Protecting Your Rights When Everything Is at Stake

A criminal allegation in the military can trigger immediate consequences—command scrutiny, loss of trust, restrictions, and potential damage to your record. For many service members in Kentucky, the pressure begins long before charges are filed, especially when investigators request statements or your command accelerates administrative action.

Military Justice Attorneys understands the intensity and stakes of the military justice system. Our team of former Marine Corps Judge Advocates provides disciplined, strategic, and unwavering defense.

Whether you serve in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard, working with a military defense attorney in Kentucky ensures you have an advocate who understands both military culture and the trial landscape.

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What Is Military Criminal Defense?

Military criminal defense refers to legal representation for service members accused of violating the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). The UCMJ is codified in federal law and publicly available through Cornell Law School at https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/10/subtitle-A/part-II/chapter-47. Cases may involve investigations by the Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID), Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI), or Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS), each operating under distinct investigative authorities and procedures, including:

These cases can lead to courts-martial, administrative separation, confinement, or punitive discharge. Trial procedures, evidentiary rules, and court-martial processes are governed by 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/. Because the consequences can be severe and long-lasting, service members facing allegations need the best military defense attorney in Kentucky they can find—someone who understands not just civilian criminal law but the complexities unique to military justice.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for Criminal Charges

  • Early Protection From Investigators and Command Pressure - An attorney advises you before you speak with NCIS, CID, OSI, or command, helping ensure you do not make statements that harm your defense or limit future options.
  • Strategic Defense Tailored to Your Branch and Allegations - Whether you need an Army criminal defense attorney, a Navy criminal defense attorney, or an Air Force criminal defense lawyer in Kentucky, branch-specific insight strengthens your defense and helps counter investigator assumptions.
  • Strong Trial Representation for High-Stakes Offenses - A military criminal defense lawyer in Kentucky understands evidentiary standards, government strategy, and how to challenge expert testimony, digital evidence, and witness credibility in court.
  • Reputation and Career Protection - A skilled military defense lawyer evaluates long-term effects on benefits, promotion, and retention, ensuring your defense considers both immediate risks and your future in the service.
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Is Military Criminal Defense Relevant to My Situation?

You may need legal representation if you have been questioned, issued a rights advisement, received a no-contact order, or learned you are under investigation. Many Kentucky-based service members face allegations involving:

  • Sexual assault or harassment
  • Domestic violence
  • Drug possession or use
  • Financial crimes
  • AWOL or misconduct
  • Fraternization or orders violations

Investigators often request “informal” conversations, but any statement can be used against you. Whether you are a Marine seeking a Marine Corps criminal defense lawyer in Kentucky or a Coast Guardsman seeking a Coast Guard criminal defense attorney in Kentucky, early representation is essential.

If you believe you are being targeted, pressured, or unfairly accused, speaking with a military criminal defense attorney in Kentucky is the safest step you can take.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our military criminal defense lawyers 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 Military Criminal Defense Process What to Expect

1. Early Consultation and Rights Protection

Your attorney reviews the circumstances, advises you on your rights, and prevents harmful statements to investigators. This stage is critical for shaping the trajectory of your case.

2. Evidence Review and Independent Investigation

Your attorney analyzes government reports, digital evidence, service records, and witness statements. They may conduct their own interviews or evaluations to uncover inconsistencies or procedural violations under Joint Service Committee standards.

3. Pretrial Preparation and Strategic Defense

Depending on your branch and charges, your attorney prepares for an Article 32 hearing, negotiates with command, or challenges the government's case before trial. This phase often determines what charges—if any—move forward.

4. Court-Martial Representation

Your attorney presents evidence, challenges government witnesses, and delivers a defense crafted to create reasonable doubt. Whether you need an Air Force criminal defense lawyer or a Marine Corps criminal defense attorney in Kentucky, trial skill is essential.

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After Your Case What Comes Next

A trial or investigation may be only the beginning. You may face administrative separation, adverse paperwork, discharge proceedings, or the need for appellate representation.

A Coast Guard criminal defense lawyer or Navy criminal defense lawyer in Kentucky can assist with appeals, clemency submissions, and correction board petitions. Military Justice Attorneys continues to support clients long after the verdict—protecting careers, correcting records, and helping service members rebuild momentum.

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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
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Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Deep Military Justice Experience

Our attorneys are former Marine Corps Judge Advocates with extensive trial backgrounds across all branches. This foundation allows us to provide the disciplined, strategic defense service members need in high-stakes cases.

Proven Results and Focused Strategy

We have defended clients facing serious allegations—from violent offenses to complex digital evidence cases—and achieved dismissals, acquittals, and major reductions in charges. Many clients consider us among the best military defense attorneys for complex or career-threatening cases.

Dedicated Support for Every Branch

We proudly represent soldiers, airmen, sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen. Whether you need an Army criminal defense attorney or a Navy criminal defense attorney in Kentucky, our team provides tailored guidance aligned with the expectations and culture of your branch.

Together, these strengths make Military Justice Attorneys a trusted choice for service members seeking the best military defense lawyer in Kentucky.

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Criminal Defense Attorney Serving Kentucky FAQs

Do I need a lawyer even if I haven’t been charged yet?

Yes. Most cases begin with quiet investigations long before charges are filed. Early representation protects you from making statements that damage your defense.

Can a lawyer stop my command from disciplining me?

While no attorney controls command decisions, a strong defense can expose weaknesses, prevent unlawful command influence, and reduce the likelihood of charges moving forward.

What if investigators ask to “just talk”?

Do not answer questions without counsel. Investigators are trained to gather statements that will later be used against you in court or administrative actions.

Which branch-specific attorney should I choose?

Choose an attorney familiar with your branch’s culture and procedures—whether an Army criminal defense lawyer, an Air Force criminal defense attorney in Kentucky, or representation for Marines, Sailors, or Coast Guardsmen.

What penalties am I facing if convicted?

Penalties can include confinement, dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of pay, or long-term career consequences. Skilled representation can significantly reduce or eliminate these risks.

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Protect Your Career, Freedom, and Future

Schedule your confidential consultation today and speak with a military defense lawyer in Kentucky who can defend your rights at every stage of the military justice process.

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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