SCRA Attorney Serving California

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

Protecting active-duty servicemembers from unlawful financial harm.

Protecting Your Rights When Creditors Push Too Hard

Service members across California, especially those stationed at Camp Pendleton, MCAS Miramar, Twentynine Palms, Naval Base San Diego, Travis AFB, NAS Lemoore, Edwards AFB, and Vandenberg SFB, often face financial pressure when lenders fail to honor the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). A creditor’s mistake or refusal to comply can lead to repossession, incorrect interest rates, or legal actions taken without proper verification.

Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, helps servicemembers enforce their SCRA protections. We intervene quickly to stop unlawful creditor behavior and safeguard your financial stability.

What Is the SCRA?

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act provides powerful protections to active-duty personnel, preventing harmful actions such as vehicle repossession, foreclosure, eviction, interest rates above six percent on eligible loans, and default judgments. These safeguards ensure servicemembers can focus on military responsibilities without unfair financial consequences.

The U.S. Department of Justice outlines enforcement responsibilities at https://www.justice.gov/servicemembers. Lenders must verify military service through the Defense Manpower Data Center at https://scra.dmdc.osd.mil/scra/#/home. Additional DoD documentation and regulatory guidance appear at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for SCRA Violations

Strong Enforcement of Federal Protections. We hold creditors accountable when they ignore military orders, delay compliance, or misapply SCRA requirements.
Immediate Action to Prevent Harm. We stop repossessions, eliminate improper fees, correct interest rates, and reverse unlawful actions taken without proper verification.
Support for California Servicemembers During High-Tempo Operations. Rapid deployments, training cycles, and relocations often create communication gaps. Our representation bridges that gap.

Is the SCRA Relevant to My Situation?

SCRA protection applies if you are on active duty or called to service and encounter financial issues tied to a lender, landlord, or creditor. Problems frequently arise when servicemembers relocate, deploy, or move between bases such as Fort Irwin, the Presidio of Monterey, or Naval Base Coronado.

Violations may include interest rates not being reduced properly, aggressive collection efforts, denied lease terminations, improper court filings, or repossession attempts made without a court order. If you suspect a violation, early legal guidance can prevent long-term financial consequences.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our SCRA 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 SCRA Process What to Expect

Step One: Reviewing Orders, Agreements, and Creditor Communications

We examine your duty status, PCS or deployment orders, loan documents, lease agreements, and notices from creditors. This determines which SCRA protections apply and whether violations have occurred.

Step Two: Notifying Creditors and Documenting Compliance Requirements

We contact the lender or landlord and provide documentation showing active-duty eligibility. Creditors must verify your military status using the DMDC system, and failure to do so before taking action violates federal law.

Step Three: Stopping Violations and Correcting Financial Harm

We pursue immediate correction of unlawful repossessions, improper fees, inflated interest rates, or court actions initiated without proper verification. Where necessary, we rely on federal guidance and enforcement standards outlined by the Department of Justice.

Step Four: Ensuring Long-Term Financial Protection

After resolving the immediate issue, we help servicemembers document protections for future interactions, monitor accounts for compliance, and prepare written notices to prevent future disputes during deployments or relocations.

After Your SCRA Case What Comes Next

Even after a creditor corrects an error, additional steps may be required to restore full financial stability. Some servicemembers must repair credit damage, seek corrected billing statements, or resolve related issues with auto leases or housing contracts.

MJA continues supporting clients by reviewing credit records, helping document SCRA eligibility for future lenders, and guiding servicemembers through long-term financial protections. Our mission is to provide results that last beyond the initial dispute.

Soldiers silhouetted beneath helicopter at sunset

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 SCRA lawyers are former Marine Judge Advocates with extensive knowledge of military financial protections. We understand how violations disrupt readiness, family stability, and career progression for servicemembers stationed across California.

Proven Results and Strategic Defense

We have successfully challenged unlawful repossessions, improper interest charges, and default judgments. Our approach emphasizes fast action, clear communication with creditors, and legally supported demands that compel compliance.

Dedicated Support for Service Members

Clients in California receive direct access to experienced attorneys. We provide prompt responses, detailed explanations, and steady guidance throughout the entire process, ensuring you feel informed and protected.

We deliver disciplined, mission-focused advocacy that protects your finances while you serve.

SCRA Attorney Serving California FAQs

How do I know if I qualify for SCRA protections?

You qualify if you are on active duty, preparing for mobilization, or recently separated under qualifying circumstances. Eligibility depends on your duty status and the timing of your financial obligation.

Can my vehicle be repossessed while I am deployed?

No. A lender must obtain a court order before repossessing a vehicle purchased before service. Repossession without court authorization is a common SCRA violation.

What should I do if a lender refuses to apply the 6% interest cap?

Submit a written request along with a copy of your orders. If the lender still refuses, consult an attorney immediately. Noncompliance may result in significant penalties.

Can I terminate my rental lease after receiving new orders?

Yes. The SCRA allows servicemembers to terminate residential leases when reassigned, mobilized, or deployed. Landlords who refuse may be liable for damages.

When should I contact an SCRA attorney?

As soon as you suspect a violation. Early legal intervention strengthens your case and can prevent additional financial harm.

Protect Your Rights and Your Peace of Mind

You do not have to face an SCRA violation alone. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule your confidential consultation with a former Marine Judge Advocate.