Your Defense Begins the Moment Allegations Surface

A military criminal investigation can turn your life upside down. Whether OSI, CID, NCIS, or CGIS initiates questioning, or your command begins a preliminary inquiry, the pressure is immediate and intense. Even before charges are filed, your statements, behavior, and decisions can significantly shape the outcome of your case.

Military investigations are typically conducted by service-specific law enforcement agencies such as the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI), Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID), or Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS). Each agency operates under its own investigative authorities and procedures, which are publicly outlined on their official service websites, including https://www.osi.af.mil/ and https://www.ncis.navy.mil/. Military Justice Attorneys—a team of former Marine Corps Judge Advocates—provides clear guidance and unwavering support to servicemembers across Mississippi. Whether you serve at Columbus AFB, Keesler AFB, NAS Meridian, or elsewhere, having a knowledgeable military criminal defense lawyer in Mississippi ensures your rights are protected from day one and that your case is handled with strategic precision.

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What Is Military Criminal Defense?

Military criminal defense refers to representing servicemembers accused of violating the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Cases may begin with informal questioning or escalate into full investigations, administrative actions, or courts-martial. The Uniform Code of Military Justice and the Manual for Courts-Martial form the legal foundation of the military justice system. These governing authorities are published and maintained by the Joint Service Committee on Military Justice and are available through official Department of Defense resources at https://jsc.defense.gov/Military-Law/Current-Publications-and-Updates/.

The Manual for Courts-Martial governs how charges are investigated, referred, and prosecuted. Because the military justice system differs significantly from civilian criminal courts, it is critical to work with an attorney who understands military procedure, chain-of-command dynamics, and trial practice.

Whether you need an Army criminal defense attorney in Mississippi or representation aligned with Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard processes, choosing counsel familiar with your branch strengthens your defense.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for Criminal Charges

  • Immediate Protection From Investigators - Investigators often seek statements early to build their case. Your attorney advises you before any interviews, ensuring you do not unknowingly harm your defense.
  • Strategic Defense Tailored to Your Branch - Whether you need an Air Force criminal defense lawyer in Mississippi or representation for the Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard, branch-specific knowledge helps your attorney anticipate investigative tactics and command expectations.
  • Comprehensive Evidence Review and Independent Investigation - A skilled attorney analyzes digital evidence, witness statements, forensic reports, command documents, and inconsistencies that may weaken the government’s case.
  • Protection of Your Career and Long-Term Benefits - A conviction or even adverse administrative action can impact rank, security clearances, promotions, reenlistment eligibility, and veteran benefits. Your attorney works to protect both immediate and long-term interests.
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Is Military Criminal Defense Relevant to My Situation?

You may need legal representation if:

  • Investigators have questioned you or seized your devices
  • You received a rights advisement or no-contact order
  • Your command informed you of allegations or unusual activity
  • You are suspected of misconduct even informally

Common allegations in Mississippi installations include:

  • Sexual assault or harassment
  • Drug use or possession
  • Domestic violence
  • AWOL or desertion
  • Violations of lawful orders
  • Financial or property-related offenses
  • Assault or violent misconduct

If you believe you are being targeted, misunderstood, or unfairly accused, consulting a Marine Corps criminal defense attorney in Mississippi or legal counsel aligned with your branch is essential to protecting 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 Military Criminal Defense Process What to Expect

1. Early Consultation and Rights Protection

Your attorney reviews the facts, explains your rights, and advises you on safe communication with investigators or command leadership. This early protection can dramatically influence the direction of your case.

2. Evidence Evaluation and Defense Investigation

Your attorney examines all available evidence—government reports, witness statements, digital records, and forensic findings—and may conduct an independent investigation to uncover weaknesses or contradictions in the government’s case.

3. Pretrial Preparation and Article 32 Hearing

If the case moves toward court-martial, your attorney prepares for an Article 32 preliminary hearing, challenges probable cause, and sets the foundation for a strong trial defense.

4. Court-Martial Representation

Your attorney defends you at trial, challenging government evidence, presenting experts, cross-examining witnesses, and building a compelling case for acquittal or reduced charges. Whether represented by a Navy criminal defense attorney in Mississippi or counsel familiar with Air Force procedures, trial experience matters.

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After Your Case What Comes Next 

A criminal allegation can trigger additional challenges—even after trial. You may face administrative separation, adverse evaluations, denial of reenlistment, or the need to pursue an appeal.

A military criminal defense attorney in Mississippi can guide you through post-trial actions, clemency requests, appeals, or correction board petitions. Military Justice Attorneys remains committed to supporting clients throughout the full lifecycle of their case.

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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 Military Justice Experience

Our attorneys are former Marine Corps Judge Advocates with extensive experience defending servicemembers in complex, high-stakes criminal cases across every branch.

Proven Defense Strategies

We have secured dismissals, acquittals, reduced charges, and favorable outcomes for servicemembers facing serious UCMJ allegations, using disciplined preparation and trial-tested techniques.

Dedicated Representation for Mississippi Servicemembers

Whether at Keesler, Columbus, or Meridian, clients benefit from direct attorney access, honest guidance, and strategic defense tailored to their service branch and personal goals.

Together, these strengths make Military Justice Attorneys a trusted choice for military criminal defense in Mississippi.

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Criminal Defense in Mississippi FAQs

Do I need an attorney even if I haven’t been charged yet?

Yes. Investigations begin long before charges are announced. Early legal representation protects you from making statements that harm your case.

Should I talk to investigators if I have nothing to hide?

No. Even innocent statements may be used against you or misinterpreted. Consult an attorney first.

Can a lawyer help stop charges from being filed?

In some cases, yes. Early intervention can correct misunderstandings, present mitigating evidence, or prevent escalation.

What penalties could I face if convicted?

Penalties may include confinement, rank reduction, forfeitures, or a punitive discharge. Skilled defense can significantly reduce or eliminate these consequences.

Does my branch matter when choosing a defense attorney?

Yes. Each branch handles investigations differently. Working with an attorney familiar with your branch—such as an Army criminal defense attorney in Mississippi or counsel experienced with Air Force and Navy cases—strengthens your defense.

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Protect Your Career, Freedom, and Future

Schedule a confidential consultation today with a military criminal defense lawyer in Mississippi to begin building a strong, strategic defense from the start.

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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