Your Career Can Change With a Single NJP

Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP) may seem less severe than a court-martial, but its consequences can still be far-reaching. A single NJP can restrict your freedom, reduce your pay, limit promotion opportunities, and permanently damage your service record. Many servicemembers at Keesler AFB, Columbus AFB, and Naval Air Station Meridian underestimate the impact of NJP—until it’s too late.

Military Justice Attorneys, a team of former Marine Corps Judge Advocates, provides skilled guidance for servicemembers across Mississippi. Whether you plan to accept NJP, contest the allegations, or demand trial by court-martial, having a knowledgeable attorney ensures you fully understand your rights and have a strategic plan to protect your future.

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What Is Non-Judicial Punishment?

Non-Judicial Punishment is a disciplinary action authorized by Article 15 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, which allows commanders to impose punishment for certain offenses without referring the case to a court-martial. The statutory authority for NJP is codified in federal law and implemented through military regulations governing command discipline, including Article 15 of the UCMJ, published by Congress and maintained through official military justice sources at https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/10/815. Every branch uses a different term—Article 15 (Army/Air Force), Captain’s Mast (Navy/Coast Guard), or Office Hours (Marine Corps)—but the purpose is the same: to address alleged misconduct at the command level.

Although NJP is not a criminal conviction, it can still carry significant penalties, including extra duty, restriction, forfeitures, and even reduction in rank. Procedural rules for NJP, including rights advisement and commander discretion, are further governed by the Manual for Courts-Martial, which outlines how nonjudicial punishment must be administered and reviewed under military law. Current versions of the Manual are published by the Department of Defense through the Joint Service Committee on Military Justice at https://jsc.defense.gov/Military-Law/Current-Publications-and-Updates/.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for NJP

  • Clear Guidance on Whether to Accept or Refuse NJP - Deciding whether to accept NJP or demand court-martial is one of the most important choices in your military career. An attorney helps evaluate the evidence, the command climate, and the risks involved.
  • Preparation of Rebuttals, Evidence, and Written Responses - Even if you accept NJP, you can still present evidence, call witnesses, and provide written statements. A skilled attorney organizes your response to highlight inconsistencies and mitigate allegations.
  • Protection From Career-Altering Consequences - NJP can impact promotion boards, special duties, security clearances, and reenlistment. Your attorney works to protect both your immediate interests and long-term career.
  • Support in Appealing Unjust NJP Results - If NJP is imposed unfairly or improperly, your attorney can help pursue an appeal or request correction through administrative channels.
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Is Non-Judicial Punishment Relevant to My Situation?

You may need legal representation if:

  • Your command notified you of pending NJP
  • You received a rights advisement or Article 15 briefing
  • You were questioned by investigators or leadership
  • You were accused of minor misconduct or UCMJ violations
  • You are unsure whether to accept or refuse NJP

Common NJP allegations include:

  • Alcohol-related incidents
  • Minor assault
  • Disrespect or insubordination
  • Unauthorized absence
  • Misuse of government property
  • Fraternization
  • Violations of orders
  • Minor drug or misconduct allegations

Because NJP decisions often depend on command discretion rather than courtroom standards, early legal guidance is essential.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our NPL 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 Non-Judicial Punishment Process What to Expect

1. Notification and Rights Advisement

You receive written notice detailing the alleged misconduct and your rights. Your attorney helps you understand the allegations and prepares you for the next steps.

2. Decision to Accept or Refuse NJP

This decision impacts your entire case. Your attorney assesses the evidence, the likelihood of success, and the risks of court-martial to help you make an informed choice.

3. NJP Hearing Preparation

If you accept NJP, your attorney helps gather evidence, draft statements, prepare witnesses, and build a strong presentation for your hearing.

4. Post-Hearing Actions and Potential Appeal

If NJP is imposed, your attorney evaluates whether an appeal is warranted, prepares written arguments, and explores additional administrative remedies if the punishment was unjust.

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After Your NJP What Comes Next

Even after NJP is complete, its impact may linger. It can affect security clearances, evaluation reports, reenlistment eligibility, and advancement opportunities. Your attorney can assist with:

  • Appeals of unfair NJP decisions
  • Removal of NJP from your record (when permitted)
  • Rebuttals to adverse evaluations
  • Administrative separation defenses
  • Correction board petitions

Military Justice Attorneys remains committed to helping servicemembers rebuild and protect their careers after NJP proceedings.

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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?

Extensive Experience With NJP and Administrative Actions

Our attorneys are former Marine Corps Judge Advocates with years of experience defending servicemembers through NJP, Article 15s, and administrative proceedings.

Proven Results for Mississippi Servicemembers

We have helped clients avoid NJP, overturn unjust findings, mitigate consequences, and protect their military careers through strong, evidence-based defense.

Dedicated Support at Every Stage

Clients receive clear guidance, direct attorney access, and a strategic defense tailored to their goals—whether remaining in service, protecting promotions, or avoiding separation.

Together, these strengths make Military Justice Attorneys a trusted choice for those seeking a Non-Judicial Punishment lawyer in Mississippi.

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Non-Judicial Punishment in Mississippi FAQs

Should I accept NJP or demand a court-martial?

It depends on the evidence, your command climate, and your long-term goals. An attorney can help you evaluate both paths.

Can I bring an attorney to my NJP hearing?

You cannot be represented at the hearing itself, but an attorney can help prepare your case, written statements, and evidence before the hearing.

Can NJP be removed from my record?

In some cases, yes. Your attorney can help pursue removal through appeals or correction boards.

Can NJP lead to separation?

Yes. NJP findings often trigger administrative separation actions, which require immediate legal strategy.

Does NJP affect promotions or reenlistment?

Absolutely. NJP can negatively impact evaluations, competitiveness, and continuation decisions.

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Protect Your Career and Your Future

Schedule a confidential consultation today to speak with an NJP attorney who can help safeguard your rights and guide you through Article 15 proceedings in Mississippi.

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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