A Command Investigation Can Shape Your Entire Future

For Marines, a command investigation—often conducted under JAGMAN procedures—can determine whether allegations lead to NJP, adverse FITREPs, administrative separation, or even court-martial. These investigations are supposed to be impartial fact-finding processes, but in practice, they often lack complete evidence, contain biased witness statements, or reflect investigative shortcuts.

Marines may not even learn the full scope of allegations until the final report is released, and by that time, harmful conclusions may already be influencing decisions about promotion, retention, billet assignment, or security clearances. Without a strong rebuttal or appeal, these conclusions can permanently damage a Marine’s reputation and military trajectory.

Military Justice Attorneys helps Marines challenge flawed or unfair command investigations. As former Marine Judge Advocates, our attorneys know how these inquiries are conducted—and how to expose errors, omissions, and unsupported findings that jeopardize your future.

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What Is a Marine Corps Command Investigation?

A command investigation is an administrative inquiry conducted under JAGMAN or other Marine Corps orders to determine the facts surrounding an incident, complaint, or allegation. These investigations may address:

  • Misconduct allegations
  • Safety incidents
  • Training or operational mishaps
  • Hazing or maltreatment complaints
  • Minor criminal conduct
  • Fraternization or inappropriate relationships
  • Equal opportunity or discrimination concerns
  • Financial or property-related issues

Command investigations are governed by the Judge Advocate General’s Manual (JAGMAN), which outlines investigative procedures, evidentiary standards, and reporting requirements. Command investigations often form the basis for:

  • NJP
  • Adverse FITREPs
  • Special duty removal
  • Loss of promotion or reenlistment opportunities
  • Administrative separation
  • Security clearance actions

Because findings and recommendations carry significant weight, Marines have the right to challenge them when they are inaccurate or unjust.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for Command Investigation Appeals

  • Careful Review of the Entire Investigative Record - Your attorney examines evidence, witness statements, timelines, and conclusions to identify factual errors, unsupported assumptions, or procedural violations in the investigation.
  • Preparation of Detailed Rebuttals and Responses - A well-written rebuttal can directly challenge the findings, introduce exculpatory evidence, highlight inconsistencies, and demonstrate why the conclusions should be amended or rejected.
  • Strategic Use of Appeals and Higher-Level Review - If the command endorses flawed findings, your attorney can escalate the matter to higher authorities, including the general court-martial convening authority or ultimately the BCNR.
  • Protection From Career and Administrative Consequences - A successful rebuttal can prevent NJP, protect your FITREP, stop a separation action, preserve eligibility for reenlistment, and mitigate long-term negative effects.
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Is Rebutting a Command Investigation Relevant to My Situation?

You may need immediate legal assistance if you:

  • Were notified of adverse findings from a command investigation
  • Believe the investigation was biased or incomplete
  • Provided a statement that investigators misinterpreted
  • Were denied the chance to provide your side of the story
  • Face NJP, adverse FITREP entries, or separation as a result of the investigation
  • Encountered factual inaccuracies, procedural violations, or missing evidence
  • Were unfairly singled out compared to other Marines involved

Command investigations commonly address allegations of:

  • Disrespect, insubordination, or dereliction
  • Alcohol-related incidents
  • Hazing or maltreatment
  • Fraternization or unprofessional relationships
  • Safety or training mishaps
  • Sexual harassment or misconduct
  • Destruction or misuse of property

If the findings do not reflect the truth—or do not reflect the whole story—a rebuttal or appeal can drastically change your outcome.

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 Command Investigation Appeal Process What to Expect

1. Review of the Investigation and Supporting Evidence

Your attorney obtains and analyzes the full investigative packet, including exhibits, statements, photos, digital data, expert reports, and command endorsements.

2. Preparation of a Detailed Rebuttal

Your lawyer drafts a persuasive written rebuttal that challenges unsupported findings, highlights factual inaccuracies, and presents your version of events supported by credible evidence.

3. Command-Level and Higher Review

The rebuttal is submitted to the command for reconsideration. If denied, your attorney may pursue higher review through the chain of command or staff judge advocate channels.

4. BCNR Petitions for Long-Term Correction

If harmful findings remain in your record, your attorney can file a petition with the Board for Correction of Naval Records seeking removal or amendment of unjust entries.

You can learn more about the BCNR’s authority to correct Marine Corps records at: https://www.secnav.navy.mil/mra/bcnr/.

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Case Results We’ve been in the fight & know how to win

View All Results

MARINE SNCO PROMOTED

Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Marine Staff Sergeant (E-6) refused NJP, avoids court-martial and earns promotion.

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REACHES RETIREMENT

A Marine Master Sergeant (E-8) suspected of misconduct and questioned in multiple JAGMAN investigations reaches retirement.

