When Your Career Is on the Line

A court-martial is one of the most serious legal threats a service member can face. Unlike administrative actions, a court-martial is a federal criminal proceeding that can result in confinement, loss of rank and pay, punitive discharge, and lifelong consequences. For service members stationed in or connected to Florida, these cases are handled quickly and prosecuted aggressively. At Military Justice Attorneys, we understand what is at stake and provide strategic, trial-focused defense to service members facing courts-martial at every level.

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What Is a Court-Martial?

A court-martial is a criminal trial conducted under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). There are three primary types—summary, special, and general—each carrying different levels of potential punishment. Courts-martial are governed by federal law and the Manual for Courts-Martial, with prosecutors representing the government and military judges overseeing the proceedings. Unlike civilian courts, courts-martial involve command authority, convening authorities, and unique procedural rules that require experienced military defense counsel to navigate effectively.

The Benefits of Court-Martial Defense Representation

  • Protection Against Severe Penalties: Skilled defense can help avoid or mitigate confinement, punitive discharge, forfeitures, and long-term consequences.
  • Early Strategic Intervention: Early involvement allows counsel to influence investigations, charging decisions, and forum selection.
  • Trial-Focused Defense: Courts-martial demand experienced litigators who understand military rules of evidence, procedure, and advocacy.
  • Career-Centered Strategy: Effective defense considers not only the criminal case, but also your rank, future service, and post-military life.
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Is a Court-Martial Likely in My Case?

You may be facing a court-martial if you have been accused of serious misconduct under the UCMJ, such as drug offenses, sexual assault, assault, fraud, or disobedience of orders. Notice may be communicated through referrals of charges, rights advisements, or questioning by military investigators. Service members in Florida should seek legal counsel immediately when a court-martial is possible, as early decisions often shape the entire outcome of the case.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our Florida court-martial 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 Court-Martial Process What to Expect

1. Investigation and Preferral of Charges

Military law enforcement and command authorities investigate allegations and determine whether formal charges will be preferred.

2. Article 32 Preliminary Hearing

In serious cases, a preliminary hearing evaluates whether probable cause exists and what charges should proceed.

3. Trial Preparation and Motions

Defense counsel prepares the case through evidence review, witness preparation, and legal motions challenging the government’s case.

4. Court-Martial Trial

The case is tried before a military judge or panel, with verdicts and sentencing determined in accordance with the laws of military justice.

Courts-martial proceedings are governed by the UCMJ, the Manual for Courts-Martial, and service-specific regulations enforced by the Department of Defense.

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After Your Court-Martial What Comes Next

Following a court-martial, our court-martial lawyers in Florida advise clients on post-trial rights, sentencing consequences, and appellate options.

If a conviction occurs, military appellate courts may review legal errors or unjust outcomes. Even in acquittals or favorable resolutions, additional administrative actions may still be taken. Our representation remains focused on protecting your record, your rights, and your long-term future.

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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
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Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Military Justice Attorneys was founded to defend those who defend us, and we bring that mission into every courtroom.

Former Military Trial Attorneys

All of our attorneys are former Marine Corps officers and Judge Advocates with extensive experience prosecuting and defending courts-martial.

Proven Litigation Experience

We are litigators first, with a deep understanding of trial strategy, military procedure, and command dynamics.

Direct Attorney Access

Clients have direct access to their attorneys throughout the process, ensuring clear communication during one of the most stressful periods of their careers.

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Court-Martial Lawyers Serving Florida FAQs

Is a court-martial a federal criminal case?

Yes. Courts-martial are federal proceedings conducted under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

Can I choose my military defense attorney?

Yes. Service members may retain civilian military defense counsel in addition to any detailed military defense counsel.

What punishments can result from a court-martial?

Possible punishments include confinement, reduction in rank, forfeiture of pay, and punitive discharge, depending on the type of court-martial.

Do courts-martial follow the same rules as civilian courts?

No. Courts-martial follow military-specific rules of procedure and evidence outlined in the Manual for Courts-Martial.

Should I discuss the charges with my command?

You should speak with experienced military defense counsel before discussing allegations with command or investigators.

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Take Control of Your Defense

A court-martial demands immediate, experienced action. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule a confidential consultation about your court-martial in Florida.

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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