate compensation and medical care.

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After Your DBA Case What Comes Next

Even after an initial award or settlement, DBA cases may require ongoing monitoring. Insurers sometimes attempt to reduce medical benefits, limit disability payments, or terminate coverage. Your attorney can challenge improper reductions, file for modifications, or pursue additional compensation if your condition worsens.

Military Justice Attorneys remains committed to supporting clients long after the initial claim is resolved, helping ensure your benefits continue uninterrupted and your medical needs are fully met.

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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 and Contractor Experience

Our attorneys are former Marine Corps Judge Advocates with extensive experience navigating federal administrative law, government-contracting environments, and the realities of overseas operations.

Proven Advocacy Against Insurers

We have represented contractors in complex injury cases worldwide, pushing back against insurance tactics and securing treatment and compensation under the DBA’s protections.

Dedicated Support for Maryland Contractors

Clients receive direct attorney access, steady communication, and a team-based approach to strengthen every part of their claim. Whether you need ongoing support or immediate intervention, we stand ready to help.

Together, these strengths make Military Justice Attorneys a trusted Defense Base Act attorney in Maryland for contractors seeking fairness and financial security.

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Defense Base Act Attorney Serving Maryland FAQs

Does the DBA cover psychological injuries such as PTSD?

Yes. Mental health conditions connected to overseas service—including PTSD, depression, and anxiety—can qualify for benefits when properly documented.

Can I choose my own doctor under the DBA?

Yes. Contractors have the right to select their treating physician, which is crucial when insurers attempt to direct care or downplay injuries.

What if the insurance company denies my claim?

Your attorney can escalate the case through the Department of Labor, pursue mediation, or litigate before an administrative law judge to obtain the benefits you deserve.

How long does a DBA claim take?

Timelines vary. Simple claims may resolve quickly, while disputed cases may require hearings or extended negotiation. Legal representation helps prevent unnecessary delays.

Does the DBA apply if my injury developed over time?

Yes. Conditions such as hearing loss, repetitive-stress injuries, or exposure-related illnesses may still qualify if linked to your overseas employment.

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Get the Support You Deserve After an Overseas Injury

Schedule your confidential consultation today and speak with a Defense Base Act lawyer in Maryland about securing the medical care and compensation you are entitled to.

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.

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