Defense Base Act Lawyers for Injured Contractors
Former Defense Counsel, Proven Results
6,000+ DBA cases | $550M+ recovered | 75+ years’ experience | Over 400 trials.
The Leading Defense Base Act Law Firm
Barnett, Lerner, Karsen, Frankel & Castro, P.A. is nationally recognized for its expertise in representing injured civilian contractors working abroad under contracts with the U.S. government. These claims fall under the Defense Base Act (DBA), an extension of the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. With one of the largest and most experienced DBA practices in the country, our attorneys bring more than a century of combined litigation and trial experience to bear on behalf of injured workers.
Our firm is founded on the principle of delivering exceptional representation through skill, integrity, and unwavering dedication. We understand that suffering an injury overseas, far from family and familiar support systems, can be profoundly disruptive. Navigating the DBA claims process requires both legal acumen and compassion. We take the time to explain each step clearly, ensuring our clients know what to expect and how their rights are protected.
Barnett, Lerner, Karsen, Frankel & Castro, P.A. is committed to securing the medical care and financial compensation our clients need to rebuild their lives. Our reputation is built on results, and our mission is justice.
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What Is the Defense Base Act?
The Defense Base Act (DBA) is a federal statute that extends the protections of the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) to civilian employees working under U.S. government contracts abroad. It provides compensation and medical benefits to workers injured or killed while supporting military operations, public works, or national defense projects. Administered by the U.S. Department of Labor, the DBA applies globally and covers workers of all nationalities.
Federal Protection
Covers injuries for contractors on U.S. government contracts worldwide.
Civilian Contractors
Applies to workers supporting military, embassies, and aid missions.
Legal Compensation
Provides wage replacement, medical care, and disability benefits.
DBA Claim Process
File claims through the Department of Labor with legal guidance.
Strict Deadlines
Typically have one to two years to file a claim from date of awareness.
DBA Attorney Help
Experienced lawyers improve success and fight denied claims.
Why Legal Representation Matters
While filing a DBA claim may appear straightforward, the reality is often complex. Employers and insurance carriers frequently challenge, delay, or deny claims. Without experienced legal counsel, injured contractors risk losing access to critical benefits.
A skilled DBA attorney ensures your claim is properly filed, supported by credible medical evidence, and aggressively pursued. From resolving disputes to securing compensation for lost wages or permanent disability, your attorney serves as your advocate throughout the process.
With over 6,000 DBA cases handled and hundreds of millions recovered for injured workers, Barnett, Lerner, Karsen, Frankel & Castro, P.A. has the experience and dedication to protect your rights.
Who’s Covered Under the DBA?
The DBA applies to civilian employees working on U.S. government contracts, including:
• Workers on U.S. military bases or lands used for military purposes
• Employees engaged in public works or national defense projects outside the continental U.S.
• Translators, security personnel, and construction crews supporting military missions
• Employees of organizations funded by the U.S. government, including humanitarian and aid projects
Coverage extends to all nationalities, reflecting the global nature of today’s contractor workforce.
DBA Benefits
Medical Benefits:
• All reasonable and necessary medical care related to the injury or illness
• Includes doctor visits, hospitalization, surgery, medications, and rehabilitation
• Injured workers may choose their own treating physician (subject to OWCP approval)
Disability Benefits:
• Wage replacement for temporary or permanent disability
• Compensation based on average weekly wage
• Covers both total and partial disabilities
Death Benefits:
• Weekly compensation for surviving dependents
• Funeral expenses
• Benefits may extend to spouses, children, and other dependents
Injuries & Conditions Covered
DBA benefits apply to a wide range of physical and psychological conditions, including:
• Traumatic injuries (fractures, burns, amputations)
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Hearing loss
• Respiratory illness and toxic exposure
• Certain cancers linked to service environments
If your condition is not listed, contact our firm to discuss your eligibility.
Denied or Delayed DBA Claims
It is common for employers or insurers to dispute DBA claims. Tactics include:
• Denying the injury is work-related
• Minimizing the extent of disability
• Delaying medical approvals
You have the right to appeal through the U.S. Department of Labor. Legal representation is crucial for challenging denials, gathering evidence, and presenting your case effectively.
Attorney Fees in DBA Cases
Under federal law, injured workers do not pay attorney fees out of pocket. If your claim is successful, fees are typically paid by the insurance carrier. In other cases, fees are subject to approval by the Department of Labor to ensure fairness. This allows injured contractors to pursue compensation without financial risk.
Zone of Special Danger Doctrine
The Zone of Special Danger doctrine expands DBA coverage to injuries that occur outside traditional work duties. If the conditions of employment place a worker in a hazardous environment, injuries sustained during reasonable off-duty activities, such as travel, meals, or recreation, may still be compensable.
This doctrine acknowledges the broader risks faced by contractors deployed to remote or high-risk locations and enhances the protections afforded under the DBA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about the Defense Base Act? Our FAQ covers everything from eligibility and benefits to filing deadlines and denied claims—helping injured contractors understand their rights.
The Defense Base Act (DBA) is a federal law that provides workers’ compensation benefits to civilian contractors injured while working on U.S. government contracts. It covers injuries, illnesses, and deaths that occur while supporting military operations, embassies, and aid projects.
News & Articles
Stay informed with the latest firm news, legal insights, and updates on Defense Base Act developments—all designed to educate and empower our clients and community.