Nonjudicial Punishment Defense Attorney Serving California

Name: Non-Judicial Punishment
Brand: Military Justice Attorneys
Rating: 5 (44 reviews)

Protecting servicemembers from career-ending administrative action.

Support When Your Career Is Under Pressure

Service members throughout California experience nonjudicial punishment at all stages of their careers. Whether stationed at Camp Pendleton, MCAS Miramar, Twentynine Palms, Naval Base San Diego, NAS Lemoore, Travis AFB, Edwards AFB, or Vandenberg SFB, NJP can feel overwhelming and fast-moving. Many believe they must accept the allegations without question, but that is not true.

Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, helps servicemembers respond strategically to NJP actions, presenting evidence clearly, protecting rights, and preventing unnecessary damage to long-term service.

soldiers sitting off the edge of an airplane

What Is Nonjudicial Punishment?

Nonjudicial punishment, known as Article 15 in the Army and Air Force or Captain’s Mast in the Navy and Coast Guard, allows commanders to impose discipline without using the court-martial system. Although not criminal, NJP can significantly affect military careers, including promotions, reenlistment eligibility, and duty assignments.

Regulations for NJP appear in the Manual for Courts-Martial, accessible through https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/. Additional guidance for service-specific procedures is available in branch instructions, including Navy and Marine Corps references found at https://www.jag.navy.mil.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for NJP

Strategic Preparation Before the Hearing. We help servicemembers gather evidence, craft written responses, and prepare statements to counter unsupported allegations.
Clear Advice on Whether to Accept or Refuse NJP. We evaluate risks and benefits so you can make informed decisions that strengthen your long-term position.
Strong Advocacy That Protects Your Career. We understand how NJP impacts evaluations, advancement, and separation actions and tailor our defense accordingly.

Is Nonjudicial Punishment Relevant to My Situation?

NJP may apply to alleged misconduct ranging from minor disputes to more serious incidents that the command chooses not to prosecute at court-martial. Service members at California bases often face NJP for off-base misunderstandings, alcohol-related incidents, communication issues, or interpersonal conflicts.

Because many NJP allegations stem from incomplete investigations or misinterpreted events, early representation can correct the record before long-term harm occurs. If you have been notified of NJP, asked to provide a statement, or restricted to certain duties, professional legal support should begin immediately.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our NJP lawyers 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 NJP Process What to Expect

Step One: Notification and Rights Advisement

You receive written notification describing the alleged misconduct. We explain your rights, evaluate the evidence, and ensure you understand whether accepting or refusing NJP is in your best interest.

Step Two: Evidence Review and Defense Preparation

We examine witness statements, digital records, reports from military police or California civilian authorities, and other materials. Using standards from the Joint Service Committee at https://jsc.defense.gov, we identify procedural issues and weaknesses in the government’s case.

Step Three: Presenting Your Case at the NJP Hearing

We help craft oral or written presentations that clarify misunderstandings, highlight the full context of events, and present mitigating information. A well-prepared submission often influences command decisions significantly.

Step Four: Appeals and Protection of Long-Term Career Interests

If NJP is imposed, we help prepare appeals that address legal errors or unjust findings. Our non-judicial punishment lawyers also assist with related administrative concerns such as adverse evaluations, promotion impacts, or separation threats.

After Your Nonjudicial Punishment What Comes Next

Even after NJP concludes, servicemembers may face additional consequences, including marks on evaluations, loss of leadership opportunities, or restricted career progression. These outcomes can follow you for years, affecting both military and post-service opportunities.

MJA assists with appeals, rebuttals, evaluation corrections, and ongoing advocacy to prevent a single incident from defining your entire career. Our representation continues until every available option for repairing your record is explored.

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 extensive knowledge of administrative discipline, command expectations, and the long-term impact NJP can have on service members across California.

Proven Results and Strategic Defense

We have represented servicemembers worldwide in NJP cases involving difficult evidence, contested witness accounts, and misunderstandings stemming from fast-paced operational environments. Our approach is precise, organized, and grounded in experience.

Dedicated Support for Service Members

Clients receive direct communication with attorneys who understand military life. We offer clear explanations, timely responses, and disciplined advocacy tailored to the pressures of serving in California.

We are committed to protecting your rank, reputation, and future through strong, focused representation.

Non-Judicial Punishment Attorney Serving California FAQs

Should I accept or refuse NJP?

The answer depends on the strength of the evidence, the risks of court-martial, and your long-term career goals. An attorney should review your case before you decide.

Can I appeal NJP if the commander finds me guilty?

Yes. You may submit an appeal within a limited timeframe. A strong written appeal can overturn unfair or unsupported findings.

Will NJP affect my promotion eligibility?

Often, yes. NJP can negatively influence performance evaluations and leadership recommendations. Legal advocacy helps minimize long-term career impact.

Can I get in trouble for speaking to a lawyer?

No. You have an absolute right to legal counsel. Commands cannot punish or discourage you from exercising that right.

When should I call an NJP attorney?

Immediately after being notified of the allegations—or sooner if you suspect an investigation is underway.

Protect Your Rank and Your Future

NJP can have lasting consequences, but you do not have to face it alone. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule your confidential consultation with a former Marine Judge Advocate.