Criminal Defense Attorney Serving California

Name: Criminal Defense
Brand: Military Justice Attorneys
Rating: 5 (44 reviews)

Protecting servicemembers when their reputation, freedom, and career are at risk.

Defense When Everything Feels at Risk

Service members across California face unique pressure when criminal allegations arise. Whether you serve at Camp Pendleton, MCAS Miramar, Twentynine Palms, Naval Base San Diego, Travis AFB, NAS Lemoore, Edwards AFB, Beale AFB, Vandenberg SFB, Fort Irwin, or the Presidio of Monterey, even early investigative steps can place your career in jeopardy.

Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, provides disciplined, strategic representation in UCMJ criminal cases. We understand military culture, command expectations, and how to defend servicemembers during the highest-stakes moments of their careers.

What Is Criminal Defense Under the UCMJ?

Criminal defense involves representing servicemembers accused of violating the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Cases may include allegations of assault, sexual misconduct, property offenses, drug violations, or acts occurring off base. Investigations often involve CID, NCIS, OSI, or civilian law enforcement agencies.

The UCMJ and Article 31(b) rights appear through the Joint Service Committee at https://jsc.defense.gov, while trial procedures and evidentiary rules are outlined in the Manual for Courts-Martial at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/. Understanding these authorities is essential when navigating military criminal exposure.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for Criminal Allegations

Clear Guidance Through Complex Procedures. Our military criminal defense lawyers help you understand your rights, risks, and options when facing questioning or investigative pressure.
Strategic Defense Against Investigative Errors. We examine how evidence was collected, whether statements were taken properly, and whether civilian reports were interpreted correctly.
Direct Access to Experienced Counsel. You work directly with former JAGs who understand how criminal allegations affect rank, security clearances, and long-term military careers.

Is Criminal Defense Relevant to My Situation?

Criminal defense becomes critical when you are suspected of misconduct, contacted by investigators, or informed that allegations may lead to UCMJ action. Many criminal cases in California begin with misunderstandings, off-base disputes, alcohol-related incidents, or concerns about digital communication and relationships.

Commands may take early administrative steps before charges are even considered, including restricting duties, adjusting evaluations, or limiting access to facilities. If investigators approach you, or if the command expresses concern about your conduct, legal representation should begin immediately to avoid harmful missteps.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our military criminal defense attorneys are all former military officers who served on active duty. We work as a team on your case, leveraging each of our attorneys’ unique perspectives and vast experience to win on your behalf.

Gerry Healy

Owner and Founder

Gerry founded Military Justice Attorneys to provide service members with principled, trial-tested defense rooted in firsthand experience inside the military justice system.

Former Judge Advocate in the U.S. Marine Corps
Recognized Criminal Defense Attorney and Litigator
Represents Military Community in Complex Mass Torts

Josh Hill

Managing Partner

Josh oversees the firm’s military justice practice, bringing a strategic and detail-driven approach to complex litigation, appeals, and high-stakes administrative matters.

Former Military Prosecutor and Defense Counsel
Admitted to Practice in all Military Appellate Courts
Burton Award for Distinguished Legal Writing

Chip Hodge

Partner

Chip draws on senior-level military justice experience to advise and defend service members facing courts-martial, investigations, and career-altering administrative actions.

Retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel
Served as Deputy SJA, Marine Forces Reserve
Deployed to Afghanistan in Support of OEF

Paul Murray

Partner

Paul represents contractors injured while working overseas in support of US agencies and forces, combining significant litigation experience with a deep commitment to helping injured workers.

Former Major in the U.S. Marine Corps
Admitted to the Bar in South Carolina, Georgia, and Illinois

Jon Shelburne

Senior Counsel

Jon brings decades of courtroom and appellate experience, focusing on serious criminal allegations and complex military justice matters worldwide.

30+ Years of Trial Experience
Co-Chair, Veterans Committee for Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

Amy Thomas

Of Counsel

Amy provides strategic counsel on military and employment-related matters, informed by senior leadership experience and advanced legal training.

Retired Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps
Master's in Jurisprudence in Labor & Employment Law

The Criminal Defense Process What to Expect

Step One: Protecting Your Rights and Reviewing the Allegations

We advise you on Article 31(b) rights and evaluate all available facts, including witness statements, digital records, and investigative notes. Early legal intervention prevents damaging statements and ensures the government’s narrative does not shape your future unfairly.

Step Two: Investigation and Defense Strategy Development

We analyze evidence for inconsistencies, improper procedures, or gaps in the investigative process. This includes evaluating interviews, search authority, forensic results, and relevant UCMJ standards. Our goal is to identify weaknesses that challenge the government’s theory of the case.

Step Three: Command Engagement and Pre-Charge Advocacy

We communicate with your command to present your perspective, share mitigating information, and clarify misunderstandings. Effective engagement at this stage can prevent charges, reduce exposure, or shift the case toward administrative rather than criminal action.

Step Four: Preparation for Hearings or Trial

If charges move forward, we prepare for Article 32 hearings and court-martial. This includes cross-examination planning, expert consultations, and detailed evidence review. Trial preparation is guided by the Manual for Courts-Martial’s procedural framework at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/.

After Your Criminal Case What Comes Next

Even when charges are dismissed or reduced, commands may still impose separate administrative actions. These include adverse evaluations, denied promotions, separation boards, or restrictions on future assignments. Servicemembers often underestimate the long-term impact of these follow-on measures.

MJA assists clients through separation defense, rebuttal submissions, record corrections, and career-preservation strategies. Our goal is to protect not only your legal position but also your long-term service potential and post-military opportunities.

Available 24/7 to Help Anyone in the World

Client Testimonials Their Words. Their Cases. Their Results.

