Experienced Defense When Everything Is on the Line

Servicemembers stationed across Japan, whether at Yokota Air Base, Misawa Air Base, Kadena Air Base, MCAS Iwakuni, Camp Foster, Camp Hansen, Camp Courtney, Camp Schwab, Camp Kinser, Camp Zama, Torii Station, NAF Atsugi, Naval Base Yokosuka, Naval Base Sasebo, or White Beach Naval Facility, operate under intense expectations while living far from home. When allegations arise, the rapid pace of command action and the complexities of SOFA conditions make court-martial exposure especially stressful.

Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, provides strategic, disciplined defense for servicemembers facing court-martial in Japan. We protect your rights from day one and fight to safeguard your future.

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What Is a Court-Martial for Servicemembers in Japan?

A court-martial is the military’s criminal trial system used to prosecute alleged violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Overseas cases often involve layered concerns: command investigations, military police reports, and potential interaction with Japanese authorities under SOFA.

Core UCMJ procedures and punitive articles are maintained by the Joint Service Committee at https://jsc.defense.gov, which guides how charges are referred and rights are enforced.

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

  • Protection During Critical Early Stages. Investigators often seek statements before service members understand the consequences. We ensure your Article 31(b) rights are protected immediately.
  • Strategic Case Analysis Across Jurisdictions. Overseas cases may involve Japanese police records, command-generated documentation, and military investigations. We examine each piece carefully.
  • Focused Advocacy With Your Future in Mind. A court-martial affects more than liberty. It affects qualifications, advancement, and long-term military opportunities.
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Is a Court-Martial Relevant to My Situation?

A court-martial becomes relevant when investigators, command staff, or military police believe alleged misconduct may warrant formal criminal charges. Common situations involve interpersonal conflicts, alcohol incidents, digital communication issues, or misunderstandings off base.

In Japan, jurisdiction questions under SOFA can add uncertainty. If you are questioned, ordered to submit to interviews, or learn that an investigation is underway, legal involvement should begin immediately to prevent harmful missteps.

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: Rights Advisement and Initial Case Assessment

We review available information and ensure that no statements are made without a full understanding of Article 31(b) protections. Portions of the Manual for Courts-Martial relevant to these rights are available at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/.

Step Two: Comprehensive Evidence Review

We investigate independently, obtaining witnesses, digital records, command documents, and information from Japanese authorities when relevant. This structured review reveals contradictions, gaps, or procedural defects that shape the defense strategy.

Step Three: Article 32 Preliminary Hearing

For general courts-martial, the Article 32 hearing provides an opportunity to challenge evidence, test witness credibility, and influence whether charges should move forward. Strong advocacy here often alters the direction of the case.

Step Four: Trial Preparation and Defense

If the case moves forward, we prepare a disciplined, evidence-based defense, including expert consultation, character evidence, and witness preparation. Our courtroom approach reflects years of Judge Advocate experience and familiarity with overseas environments.

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After Your Court-Martial What Comes Next

Even after a successful defense or reduced charges, servicemembers may face administrative consequences, including downgraded evaluations, loss of qualifications, or career-impacting restrictions. Overseas commands sometimes pursue additional action after trial results.

MJA continues to assist clients with administrative appeals, record corrections, reenlistment planning, and career-impact analysis. Our goal is to ensure the aftermath of a court-martial does not permanently damage your future.

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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 courtroom experience. We understand SOFA considerations, overseas command practices, and the specific pressures servicemembers face in Japan.

Proven Results and Strategic Defense

We have defended servicemembers worldwide in cases involving conflicting testimony, complex digital evidence, and jurisdictional overlap. Our strategies emphasize precision, persuasive analysis, and disciplined preparation.

Dedicated Support for Servicemembers in Japan

Clients receive direct access to experienced counsel, not case managers. We provide steady communication across time zones and clear guidance at every stage of the process. We deliver mission-driven representation to protect your freedom, your career, and your future.

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Court Martial Attorney Serving Japan FAQs

Can Japan prosecute U.S. servicemembers for off-base incidents?

Yes. Under the SOFA, Japan may claim jurisdiction in certain circumstances. Early legal involvement ensures your rights are protected across both systems.

Do Article 31(b) rights apply off base?

Yes. The right advice is required whenever military authorities question you as a suspect, regardless of location.

Can I be restricted or punished before trial?

Yes. Commands may impose administrative restrictions or revoke privileges during investigations. A strong defense challenges unnecessary measures.

Can a court-martial affect my future assignments?

Absolutely. Even reduced charges can affect qualification status, reenlistment, and promotion. Legal defense protects both present and future interests.

When should I contact a court-martial attorney?

Immediately upon learning that you are under investigation. Early representation prevents harmful statements and strengthens your defense.

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Protect Your Rights With Proven Court-Martial Defense

A court-martial overseas demands immediate, strategic legal support. 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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