Support When an Overseas Injury Threatens Your Health and Livelihood

Civilian contractors working abroad face serious risks—from hostile environments and heavy machinery to aviation hazards, construction injuries, and high-stress operational settings. When an injury occurs, the impact can be devastating: loss of income, long-term medical needs, and uncertainty about whether benefits will be approved.

Insurance companies often deny or delay claims, minimize injuries, or pressure contractors into inadequate settlements. Military Justice Attorneys understands how overwhelming this process can be. Working with a knowledgeable Defense Base Act lawyer in Mississippi ensures you have a strong advocate who will protect your rights and push back against insurer tactics designed to limit your benefits.

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What Is the Defense Base Act?

The Defense Base Act (DBA) is a federal workers' compensation law that provides medical benefits, wage replacement, and disability compensation to U.S. contractors injured while working overseas in support of American military or government operations. The DBA is administered by the U.S. Department of Labor through its Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs, which oversees DBA claims and insurer compliance. Official guidance is available at https://www.dol.gov/agencies/owcp/dlhwc/DBA.

Administered by the U.S. Department of Labor, the DBA covers a wide range of injuries, including:

  • Traumatic injuries
  • Repetitive stress injuries
  • Psychological conditions such as PTSD
  • Aggravated preexisting injuries
  • Exposure-related illnesses

The Defense Base Act operates under the framework of the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, codified at 33 U.S.C. Chapter 18, which sets benefit standards, medical rights, and dispute procedures. The statute is available at https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/33/chapter-18. Because contractors often work in dangerous environments with limited medical support, the DBA serves as their primary protection. Navigating this system without legal guidance can be challenging, especially when insurers dispute the severity or cause of an injury.

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

  • Early Assistance to Prevent Delays and Denials - An attorney ensures your claim is filed correctly and that medical documentation is complete, reducing the chances of unnecessary disputes or administrative delays.
  • Clear Understanding of Your Benefit Rights - A Defense Base Act attorney in Mississippi explains your entitlement to medical coverage, wage-loss benefits, temporary or permanent disability compensation, and vocational rehabilitation if needed.
  • Protection Against Insurance Company Tactics - Insurers frequently deny claims, limit treatment, or push for premature settlements. Your attorney ensures federal standards are enforced and your rights are fully protected.
  • Strategic Representation in the Department of Labor Process - Whether negotiating a settlement or preparing for a hearing before an administrative law judge, your attorney presents strong evidence to secure the maximum benefits available under the law.
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Is the Defense Base Act Relevant to My Situation?

The DBA may apply to you if you are a civilian contractor who was injured while working overseas under a U.S. contract. This includes contractors supporting:

  • Base operations
  • Aviation and logistics
  • Construction projects
  • Security and personal protection
  • Humanitarian and reconstruction missions

Many Mississippi contractors, including former military personnel who transitioned into overseas contracting roles, qualify for benefits when injured abroad. The DBA also covers psychological injuries, long-term medical conditions, and injuries that become symptomatic only after returning home.

If you are unsure whether your injury qualifies, speaking with a Defense Base Act lawyer in Mississippi can provide clarity and direction.

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. Claim Filing and Initial Documentation

Your attorney ensures all required forms and notices are filed promptly and accurately, laying a strong foundation for your case and preventing common administrative errors.

2. Insurance Review and Medical Evaluation

Insurers may request independent medical exams, dispute causation, or question disability ratings. Your attorney helps challenge biased evaluations and reinforce legitimate medical findings.

3. Negotiation and Administrative Proceedings

If your claim is denied or delayed, your attorney escalates the case through the Department of Labor, which may include mediation, discovery, depositions, and negotiations with the insurer.

4. Formal Hearing or Settlement

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

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After Your DBA Case What Comes Next

A successful DBA claim may entitle you to long-term disability benefits, ongoing medical care, or a structured settlement. However, insurers may later attempt to reduce benefits or challenge medical treatments.

Your attorney remains available to help enforce your award, challenge reductions, or file modifications if your condition worsens. Military Justice Attorneys continues to support contractors long after the initial claim is resolved, ensuring your benefits remain protected.

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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?

Experience With Contractor Injuries and Federal Claims

Our attorneys are former Marine Corps Judge Advocates with extensive knowledge of federal administrative law and contractor injury claims, giving clients a strong advantage in complex DBA cases.

Strong Advocacy Against Insurers

We understand the tactics insurance companies use to limit benefits—and we know how to counter them. Our team builds evidence-driven cases to secure fair compensation.

Dedicated Support for Mississippi Contractors

Clients receive direct access to their attorney, consistent communication, and a team-based approach designed to strengthen each part of their claim.

Together, these strengths make Military Justice Attorneys a trusted Defense Base Act attorney in Mississippi for contractors seeking the care and compensation they deserve.

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Defense Base Act in Mississippi FAQs

Does the DBA cover mental health conditions like PTSD?

Yes. Psychological injuries connected to overseas service may qualify, especially when supported by medical documentation.

Can I choose my own doctor under the Defense Base Act?

Yes. Contractors have the right to select their treating physician, which helps prevent insurers from directing care to unfavorable providers.

What if the insurance company denies my claim?

Your attorney can challenge the denial, gather additional evidence, and pursue the case through the Department of Labor to secure benefits.

How long does a DBA claim take to resolve?

Timelines vary. Some cases settle quickly, while others require hearings. Early legal involvement can significantly reduce delays.

Does the DBA cover injuries that developed over time or after deployment?

Yes. Repetitive stress injuries, hearing loss, exposure-related illnesses, and aggravated conditions may qualify under the DBA.

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Get the Help You Need After an Overseas Injury

Schedule your confidential consultation today and speak with a Defense Base Act lawyer in Mississippi who can guide you through the claims process and fight for the benefits you are owed.

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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