Your Defense Begins the Moment the Allegation Is Made

A court-martial places everything at risk—your rank, your benefits, your freedom, and the reputation you have built over years of service. The pressure is immediate and overwhelming when CID, OSI, NCIS, or command begins questioning you.

Military Justice Attorneys—a team of former Marine Corps Judge Advocates—provides the strategic, disciplined representation service members need during the most critical moments of their careers. Whether you serve in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard, a knowledgeable court-martial defense attorney in Kentucky can guide you through every step and protect you from the full weight of the military justice system.

Topography textured background
soldier looking through a telescope

What Is a Court-Martial?

A court-martial is the military’s criminal trial process, governed by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and the Manual for Courts-Martial. The UCMJ is federal law and is publicly available through Cornell Law School at https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/10/subtitle-A/part-II/chapter-47. Trial procedures, evidentiary rules, and sentencing standards are set forth in the Manual for Courts-Martial, published by the Joint Service Committee on Military Justice at https://jsc.defense.gov/Military-Law/Current-Publications-and-Updates/.

Investigations may begin quietly with interviews or digital forensics long before charges are filed. When allegations escalate, a trial may follow—bringing risks such as confinement, forfeitures, punitive discharge, or life-long consequences. These cases require experienced court-martial lawyers in Kentucky who understand military law, command dynamics, investigative methods, and trial strategy.

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

  • Early Protection From Investigators and Command Pressure - Your attorney stops improper questioning, prevents harmful statements, and ensures your rights are fully protected during CID, OSI, NCIS, or command interviews.
  • Strategic Defense Built on Military Trial Experience - A court-martial defense lawyer in Kentucky evaluates the evidence, identifies weaknesses in the government’s case, and prepares a defense tailored to your branch and circumstances.
  • Preparation for Article 32 Hearings and Trial - Your attorney challenges probable cause, tests government evidence, and sets the stage for trial strategy—often influencing whether charges move forward. Article 32 procedures are governed by UCMJ provisions and implementing guidance maintained by the Joint Service Committee on Military Justice at https://jsc.defense.gov/.
  • Skilled Representation for Appeals and Post-Trial Matters - If you believe legal errors affected your verdict or sentence, a court-martial appeal attorney in Kentucky can file appeals, identify constitutional violations, and pursue clemency or correction-board remedies.
Banner media

Is Court-Martial Defense Relevant to My Situation?

If you have been advised of your rights, questioned by military law enforcement, issued a no-contact order, or told you are the subject of an investigation, a court-martial may be on the horizon.

Court-martial charges are often connected to allegations involving:

  • Sexual assault or harassment
  • Domestic violence
  • Drug use or possession
  • AWOL or desertion
  • Financial misconduct
  • Fraternization or orders violations
  • Assault, theft, or other UCMJ offenses

Even before formal charges, investigators gather statements and evidence that can shape the rest of the case. Speaking with a court-martial defense attorney in Kentucky early in the process gives you critical protection and leverage.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our court-martial 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
Topography textured background

The Court-Martial Process What to Expect

1. Early Consultation and Rights Protection

Your attorney evaluates the allegations and advises you on interacting—or not interacting—with investigators. This step alone can significantly impact the direction of your case.

2. Evidence Review and Independent Investigation

Your attorney reviews government evidence, conducts witness interviews, and analyzes digital forensics. This independent investigation often exposes weaknesses, inconsistencies, or procedural violations under UCMJ standards.

3. Article 32 Hearing and Pretrial Strategy

Your attorney prepares for the preliminary hearing, challenges probable cause, cross-examines witnesses, and shapes the defense strategy long before trial begins.

4. Trial Preparation and Court-Martial Representation

In a trial, your attorney challenges the government’s case, presents expert testimony, cross-examines witnesses, and builds a defense designed to secure an acquittal or significantly reduce your exposure.

Topography textured background

After Your Court-Martial What Comes Next

The outcome of a court-martial may lead to appeals, clemency requests, or petitions to correction boards. Whether you believe the court made legal errors or the sentence was excessive, a court-martial appeal lawyer in Kentucky can guide you through the post-trial process.

Military Justice Attorneys continues to support clients long after the verdict—helping them challenge adverse actions, correct records, pursue upgrades, or prepare for administrative proceedings that follow many criminal cases.

Two fighter jets flying through cloudy sky

Available 24/7 to Help Anyone in the World

Contact us media

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
Topography textured background

Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Deep Military Justice Experience

Our attorneys are former Marine Corps Judge Advocates with extensive courtroom experience, giving clients disciplined, trial-proven defense in the most challenging cases.

Proven Strategies for High-Stakes Trials

We have defended service members worldwide against complex and serious UCMJ allegations, achieving dismissals, acquittals, and reduced charges through skillful litigation and meticulous preparation.

Dedicated Support for Every Branch

Whether you need court-martial attorneys in Kentucky for the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard, our team offers direct attorney access, responsive communication, and unwavering commitment to your defense.

Together, these strengths make Military Justice Attorneys a trusted choice when your career, freedom, and future depend on skilled courtroom defense.

Topography textured background

Court Martial Attorney Serving Kentucky FAQs

Do I need an attorney before charges are filed?

Yes. Investigations often begin long before formal charges. Early legal guidance helps protect your rights and prevents damaging statements.

What if I’m unsure whether I’m under investigation?

If investigators contact you, issue no-contact orders, or ask about specific incidents, assume you are part of an inquiry. Speak with an attorney immediately.

What happens at an Article 32 hearing?

Your attorney challenges the government’s evidence, cross-examines witnesses, and tests whether probable cause exists to send your case to trial.

Can I appeal a court-martial conviction?

Yes. A court-martial appeal attorney in Kentucky can identify legal errors, due-process violations, or improper rulings and pursue a reversal or reduction of the sentence.

Which attorney should I choose for my branch?

Choose someone familiar with your branch’s investigative agencies and culture. Experienced court-martial lawyers in Kentucky can defend members of any service branch effectively.

Textured background

Get Experienced Court-Martial Representation Today

Schedule your confidential consultation to speak with a court-martial defense lawyer in Kentucky who can protect your rights and build a strong defense from the very beginning.

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

(843) 755-6535
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
Submit Information
Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (843) 755-6535.
Contact Us