When Allegations Threaten Everything

Criminal allegations carry serious consequences for service members, often extending far beyond the courtroom. Investigations alone can jeopardize rank, security clearances, deployments, and long-term military careers. In Florida, service members may face criminal exposure through courts-martial, military investigations, or overlapping civilian jurisdiction. These cases demand immediate, informed legal action. At Military Justice Attorneys, we defend service members facing criminal allegations with focused military justice experience and a deep understanding of how these cases affect every aspect of military life.

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What Is Criminal Defense for Service Members?

Criminal defense for service members involves representing active-duty personnel accused of offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), and in some cases, related civilian charges. Unlike civilian criminal cases, military criminal matters involve command influence, military investigators, and unique procedural rules. Courts-martial are governed by federal law and the Manual for Courts-Martial, with investigations commonly conducted by NCIS, CID, OSI, or command authorities. Effective defense requires experience navigating both criminal law and military command structures.

The Benefits of Military Criminal Defense Representation

  • Protection of Your Military Career: Strategic defense can help preserve rank, pay, benefits, and eligibility for continued service.
  • Early Intervention in Investigations: Having counsel involved early can limit exposure, protect rights, and influence charging decisions.
  • Command-Focused Defense Strategy: Military criminal cases require an understanding of how commanders, convening authorities, and military prosecutors operate.
  • Experienced Courtroom Advocacy: Skilled litigators are essential when cases proceed to court-martial or contested hearings.
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Is Military Criminal Defense Right for Me?

You should seek military criminal defense immediately if you are under investigation, have been questioned by military law enforcement, or have received notice of potential charges. Common cases include drug offenses, assault allegations, sexual misconduct claims, and violations of orders or regulations.

Service members in Florida often assume that civilian criminal lawyers can handle military cases; however, this is rarely the case. Military criminal defense requires specific experience with the UCMJ and courts-martial procedures, not just general criminal law knowledge.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our military criminal defense attorneys serving Florida 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 Military Criminal Defense Process What to Expect

1. Initial Case Assessment

We evaluate the allegations, investigation status, and jurisdiction to identify immediate risks and defense priorities.

2. Evidence Review and Strategy Development

Our team analyzes investigative reports, witness statements, and command actions to build a tailored defense strategy.

3. Advocacy During Charging Decisions

When possible, we engage early with military prosecutors and command authorities to influence whether charges are filed.

4. Court-Martial or Resolution

If charges proceed, we aggressively defend our clients in court-martial proceedings or pursue alternative resolutions when appropriate.

Criminal proceedings under the UCMJ are governed by federal statute and Department of Defense regulations, including the Manual for Courts-Martial and applicable service policies.

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After Your Criminal Case What Comes Next

Following resolution, we help clients understand the impact of the outcome on their military record, future assignments, and separation status if applicable. If adverse action occurs, we assess appellate options or related administrative remedies. Our military criminal defense lawyers focus remains on protecting your long-term interests, not just resolving the immediate criminal charge.

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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
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Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Military Justice Attorneys was founded to defend those who defend us, and that commitment guides our advocacy in every criminal case we handle.

Former Military Prosecutors and Defenders

All of our attorneys are former Marine Corps officers and Judge Advocates with extensive experience handling military criminal cases from both sides of the courtroom.

Focused Military Litigation

We concentrate on military justice, not civilian state criminal defense, allowing us to bring deep, specialized knowledge to every case.

Unmatched Client Access

Clients have direct access to their attorneys and responsive support throughout the process, because trust and communication are critical in criminal defense.

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Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving Florida FAQs

Do you handle civilian state criminal cases in the state of Florida?

No. Our practice focuses on military criminal defense under the UCMJ and related military justice matters.

Should I speak to investigators without a lawyer?

No. Service members should exercise their rights and speak with experienced military defense counsel before making any statements.

Can a criminal investigation end my military career?

Yes. Even without a conviction, investigations can result in administrative action, separation, or loss of career opportunities.

What agencies investigate military crimes?

Military investigations are typically conducted by NCIS, CID, OSI, or command-directed authorities, depending on the branch and the nature of the offense.

Is a court-martial the same as a civilian criminal court?

No. Courts-martial are federal proceedings governed by military law, procedures, and the authority of military command.

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Protect Your Rights and Your Future

Criminal allegations demand immediate action. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule a confidential consultation about military criminal defense 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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