A Court-Martial Can Change Everything

For Marines, a court-martial is more than a criminal proceeding—it is a direct threat to your honor, your standing in the Corps, and your future. Allegations move quickly, commands act decisively, and the government brings significant resources to build its case. Even before charges are filed, a Marine may face lost trust, suspended duties, revoked access, and pressure to make statements that jeopardize the defense.

Military Justice Attorneys understands the intensity and urgency that accompany court-martial proceedings. As former Marine Judge Advocates, our attorneys know the culture, expectations, and realities of life in the Corps.

Whether you need immediate intervention during an investigation or full representation in a general, special, or summary court-martial, our team stands ready to fight for you with the same tenacity and commitment that Marines bring to every mission.

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What Is a Court-Martial?

A court-martial is the military’s criminal justice system for prosecuting offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), which governs all branches of the armed forces and is overseen by the Joint Service Committee on Military Justice. You can learn more about how the UCMJ operates across the services at: https://jsc.defense.gov/.

Depending on the seriousness of the allegation, the government may convene a summary, special, or general court-martial. These proceedings can result in severe penalties, including confinement, punitive discharge, loss of rank and pay, and lifelong federal convictions.

Court-martial attorneys play a crucial role at every stage:

  • Advising Marines during NCIS or CID investigations
  • Challenging charges and evidence presented by trial counsel
  • Cross-examining witnesses and presenting favorable testimony
  • Filing motions to suppress unlawfully obtained statements or evidence
  • Protecting the Marine’s rights from preferral to sentencing

Because the consequences are permanent, no Marine should face trial without a dedicated court-martial defense attorney.

The Benefits of Working With a Court-Martial Defense Attorney

  • Comprehensive Case Analysis and Early Strategy Development - An experienced court-martial defense lawyer reviews the government’s evidence, interviews witnesses, analyzes investigative errors, and builds a strategy before the command finalizes its approach.
  • Aggressive Trial Advocacy and Motion Practice - Your attorney challenges unlawful searches, coerced statements, improper command influence, weak forensic analysis, and flawed testimony, ensuring that every government action meets legal standards.
  • Protection Against Career-Ending Punishments - A conviction can end your Marine Corps service, revoke benefits, and affect civilian employment. A strong defense helps safeguard your rank, future opportunities, and hard-earned reputation.
  • Experienced Negotiation and Sentencing Advocacy - If a case proceeds to trial or sentencing, your lawyer presents powerful mitigation evidence, expert testimony, and tailored arguments designed to protect your long-term future.
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Is Court-Martial Defense Relevant to My Situation?

You may need immediate representation if you:

  • Were questioned by NCIS, CID, or PMO
  • Were ordered to provide a statement or consent to a search
  • Received charge sheets or Article 32 notice
  • Believe a command-directed investigation is underway
  • Face allegations involving assault, sexual misconduct, larceny, hazing, drug use, DUI, or fraternization
  • Are dealing with pretrial restraints or restrictions
  • Feel pressured by command or investigators to cooperate

Court-martial lawyers can intervene early, prevent self-incrimination, and ensure your rights are protected before the case escalates.

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 Court-Martial Process What to Expect

1. Investigation and Preferral of Charges

The process often begins with investigations conducted by NCIS, which is responsible for felony-level criminal investigations involving Marines. Information about NCIS’s investigative authority and mission is available through the Department of the Navy at: https://www.ncis.navy.mil/About-NCIS/.

A court-martial defense attorney helps you avoid missteps and prepares a strategic response before charges are preferred.

2. Article 32 Preliminary Hearing

For general court-martial charges, an Article 32 hearing evaluates whether probable cause exists. This critical stage allows your lawyer to challenge evidence, question witnesses, and expose weaknesses in the government’s case.

3. Pretrial Motions and Discovery

Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence, request expert consultants, demand additional discovery, and argue against unlawful command influence or procedural violations.

4. Trial and Sentencing

During trial, your lawyer cross-examines witnesses, challenges government experts, presents defense testimony, and argues forcefully for acquittal. If sentencing occurs, your attorney provides a strong mitigation case to protect your future.

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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 Court-Martial What Comes Next

Even after trial, Marines may continue to face administrative or personal consequences. Our attorneys assist with:

  • Court-martial appeals
  • Clemency requests
  • Special clemency/parole boards
  • Record corrections
  • Discharge upgrades
  • Post-trial administrative actions

Your defense does not end with the verdict—our team ensures that every available avenue for relief is explored.

Available 24/7 to Help Anyone in the World

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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

"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.
-Marine Veteran

"Fearless, aggressive and confident defense lawyer."

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

"Phenomenal Lawyer!"

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

"Fantastic and Effective Attorney"

This is an effective and trust...

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?

Experienced Trial Lawyers With Marine Corps Roots

As former Marine Judge Advocates, our attorneys understand the culture, expectations, and pressure Marines face, allowing them to defend your case with insight and precision.

Proven Strategies for High-Stakes Criminal Defense

We have defended Marines in cases involving serious felonies, complex digital forensics, sexual misconduct allegations, drug crimes, and battlefield-related accusations.

Personalized Representation at Every Stage of the Case

You receive direct attorney access, clear communication, and a customized defense strategy tailored to your goals and circumstances. Together, these strengths make Military Justice Attorneys a powerful advocate for Marines facing court-martial prosecution.

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Court-Martial Defense FAQs

What should I do if NCIS wants to interview me?

Invoke your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately. NCIS agents are trained to elicit statements that can be used against you, even when you believe you did nothing wrong. Early legal guidance is essential to avoid irreversible harm to your case.

Can a court-martial defense attorney help before charges are filed?

Absolutely. Many cases are won or lost during the investigative stage. Your attorney can challenge unlawful searches, advise you on interactions with investigators, collect favorable evidence, and prevent the command from receiving only one side of the story.

Are court-martial convictions permanent?

Yes. A conviction becomes part of your federal criminal history and can impact employment, benefits, firearm rights, and future opportunities. A strong defense—and, if necessary, an appeal—can help prevent or reverse these consequences.

What if my command pressures me to accept NJP instead of fighting charges?

Commands often prefer NJP to avoid the requirements of a court-martial, but accepting NJP may harm your record or future opportunities. A defense attorney can evaluate which option protects your long-term interests.

Can I appeal a court-martial conviction?

Yes. You may pursue relief through the appellate courts, clemency requests, or the Board for Correction of Naval Records. Your attorney will review the trial record to identify legal errors, procedural violations, and grounds for overturning or reducing the sentence.

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Stand Strong With Experienced Marine Corps Court-Martial Defense

Schedule a confidential consultation today to begin building your defense with trusted court-martial attorneys dedicated to protecting your rightful place in the Corps.

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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