View All Testimonials

"The Government Came to Bury Me, Josh Hill Buried Their Case Instead"

If you’re reading this review,...

"If you’re reading this review, there’s a fair chance you’re in trouble with the military. The answer is YES—hire Josh Hill. He is worth every penny and more. Don’t gamble with your VA benefits, your military pension, or your freedom. You only get one shot at defending your future. Trust me, this is the guy you want in your corner. When I first hired Josh Hill as my civilian military lawyer, I was staring down a mountain: 28 specifications across 6 charges in a military court-martial. The government basically made a giant mud ball, threw it at the wall, and waited to see what would stick. The stakes couldn’t have been higher—my freedom, my career, my reputation, and my benefits were all on the line. But from day one, Josh brought unmatched experience, surgical strategy, and a level of confidence that gave me hope when I needed it most. Josh Hill is a master of his craft. He navigated the UCMJ like a seasoned warrior—dissecting every allegation, exposing every weakness in the government’s case, and challenging every false assumption thrown my way. His preparation was meticulous, his presence in court was commanding, and his cross-examinations were absolutely relentless. He left no stone unturned and no argument unanswered. Because of Josh’s leadership, we went from what felt like an impossible situation to walking out of that courtroom not guilty on all charges. That wasn’t just a win—it was a total and complete vindication. And it’s 100% because of Josh Hill’s commitment, brilliance, and refusal to let the government steamroll me. Josh Hill didn’t just defend me—he saved my life. I will forever be in his debt for the sacrifices he made and the time he dedicated to my case. One last note: When he calls—ANSWER IT. Drop what you're doing, it can wait. That phone call might be the one thing that changes your future. If you want to hear my story firsthand, Josh has my permission to give you my contact info. I’ll gladly tell you exactly how he absolutely destroyed the government’s case, so I can continue with my life."
-STAFF SERGEANT, USMC

"He is an articulate pitbull in the courtroom."

My career, my life, my futu...

I know Mr Healy quite well. He represented me in a case where the odds were stacked against me. This was the most difficult time of my life considering some other circumstances that were added on. However, he fought for me tooth and nail even though his caseload was very high at the time. It seemed he devoted every ounce of effort to find me justice and in the end, because of his efforts, I was fully acquitted of several charges.
I will never forget that feeling for as long as I live. Upon the announcement of the verdict I nearly collapsed. My career, my life, my future was completely in his hands and he took it as seriously as I did. He is an articulate pitbull in the courtroom. I highly recommend his services if you expect to have any chance of seeing the justice you truly deserve.

-Corporal, USMC

"Mr. Hodge was relentless in his defense of me"

Mr. Hodge was relentless in hi...

Mr. Hodge was relentless in his defense of me . . . and absolved me of any wrongdoing under the UCMJ.
-Corporal, USMC

"His dedication to me as a client was unprecedented."

Josh is a hard nosed and dedic...

Josh is a hard nosed and dedicated attorney that will stand by you every step of the way in your defense. His dedication to me as a client was unprecedented.
-Staff Sergeant, USA

"I would hire them again in a heartbeat."

Gerry and Josh are absolute pr...

Gerry and Josh are absolute professional monsters in the courtroom. I would hire them again in a heartbeat and wouldn’t want anyone else in my corner!
-Private First Class, USA

"I trusted him with my career on the line, and he was outstanding."

Mr. Hill tore apart the govern...

Mr. Hill tore apart the government's theory piece by piece . . . I trusted him with my career on the line, and he was outstanding.
-Petty Officer Third Class, USN

"I would not want my fate in anyone else’s hands."

Gerry Healy is an outstandi...

Gerry Healy is an outstanding attorney. In the courtroom he is confident, knowledgeable, and aggressive. I would not want my fate in anyone else’s hands.
-Airman First Class, USAF

Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Deep Military Justice Experience

Our attorneys are former Marine Judge Advocates with significant courtroom experience in sexual misconduct, assault, drug offenses, and command-driven investigations. We understand military discipline, evidentiary standards, and the pressure servicemembers face across California’s major installations.

Proven Results and Strategic Defense

We have defended servicemembers worldwide in high-risk criminal cases involving complex witness testimony, foreign evidence, digital forensics, and emotionally charged allegations. Our strategy emphasizes precision, evidence analysis, and disciplined preparation.

Dedicated Support for Service Members

California servicemembers receive direct access to experienced counsel with clear communication and consistent guidance. We understand how criminal accusations affect military families, operational readiness, and future service opportunities.

We deliver mission-focused advocacy that protects your freedom, rank, and long-term future.

Criminal Defense Attorney Serving California FAQs

What should I do if I am under investigation?

What should I do if I am under investigation?
Do not answer questions without first speaking to an attorney. You have the right to remain silent, and early legal advice can prevent mistakes that damage your case.

Are military and civilian charges handled separately?

Are military and civilian charges handled separately?
Yes, but they may influence each other. Civilian cases can trigger military action, and military investigations can affect civilian outcomes. Coordinated defense is essential.

Can I refuse questioning by military investigators?

Can I refuse questioning by military investigators?
Absolutely. Under Article 31(b), you have the right to decline questioning. Exercising this right cannot be used as evidence of guilt.

What happens if my case goes to court-martial?

What happens if my case goes to court-martial?
You will have the right to counsel, to review evidence, and to defend yourself in a trial governed by the Manual for Courts-Martial. Outcomes range from acquittal to punitive discharge or confinement.

When should I contact a criminal defense attorney?

When should I contact a criminal defense attorney?
Immediately. The earlier an attorney becomes involved, the better the chance of protecting your rights, your career, and your freedom.

Stand Strong With Skilled Legal Defense

A criminal allegation does not have to define your service or determine your future. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule your confidential consultation with a former Marine Judge Advocate.