Know Your Rights and Options

When service members face allegations or disciplinary action, they are often assigned a military defense attorney through the Judge Advocate General’s Corps. While detailed JAG counsel plays an important role, service members are not limited to relying solely on assigned representation. Many cases involve high stakes, such as loss of rank, confinement, separation, or a permanent record mark. In Florida, service members frequently seek additional defense support to ensure their rights are fully protected. At Military Justice Attorneys, we provide experienced civilian JAG defense for service members who need strong, independent advocacy.

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What Is JAG Defense?

JAG defense refers to legal representation provided by military attorneys assigned to defend service members accused of misconduct under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Detailed military defense counsel are appointed by the government and represent service members in courts-martial, non-judicial punishment proceedings, and administrative actions. Service members also have the right to retain civilian military defense counsel at their own expense. Civilian counsel work alongside, or independently from, detailed JAG counsel to provide additional experience, resources, and strategic focus.

The Benefits of Civilian JAG Defense Representation

  • Independent Advocacy: Civilian military defense counsel are not part of the military chain of command and focus exclusively on your defense.
  • Extensive Litigation Experience: Retained counsel often brings decades of courtroom and trial experience, which is usually unavailable through assigned counsel alone.
  • Early and Dedicated Focus: Civilian attorneys can engage immediately, even during investigations, without competing demands from other cases.
  • Strategic Case Management: Additional defense resources enable a more thorough review of evidence, effective motion practice, and comprehensive trial preparation.
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Is Civilian JAG Defense Right for Me?

You may benefit from civilian JAG defense if you are under investigation, facing court-martial charges, or dealing with serious administrative action. These cases often involve complex evidence, aggressive prosecution, or long-term career consequences. Many service members in Florida seek civilian representation when the potential penalties are severe or when early intervention could influence charging decisions. Retaining experienced military defense counsel does not replace your detailed JAG attorney—it strengthens your defense team.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our JAG defense 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 JAG Defense Process What to Expect

1. Case Review and Strategy Assessment

We evaluate the allegations, the investigation status, and potential exposure to determine the most effective defense approach.

2. Coordination With Detailed Counsel

When applicable, we coordinate with your assigned JAG defense counsel to align strategy and maximize defense resources.

3. Independent Defense Advocacy

Our attorneys conduct independent evidence review, witness preparation, and legal analysis focused solely on your interests.

4. Representation Through Resolution

We represent you through hearings, court-martial, or negotiated outcomes, ensuring your rights are protected at every stage.

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After Your JAG Defense Case What Comes Next

After resolution, our JAG defense lawyers advise clients on the impact of the outcome on their military record, future assignments, and separation status if applicable. If adverse action occurs, we assess appellate rights or related administrative remedies. Our focus extends beyond the immediate case to protecting your long-term career and post-service opportunities.

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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
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Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Military Justice Attorneys was founded to defend those who defend us, and that mission guides every case we take on.

Former JAG Officers

All of our attorneys have served on active duty as Marine Corps officers and Judge Advocates, providing us with firsthand experience on both sides of military justice cases.

Focused Military Defense Practice

We concentrate exclusively on military law and federal service-related cases, not civilian state criminal defense.

Unmatched Client Access

Clients have direct access to their attorneys and responsive support throughout the process, because trust and communication are critical during military legal proceedings.

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JAG Defense Lawyers Serving Florida FAQs

Do I have to accept a military-assigned JAG attorney?

No. Service members have the right to retain civilian military defense counsel in addition to their assigned attorney.

Will civilian counsel replace my detailed JAG lawyer?

Not necessarily. Civilian counsel often work alongside detailed counsel to strengthen the defense team.

Is civilian JAG defense allowed in courts-martial?

Yes. Federal law permits service members to be represented by civilian defense counsel in courts-martial.

When should I hire civilian military defense counsel?

As early as possible, ideally at the investigative stage, to protect your rights and influence the course of the case.

Does location in Florida matter for JAG defense?

No. Military Justice Attorneys represent service members worldwide, regardless of duty station or location.

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Strengthen Your Defense Today

You do not have to face the military justice system alone. Contact Military Justice Attorneys to schedule a confidential consultation about JAG 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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