The Defense Base Act was passed in 1941 to protect overseas employees working for private employers on United States military bases. The law extended the benefits of the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act to those working outside of the continental US. Employees can receive benefits for injuries sustained while on the job.
It can be challenging to tackle Defense Base Act claims, especially if you don’t know anything about them. That’s why hiring a lawyer that’s well-versed in the topic is essential. You don’t want to do anything that compromises your receiving benefits from your injury.
This guide will discuss the role of a DBA lawyer during the claims process. Get professional legal advice and guidance from an expert in the field.
What’s a Defense Base Act Lawyer?
A Defense Base Act attorney is a person who specializes in representing those who are covered under the law. This type of lawyer will know everything about the DBA laws and their provisions. Their expertise will ensure that their clients receive fair compensation for their workplace illnesses or injuries.
What Services Do They Provide?
Defense Base Act law firms can assist their clients with a wide range of things. These tasks can include:
- Negotiating settlements
- Help with filing claims
- Representation during court proceedings
One of the key items to keep in mind is that a DBA attorney will oversee the entire claims process. Many claims get disputed or rejected by the government. Making sure you submit a perfect claim is important to ensure it doesn’t get denied.
Some of the reasons claims get rejected include:
- Not enough medical evidence
- No applicable DBA coverage when the injury occurred
- The employer doesn’t think the injury happened during or because of the work
A DBA attorney will evaluate every aspect of your claim. They’ll ensure it’s backed up by enough evidence to improve your chances of success. They can handle the following tasks:
- Get the required documentation and forms
- Submitting and obtaining medical records
- Turning in a document to the Division of Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation
They’ll Review Your Settlement
Your employer’s insurance company might offer you a settlement. You might be tempted to accept the first offer you get.
A DBA attorney will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the amount you deserve. They’ll also connect with the Department of Labor (DOL) on your behalf. The DOL will review the settlement amount as well to make sure it’s fair before they approve it.
Get Help Filing Defense Base Act Claims
As you can see, many things can derail Defense Base Act claims. It’s challenging to properly file and have success with a DBA claim if you don’t have any experience. A professional legal team will guide you through the claims process.
Barnes Law Firm represents clients throughout the United States and worldwide. Whether you need assistance with a DBA claim or another matter, our team is here to assist. Contact us to schedule a consultation.