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NO ADVERSE ACTION

Quantico, Virginia. No Adverse Action Against Marine Sergeant (E-5) Investigated for Alleged Article 92 Violations.

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NO ADVERSE ACTION

MCRD Parris Island, South Carolina. Marine SNCO arrested for suspicion of DUI onboard military installation.

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RETAINED

Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Marine Raider Accused of Using Cocaine Wins at Administrative Separation Board Hearing.

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RETAINED

Camp Pendleton, California. Marine facing administrative separation due to a pattern of misconduct retained.

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HONORABLE DISCHARGE

Quantico, Virginia. Marine Corporal (E-4) Separated for Condition Not a Disability Receives Fully Honorable Discharge.

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RETAINED

Parris Island, South Carolina. Charges dismissed against Marine charged with recruit abuse, retained at board.

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HONORABLE DISCHARGE

Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Marine Raider Pending Criminal Charges Faces General Discharge, Receives Honorable.

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UNSUBSTANTIATED

Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Allegations of hazing unsubstantiated against Marine Corporal (E-4), earns promotion.

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After Your Command Investigation Appeal What Comes Next

Even after submitting a rebuttal or appeal, additional steps may be needed. Military Justice Attorneys can assist with:

  • Responding to adverse FITREPs
  • NJP defense
  • Administrative separation representation
  • Request mast or Article 138 complaints
  • Correction of military records
  • Rebuttals to promotion or retention board concerns

An unjust investigation should not define your career—and with the right legal strategy, it doesn’t have to.

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"The Government Came to Bury Me, Josh Hill Buried Their Case Instead"

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"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.

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-Corporal, USMC

"Worth. Every. Penny."

The team is professional, surg...

Don't waste your time scrolling for other representation. I'm an Active Duty Marine who's been in approximately 18 years. I had two allegations that were unsubstantiated due to Gerald Healy and Clare Hodge's phenomenal representation. The team is professional, surgical, likable, and subject matter expertise is second to none. Worth. Every. Penny.
-CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 2, USMC

"Successful Discharge Upgrade!"

My discharge was upgraded to F...

Josh was professional, understanding and very clear on his plan to assist and appeal my discharge to the Naval Discharge Review Board. Thanks to his expert guidance and instruction, the process went smoothly, and I am grateful for the positive outcome. My discharge was upgraded to Fully Honorable and Josh worked incredibly hard for me every step of the way.
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Attorney Gerald Healy is the g...

General Court-Martial 2015 for an alleged kiss with two charges and two specifications each charges. Attorney Gerald Healy is by far one of the most experienced, fearless, and confident defense lawyer I have ever known. He fought for me in my very complicated case in the Marine Corps. In his insurmountable knowledge and years of experienced in Military Laws and Regulations, he was successful in defending my case and getting all the charges fully acquitted.

Attorney Gerald Healy is the guy who never gives up. He kept me updated on my case. He is a very approachable lawyer and he will address all your concerns as much as he can. As a matter of fact, though his duty and responsibilities to me has been long done, he was still helping me address my concern in providing certain documents I have been looking for. I owe him a lot. He saved my life.

I would not hesitate to recommend Attorney Gerald Healy to anybody when they need a lawyer. He is the kind of guy you want to get when you need a lawyer to fight your battle against the world. He is worth every single penny that you would pay for a lawyer.

-CORPORAL, USMC

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I seeked out legal assistance ...

I got caught up in a situation that escalated almost beyond my control. I seeked out legal assistance and found Joshua Hill online. He is a great lawyer and helped me stay in the Marine Corps. I highly recommend him as an attorney and if I know people who need an attorney Joshua Hill would be the first I tell them to contact. Overall great person and attorney that is more than willing to help and is super understanding.

-LANCE CORPORAL, USMC

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I have unfortunately had a wealth of experience with attorneys of various disciplines over a year and half period of legal battles including military, criminal, civil, and family law. Of the six attorneys I have had to retain in that timeframe, and the many others I have consulted with, Josh Hill has been hands down the easiest to work with.

Many attorneys will be difficult to reach or will try to nickel and dime you for every email or phone call. Josh is reliably easy to get in touch with, keeps you well informed, and has been nothing but generous and fair with his time and fees. The man has sound instinct and judgement, and fantastic planning and communication skills. He shifts gears quickly: we never had to go to bat for the initial reason I retained him – but the legal battlescape is capricious, and I later found myself on the hook for a matter that was related but not on the contract I signed. He was well within his rights to charge me new fees and write new contracts, but he didn’t pull that move. He stuck with me, applied my initial fees to the new task, and put a lot of work into my matter over a year and a half after I had first hired him for a different reason.

