Court-Martial Defense Attorney for Military Academy Cadets and Graduates

Name: Court Martial
Brand: Military Justice Attorneys
Rating: 5 (44 reviews)

Protecting the future of cadets, midshipmen, and newly commissioned officers facing military justice action.

Experienced Defense When Everything Is at Stake

Cadets and midshipmen from the United States Military Academy, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, Coast Guard Academy, and Merchant Marine Academy face immense pressure when allegations escalate toward court-martial. Investigations move quickly, and decisions made early often shape the entire trajectory of your case.

Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, provides disciplined, strategic defense for academy students and graduates. We work to protect your rights, challenge questionable evidence, and safeguard your path to commissioning.

What Is a Court-Martial at a Military Academy?

A court-martial is the military’s criminal trial system, used to prosecute alleged violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Academy cases may involve both academy-level investigations and formal military justice procedures, often creating confusion about jurisdiction and authority.

Procedural standards for courts-martial can be reviewed through the Joint Service Committee at https://jsc.defense.gov, which provides the framework for rights, charges, and trial preparation.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for Court-Martial Allegations

Early Protection of Your Rights. We ensure you do not provide statements that investigators or academy officials may later misinterpret.
Strategic, Evidence-Based Defense. We scrutinize investigative steps, digital evidence, witness testimony, and academy reports for inconsistencies and procedural issues.
Focused Advocacy Built for Future Officers. A court-martial threatens more than your education; it threatens your commissioning and long-term career. We defend both your rights and your future.

Is a Court-Martial Relevant to My Situation?

Court-martial exposure arises when academy allegations involve suspected criminal misconduct under the UCMJ. These cases may relate to interpersonal disputes, honor violations with criminal elements, alcohol incidents, off-campus interactions, or digital communication concerns.

Because academies often initiate their own administrative or honor actions, cadets and midshipmen may face multiple systems simultaneously. If you face questioning, administrative restrictions, or early indications of criminal concern, legal representation should begin immediately.

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

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

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

Paul Murray

Partner

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

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

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

The Court-Martial Process What to Expect

Step One: Rights Advisement and Initial Review

We begin by advising you on Article 31(b) rights and reviewing available evidence to prevent harmful statements. Portions of the Manual for Courts-Martial, available at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/, guide how investigators must handle suspected misconduct.

Step Two: Independent Defense Investigation

We examine digital communications, academy reports, witness statements, and civilian law enforcement materials. This helps identify procedural flaws, unreliable testimony, or gaps that weaken the government’s case.

Step Three: Article 32 Preliminary Hearing

If charges proceed toward a general court-martial, the Article 32 hearing becomes a critical opportunity to challenge evidence, question witnesses, and influence the command’s charging decisions. Effective advocacy here often shapes the final outcome.

Step Four: Trial Preparation and Courtroom Defense

We build a comprehensive defense using evidence analysis, expert consultation, and precise courtroom strategy. Our approach emphasizes accuracy, disciplined preparation, and advocacy aligned with military justice principles.

After Your Court-Martial What Comes Next

Even when charges are reduced or dismissed, academy leadership may impose additional actions, including honor board reviews, disenrollment, delayed commissioning, or administrative observations. These secondary consequences can impact your ability to serve as an officer or pursue career goals. MJA supports clients after the court-martial process by assisting with administrative challenges, record corrections, post-trial petitions, and guidance on how to protect future commissioning opportunities.

Available 24/7 to Help Anyone in the World

Client Testimonials Their Words. Their Cases. Their Results.

View All Testimonials

"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

Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Deep Military Justice Experience

Our attorneys are former Marine Judge Advocates with extensive courtroom experience. We understand academy culture, chain-of-command expectations, and the distinctive pressures placed on cadets and midshipmen throughout investigations and disciplinary actions.

Proven Results and Strategic Defense

We have defended academy students and graduates in complex cases involving conflicting testimony, unclear digital evidence, ambiguous conduct standards, and overlapping administrative and criminal processes. Our representation is structured and results-driven.

Dedicated Support for Cadets and Midshipmen

Clients receive direct access to senior attorneys with clear communication and steady guidance. We understand how allegations affect academic standing, military obligations, and long-term officer careers.

We deliver mission-focused advocacy that protects your freedom, your commission, and your future.

Court-Martial for Military Academies FAQs

Can a cadet be court-martialed while still enrolled?

Yes. Cadets may face court-martial for serious misconduct, including violence, sexual offenses, or dishonesty. A conviction or even the allegation itself can jeopardize enrollment, commissioning eligibility, and future military service.

What if my case involves both academy discipline and court-martial charges?

Academy disciplinary systems often proceed alongside court-martial actions. MJA coordinates defense in both forums to ensure a consistent strategy, protect due process rights, and mitigate long-term consequences affecting your academic standing and military career.

Can a court-martial affect commissioning eligibility?

Absolutely. Any substantiated misconduct, adverse findings, or conviction may delay, restrict, or permanently bar commissioning. Effective legal advocacy is essential to protect your eligibility and preserve years of academic and military effort.

What should I do if investigators contact me?

Do not answer questions. Invoke your Article 31(b) rights and request legal counsel immediately. Early statements, especially those made under pressure, can shape the case and significantly impact your defense strategy.

When should I contact a court-martial attorney?

Immediately. Early legal involvement helps prevent damaging admissions, ensures procedural fairness, and strengthens your overall defense. Contact counsel before speaking with investigators, academy staff, or peers about any allegation.

Fight for Your Future With Proven Counsel

You do not have to face a court-martial alone. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule your confidential consultation with a former Marine Judge Advocate.