Command Investigation Appeals / Rebuttals Coast Guard

Name: Command Investigation Appeals / Rebuttals
Brand: Military Justice Attorneys
Rating: 5 (44 reviews)

When a Coast Guard command investigation results in inaccurate findings or unjust conclusions, experienced attorneys can help you challenge the report, correct the record, and protect your career from long-term harm.

A Command Investigation Can Shape Your Entire Career

Coast Guard command investigations—often conducted under the Military Whistleblower Protection Act, Administrative Investigations Manual, or command-directed inquiries—play a critical role in shaping disciplinary decisions, evaluations, qualifications, and future opportunities. These investigations frequently inform NJP decisions, administrative separation actions, adverse evaluations, and even referral to CGIS. The Coast Guard’s authority and procedures for conducting administrative investigations are governed by official policy issued by Coast Guard Headquarters, including the Administrative Investigations Manual maintained by the service, which is available through the Coast Guard’s directives system here: https://www.dcms.uscg.mil/directives/.

Unfortunately, not all investigations are fair or complete. Some rely on inconsistent witness statements, assumptions, missing evidence, or biased interviews. Others contain unsupported conclusions that dramatically distort what actually happened. Because these reports become part of the official record and influence command decisions, a failure to rebut or appeal them can permanently damage your professional reputation. Military Justice Attorneys helps Coast Guard members challenge flawed investigations, prepare strong rebuttals, and appeal unjust findings to higher review authorities—ensuring your voice is heard and your service is accurately represented.

What Is a Coast Guard Command Investigation?

A command investigation is an administrative inquiry conducted at the unit level to determine what happened during an incident, assess responsibility, and recommend corrective or disciplinary actions. These investigations may involve:

Misconduct allegations
Property damage
Liberty incidents
Minor assaults or disputes
Workplace conflicts
Dereliction of duty
Safety violations
Harassment or discrimination complaints
Operational mishaps

Investigators gather statements, review documentation, and prepare findings of fact and recommendations. The command then endorses the report and takes action based on its conclusions. If the findings are inaccurate, incomplete, or unfair, a rebuttal or appeal is often the only way to correct the record.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for Command Investigation Appeals

Detailed Review of the Investigation for Errors and Bias - Your attorney examines the report for incorrect assumptions, unsupported findings, procedural violations, inconsistent statements, or conclusions that violate Coast Guard policy.
Preparation of a Comprehensive Rebuttal Package - A strong rebuttal includes factual corrections, witness statements, documentary evidence, regulatory citations, and a structured argument that challenges the report’s accuracy and fairness.
Protection Against Long-Term Administrative Consequences - Since command investigations often trigger adverse evaluations, NJP, separation actions, or loss of qualifications, an attorney works to prevent or mitigate these outcomes.
Experienced Advocacy Before Higher Review Authorities - If initial rebuttals fail, your attorney can pursue further review through the chain of command, PRRB, or the BCMR, increasing your chances of a corrected or withdrawn investigation.

Is Investigation Appeal Representation Relevant to My Situation?

You may need legal support if you:

Received findings of “misconduct,” “poor judgment,” or “dereliction” you believe are inaccurate
Were denied an opportunity to provide your side of the story
Discovered factual errors or inconsistencies in the report
Believe the investigator was biased or misinformed
Are facing NJP, administrative separation, or negative evaluation based on the findings
Were involved in an incident now being misrepresented
Want to preserve your advancement and assignment eligibility
Were told you cannot appeal the findings (which is often incorrect)

Common cases involve:

Mishaps and operational errors
Liberty or alcohol incidents
Vessel or equipment damage
Workplace disputes
Harassment allegations
Personal misconduct claims
Dereliction charges tied to ambiguous orders

If any of these situations apply, appealing the findings may prevent the investigation from undermining your future.

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 Command Investigation Appeal Process What to Expect

1. Complete Review of the Investigation and Evidence

Your attorney reviews the entire investigative file, including exhibits, witness statements, endorsements, and procedural steps, to identify factual and legal issues.

2. Development of a Rebuttal or Appeal Strategy

Your lawyer determines whether to rebut the findings directly to the command, appeal to a higher authority, or pursue correction through PRRB or BCMR processes.

3. Submission of a Detailed Rebuttal Package

Your attorney drafts a persuasive rebuttal that highlights inaccuracies, presents additional evidence, and argues why the findings must be modified or withdrawn.

4. Escalation to Higher Review Boards if Necessary

If the command denies relief, your lawyer continues the fight by submitting appeals to the PRRB or pursuing formal correction through the BCMR.

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 Your Investigation Appeal What Comes Next

Once the investigative findings are corrected or removed, additional steps may still be beneficial. Military Justice Attorneys helps with:

Removal of adverse counseling entries
Separation board defense
BCMR petitions related to long-term record errors
Promotion reconsideration
Correction of evaluations tied to the incident
Restoration of qualifications

For permanent correction of Coast Guard records impacted by unjust investigations, service members may petition the Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR), which is outlined by the Coast Guard here: https://www.uscg.mil/Resources/Legal/BCMR/.

Our goal is not only to correct an unjust investigation, but to protect your entire career from its effects.

Available 24/7 to Help Anyone in the World

Client Testimonials Their Words. Their Cases. Their Results.

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"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?

Extensive Experience With Coast Guard Administrative Investigations

Our attorneys understand how commands conduct investigations, how errors occur, and how to effectively challenge unfair conclusions.

Proven Success Correcting Records and Rebutting Findings

We have helped Coast Guard members overturn inaccurate investigations, protect their reputations, and prevent unnecessary disciplinary actions.

Clear, Strategic Advocacy Focused on Your Career

We take the time to understand your goals, assemble a comprehensive rebuttal, and ensure your record reflects the truth—not assumptions or misunderstandings. Military Justice Attorneys is committed to defending those who serve and ensuring justice within the Coast Guard administrative system.

Coast Guard Command Investigation Appeals / Rebuttals FAQs

Can I appeal a command investigation if I disagree with the findings?

Yes. Most Coast Guard service members can submit a rebuttal or request a higher-level review. Even if your command suggests otherwise, you have the right to challenge inaccurate or unfair findings with the help of counsel.

Is a command investigation the same as a CGIS investigation?

No. Command investigations are administrative and conducted by unit-level officers, while CGIS investigations are criminal and handled by trained agents. However, the findings of a command investigation can still significantly affect your career.

How long do I have to rebut a command investigation?

Timelines can vary by command and policy, but rebuttals generally must be submitted quickly—sometimes within days. An attorney ensures your rebuttal is timely and fully supported.

What if the investigator ignored evidence that supports my side?

This is a common issue and an important basis for rebuttal or appeal. Your attorney can present the missing evidence and demonstrate how the omission affected the accuracy of the findings.

Can a flawed investigation lead to separation or NJP?

Yes. Many adverse actions begin with inaccurate investigation findings. Challenging the report early can prevent long-term consequences such as NJP, adverse evaluations, or administrative separation.

Correct the Record and Protect Your Career

Schedule a confidential consultation with Coast Guard command investigation appeals attorneys who know how to challenge flawed reports and fight for your reputation.