Your Defense Starts the Moment Allegations Are Made

A court-martial is one of the most serious challenges a servicemember can face. The consequences—loss of rank, pay, benefits, or even personal freedom—can permanently alter your life and career. For Mississippi servicemembers stationed at Keesler AFB, Columbus AFB, or Naval Air Station Meridian, the early stages of an investigation are often the most critical. Military investigations are typically conducted by service law enforcement agencies such as the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI), Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), or Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID), each operating under published investigative authorities available through official military sources like https://www.osi.af.mil/ and https://www.ncis.navy.mil/.

Military Justice Attorneys provides immediate, strategic support from former Marine Corps Judge Advocates who understand the high stakes of military criminal proceedings. Whether you are suspected of misconduct or already facing formal charges, having a skilled court-martial defense attorney in Mississippi ensures you have an advocate who knows the system, understands command dynamics, and is fully committed to defending your rights.

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What Is a Court-Martial?

A court-martial is a criminal trial under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). It handles allegations ranging from minor misconduct to the most severe offenses punishable under military law. The UCMJ and the Manual for Courts-Martial establish the legal framework for all court-martial proceedings and are maintained by the Joint Service Committee on Military Justice through official Department of Defense publications available at https://jsc.defense.gov/Military-Law/Current-Publications-and-Updates/. Depending on the circumstances, charges may be referred to a Summary, Special, or General Court-Martial. Each type carries unique procedures, evidentiary standards, and potential penalties. Because the court-martial process is complex—and often moves quickly—working with knowledgeable court-martial lawyers in Mississippi is crucial to ensuring your defense is thorough, strategic, and effective.

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

  • Immediate Legal Protection From Investigators - Investigators may attempt to obtain statements that can later be used against you. An attorney ensures your rights are protected before you speak with CID, NCIS, OSI, or command personnel.
  • Comprehensive Evidence Review and Strategy Development - A court-martial defense lawyer in Mississippi evaluates the government's evidence, identifies weaknesses, and conducts an independent investigation to strengthen your position.
  • Skilled Representation at Article 32 Hearings and Trial - Your attorney prepares you for every stage—challenging probable cause, cross-examining witnesses, and building a defense tailored to the facts of your case and your goals.
  • Support for Appeals and Post-Trial Actions - If convicted, a court-martial appeal attorney in Mississippi can review your record for legal errors, constitutional violations, or improper command influence and pursue relief.
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Is Court-Martial Defense Relevant to My Situation?

You may need legal representation if you have experienced:

  • Questioning by military investigators
  • A rights advisement
  • Notice of command inquiry
  • Rumors or informal indications of allegations
  • A no-contact or protective order

Common court-martial allegations include:

  • Sexual assault or harassment
  • Domestic violence
  • Drug use or distribution
  • AWOL or desertion
  • Fraud or financial misconduct
  • Assault or violent offenses
  • Violations of orders
  • Internet or digital misconduct

If you suspect you are under investigation—or know you are—you should speak with a court-martial defense attorney in Mississippi immediately to protect your rights.

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. Initial Consultation and Rights Protection

Your attorney explains your rights, reviews the allegations, and advises you on safe communication with investigators and your chain of command.

2. Evidence Review and Independent Investigation

Your attorney reviews government evidence—including digital records, witness statements, and forensic reports—while gathering additional evidence through independent investigation.

3. Article 32 Hearing and Pretrial Strategy

For General Courts-Martial, your attorney prepares for the Article 32 hearing, challenging probable cause and shaping the strategic direction of your defense.

4. Court-Martial Trial Representation

Your attorney fights for you at trial—cross-examining witnesses, challenging evidence, presenting expert testimony, and building a strong, fact-driven defense.

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After Your Court-Martial What Comes Next

A court-martial does not always end with the verdict. You may still have opportunities for:

  • Appeals
  • Clemency requests
  • Sentence reduction
  • Petitions to correction boards

A court-martial appeal lawyer in Mississippi can identify legal errors or due process violations and pursue relief through the military appellate courts. Military Justice Attorneys continues to support clients long after trial, helping them rebuild their careers and futures.

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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
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Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Extensive Court-Martial Experience

Our attorneys are former Marine Corps Judge Advocates with years of courtroom experience defending servicemembers against serious allegations across all branches.

Proven Defense Strategies and Results

We have achieved acquittals, dismissals, and major charge reductions through disciplined preparation and strategic trial advocacy.

Dedicated Support for Mississippi Servicemembers

Whether you serve in the Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, or Army, our team provides direct attorney access, clear communication, and a team-based defense approach designed to protect your rights.

Together, these strengths make Military Justice Attorneys a trusted choice for court-martial attorneys in Mississippi.

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Court Martial in Mississippi FAQs

Do I need a lawyer if I haven’t been charged yet?

Yes. Investigations often begin long before charges are filed. Early representation protects your rights and shapes the defense strategy.

What is the purpose of an Article 32 hearing?

It is a preliminary hearing for General Courts-Martial where evidence is presented and challenged. Your attorney uses it to test the government’s case and prepare for trial.

Can I appeal a court-martial conviction?

Yes. A court-martial appeal attorney in Mississippi can identify legal errors and pursue appellate relief.

What penalties can I face at a court-martial?

Penalties range from reprimands and restrictions to confinement, forfeitures, and punitive discharge. Skilled defense can significantly mitigate these outcomes.

Which branches do you defend?

We defend servicemembers from every branch. Whether you need representation aligned with Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or Army procedures, our court-martial lawyers in Mississippi can help.

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Protect Your Career, Your Future, and Your Freedom

Schedule your confidential consultation today with a court-martial defense lawyer in Mississippi and begin building the strongest defense possible.

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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