Experienced Defense When the Stakes Are Highest

Facing a court-martial in Germany creates intense uncertainty, especially when foreign authorities may also be involved. Whether you serve at Ramstein Air Base, Spangdahlem Air Base, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria, Stuttgart, Wiesbaden, Rheinland-Pfalz, Ansbach, or Garmisch, the consequences can affect your rank, benefits, and long-term service.

Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, provides aggressive, disciplined defense for servicemembers facing military criminal charges overseas.

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What Is a Court-Martial?

A court-martial is the military’s criminal trial system, used for offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Charges may result from investigations by CID, NCIS, OSI, or CGIS, or from incidents involving German police under Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) rules.

The UCMJ, including Article 31(b) rights, is detailed by the Joint Service Committee at https://jsc.defense.gov. Court-martial convictions can result in confinement, loss of rank, forfeiture of pay, or a punitive discharge—making early legal representation essential.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for Court-Martial Charges

  • Insight Into Military Trial Strategy. Our attorneys have prosecuted and defended complex military cases and understand how commands evaluate evidence, select charges, and prepare for trial.
  • Strong Defense Against Foreign Evidence. Court-martials in Germany often involve translated documents or foreign police reports. We challenge inaccuracies and procedural issues to weaken the government’s case.
  • Direct Access to Experienced Counsel. You work directly with former Marine JAGs who provide clear guidance, responsive communication, and disciplined preparation throughout the process.
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Is a Court-Martial Relevant to My Situation?

Court-martial defense is critical if you are accused of misconduct that could lead to criminal charges. Cases often involve assault, sexual misconduct, alcohol-related offenses, drug allegations, property crimes, or interactions with German civilians that escalate due to cultural or language misunderstandings.

Many servicemembers underestimate early investigative interviews or assume cooperation will resolve concerns. However, statements made to investigators, command personnel, or German police often determine how charges are filed. If questioning has begun or if you believe it might, legal counsel is essential.

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
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

Step One: Initial Rights Protection and Evidence Review

We begin by protecting your Article 31(b) rights and evaluating evidence from U.S. military investigators and German police. We identify procedural errors, credibility issues, or translation problems that may weaken the prosecution’s narrative.

Step Two: Strategic Defense Development

We construct a clear defense strategy shaped by legal analysis, timeline reconstruction, witness interviews, and examination of digital or forensic evidence. These steps ensure your side of the story is fully understood, and misinterpretations are corrected early.

Step Three: Article 32 Hearing Preparation

Before a general court-martial, the Article 32 preliminary hearing evaluates evidence and recommends how the case should proceed. We prepare detailed arguments, challenge weak evidence, and present mitigation to influence command decision-making.

Step Four: Trial Preparation and Representation

If referred to trial, we prepare a complete defense using expert testimony, cross-examination strategies, and evidence challenges. The Manual for Courts-Martial, accessible through https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/, governs courtroom procedures and guides trial preparation.

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After Your Court-Martial What Comes Next

Even after a case concludes, there may be further legal steps. Some servicemembers face administrative separation, adverse evaluations, security clearance challenges, or restrictions on future assignments. MJA remains committed to assisting clients after trial by offering guidance on post-trial rights, appellate options, and long-term career protection. Others may pursue clemency, record corrections, or appeals before higher military courts. We ensure the outcome does not define your future more than necessary.

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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?

Deep Military Justice Experience

Our attorneys are former Marine Judge Advocates with extensive courtroom and investigative experience. We have handled complex cases involving foreign jurisdiction issues, SOFA considerations, and evidence obtained through overseas law enforcement.

Proven Results and Strategic Defense

We have successfully defended servicemembers worldwide in high-stakes criminal cases involving sexual misconduct, assault, drug offenses, and international evidence. Our approach is precise and grounded in a strong understanding of military trial strategy.

Dedicated Support for Service Members

Clients stationed in Germany receive direct access to experienced counsel who provide clear communication across time zones. We understand overseas service demands and support you through every phase of the court-martial process. We deliver disciplined, informed representation designed to protect your freedom, rank, and long-term military future.

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Court Martial Attorney Serving Germany FAQs

Can both Germany and the U.S. military prosecute me?

Yes. Under SOFA rules, Germany may claim jurisdiction for off-base offenses. Even if they decline, the U.S. military can still pursue charges under the UCMJ.

Do Article 31(b) rights apply if German police question me?

Article 31(b) applies to U.S. questioning. Statements made to German authorities may still appear in your military case, so always request legal counsel first.

Will a court-martial end my military career?

It can. Convictions may result in punitive discharge, confinement, loss of rank, or long-term administrative consequences. Early legal involvement improves the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

Can foreign police reports be used against me?

Yes. German police reports may be included in military evidence. We review translations, procedures, and collection methods to challenge accuracy and admissibility.

When should I contact a court-martial attorney?

Immediately. Early representation protects your rights, prevents damaging statements, and strengthens your defense from the very first stage of the investigation.

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Protect Your Freedom and Your Future

A court-martial threatens everything you have earned. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule your confidential consultation with a former Marine Judge Advocate.

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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