SCRA Attorney Serving Italy

Name: SCRA
Brand: Military Justice Attorneys
Rating: 5 (44 reviews)

Financial issues can escalate quickly for servicemembers stationed overseas, especially when creditors misunderstand your military obligations or violate federal law.

Protection When Financial Pressure Follows You Abroad

Living or serving in Italy places you thousands of miles from the lenders, landlords, and businesses that control your financial obligations. When these entities ignore your military status, refuse legal protections, or take unauthorized action, the consequences can feel immediate and overwhelming. Servicemembers at USAG Vicenza, Camp Darby, NSA Naples, NAS Sigonella, Aviano Air Base, NRTF Niscemi, and San Vito dei Normanni Air Station face these challenges more often than expected.

Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, represents servicemembers whose financial rights under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) have been violated. We help correct wrongful financial actions and restore the security you need while serving abroad.

What Is the SCRA?

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act is a federal law that protects active-duty servicemembers from harmful financial actions. It limits repossessions, foreclosures, evictions, and certain lawsuits, and caps interest rates on eligible loans at six percent.

The U.S. Department of Justice outlines enforcement authority and common violations at https://www.justice.gov/servicemembers. Creditors must also verify military status through the Defense Manpower Data Center at https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/appj/scra, ensuring they do not take adverse action without confirming your eligibility for protections.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for SCRA Violations

Experienced Enforcement of Federal Rights. We know how creditors violate the SCRA and how to hold them accountable using federal law and documented evidence.
Protection From Damage to Credit, Property, and Finances. We intervene quickly to stop repossessions, reverse overcharges, and prevent creditors from taking action that could affect your family or career.
Support Tailored to Overseas Challenges. Living in Italy complicates communication and documentation. We bridge that gap and ensure your rights remain fully protected despite distance.

Is the SCRA Relevant to My Situation?

SCRA protection applies to all active-duty servicemembers, including those stationed in Italy under PCS or deployment orders. You may need legal assistance if a lender refuses to reduce interest rates, issues default notices, attempts repossession, or threatens foreclosure despite receiving proof of military service.

These issues often arise because creditors rely on outdated addresses, misinterpret orders, or fail to understand overseas assignments. Servicemembers at Italian installations frequently report delayed mail, communication gaps, and difficulties providing documentation without legal support.

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 SCRA Process What to Expect

Step One: Reviewing Orders, Agreements, and Creditor Notices

We begin by reviewing your military status, PCS or deployment orders, loan or lease agreements, and any correspondence from lenders. This establishes which SCRA protections apply and identifies clear violations.

Step Two: Notifying Creditors and Demanding Compliance

We contact lenders directly and provide proper documentation of your military service. Creditors must verify your service status using the DMDC system. Guidance provided by the DoD at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/ outlines how military orders and service records should be interpreted in compliance assessments.

Step Three: Stopping Violations and Reversing Harm

We work to reverse wrongful repossessions, restore corrected loan terms, eliminate improper fees, and repair other financial damage. When necessary, we pursue enforcement options based on Department of Justice guidance and SCRA statutory authority.

Step Four: Ensuring Long-Term Financial Protection

We help servicemembers document protections for future use, monitor accounts for recurring problems, and address any new issues that develop during their tour in Italy. Proper follow-through prevents repeated violations.

After Your SCRA Case What Comes Next

Even when creditors correct their misconduct, additional steps may be needed to prevent long-term consequences. Some servicemembers require help restoring credit, documenting account adjustments, or resolving related issues with vehicle leases or housing contracts.

MJA continues supporting clients by reviewing credit reports, helping prepare written notices for future lenders, and guiding next steps to ensure financial stability throughout overseas service. Our goal is lasting protection and not simply temporary relief.

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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

Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Deep Military Justice Experience

Our attorneys are former Marine Judge Advocates with extensive experience enforcing SCRA rights. We understand how financial disruptions affect readiness, family well-being, and long-term career opportunities, especially when serving far from home.

Proven Results and Strategic Defense

We have successfully challenged wrongful repossessions, unlawful interest rates, improper court actions, and other SCRA violations. Our approach emphasizes quick intervention and legally supported demands that compel creditor compliance.

Dedicated Support for Service Members

Clients in Italy receive direct communication with experienced counsel who understand overseas demands. We provide timely guidance across time zones and ensure you always know what comes next. We deliver disciplined advocacy designed to protect your financial stability while you focus on your mission.

SCRA Attorney Serving Italy FAQs

Do SCRA protections apply if I am stationed overseas?

Yes. SCRA protections apply worldwide, including all U.S. military installations in Italy. Creditors must comply regardless of your geographic location.

Can I end a lease in the U.S. because of PCS orders to Italy?

Yes. PCS orders to Italy qualify for residential and vehicle lease termination under the SCRA, provided proper notice is given to the creditor or landlord.

What if my vehicle were repossessed while I was deployed?

Repossession without a court order often violates the SCRA. You may be entitled to compensation or return of the vehicle, depending on the circumstances.

Can lenders refuse to reduce my interest rate to six percent?

No. Eligible loans must be adjusted once documentation is provided. Refusal often indicates a clear violation of the law and requires immediate action.

When should I contact an SCRA attorney?

As soon as you suspect a violation. Early intervention prevents further harm and ensures your rights are enforced quickly and effectively.

Protect Your Rights and Your Peace of Mind

If a creditor violates your SCRA protections while you serve in Italy, you do not have to face it alone. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule your confidential consultation with a former Marine Judge Advocate.