He constructed a 160-some page package for a two-star general on the ludicrous time constraint of about one week. His work directly resulted in the outcome that I desired. But here is the thing – I also listened to what he told me to do. If you do the same, you can have a good result. This is an effective and trustworthy attorney. What’s more, he is the only lawyer who I think legitimately cared about my outcome. If you are seeking a military law attorney, this is the one you should hire.

-STAFF SERGEANT, USMC

"Top Choice for a Military Defense Representation"

Mr. Hodge was relentless in hi...

After a false allegation of misconduct was leveled against me, I was placed on legal hold and not allowed to complete my obligated service in the timeframe expected. Special Court-Martial charges had been directed. I became a target of harassment, and my life was at an absolute standstill. I called MJA. Mr. Hodge was relentless in his defense of me. He did his own investigation and presented facts and circumstances that unquestionably absolved me of any wrongdoing under the UCMJ. He also made himself available 24/7. I reached my end of active service without charges or involuntary separation. I emphatically recommend Mr. Hodge and his team to any service member that needs a solid military defense lawyer advocating for them. Mr. Hodge should be your top choice!
-CORPORAL, USMC

"Mr. Hodge was relentless in his defense of me."

He did his own investigation a...

After a false allegation of misconduct was leveled against me, I was placed on legal hold and not allowed to complete my obligated service in the timeframe expected. Special Court-Martial charges had been directed. I became a target of harassment, and my life was at an absolute standstill. I called MJA. Mr. Hodge was relentless in his defense of me. He did his own investigation and presented facts and circumstances that unquestionably absolved me of any wrongdoing under the UCMJ. He also made himself available 24/7. I reached my end of active service without charges or involuntary separation. I emphatically recommend Mr. Hodge and his team to any service member that needs a solid military defense lawyer advocating for them. Mr. Hodge should be your top choice!
-CORPORAL, USMC

"Quality of the Highest Tier"

10/10 would recommend. I was e...

10/10 would recommend. I was extremely fortunate to stumble upon Mr. Healy during the early stages of my legal process. From the beginning, Mr. Healy was with me every step of the way, guiding me through the chaos of the military legal system. He broke down complex problems into easily digestible concepts that I would normally be hard pressed to understand. His extensive knowledge of the military legal system shows in his confidence and competency both in and out of the courtroom. Every step my command took against me, Mr. Healy was there to meet them with equal to greater push back. My process involved challenging a multitude of 6105s, adverse fitreps, and a final confrontation at an Administrative Separations Board. I’m happy to report a victory at the board that was originally thought not possible by other representation. To quote my military counsel upon achieving a victory at the board ‘Of all the civilian representation I have seen, both good and bad, he was one of the best.’ If there is one major takeaway, Mr. Healy gets results. If you want to win then you need the most suited Subject Matter Expert on your side. To any who reads this, you’re already in the right place. If you hire Mr. Healy, you will be hiring Quality of the Highest Tier.
-SERGEANT, USMC
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Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Former Marine JAGs With Deep Investigative Insight

Our attorneys understand how command investigations are conducted, how investigators assess evidence, and how commands interpret findings.

Proven Ability to Expose Errors and Correct Unjust Findings

We prepare detailed rebuttals backed by evidence, regulations, and logical analysis that demonstrate why conclusions must be amended or rejected.

Dedicated Representation Focused on Protecting Your Career

We provide direct attorney access, clear communication, and mission-driven advocacy designed to safeguard your service and your future. Military Justice Attorneys stands ready to defend Marines from the long-lasting effects of flawed investigations.

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Command Investigation Appeals / Rebuttals FAQs

Do I have a right to see the command investigation before submitting a rebuttal?

In most cases, yes. Marines are typically given access to the final investigation or required portions before adverse action is taken. This allows you to identify inaccuracies and prepare a rebuttal. Your attorney helps ensure full and fair disclosure of the relevant evidence.

How long do I have to submit a rebuttal?

Timelines vary, but Marines often have only a short window—sometimes as little as 5 to 10 days—to respond. Quick action is critical. An attorney can rapidly analyze the findings and prepare a strong, well-supported rebuttal before the deadline.

Can incorrect command investigation findings be removed from my record?

Yes. If findings are unjust, unsupported, or procedurally improper, they can be challenged through the chain of command or formally corrected through the BCNR. Strong legal argument and documented evidence greatly increase the likelihood of removal.

Will a flawed command investigation lead to NJP or separation?

It can. Many NJP actions and separation boards are based directly on command investigation findings. Challenging inaccuracies early can prevent more serious consequences and protect your career.

What if the investigation was biased or incomplete?

Bias, missing evidence, unbalanced interviews, and procedural errors are common grounds for appeal. An attorney can expose these issues and show why the findings should not be used against you.

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Challenge Unjust Findings Before They Damage Your Career

Schedule a confidential consultation today with Marine Corps command investigation appeals attorneys who know how to fight for the truth and protect your future.

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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