Criminal Defense Attorney Serving Japan

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

A criminal allegation overseas creates immediate risk to your career, your freedom, and your future in the U.S. military.

Protection When an Overseas Allegation Threatens Your Life

Service members stationed across Japan face complex risks when allegations arise. This includes service members from Yokota Air Base, Misawa Air Base, and Kadena Air Base to MCAS Iwakuni, Camp Foster, Camp Hansen, Camp Courtney, Camp Schwab, Camp Kinser, Camp Zama, Torii Station, Naval Base Yokosuka, NAF Atsugi, Naval Base Sasebo, and White Beach Naval Facility.

Foreign jurisdiction concerns, command involvement, and the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) create a system where small missteps can permanently damage a military career. Military Justice Attorneys (MJA) provides disciplined, strategic representation grounded in decades of Marine Judge Advocate experience.

What Is Criminal Defense for Servicemembers in Japan?

Criminal defense in Japan involves navigating UCMJ exposure, Japanese jurisdiction issues under the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), and command-driven administrative consequences. Allegations may involve interpersonal disputes, alcohol incidents, property damage, digital communication issues, or misunderstandings shaped by cultural and language barriers.

Core UCMJ standards are maintained by the Joint Service Committee at https://jsc.defense.gov, which outlines procedural rights and charging authorities relevant to overseas cases.

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

Effective Protection During Early Investigations. Early questioning often determines the trajectory of the case. We ensure rights are protected from the first moment.
Strategic Evidence Review Across Jurisdictions. Overseas cases involve command documents, military police reports, and sometimes Japanese police interaction. We analyze all available evidence for accuracy and fairness.
Focused Advocacy That Protects Long-Term Careers. Criminal allegations can influence promotions, reenlistment, and access to future assignments. Our approach defends both your present and your future.

Is Criminal Defense Relevant to My Situation?

Criminal defense is relevant whenever the command, military police, or Japanese authorities suspect misconduct. This may involve off-base incidents, disputes in public spaces, cultural misunderstandings, or allegations arising from digital communication.

Because SOFA rules determine when Japan or the U.S. has primary jurisdiction, servicemembers often feel uncertain about their rights. If you are questioned, restricted, ordered to meet investigators, or believe an allegation is forming, immediate representation is critical.

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 Criminal Defense Process What to Expect

Step One: Rights Advisement and Early Case Review

We explain Article 31(b) rights and review initial evidence before any statements are made. Japanese incidents may involve both military and foreign authorities, requiring careful coordination. Portions of the Manual for Courts-Martial outlining rights are accessible through https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/.

Step Two: Independent Defense Investigation

We examine statements, digital communications, Japanese police records when available, and any command-generated documentation. This review helps identify inconsistencies or procedural errors that shape an effective defense.

Step Three: Engagement With Command and Legal Authorities

We communicate with command representatives, military police, and legal offices to present context, correct misunderstandings, and influence decisions about administrative action, NJP, or court-martial referral. Early intervention can reduce or eliminate long-term consequences.

Step Four: Preparation for Hearings, NJP, or Court-Martial Proceedings

If the matter escalates, we prepare written responses, rebuttals, character evidence, and courtroom strategy to defend your rights. Our approach relies on structured advocacy and disciplined preparation shaped by extensive military justice experience.

After Your Criminal Case What Comes Next

Even after charges are dismissed, or penalties are reduced, servicemembers in Japan may face administrative reviews, downgraded evaluations, or restrictions affecting reenlistment or overseas eligibility. These secondary actions can alter future opportunities. MJA continues to support clients through administrative appeals, record corrections, and guidance on how to rebuild standing in the unit. We ensure that an allegation does not define your career or limit long-term service options.

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 team consists of former Marine Judge Advocates with extensive backgrounds defending servicemembers worldwide. We understand the legal and cultural complexities of SOFA-covered service in Japan.

Proven Results and Strategic Defense

We have successfully represented servicemembers in cases involving conflicting testimony, unclear evidence, and jurisdictional overlap. Our defense strategies emphasize accuracy, discipline, and persuasive advocacy.

Dedicated Support for Servicemembers in Japan

Clients receive direct access to senior attorneys who understand overseas demands and time-zone challenges. We provide consistent communication and structured guidance throughout your case. We provide mission-focused advocacy that protects your rights, your readiness, and your future.

Criminal Defense Attorney Serving Japan FAQs

Can Japanese authorities prosecute U.S. servicemembers?

Yes. Under the SOFA, Japan may assert jurisdiction in certain cases, especially off-base incidents. Legal counsel helps ensure your rights are protected under both systems.

Will my command be notified of an off-base incident?

Almost always. Japanese police frequently communicate with military authorities, and even minor incidents can escalate within the command structure.

Can I refuse to answer investigator questions?

Yes. Article 31(b) rights apply. Exercising your rights cannot be used as evidence of guilt and often protects you from harmful statements.

Can a criminal allegation affect my career even without a court-martial?

Yes. Administrative consequences may follow, including negative evaluations or lost qualifications. Early defense minimizes long-term impact.

When should I contact a criminal defense attorney?

Immediately and before speaking to investigators, command representatives, or peers. Early legal involvement prevents damaging errors and strengthens your defense.

Protect Your Freedom and Your Career

You do not have to navigate an overseas criminal allegation alone. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule your confidential consultation with a former Marine Judge Advocate.