Experienced Defense When Everything Feels Uncertain

Facing criminal allegations while stationed in Italy creates immediate fear and confusion. Servicemembers at USAG Vicenza, Camp Darby, NSA Naples, NAS Sigonella, Aviano Air Base, NRTF Niscemi, Caserma Ederle, Caserma Del Din, and San Vito dei Normanni Air Station often contend with both military and Italian authorities under SOFA rules.

Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, defends servicemembers worldwide against UCMJ charges. We provide the clarity, strategy, and experienced trial advocacy needed to restore control when your future feels uncertain.

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What Is Criminal Defense Under the UCMJ?

Criminal defense involves representing servicemembers accused of violating the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), whether the alleged offense occurred on or off base. Cases may involve CID, NCIS, OSI, CGIS, or Italian police, depending on jurisdiction.

The UCMJ and Article 31(b) rights appear through the Joint Service Committee at https://jsc.defense.gov, while the Manual for Courts-Martial, available via https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/, governs procedures, evidence, and trial standards. These rules apply regardless of where a servicemember is stationed.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for Criminal Allegations

  • Protection Against Complicated Overseas Jurisdiction. We understand how SOFA rules determine whether Italian authorities, U.S. military courts, or both may claim jurisdiction.
  • Strategic, Evidence-Based Defense. We review investigative methods, translation accuracy, foreign police procedures, and inconsistencies to identify weaknesses in the case against you.
  • Direct Access to Experienced Counsel. Service members overseas rely on fast, clear communication. We ensure you receive timely guidance when the stakes are highest.
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Is Criminal Defense Relevant to My Situation?

Criminal defense becomes essential when allegations escalate beyond routine discipline. Common overseas cases involve alcohol-related incidents, assaults, property damage, sexual misconduct, drug allegations, violations of orders, or misunderstandings with local Italian citizens.

Investigations abroad often involve translation challenges, differing legal norms, and conflicting accounts. If investigators request an interview, if Italian police become involved, or if command expresses concern about misconduct, legal representation is critical. Remaining silent until you receive counsel is often your strongest protection.

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 Criminal Defense Process What to Expect

Step One: Protecting Rights and Reviewing Evidence

We begin by advising you on Article 31(b) rights and evaluating evidence collected by military investigators and Italian police. This includes reports, digital data, witness statements, and translations. Early legal support prevents damaging statements and preserves your strongest defenses.

Step Two: Investigative Strategy and Case Development

We assess procedural and evidentiary issues, including improper questioning, translation errors, or unlawful searches. Using UCMJ and Military Rules of Evidence principles, we identify weaknesses and inconsistencies in the government’s case.

Step Three: Engagement With Command and Counsel Advocacy

We communicate with your chain of command to clarify facts, challenge incomplete assumptions, and advocate against premature disciplinary decisions. Proper advocacy at this stage can prevent escalation toward NJP, adverse paperwork, or court-martial referral.

Step Four: Preparing for Hearings or Trial

If charges proceed, we prepare for Article 32 hearings and trial proceedings. This includes gathering expert testimony, developing cross-examination strategies, and constructing a compelling defense narrative grounded in the Manual for Courts-Martial at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/.

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After Your Criminal Case What Comes Next

Even when charges are dismissed or reduced, commands may still initiate follow-on actions such as administrative separation, adverse evaluations, or security clearance concerns. These secondary consequences can significantly impact your long-term career.

MJA supports clients through rebuttals, separation defense, and records corrections to protect future opportunities. Our commitment does not end when the criminal matter closes. We remain engaged to safeguard your professional stability.

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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?

Deep Military Justice Experience

Our attorneys are former Marine Judge Advocates with extensive trial experience involving overseas jurisdiction, SOFA complications, and foreign evidence. We understand how Italy-based investigations unfold and how to defend clients effectively within military and international frameworks.

Proven Results and Strategic Defense

We have successfully defended servicemembers worldwide in cases involving sexual misconduct, assault, drug allegations, and off-base incidents. Our defense strategies emphasize disciplined preparation, evidentiary analysis, and precise courtroom advocacy.

Dedicated Support for Service Members

Clients stationed in Italy receive direct access to senior attorneys who provide guided support across time zones. We help reduce uncertainty, maintain clarity, and build confidence throughout the defense process. We deliver mission-focused, disciplined advocacy to protect your freedom, rank, and future.

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Criminal Defense Attorney Serving Italy FAQs

Can Italian authorities and the U.S. military both prosecute me?

Yes. Under SOFA rules, Italy may assert jurisdiction for certain off-base offenses, while the U.S. military may pursue UCMJ action. Proper legal guidance is essential to manage both systems.

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

Article 31(b) applies to U.S. questioning. Statements to Italian police may still influence military proceedings, so you should request counsel before speaking.

Can criminal allegations impact my military career even without a conviction?

Yes. Commands may issue adverse paperwork, restrict duties, or pursue separation. Early legal intervention helps protect long-term career interests.

Should I speak to investigators if I believe I did nothing wrong?

No. Well-intentioned statements are often misinterpreted. You should consult an attorney before responding to any questions.

When should I contact a criminal defense attorney?

Immediately. Early representation preserves your rights, prevents damaging errors, and strengthens your position during the investigation.

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Stand Strong With Experienced Defense

A criminal allegation does not define your career or your service.
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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