Defending Your Career Before NJP Defines Your Record

Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP) may be described as “informal,” but the consequences can be life-changing. A single NJP can lead to rank reduction, forfeitures, adverse paperwork, and increased risk of administrative separation. For service members across Maryland—from Fort Meade to Joint Base Andrews to Aberdeen Proving Ground—the impact of NJP can shape the rest of your military career.

Military Justice Attorneys, a team of former Marine Corps Judge Advocates, provides strategic guidance and strong representation at every stage of the NJP process. Whether you are deciding whether to accept NJP, preparing your rebuttal, or navigating the aftermath, having experienced counsel ensures your rights and your record are protected.

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What Is Non-Judicial Punishment?

Non-Judicial Punishment is a disciplinary action authorized under Article 15 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) for alleged minor misconduct. Article 15 is codified at 10 U.S.C. § 815 and published through Cornell Law at https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/10/815.

Although it is not a criminal conviction, NJP can result in penalties such as:

  • Reduction in rank
  • Extra duty
  • Restriction
  • Forfeitures
  • Negative entries in your service record

Each branch uses specific terms: Article 15 (Army/Air Force), Captain’s Mast (Navy/Coast Guard), or Office Hours (Marine Corps). Because the consequences can affect promotions, retention, and future benefits, representation from a knowledgeable Non-Judicial Punishment lawyer in Maryland can make a critical difference.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for NJP

  • Guidance on Whether to Accept or Demand Court-Martial - Your attorney evaluates the strength of the evidence and helps determine whether accepting NJP or demanding a court-martial is strategically better for your situation. This decision implicates fundamental rights, including protections against self-incrimination under Article 31 of the UCMJ, available at https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/10/831.
  • Thorough Preparation of Your Written and Oral Response - An attorney helps craft rebuttal statements, gather witness letters, and present mitigating evidence, significantly improving your chances of a favorable decision.
  • Protection Against Procedural Errors and Command Missteps - A skilled NJP lawyer ensures the command follows UCMJ rules, challenges improper influence, and identifies errors that could affect the fairness of the process. Procedural standards for NJP and related disciplinary actions are informed by guidance in the Manual for Courts-Martial, issued by the Joint Service Committee on Military Justice and available at https://jsc.defense.gov/Military-Law/Current-Publications-and-Updates/.
  • Post-NJP Assistance for Appeals and Record Protection - If NJP is imposed, your attorney can assist with filing an appeal, contesting adverse entries, or preparing mitigation to protect your long-term career.
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Is Non-Judicial Punishment Relevant to My Situation?

You may be facing NJP if you have received written notification, a rights advisement, or a request to appear before your commander. NJP is commonly initiated for allegations involving:

  • Disrespect
  • Alcohol incidents
  • Unauthorized absence
  • Violation of orders
  • Minor assault or misconduct
  • Fraternization
  • Property offenses

Even allegations that seem “minor” can lead to significant repercussions. If you feel pressured to accept NJP or are unsure how strong the evidence is, consulting with a Non-Judicial Punishment lawyer in Maryland is the safest and most effective step you can take.

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 all evidence provided by command, evaluates the government’s case, and identifies weaknesses or procedural issues that may influence your decision to accept or refuse NJP.

2. Strategic Preparation and Rebuttal Development

Your attorney helps prepare written rebuttals, character statements, and supporting documentation. This preparation often shapes how the commander ultimately views the allegations.

3. Presentation Before the Commander

If you choose to appear personally, your attorney guides you on how to present your case, what to emphasize, and how to avoid statements that may inadvertently harm your position.

4. Appeal or Follow-On Administrative Action

If NJP is imposed, your attorney may assist with filing an appeal or addressing additional administrative consequences, such as adverse paperwork or separation proceedings.

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After Your NJP What Comes Next

The effects of NJP can extend beyond the immediate punishment. Commands may initiate separation, issue adverse evaluations, or take other administrative actions.

A Non-Judicial Punishment lawyer in Maryland can help challenge negative entries, prepare appeals, and protect your long-term career trajectory. Military Justice Attorneys supports clients long after NJP is complete, ensuring they understand their rights and next steps.

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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 Experience With Military Administrative Actions

Our attorneys are former Marine Corps Judge Advocates with extensive experience navigating NJP, administrative actions, and UCMJ-related proceedings.

Strategic Defense With Proven Results

We have helped countless service members avoid NJP, overturn findings, or minimize consequences through careful preparation and targeted advocacy.

Dedicated Support for Maryland Service Members

Clients receive direct attorney access, consistent communication, and a team-focused defense designed to protect rank, reputation, and future opportunities.

Together, these strengths make Military Justice Attorneys a trusted Non-Judicial Punishment lawyer in Maryland for service members facing adverse command action.

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Non-Judicial Punishment Attorney Serving Maryland FAQs

Should I accept or turn down NJP?

It depends on the evidence, your career goals, and the potential consequences. An attorney can help assess your situation and advise you on the best course of action.

Can I see the evidence before deciding?

Yes. You have the right to review evidence before accepting or refusing NJP. Legal review is essential to making an informed decision.

Can NJP affect promotion or reenlistment?

Absolutely. NJP can result in negative record entries that impact advancement, retention, and future duty assignments.

Can I appeal an NJP?

Yes. You may appeal if the punishment is unjust or unsupported by the evidence. An attorney can prepare a strong, well-documented appeal.

Can NJP lead to separation?

It can. Many NJP cases trigger administrative separation processes. Early legal intervention can help prevent or mitigate these consequences.

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Protect Your Rank and Your Military Future

Schedule your confidential consultation today with a Non-Judicial Punishment lawyer in Maryland who can guide you through the process and stand between you and unfair command action.

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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