CGIS Investigation Defense Coast Guard

Name: CGIS Titling Appeals
Brand: Military Justice Attorneys
Rating: 5 (44 reviews)

When Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS) agents start asking questions, having experienced legal counsel at your side is essential to protecting your rights, your career, and your future.

CGIS Investigations Can Escalate Quickly and Put Everything at Risk

Being contacted by CGIS often signals a serious allegation—one that may lead to Non-Judicial Punishment, administrative separation, or even court-martial. CGIS investigations are thorough, aggressive, and designed to gather evidence for the government, not to protect Coast Guard members from misunderstandings, false accusations, or flawed reports.

Many service members unknowingly compromise their case by speaking freely with investigators, consenting to searches, or attempting to “clear things up” without understanding the legal consequences. A defense attorney ensures you remain protected from the very first moment, guiding your responses, safeguarding your rights, and preventing missteps that could damage your career.

Military Justice Attorneys represent Coast Guard members nationwide who face complex, high-stakes CGIS investigations, providing strategic guidance when your future may depend on a single decision.

What Is CGIS and Why Does It Matter?

The Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS) handles felony-level and serious misconduct cases involving Coast Guard personnel. They investigate offenses such as:

Assault, sexual assault, and domestic violence
Fraud, financial crimes, and theft
Drug possession or distribution
Child exploitation or internet-based offenses
Hazing, harassment, and fraternization
Misuse of government resources
Security violations
Property damage or arson

CGIS agents interview witnesses, gather digital evidence, coordinate with prosecutors, and prepare cases for potential disciplinary action or court-martial.

If CGIS contacts you, you are already under scrutiny. Anything you say can be used against you—even statements you believe are harmless or helpful. That is why consulting a defense attorney immediately is critical.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney During CGIS Investigations

Protection Against Self-Incrimination and Coercive Questioning - CGIS agents are skilled interrogators who know how to elicit statements. Your attorney helps you avoid accidental admissions or misleading answers that could be misinterpreted or used as evidence.
Strategic Guidance on Whether to Speak With Investigators - In many cases, remaining silent protects your interests. Your attorney evaluates the allegations and advises whether making a statement is safe—or whether silence is your best defense.
Review and Response to Evidence and Search Requests - Investigators often seek consent to search devices, barracks, vehicles, or personal accounts. Your attorney helps you evaluate these requests and prevents unnecessary exposure.
Comprehensive Defense Support if Allegations Escalate - If the case leads to NJP, administrative separation, or court-martial, your attorney is already familiar with the evidence and can build a strong defense early.

Is CGIS Investigation Defense Relevant to My Situation?

You should seek immediate legal counsel if:

CGIS contacted you for an interview
Your command advised you of an investigation
Your electronic devices were seized or searched
You were asked to make a written or recorded statement
Witnesses or coworkers were questioned about you
You received a rights advisement (Article 31(b))
You suspect someone made allegations against you
You were involved in an incident that could attract criminal attention

Article 31(b) of the UCMJ governs your right to remain silent and consult counsel, and its full text is available here: https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/10/831. CGIS frequently investigates allegations related to:

Misconduct in government housing
Domestic or interpersonal conflicts
Improper relationships
Alcohol or drug-related events
Workplace disputes
Security violations or mishandling sensitive information

If any of these circumstances apply, legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome.

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

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 CGIS Investigation Defense Process What to Expect

1. Immediate Consultation and Rights Protection

Your attorney explains your Article 31(b) rights, evaluates the situation, and advises you on whether to make any statements to investigators.

2. Evidence Review and Strategic Case Planning

Your lawyer examines available information, identifies potential weaknesses in the government’s narrative, and determines the strongest defensive posture for your case.

3. Guidance on Searches, Interviews, and Command Interactions

Your attorney helps you navigate requests for interviews, polygraphs, or searches, ensuring you do not inadvertently provide harmful information.

4. Continued Representation if the Case Escalates

If the investigation leads to adverse administrative action, NJP, or court-martial charges, your attorney can immediately shift into a full defense strategy with no delay.

Case Results We’ve been in the fight & know how to win

View All Results

"NO BASIS"

Training Center Petaluma, California. Coast Guardsman Prevails at Administrative Separation Hearing.

RETAINED

Alameida, California. Coast Guard First Class Petty Officer (E-6) retained on alcohol and drug abuse allegations.

COAST GUARD OFFICER RETIRES HONORABLY

United States Coast Guard. Officer Facing Allegations of Sexual Misconduct is Not Charged, Retires Honorably.

ADMINISTRATIVE SEPARATION TERMINATED

U.S. Coast Guard, Washington D.C. A Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) in the U.S. Coast Guard was alleged to have committed a "hate incident" in violation of COMDTINST 5350.6, Harassing Behavior, Prevention, Response, and Accountability.

View All Results

After a CGIS Investigation What Comes Next

Even when CGIS closes an investigation, the command may still take action. Military Justice Attorneys helps you address:

Adverse evaluations or counseling entries
Referred performance reports
Administrative separation notifications
NJP or Article 15 proceedings
GOMORs or letters of censure
Record corrections through BCMR

The Coast Guard Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR), which has the authority to correct unjust records, is explained here: https://www.uscg.mil/Resources/Legal/BCMR/ We ensure the aftermath of an investigation doesn’t become more damaging than the investigation itself.

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?

Experienced Criminal and Administrative Defense for Coast Guard Members

Our attorneys understand CGIS methods, Coast Guard processes, and how investigators build cases—giving you a strategic advantage from day one.

Proven Results in High-Stakes Investigations

We have defended service members facing serious allegations, including those involving digital forensics, sensitive operational environments, and complex interpersonal disputes.

Mission-Focused Representation Built on Honesty and Strength

We provide candid guidance, thorough case preparation, and unwavering advocacy designed to protect your rights and preserve your Coast Guard career. Military Justice Attorneys is dedicated to defending those who defend our nation—especially when the stakes are highest.

Coast Guard CGIS Titling Appeals FAQs

Should I talk to CGIS agents without a lawyer?

No. Even simple conversations can be used against you later. CGIS agents are trained to gather evidence, not to protect your interests. A defense attorney ensures you do not accidentally provide information that damages your case.

Can I refuse to give a statement during a CGIS investigation?

Yes. Under Article 31(b), you have the right to remain silent and consult an attorney. Exercising this right cannot legally be held against you, and often protects you from misinterpretation or manipulation of your words.

What happens if CGIS seizes my phone or computer?

They may review your data for evidence, often in coordination with digital forensics experts. Your attorney evaluates the legality of the search, challenges improper procedures, and advises you on your rights regarding seized property.

Does a CGIS investigation mean I will be court-martialed?

Not necessarily. Some cases close with no action, while others lead to NJP, administrative separation, or court-martial. Early legal representation helps prevent escalation and prepares a defense if charges are pursued.

Can CGIS talk to my coworkers or chain of command?

Yes. CGIS routinely interviews witnesses, supervisors, and peers. Your attorney helps you understand how those statements may affect your case and how to counter inaccurate or biased information.

Protect Yourself Before Speaking With CGIS

Schedule a confidential consultation with defense attorneys who know CGIS tactics and can safeguard your rights at every step.