Correcting Your Record With Confidence

When your discharge does not accurately reflect your service, the consequences follow you into civilian life—affecting employment, education benefits, and your reputation. Service members and veterans across California, including those connected to Camp Pendleton, Miramar, Twentynine Palms, Naval Base San Diego, Travis AFB, NAS Lemoore, Vandenberg SFB, and the Presidio, often discover years later that their discharge can be corrected.

Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, helps clients pursue discharge upgrades with a disciplined strategy and deep knowledge of board expectations.

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What Is a Discharge Upgrade?

A discharge upgrade is a request asking the appropriate board to change your discharge characterization or narrative reason. These decisions are made by either a Discharge Review Board (DRB) or a Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR), depending on the age and type of your discharge.

The Manual for Courts-Martial and DoD memoranda outline the standards that boards apply, including “liberal consideration” for cases involving post-traumatic stress, TBI, and other trauma-related conditions.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for Discharge Upgrades

  • Experienced Insight Into Board Standards. We understand how DRBs and BCMRs review evidence and what persuades them to upgrade a discharge.
  • Comprehensive, Evidence-Backed Submissions. We organize medical records, witness statements, service documents, and expert analysis to support your request.
  • Support for Veterans Across California. Whether you served at a major installation or a smaller command, we know how to tailor applications to your branch’s unique review process.
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Is a Discharge Upgrade Relevant to My Situation?

You may qualify for a discharge upgrade if your discharge was too harsh, based on incomplete information, or issued without proper consideration of mitigating factors. Many veterans discharged for misconduct later receive diagnoses for conditions such as TBI, post-traumatic stress, or anxiety; conditions that boards must now evaluate with enhanced sensitivity.

Upgrades may also be appropriate if your discharge resulted from an isolated mistake, if there were procedural errors, or if you experienced command climate issues, discrimination, retaliation, or untreated medical conditions during service.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our 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
Gerry Healy

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
Josh Hill

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
Chip Hodge

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
Paul Murray

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
Jon Shelburne

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
Amy Thomas
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The Discharge Upgrade Process What to Expect

Step One: Case Review and Evidence Development

Our military discharge upgrade lawyers gather service records, medical documents, evaluations, and statements to determine the strongest basis for your upgrade. This stage clarifies whether the application should focus on legal errors, inequity, or both.

Step Two: Determining the Proper Board

We identify whether your case belongs before a DRB or BCMR/BCNR. Factors include your discharge age, characterization, and the nature of the underlying separation. We apply the most up to date and relevant service regulations and DoD Instructions to structure your request. https://www.va.gov

Step Three: Preparing a Complete, Persuasive Package

We draft a submission supported by legal argumentation, evidence, and a clear explanation of how trauma, procedural mistakes, or inequity influenced the original discharge. Each package addresses board criteria and uses documentation strategically.

Step Four: Submission and Continued Advocacy

After submission, we monitor deadlines, respond to requests for additional evidence, and help you prepare for optional telephonic hearings. For those seeking VA benefits after an upgrade, the VA’s guidance at https://www.va.gov/discharge-upgrade-instructions/ gives helpful insight into the next steps.

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After Your Discharge Upgrade What Comes Next

A successful upgrade may restore access to VA healthcare, disability compensation, GI Bill benefits, and improved civilian employment prospects. Some veterans may also need corrections to reenlistment codes, separation narratives, or other service record entries.

MJA supports these post-upgrade steps to ensure your corrected discharge leads to long-term stability and reflects the service you provided to the nation.

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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
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Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Deep Military Justice Experience

MJA attorneys are former Marine Judge Advocates with over 100 years of combined experience in separation law, administrative justice, and board advocacy. We understand how military decisions are made and how to present cases in a way that boards respect.

Proven Results and Strategic Defense

We have represented servicemembers worldwide in discharge upgrade cases involving combat trauma, mental health conditions, discrimination, and procedural errors. Our submissions are structured, evidence-driven, and aligned with modern DoD guidance.

Dedicated Support for Service Members

California veterans receive direct access to experienced counsel who clearly explain every step and help gather the documentation needed for a strong case. We provide disciplined, mission-focused support designed to restore accuracy and dignity to your record.

Our military discharge attorneys bring relentless advocacy grounded in military experience and a genuine commitment to your future.

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Discharge Upgrade Attorney Serving California FAQs

How long does a discharge upgrade take in California?

Most DRB cases take several months, while BCMR cases often require 12–18 months. Timelines vary based on the board’s caseload, the complexity of the case, and whether additional documentation is required.

Can I request an upgrade if my discharge is more than 15 years old?

Yes. Older discharges are reviewed by the Board for Correction, which has the authority to amend any military record when an error or injustice is shown. These boards frequently consider decades-old cases.

Will an upgrade automatically restore my VA benefits?

It often does, but the VA makes its own determination. An upgraded characterization can significantly strengthen your eligibility, especially when supported by medical records or trauma-related evidence.

Is representation necessary for a discharge upgrade?

While not required, legal counsel helps veterans present stronger arguments, gather persuasive evidence, and avoid common mistakes that weaken petitions. Experienced attorneys improve clarity and credibility.

When should I contact an attorney?

You should seek counsel as soon as you believe your discharge was unfair, affected by trauma, or mishandled. Early guidance ensures the petition is properly documented and strategically framed.

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Move Forward With a Corrected Record

A single decision should not define your service or your future. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule your confidential consultation with one of our experienced Military Justice Attorneys.

Contact Us When Your Future Is On The Line

Our decentralized approach to military defense ensures that we can represent service members from any branch of the military, of any rank, at any military base or installation stateside or abroad.

Available 24/7 to Help Anyone in the World

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