Defense Base Act Attorney in South Carolina

Name: Defense Base Act
Brand: Military Justice Attorneys
Rating: 5 (44 reviews)

Overseas injuries can threaten your health, your livelihood, and your family’s financial stability, long after you return to South Carolina.

Support When an Overseas Injury Changes Everything

Contractors living in South Carolina often deploy from major military hubs such as Joint Base Charleston, Shaw Air Force Base, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Fort Jackson, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, and McEntire Joint National Guard Base. Many support missions abroad in construction, logistics, aviation, maintenance, or security roles.

When an injury occurs overseas, the Defense Base Act (DBA) becomes the primary system for medical care and wage replacement. Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, represents contractors across South Carolina in pursuing the compensation they are owed.

What Is the Defense Base Act?

The Defense Base Act is a federal workers’ compensation program that provides benefits to civilian contractors injured while supporting U.S. operations overseas. It applies to contractors working for the Department of Defense, government agencies, or companies supporting U.S. missions abroad.

The Department of Labor oversees the program and publishes guidance at https://www.dol.gov/agencies/owcp/dlhwc. More detailed regulatory provisions, including employer obligations and benefit guidelines, can be found in the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations at https://www.ecfr.gov.

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

Protection From Common Insurer Tactics. Many insurers deny claims, question medical evidence, or delay payments. We counter these tactics with clear documentation and legal pressure.
Strong Case Development. We gather medical records, witness statements, and operational context to demonstrate why your injury qualifies under the DBA.
Representation Grounded in Military Insight. As former Judge Advocates, we understand the working conditions at overseas bases and how contractor injuries often occur.

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. operations. Injuries may involve heavy labor, aircraft or vehicle maintenance, security operations, repetitive-use strain, or exposure to hazardous environments.

Some symptoms develop slowly or worsen after returning home. Contractors frequently do not realize injuries such as hearing loss, back deterioration, or stress-related impacts are eligible for benefits. If your condition affects your ability to work or provide for your family, a legal evaluation is essential.

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

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

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

Paul Murray

Partner

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

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

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

The Defense Base Act Process What to Expect

Step One: Reviewing the Injury and Early Evidence

We begin by analyzing how the injury occurred, what treatment was received, and whether documentation supports your claim. Early medical evidence is often decisive in DBA cases.

Step Two: Filing Your Claim With the Department of Labor

We prepare the formal claim, ensuring accuracy in the forms and supporting documentation. The Department of Labor outlines filing requirements, and errors can delay your case significantly.

Step Three: Responding to Insurer Challenges

Insurers may argue that the injury was not job-related or that it preexisted your employment. We address these claims with medical evidence, operational statements, and legal arguments grounded in the DBA’s statutory protections.

Step Four: Conferences, Hearings, or Negotiation

If disputes persist, we represent you at informal conferences or formal hearings. Procedural guidance, including hearing standards, is informed by UCMJ-related administrative frameworks maintained at https://jsc.defense.gov, which help shape expectations for fairness and evidence.

After Your Defense Base Act Case What Comes Next

Even after benefits begin, contractors must navigate ongoing medical evaluations, wage calculations, and insurer attempts to reduce compensation. Some pursue settlement once treatment stabilizes; others require long-term support. MJA remains involved by monitoring benefit accuracy, responding to insurer challenges, and advising on settlement strategy. We help ensure contractors and their families receive the full protection the DBA provides.

Available 24/7 to Help Anyone in the World

Client Testimonials Their Words. Their Cases. Their Results.

View All Testimonials

"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

Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Deep Military Justice Experience

Our defense base act attorneys are former Marine Judge Advocates with a firsthand understanding of overseas operations and contractor environments. We know how and why injuries occur in deployed settings, which strengthens your claim.

Proven Results and Strategic Advocacy

We have represented contractors worldwide in claims involving complex medical issues, disputed causation, and insurer resistance. Our disciplined, evidence-driven approach produces strong results.

Dedicated Support for Contractors in South Carolina

We provide clear communication, direct attorney access, and guidance that anticipates challenges before they arise. Our goal is to protect your health, income, and long-term stability. We deliver mission-focused advocacy that prepares and supports your case through every stage of the process.

Defense Base Act in South Carolina FAQs

Can I file a DBA claim after returning home to South Carolina?

Yes. Many contractors do not recognize their injuries until they return. As long as evidence links the condition to overseas work, you may still qualify.

Does the DBA cover stress-related or cumulative injuries?

Yes. Injuries that develop over time, including joint deterioration or post-traumatic stress impacts, may qualify if connected to your contracting duties.

What if the insurer denies my initial claim?

Denials are common. Strong medical evidence and clear legal arguments often reverse these decisions. Early legal involvement improves your position significantly.

How long does a DBA claim take?

Timelines vary. Some cases resolve in months, while disputed matters may require hearings. Strong documentation reduces delays.

When should I contact a DBA attorney?

Immediately after an injury or when symptoms begin to interfere with work. Early guidance preserves evidence and strengthens your claim.

Protect Your Health, Income, and Future

An overseas injury should not jeopardize your family’s livelihood. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule your confidential consultation with a former Marine Judge Advocate.