Protecting Your Rights Before the Situation Escalates

Military legal trouble rarely begins with formal charges. It often starts with subtle but serious signs: questioning from investigators, sudden scrutiny from leadership, unexpected counseling statements, or notification of an inquiry. These early moments are critical—missteps can shape the outcome of your case long before it reaches a courtroom.

Many investigations are 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 authorities and investigative standards available through official military sources including https://www.osi.af.mil/, https://www.ncis.navy.mil/, and https://www.cid.army.mil/.

Military Justice Attorneys, a team of former Marine Corps Judge Advocates, provides decisive, strategic guidance for servicemembers stationed at Keesler AFB, Columbus AFB, Naval Air Station Meridian, and across Mississippi. Whether you’re confronting administrative paperwork, an Article 15, or a looming court-martial, having a skilled JAG defense lawyer in Mississippi ensures your rights are protected at every step.

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What Is JAG Defense?

JAG defense refers to legal representation for servicemembers facing investigations, administrative actions, or disciplinary proceedings under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). These matters can vary widely, including:

  • Command-directed investigations
  • Article 15 / Non-Judicial Punishment
  • Adverse counseling or reprimands
  • GOMORs or local letters of concern
  • Referred performance evaluations
  • Administrative separation boards
  • Boards of inquiry
  • Early indicators of potential court-martial

All JAG defense matters are governed by the UCMJ and the Manual for Courts-Martial, which establish procedural safeguards, evidentiary standards, and servicemember rights. These authorities are maintained by the Joint Service Committee on Military Justice and published through official Department of Defense channels at https://jsc.defense.gov/Military-Law/Current-Publications-and-Updates/. Because adverse administrative actions can limit promotions, harm reputations, or lead to involuntary separation, representation from an experienced JAG defense attorney in Mississippi is critically important.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for JAG Matters

  • Protection During Investigations and Early Accusations - An attorney intervenes before you speak with OSI, CID, NCIS, or CGIS—preventing statements that could damage your case.
  • Strategic Advocacy in Administrative Proceedings - A JAG defense lawyer in Mississippi can prepare rebuttals, assemble evidence, and challenge adverse actions to prevent escalation into more severe consequences.
  • Guidance Through High-Stakes Proceedings - Whether facing an Article 15, a derogatory evaluation, or a separation board, your attorney ensures your rights are respected and your defense is fully developed.
  • Long-Term Career Protection - A skilled attorney helps safeguard your record, promotion potential, and eligibility for reenlistment, retirement, and veteran benefits.
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Is JAG Defense Relevant to My Situation?

You may need legal assistance if you have experienced:

  • Questioning by investigators
  • A rights advisement
  • Notification of an administrative action
  • A sudden shift in command tone or treatment
  • Receipt of adverse counseling or reprimands
  • Referred performance evaluations
  • Notification of separation proceedings

These early signals often indicate a developing legal issue. Servicemembers across Mississippi have faced unfavorable outcomes simply because they did not seek counsel soon enough. A JAG defense attorney in Mississippi can review your situation, identify risk points, and help prevent avoidable mistakes.

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 JAG Defense Process What to Expect

1. Case Review and Rights Protection

Your attorney explains your rights, reviews all documentation, and advises how to interact safely with investigators and command personnel.

2. Evidence Evaluation and Defense Analysis

Your attorney examines investigations, counseling statements, witness statements, digital evidence, and any discrepancies or procedural errors under UCMJ and service regulations.

3. Command Engagement and Rebuttal Preparation

Your attorney crafts rebuttals, supporting documents, and legal responses to challenge unjust or unsupported actions—often preventing escalation or mitigating consequences.

4. Representation in Hearings or Judicial Proceedings

If your case progresses to NJP, a separation board, a board of inquiry, or court-martial, your attorney provides robust advocacy to protect your rights and present the strongest possible defense.

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After Your JAG Case What Comes Next

An investigation or administrative action may trigger additional consequences—even after the immediate matter is resolved. These may include adverse performance reports, denial of reenlistment, or potential separation. Your attorney can assist with:

  • Appeals
  • Requests for removal of adverse paperwork
  • Correction board petitions
  • Mitigation efforts to protect your career

A JAG defense lawyer in Mississippi remains a valuable advocate even after your initial case ends, ensuring your long-term interests remain protected.

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Available 24/7 to Help Anyone in the World

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?

Extensive Experience in Military Administrative and Criminal Law

Our attorneys are former Marine Corps Judge Advocates with decades of combined experience defending servicemembers across all branches.

Proven Advocacy for Mississippi Servicemembers

We have successfully challenged adverse actions, overturned NJP findings, mitigated separation proceedings, and prevented reputational harm for clients across the state.

Dedicated Support From Start to Finish

Clients receive direct attorney access, detailed communication, and a strategic defense tailored to their goals—whether staying in the military, preserving benefits, or protecting their record.

Together, these strengths make Military Justice Attorneys a trusted JAG defense attorney in Mississippi for servicemembers seeking strong representation and informed guidance.

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JAG Defense in Mississippi FAQs

Should I talk to investigators if I’m not guilty?

No. Even innocent statements can be misinterpreted or used unfairly. Always speak with an attorney before engaging with investigators.

What if my command is treating me differently but hasn’t notified me of anything?

Changes in command behavior often signal an ongoing inquiry. Early legal guidance helps prevent missteps.

Can I fight an Article 15 or NJP?

Yes. You may present evidence, make statements, or, in some cases, refuse NJP and demand a court-martial. An attorney can help determine your best option.

Can administrative actions affect my long-term career?

Absolutely. Adverse paperwork or evaluations can impact promotion, reassignment, reenlistment, and retirement.

What if my case becomes a court-martial?

Your attorney can continue representing you from investigation through trial, ensuring continuity and a strategic defense approach.

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Protect Your Career and Your Future

Schedule your confidential consultation today with a JAG defense lawyer in Mississippi who can help safeguard your rights and navigate the complexities of the military justice system.

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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