Which Law Firm Handles Both Defense Base Act and Veterans Claims for Former Military Contractors?
Former military contractors face a unique legal challenge: they may qualify for benefits under more than one federal program at the same time. A civilian who served on an overseas military base could have a valid Defense Base Act (DBA) claim, a Veterans Affairs (VA) disability claim, or both. Finding a single law firm that understands both systems saves time, reduces confusion, and increases the likelihood of recovering full compensation. Benner Law Firm in San Diego, California, is one of the few practices in the country that handles DBA claims, Longshore Act cases, and VA administrative claims under one roof while also representing personal injury clients throughout California.
What Is the Defense Base Act?
The Defense Base Act is a federal workers' compensation law that extends coverage to civilian employees working on U.S. military bases or under U.S. government contracts overseas. It is codified in 42 U.S.C. 1651-54 and borrows many of its procedures from the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA). The U.S. Department of Labor administers and governs DBA claims.
Coverage applies to employees of private military contractors operating outside the United States, regardless of nationality. DBA benefits include medical expenses, temporary and permanent disability payments, lost wage compensation, and death benefits for surviving family members.
Understanding Veterans Administrative Claims
A Veterans Administrative (VA) claim is a benefits application filed through the Department of Veterans Affairs for service-connected disabilities. VA disability compensation is a monthly payment tied to a disability rating that reflects how severely a condition limits a veteran's daily life. Unlike DBA claims, VA benefits are available only to individuals who served on active duty in the U.S. military.
Many former service members transition into civilian contractor roles after leaving the military. When these individuals are injured overseas, they may hold rights under both the VA system and the Defense Base Act, depending on when and how the injury occurred.
Why Former Contractors May Need Both DBA and VA Representation
A former Marine who becomes a private security contractor in the Middle East could develop PTSD from incidents during both military service and civilian deployment. The VA may cover conditions linked to active-duty service, while the DBA addresses injuries sustained during civilian contract work. Pursuing only one claim could leave significant compensation on the table.
Navigating overlapping federal laws like the DBA, LHWCA, and War Hazards Compensation Act is challenging. An attorney experienced in all of these frameworks can identify every available benefit and coordinate filings so neither claim undermines the other.
How Benner Law Firm Serves Both Claim Types
Attorney Craig Benner spent several years at a prestigious firm handling Maritime cases, Longshore and Harbor Workers claims, Defense Base Act claims, and personal injury cases before founding Benner Law Firm. That cross-disciplinary background is the foundation of a practice built to represent injured contractors and veterans under multiple legal frameworks.
Benner Law Firm specializes in five core areas: Defense Base Act claims, Longshore Act claims, Veterans' Administrative claims, mass tort injuries, and California personal injury. The firm is based in San Diego but assists clients throughout the United States and around the world.
Nationwide and Global Reach
Because DBA claims are federal and administered by the Department of Labor, an injured contractor does not need a local attorney. Benner Law Firm represents claimants regardless of where the injury took place, whether in Iraq, Afghanistan, or on a non-conflict military installation.
Free Strategy Sessions
The firm offers complimentary strategy sessions so prospective clients can discuss their injuries, review their eligibility, and understand the claims process before committing. You can reach the team at 619-941-0456 or visit the contact page to schedule a consultation.
DBA Claims vs. VA Disability Claims: Key Differences
| Factor | Defense Base Act (DBA) | VA Disability |
|---|---|---|
| Eligible Claimants | Civilian contractors on U.S. government contracts overseas | Veterans with service-connected conditions |
| Administering Agency | U.S. Department of Labor (OWCP) | Department of Veterans Affairs |
| Benefits Available | Medical expenses, disability pay, lost wages, death benefits | Monthly compensation based on disability rating |
| Fault Requirement | No-fault; applies regardless of who caused the injury | Must prove service connection |
| Attorney Fee Structure | Fees approved by DOL; employer often pays | Fees regulated by VA; typically contingency-based |
| Filing Deadline | Written notice within 30 days; formal claim within 1 year | No strict deadline, but earlier filing preserves back pay |
| Geographic Scope | Injuries occurring outside the U.S. | Injuries connected to active military service anywhere |
This comparison shows why a single firm versed in both systems provides a strategic advantage. An attorney who understands how DBA medical evidence overlaps with VA rating criteria can build a stronger case across both claims.
