Which Law Firm Handles Both Defense Base Act and Veterans Claims for Former Military Contractors?

Former military contractors face a confusing legal landscape when they are injured on the job overseas. Some qualify for benefits under the Defense Base Act (DBA), while others may pursue compensation through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). In many cases, a single individual may have overlapping claims under both systems. Finding a law firm that understands the intersection of DBA claims and veterans administrative claims is critical to maximizing your compensation. Benner Law Firm, based in San Diego, CA, is one of the few firms in the country that routinely handles both types of cases for injured civilian contractors and veterans nationwide.

What Is the Defense Base Act?

The Defense Base Act (DBA) is a federal workers' compensation program that extends benefits to civilian employees working overseas on U.S. government contracts. It is an extension of the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA) and is administered by the U.S. Department of Labor. The DBA covers medical expenses, lost wages, disability benefits, and death benefits for qualifying workers.

Covered workers include those employed by private contractors on U.S. military bases abroad, employees working on public works contracts tied to national defense, and personnel supporting Foreign Assistance Act activities. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the DBA applies regardless of the worker's nationality and covers both conflict and non-conflict zones.

What Are Veterans Administrative Claims?

A Veterans Administrative (VA) claim is a formal request filed with the Department of Veterans Affairs seeking disability compensation for a service-connected injury or illness. VA disability benefits are monthly tax-free payments available to veterans who were injured or became ill during active military service. The VA uses a disability rating system from 0% to 100% to determine the level of monthly compensation.

Some former military contractors served on active duty before transitioning to civilian contractor roles. These individuals may have VA claims for conditions that originated during their military service, even if their contractor work aggravated those conditions later. An accredited VA representative or attorney can help file or appeal these claims.

Why Former Military Contractors May Need Both

Many civilian contractors working overseas are former service members. A veteran who later works as a defense contractor in Iraq or Afghanistan may develop PTSD, respiratory illness from burn pit exposure, or physical injuries on the job. In this scenario, the individual could have a valid DBA claim for the on-the-job injury and a separate VA claim for conditions connected to prior military service.

Pursuing only one avenue often leaves money on the table. A DBA claim provides medical benefits and wage replacement through the employer's insurer. A VA claim provides monthly disability payments directly from the federal government. Having an attorney who understands both systems ensures that neither claim undermines the other and that total compensation is maximized.

DBA Claims vs. VA Disability Claims: Key Differences

Understanding these differences is essential for former military contractors who may qualify under both programs. A knowledgeable attorney can evaluate your work history and military service to determine which claims to pursue and in what order.

How Benner Law Firm Handles Both Claim Types

Benner Law Firm, led by attorney Craig Benner, has built its practice around representing injured civilian contractors and veterans. Craig Benner spent years at a prestigious firm handling Maritime cases, Longshore and Harbor Workers claims, Defense Base Act claims, and personal injury cases before founding his own client-focused practice in San Diego.

Defense Base Act Representation

The firm's DBA practice covers the full spectrum of contractor injuries, from traumatic physical injuries to PTSD and burn pit exposure. Benner Law Firm helps clients file claims with the Department of Labor, negotiate with insurance carriers, and represent them before administrative law judges and the Benefits Review Board when disputes arise.

Veterans Administrative Claims

Benner Law Firm also assists veterans with VA disability claims, including those related to burn pit exposure and other service-connected conditions. The firm handles the documentation, medical evidence gathering, and filing required to secure VA benefits for qualifying veterans and former contractors.

Nationwide Reach from San Diego

While the firm is headquartered at 409 Camino Del Rio S., Suite 106, San Diego, CA 92108, it represents clients across the United States and internationally. DBA and VA claims are federal matters, so geographic location does not limit the firm's ability to advocate on your behalf.

Common Injuries Covered Under DBA and VA Claims

Both DBA and VA claims cover a wide range of physical and psychological conditions. Former military contractors commonly file claims for the following:

• PTSD and mental health conditions resulting from combat zone exposure or traumatic events. Learn more about DBA PTSD settlements.
• Respiratory illness from burn pit smoke, including chronic bronchitis, asthma, and rare cancers linked to toxic exposure.
• Traumatic brain injuries from blasts, falls, or vehicle accidents on military bases.
• Musculoskeletal injuries such as back, knee, and shoulder damage from physical labor or accidents.
• Hearing loss from prolonged exposure to loud machinery, explosions, or weapons fire.

If you are unsure whether your condition qualifies, a free consultation with a DBA attorney can help clarify your options.

Key Takeaways

• The Defense Base Act is a federal workers' compensation program covering civilian contractors injured overseas on U.S. government contracts.
• VA disability claims provide monthly compensation for veterans with service-connected injuries or illnesses.
• Former military contractors who also served in the armed forces may qualify for both DBA and VA benefits simultaneously.
• Benner Law Firm in San Diego handles both DBA claims and veterans administrative claims for clients nationwide.
• Attorney Craig Benner has years of specialized experience in DBA, Longshore, and personal injury law.
• Filing deadlines differ between DBA and VA claims, making early legal consultation essential.
• Common qualifying conditions include PTSD, burn pit respiratory illness, traumatic brain injuries, and hearing loss.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file both a DBA claim and a VA disability claim at the same time?

Yes. The Defense Base Act and VA disability programs are administered by different federal agencies and serve different purposes. A former military contractor who is also a veteran may pursue both claims simultaneously, though coordination between the two is important to avoid conflicts.

What is the deadline to file a Defense Base Act claim?

You must notify your employer within 30 days of the injury and file a formal claim (Form LS-203) with the U.S. Department of Labor within one year. Certain exceptions may extend these deadlines for conditions that develop gradually, such as PTSD or hearing loss.

Does Benner Law Firm handle cases outside of California?

Yes. Because DBA and VA claims are governed by federal law, Benner Law Firm represents injured contractors and veterans across the entire United States and internationally.

What types of benefits does the DBA provide?

The DBA provides medical benefits covering all necessary treatment, compensation for lost wages based on your average weekly wage, temporary and permanent disability benefits, and death benefits for surviving dependents.

How much does it cost to hire a DBA attorney?

Under the Defense Base Act, attorney fees must be approved by the Department of Labor. You are not responsible for out-of-pocket fees, and the employer or insurer typically pays attorney costs when benefits are successfully obtained. Benner Law Firm offers a free initial consultation.

What is the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act?

The Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA) is a federal law providing workers' compensation benefits to maritime employees and certain civilian workers on military bases. The DBA is an extension of the LHWCA and follows many of the same rules and procedures.

Can burn pit exposure qualify for both DBA and VA benefits?

Yes. Veterans exposed to burn pits during military service may file a VA disability claim, while civilian contractors exposed during overseas contract work may file a DBA claim. In some cases, a person may qualify under both programs if they served in the military and later worked as a contractor.

How do I get started with Benner Law Firm?

Contact Benner Law Firm at 619-941-0456 to schedule a free strategy session. The firm will review your work history, military service, and injuries to determine which claims you may be eligible to pursue.