Maryland Defense Base Act Lawyer

Top Rated Defense Base Act Claim Attorneys in Maryland

If you’ve been injured while working overseas as a civilian contractor, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll you’re experiencing. At Grossman Attorneys at Law, we specialize in Defense Base Act (DBA) claims and have helped countless contractors secure the benefits they deserve. Our experienced legal team knows that navigating these complex federal claims while recovering from an injury can feel overwhelming.

With decades of experience in DBA law, our attorneys at Grossman possess the specialized expertise needed to handle even the most challenging cases. We fight tirelessly for our clients, whether they’re facing denied claims, delayed medical treatments, or questions about their eligibility. Our track record of success speaks to our commitment to securing maximum compensation for injured contractors.

Don’t face this challenging time alone. Contact Grossman Attorneys at Law today for a consultation about your DBA claim.

What is the Defense Base Act?

The Defense Base Act (DBA) is a federal law established in 1941 to provide workers’ compensation benefits to civilian employees working overseas on U.S. military projects. It applies to contractors and subcontractors operating on military bases, as well as individuals engaged in public works and national defense contracts outside the United States. These workers may include occupations like construction, maintenance, security, and welfare service providers.

The DBA ensures coverage for injuries or illnesses that occur during the course of employment. Compensation includes payment for medical expenses, lost wages, or vocational rehabilitation. In fatal cases, death benefits are available to the worker’s dependents. The law broadens coverage to include incidents unrelated to fault, meaning you don’t need to prove negligence or liability to qualify for benefits, making it a crucial protection for individuals in potentially dangerous environments.

You may file a claim under the DBA with the Department of Labor’s Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs, and private insurance companies oversee compensation disbursement.

Despite the straightforward protections, the DBA claim process can be burdensome. Denials or disputes often arise, particularly when employers or insurers contest injury classifications, employment status, or the extent of benefits owed.

What Does a Defense Base Act Lawyer Do?

Our Maryland Defense Base Act (DBA) lawyers play a critical role in helping injured contractors or their families navigate the complex DBA claims process. Our team is well-versed in the intricacies of the Defense Base Act, ensuring that every claim complies with federal regulations and is supported by necessary evidence.

Representation and Administrative Guidance

We represent injured workers or the families of deceased employees who provided services for U.S. government contractors overseas. Our team guides you through the administrative and legal procedures required for filing claims under the Defense Base Act. This includes preparing the paperwork, meeting deadlines, and addressing disputes that may arise with employers or insurers.

Evaluating and Preparing Claims

At Grossman Attorneys, we assess all aspects of your DBA claim to ensure it meets federal standards. We gather evidence such as medical records, wage statements, and witness testimonies. Our thorough documentation strengthens claims and helps secure the medical compensation, lost wages, and disability benefits you may be entitled to under the Act.

Legal Advocacy During Litigation

When disputes escalate, we handle all legal aspects of your case during litigation. Our team represents your interests in hearings before the Office of Administrative Law Judges or other judicial bodies when claim disputes arise over eligibility or benefits. We ensure that your rights are protected and your case receives the attention it deserves.

Pursuing Full Compensation

As your DBA lawyers, we work tirelessly to secure full compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, future care needs, permanent disabilities, or dependency-based death benefits. While the DBA does not require proof of fault, our strong legal advocacy is often necessary to resolve contested claims or denied payouts effectively.

Who is Covered Under the Defense Base Act?

The Defense Base Act extends workers’ compensation protections to a wide range of civilian employees working under U.S. government contracts overseas. This coverage includes various types of employment, contractors, and non-U.S. citizens or foreign nationals.

Types of Employment Covered Under the Defense Base Act

The DBA ensures coverage for employees operating in specific roles, irrespective of nationality, provided their employment meets certain criteria. These include:

• Military Base Work: Coverage applies to employees working on U.S. military bases abroad, including in U.S. territories and possessions. For instance, workers handling construction or maintenance services on defense installations fall under this category.
• Public Works Projects: Employees supporting public works contracts tied to national defense or war activities outside U.S. soil are covered. These contracts often include infrastructure construction, logistical support, and similar services.
• Foreign Assistance Act Work: Workers involved in contracts funded by the U.S. under the Foreign Assistance Act, such as selling military equipment or services to allied countries, are also protected when activities occur outside the United States.

If your work assignment aligns with these employment categories, the DBA provides critical safeguards, including medical coverage, wage compensation, and death benefits for dependents.

Government Contractors

Government contractors and their employees form a significant group covered under the DBA. Employers working with the U.S. government—whether for defense, infrastructure, or security services abroad—must ensure DBA insurance is active to protect their workers. This includes employees performing construction projects on military bases, contractors tasked with providing logistical and operational support, and those offering instructional or advisory services to allied forces.

Regardless of an employer’s compliance, you retain DBA protection if you’re injured during employment. If a claim is filed, you’ll receive compensation for necessary medical treatments and lost wages caused by work-related injuries.

Non-Citizen and Foreign Nationals

Non-citizens and foreign nationals working for U.S. government contractors outside the United States benefit from the DBA’s broad scope. While employment criteria remain the same, the Act ensures equitable treatment regardless of nationality. Workers employed on military bases, public works projects, or through Foreign Assistance Act-related contracts qualify for compensation if injured on the job.

For example, a foreign national providing contracted security services on a U.S. military base in a foreign country would be covered under the DBA if injured during employment. Death benefits are also extended to eligible dependents in the event of a fatal work accident.