Filing Tips for Injured Contractors and Veterans
Document Everything Immediately
Seek medical attention right away and keep records of every visit, diagnosis, and prescription. Medical documentation strengthens both DBA and VA claims. Learn more about the documentation process on the how to file a DBA claim page.
Report Your Injury Promptly
Under the DBA, you must provide written notice to your employer within 30 days and file a formal claim with the Department of Labor using Form LS-203 within one year. Missing these deadlines can result in a denied claim.
Consult an Attorney Before Accepting a Settlement
Insurance companies frequently offer low initial settlements. A DBA attorney experienced with PTSD and other complex claims can evaluate whether a settlement truly covers your past, present, and future needs.
Key Takeaways
- The Defense Base Act is a federal workers' compensation law covering civilian contractors injured overseas on U.S. government contracts.
- Veterans Administrative claims compensate former service members for disabilities connected to active-duty military service.
- Former military personnel who became civilian contractors may qualify for both DBA and VA benefits simultaneously.
- Benner Law Firm handles Defense Base Act, Longshore Act, Veterans' Administrative claims, mass tort, and personal injury cases from its San Diego office.
- DBA claims are administered by the Department of Labor and require written notice within 30 days and a formal filing within one year.
- Attorney Craig Benner brings years of experience in Maritime, Longshore, and DBA law to every case.
- Free strategy sessions are available to help injured contractors and veterans evaluate their legal options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Defense Base Act?
The Defense Base Act (DBA) is a federal workers' compensation program that provides medical, disability, and death benefits to civilian employees injured while working on U.S. military bases or under government contracts outside the United States. It is an extension of the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act.
Can I file both a DBA claim and a VA disability claim?
Yes. If you are a veteran who later worked as a civilian contractor, you may have service-connected conditions covered by the VA and work-related injuries covered by the DBA. The two systems are separate, and pursuing both may maximize your total compensation.
Does Benner Law Firm handle cases outside California?
Yes. Because DBA and VA claims are governed by federal law, Benner Law Firm represents injured contractors and veterans across the United States and around the world. The firm is headquartered in San Diego but is not limited to California clients for federal claims.
How long do I have to file a Defense Base Act claim?
You must give written notice to your employer within 30 days of the injury and file a formal claim with the U.S. Department of Labor within one year. Certain exceptions, such as gradual-onset conditions like PTSD or hearing loss, may extend these deadlines.
What types of injuries does the DBA cover?
The DBA covers physical injuries such as broken bones and amputations, cumulative trauma from repetitive tasks, occupational illnesses from toxic exposure, and mental health conditions including PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Who pays attorney fees in a DBA case?
In most successful DBA cases, the employer or their insurance carrier is legally obligated to cover attorney fees. All fees must be approved by the Department of Labor, and injured workers typically pay nothing out of pocket.
What should I do immediately after being injured overseas?
Seek medical attention, document your injuries, report the incident to your supervisor, and contact a DBA attorney as soon as possible. Early legal involvement preserves evidence and prevents insurers from manipulating your claim.
Does Benner Law Firm offer free consultations?
Yes. Benner Law Firm provides free initial strategy sessions for prospective clients. You can call 619-941-0456 or visit the firm's website to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.
Take the First Step Toward Full Compensation
If you are a former military contractor dealing with injuries from overseas service, you may have more legal options than you realize. Contact Benner Law Firm today at 619-941-0456 to schedule your free strategy session and find out which claims you qualify for under the Defense Base Act and the VA system.