Nonjudicial Punishment Attorney Serving Italy

Name: Non-Judicial Punishment
Brand: Military Justice Attorneys
Rating: 5 (44 reviews)

NJP can damage rank, pay, reputation, and long-term career prospects—especially when it happens while you are stationed overseas.

Support When Your Career Feels at Risk

Nonjudicial punishment often arrives suddenly, leaving servicemembers anxious and uncertain about their future. When you serve at USAG Vicenza, Caserma Ederle, Caserma Del Din, Camp Darby, NSA Naples, NAS Sigonella, Aviano Air Base, NRTF Niscemi, or San Vito dei Normanni Air Station, the distance from home and unfamiliarity with foreign environments make NJP even more stressful.

Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, provides the experienced guidance needed to protect your rights and limit long-term damage. We help servicemembers challenge unfair allegations, correct misunderstandings, and navigate an unfamiliar disciplinary system with confidence.

soldiers sitting off the edge of an airplane

What Is Nonjudicial Punishment?

Nonjudicial punishment, known as Article 15 in the Army and Air Force or Captain’s Mast in the Navy and Coast Guard, allows commanders to impose discipline without referring a case to court-martial. Although not criminal, NJP can still affect promotions, evaluations, clearances, and retention.

NJP authority and procedures appear in the Manual for Courts-Martial, available through the DoD Executive Services Directorate at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/. Service-specific instructions, including Navy and Marine Corps guidance in the JAGMAN found at https://www.jag.navy.mil, provide additional standards for NJP decisions.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for NJP

Early Protection From Harmful Mistakes. Many servicemembers make statements before understanding the consequences. Early legal guidance prevents errors that weaken your defense.
Understanding of International and SOFA Issues. NJP in Italy may involve local police reports, witness statements, or foreign-language documents. We ensure these factors are interpreted fairly.
Precise Advocacy to Protect Your Career. We focus on safeguarding rank, pay, evaluations, and opportunities affected by NJP decisions.

Is Nonjudicial Punishment Relevant to My Situation?

NJP is often used when commanders believe misconduct occurred but do not pursue court-martial charges. Common triggers include alcohol incidents, disrespect, minor assault allegations, property damage, or misunderstandings involving Italian civilians.

Because overseas environments create communication gaps and translation issues, NJP may be initiated based on incomplete or inaccurate information. If you have been notified of NJP, asked to provide a statement, or read your Article 31(b) rights, legal representation is essential to protect your interests.

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

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

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

Paul Murray

Partner

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

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

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

The NJP Process What to Expect

Step One: Notification and Understanding Your Rights

You receive written notification outlining the alleged misconduct and available evidence. We explain your rights under Article 31(b) and determine whether the facts support the allegations. Early clarity helps prevent avoidable mistakes.

Step Two: Strategic Analysis and Case Preparation

We assess investigative documents, foreign police reports, digital evidence, and witness statements. Using guidance from the Joint Service Committee at https://jsc.defense.gov, we identify weaknesses or procedural flaws in the government’s case.

Step Three: Presenting Your Case at the NJP Hearing

We prepare written rebuttals, witness statements, and mitigation materials that challenge incomplete or inaccurate allegations. During the hearing, your perspective is presented clearly and supported by evidence.

Step Four: Appeals and Post-NJP Career Protection

If NJP is imposed, we prepare appeals explaining why the punishment was unjust or legally unsupported. We also assist with addressing follow-on career impacts, including adverse evaluations, separation actions, or record entries.

After Your Nonjudicial Punishment What Comes Next

Even after an NJP concludes, lasting consequences may remain. Commands may alter your evaluations, restrict assignments, or initiate separation procedures. These outcomes can affect reenlistment, advancement, and long-term career opportunities. MJA helps servicemembers challenge unfair consequences, correct inaccurate records, and prepare mitigation packages to restore stability and future opportunities. Our support continues beyond the initial hearing to ensure the best possible long-term result.

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

Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Deep Military Justice Experience

Our attorneys are former Marine Judge Advocates with extensive experience in overseas disciplinary cases. We understand how commands evaluate NJP matters and how to present strong, well-supported defenses for servicemembers stationed abroad.

Proven Results and Strategic Defense

We have represented servicemembers worldwide in NJP cases involving foreign police, contested evidence, and significant administrative risks. Our approach focuses on careful analysis, precise presentation, and advocacy designed to minimize long-term harm.

Dedicated Support for Service Members

Clients in Italy benefit from direct access to attorneys who understand the challenges of serving overseas. We provide timely communication, clear strategy, and consistent guidance throughout the NJP process. We deliver mission-driven advocacy that protects your rank, reputation, and long-term service potential.

Non-Judicial Punishment Attorney Serving Italy FAQs

Should I accept NJP or demand a court-martial?

That depends on the evidence, the risk of punishment, and your long-term career goals. Legal counsel can help you make an informed decision.

Can Italian police reports be used during NJP?

Yes. Foreign evidence may be included in the NJP file. We review the accuracy of translations and the fairness of the underlying investigation.

Can NJP affect my promotion or reenlistment?

Yes. NJP often results in adverse evaluations or other long-term impacts. Early legal involvement helps limit the damage.

Do I have to make a statement at my NJP hearing?

No. You may remain silent under Article 31(b), and choosing silence cannot be used against you. Many cases benefit from carefully crafted written submissions instead.

When should I contact an NJP attorney?

Immediately after notification. Early representation by MJA helps protect your rights, organize evidence, and strengthen your defense.

Protect Your Rank and Your Future

NJP does not have to define your military career. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule your confidential consultation with a former Marine Judge Advocate.