Defending Your Career Before NJP Defines Your Record

Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP) is often presented as an informal process—something “less serious” than a court-martial. But for many service members in Kentucky, NJP can result in reduced rank, forfeitures, adverse paperwork, or actions that threaten promotion, reenlistment, and long-term service.

Military Justice Attorneys understands the pressure service members face when confronting NJP. Our team of former Marine Corps Judge Advocates provides strategic guidance and strong defense to help you challenge the allegations, prepare a persuasive response, and safeguard your career.

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What Is Non-Judicial Punishment?

Non-Judicial Punishment is a disciplinary process under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) that allows commanders to address alleged misconduct without a court-martial. Article 15 of the UCMJ, which governs NJP authority, is codified under federal law and publicly available at https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/10/815.

Known as Article 15 in the Army and Air Force, and as Captain’s Mast or Office Hours in the Navy and Marine Corps, NJP permits commanders to impose punishment for minor offenses. Procedural rules for NJP are further explained 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/. Although it is not a criminal conviction, NJP can still significantly impact your career, record, and advancement opportunities. Because consequences can follow you for years, speaking with a knowledgeable Non-Judicial Punishment lawyer in Kentucky before accepting or refusing NJP is essential.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for NJP

  • Guidance on Whether to Accept or Demand Court-Martial - A knowledgeable attorney reviews the evidence, explains your rights, and helps determine whether accepting NJP or demanding a trial is strategically better for your case.
  • Effective Rebuttals and Presentation to Command - A NJP lawyer prepares written responses, gathers witness statements, and helps you craft a clear, persuasive narrative that challenges the allegations or reduces potential punishment.
  • Protection Against Procedural Errors and Command Missteps - Your attorney ensures command follows proper procedures, identifies unlawful influence or unfair treatment, and prevents violations of your rights under the UCMJ. Each branch implements NJP under its own regulations, such as Army Regulation 27-10 (Military Justice), available at https://armypubs.army.mil/ProductMaps/PubForm/Details.aspx?PUB_ID=1020709.
  • Support With Appeals and Follow-On Actions- If NJP is imposed unfairly, your attorney can file an appeal or challenge adverse entries, protecting your long-term career and promotion eligibility.
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Is Non-Judicial Punishment Relevant to My Situation?

NJP may be initiated for a wide range of alleged misconduct, including disrespect, dereliction, unauthorized absence, alcohol-related incidents, fraternization, minor property offenses, or violations of orders.

You may receive written notification, a rights advisement, or an invitation to meet with the commander.

Even when the allegations seem minor, the consequences can be serious—especially if NJP leads to reductions in rank or negative entries in your record. If you feel pressured to accept NJP or are unsure whether the allegations are supported by evidence, speaking with a Non-Judicial Punishment lawyer in Kentucky is the safest way to protect your career.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our NJP 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 NJP Process What to Expect

1. Notification and Evidence Review

Your attorney reviews the command’s evidence, evaluates witnesses, and identifies weaknesses or procedural issues. Understanding the strength of the government’s case is crucial when deciding whether to accept or refuse NJP.

2. Strategic Preparation and Written Response

Your attorney helps craft your response, including statements, character letters, or documentation that challenges the allegations or provides mitigating context. This preparation often shapes the commander’s decision.

3. Presentation Before the Commander

If you choose to appear before the commander, your attorney helps you prepare for the hearing, guiding you on what to present and how to address the allegations effectively.

4. Appeal or Future Administrative Action

If punishment is imposed, your attorney may assist with filing an appeal, challenging unfair findings, or responding to any follow-on actions, such as adverse paperwork or separation proceedings.

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After Your NJP What Comes Next

Even if NJP is resolved, further issues may arise. Some service members face follow-on administrative actions, separation boards, or negative evaluations that stem from NJP findings.

A Non-Judicial Punishment lawyer in Kentucky can help mitigate these consequences by preparing appeals, responding to adverse paperwork, or guiding you through the correction or removal of negative entries. Military Justice Attorneys remains available long after the NJP hearing to protect your long-term career and benefits.

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Client Testimonials Their Words. Their Cases. Their Results.

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"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 experience handling NJP, administrative actions, and UCMJ-related matters across every branch of service.

Strategic Defense Backed by Results

We have defended service members against unfair NJP actions, reductions in rank, and adverse findings—often preventing escalation to separation or court-martial.

Dedicated Support for Kentucky Service Members

Clients receive direct attorney access, transparent communication, and a team-driven approach designed to strengthen every aspect of your defense.

Together, these strengths make Military Justice Attorneys a trusted Non-Judicial Punishment lawyer in Kentucky for service members seeking experienced and reliable representation.

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Non-Judicial Punishment Attorney Serving Kentucky FAQs

Should I accept or refuse NJP?

It depends on the strength of the evidence and your long-term career goals. An attorney can help you determine the best option based on your specific circumstances.

Can I see the evidence before deciding?

Yes. You are entitled to review the evidence. This review is critical and should always be done with legal guidance.

Can NJP impact my chances of promotion?

Absolutely. NJP can lead to adverse entries that affect promotion, reenlistment, and assignment opportunities.

Can I appeal a commander’s NJP decision?

Yes. You may appeal to a higher authority if the punishment is unjust or unsupported by the evidence.

Does NJP mean I will be separated from the military?

Not necessarily, but NJP often triggers follow-on administrative actions. Legal representation can help minimize or prevent these consequences.

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Protect Your Rank, Record, and Future

Schedule your confidential consultation today and speak with a Non-Judicial Punishment lawyer in Kentucky who can defend your rights and guide you through every step of the NJP 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.

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