NJP Can Threaten Your Career in an Instant

For Marines, Non-Judicial Punishment—commonly known as NJP, Office Hours, or Captain’s Mast—can have immediate and lasting effects, including loss of rank, reduced pay, restrictions, and irreparable career setbacks. Many Marines feel pressured to simply “take the Mast,” unaware that they have rights, choices, and strategic considerations that may drastically alter the outcome.

Military Justice Attorneys understands how quickly NJP proceedings move and how frequently commands rely on incomplete or one-sided information when deciding whether allegations are substantiated. Whether you need help deciding whether to accept or refuse NJP, preparing a rebuttal package, or appealing an unjust punishment, our team stands ready to defend your service and your future.

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What Is Non-Judicial Punishment?

Non-Judicial Punishment is a disciplinary process authorized under Article 15 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) that allows Marine Corps commanders to address allegations of minor misconduct without resorting to court-martial. You can learn more about the UCMJ and Article 15 directly from the Joint Service Committee on Military Justice at https://jsc.defense.gov/.

Although NJP is not a criminal conviction, its consequences can be severe—impacting retention, promotion, billet assignment, and long-term career viability. Commands may initiate NJP for misconduct such as disrespect, minor assaults, unauthorized absence, underage drinking, fraternization, or other violations of the UCMJ. A Marine may accept NJP or, in many cases, refuse it and demand trial by court-martial instead. Seeking counsel early ensures you understand the risks and benefits of each option.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for NJP

  • Help Deciding Whether to Accept or Refuse NJP - A Non-Judicial Punishment lawyer can help you weigh the strength of the government’s allegations, command climate, potential penalties, and your long-term goals before you decide whether to accept NJP or demand a court-martial.
  • Thorough Preparation of Defense and Mitigation Evidence - Even if you accept NJP, you are entitled to submit statements, witness testimony, documents, and other evidence. An attorney ensures your packet is strategically prepared to challenge allegations or minimize punishment.
  • Thorough Preparation of Defense and Mitigation Evidence - Even if you accept NJP, you are entitled to submit statements, witness testimony, documents, and other evidence. An attorney ensures your packet is strategically prepared to challenge allegations or minimize punishment.
  • Support With Appeals and Follow-On Administrative Actions - If NJP is imposed unjustly, an attorney can assist with appeals to higher authorities and prepare you for subsequent administrative actions—including adverse FITREPs, separation boards, or BCNR petitions. General information on military records correction boards is available through the Department of Defense at https://www.defense.gov/Resources/Military-Departments/.
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Is NJP Defense Relevant to My Situation?

Legal representation is critical if:

  • Your command has notified you of pending NJP
  • You are unsure whether accepting NJP is in your best interest
  • You dispute the accuracy of the allegations
  • NCIS, CID, or PMO previously interviewed you about the incident
  • You are facing potential reduction in rank or loss of pay
  • You believe your command is acting on incomplete or biased information
  • You fear long-term career damage, including denial of reenlistment or adverse evaluations

NJP is often used for allegations involving:

  • Alcohol-related misconduct
  • Unauthorized absence or tardiness
  • Disrespect or failure to obey orders
  • Minor assaults
  • Hazing or inappropriate conduct
  • Fraternization
  • Underage drinking
  • Damage to government property

If the allegations are incorrect, exaggerated, or based on weak evidence, a strong NJP defense can drastically improve 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 NJP Defense Process What to Expect

1. Pre-NJP Rights Advisement and Case Review

Your attorney reviews the allegations, the government’s supporting evidence, witness statements, and investigative reports to determine your strongest defense options.

2. Strategic Decision on Accepting or Refusing NJP

Your lawyer helps you analyze potential outcomes at NJP versus court-martial, considering evidentiary strengths, command bias, and long-term career implications.

3. Preparation and Presentation of Defense and Mitigation Evidence

If you proceed with NJP, your attorney helps assemble a defense package that may include statements, letters, witness accounts, service history, and performance records.

4. NJP Appeals and Administrative Follow-Up

If punishment is imposed, your attorney may submit an appeal to the next superior authority and advise you on rebutting related adverse evaluations or preparing for administrative separation proceedings.

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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 NJP What Comes Next

Even after NJP concludes, secondary consequences may arise. You may require legal assistance with:

  • Rebuttals to adverse FITREPs
  • Removal of unfavorable information
  • Administrative separation boards
  • Reenlistment or promotion challenges
  • Correction of records before the BCNR

Military Justice Attorneys continues to support Marines long after NJP to ensure one incident does not define an entire career.

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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?

Extensive Experience Defending Marines at NJP

As former Marine Judge Advocates, our attorneys understand how commanders evaluate evidence, how to expose flaws in the government’s case, and how to present strong mitigation.

Strategic Defense Tailored to Marine Corps Culture

We understand the operational environment, expectations, and pressures Marines face, allowing us to build persuasive arguments grounded in military realities.

Dedicated Support Focused on Protecting Your Record

We provide clear communication, responsive representation, and a mission-focused strategy designed to safeguard your service and your future. Together, these strengths make our firm a trusted advocate for Marines facing NJP.

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Nonjudicial Punishment (NJP) Defense FAQs

Should I accept NJP or refuse it and demand a court-martial?

The answer depends on the strength of the government’s evidence, command attitudes, possible penalties, and the impact on your career. An attorney helps evaluate whether the government can meet its burden at trial or whether NJP poses too great a risk to your record.

Can I bring a lawyer with me to NJP?

You generally cannot have an attorney speak during the NJP hearing, but you can consult extensively beforehand. A lawyer prepares your statement, organizes evidence, advises on responses, and guides you on what to expect during the proceeding.

Can NJP be appealed if the command got it wrong?

Yes. You may request an appeal to a higher authority if the punishment is unjust or unsupported by the evidence. A Non-Judicial Punishment lawyer helps structure a persuasive appeal and ensure all procedural requirements are met.

Will NJP affect my chances for reenlistment or promotion?

It can. NJP may result in adverse FITREPs, reduced competitiveness for promotion, or denial of reenlistment. A defense attorney helps mitigate these consequences by strengthening your record and pursuing administrative corrections when needed.

What if NJP leads to administrative separation?

Commands sometimes initiate separation after NJP, especially for repeated offenses. An attorney can represent you before a separation board, challenge weak evidence, and present a compelling retention case.

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Protect Your Rank, Record, and Reputation

Schedule a confidential consultation today with Marine Corps NJP defense attorneys who are ready to fight for your rights and your future.

Contact Us When Your Future Is On The Line

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