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Give Military Justice Attorneys a phone call at (843) 755-6535 Contact Us

A Dedicated Legal Team for Sailors Facing Serious Military Challenges

From NCIS investigations to court-martial trials to administrative separations, Navy service members encounter a justice system that moves quickly and relies heavily on command decision-making. A single allegation—even before charges are filed—can result in lost qualifications, adverse evaluations, denied advancement, or separation proceedings. Without guidance, many Sailors unintentionally harm their own cases by speaking to investigators, misunderstanding their rights, or failing to respond effectively to command actions.

Military Justice Attorneys provides disciplined, mission-driven legal support to Sailors across the fleet. Whether you need a Navy criminal defense attorney for a pending court-martial or a Navy criminal defense lawyer to challenge administrative actions that threaten your career, our team delivers the experience, insight, and advocacy necessary to help you fight back.

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Defense Representation for Navy Members

Navy defense attorneys represent Sailors in criminal, administrative, and investigative matters involving the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Their role extends far beyond the courtroom, offering support with:

  • NCIS investigation defense
  • Captain’s Mast (NJP) preparation and appeals
  • Court-martial trials for felony-level offenses
  • Court-martial appeals after conviction
  • Administrative separation boards
  • Adverse EVAL and FITREP rebuttals
  • Command investigation appeals
  • Security clearance defense
  • Correction of military records through the BCNR
  • Discharge upgrades

NCIS is the Navy’s primary criminal investigative authority, and you can learn more about its mission and investigative role at: https://www.ncis.navy.mil/About-NCIS/. Because the Navy justice system is intertwined with command culture, rank structure, and personnel processes, having a knowledgeable attorney ensures no decision is made without considering its long-term impact on your service.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for Navy Cases

  • Strong Defense During High-Stakes Criminal Allegations - When NCIS initiates an investigation or your command plans to take disciplinary action, a seasoned attorney helps prevent self-incrimination, challenge weak evidence, and preserve your rights.
  • Strategic Support Through Administrative and Career-Impacting Actions - Adverse EVALs, NJPs, or separation boards can derail a Sailor’s future even without a criminal conviction. An attorney helps rebut inaccuracies and advocate for retention.
  • Deep Understanding of Navy Regulations, Culture, and Processes - A defense attorney familiar with naval operations knows how commands make decisions, how investigations develop, and what evidence carries weight at boards and court-martial proceedings.
  • Personalized Advocacy Focused on Protecting Your Long-Term Career - Your attorney advises you through every step, developing a strategy that supports your goals—whether that means fighting for retention, minimizing penalties, or preparing for appeal.
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When to Seek Legal Defenase

You may need representation if:

  • NCIS contacted you for questioning
  • You received notice of Captain’s Mast (NJP)
  • You were titled in an NCIS investigation
  • Your evaluation contains adverse or inaccurate remarks
  • You face administrative separation
  • You have court-martial charges pending
  • You were convicted and need an appeal
  • You discovered errors in your official record
  • You are dealing with clearance or suitability issues

Many Sailors wait too long, seeking help only after commands have built their cases or issued punitive decisions. Early legal support can drastically improve the outcome.

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 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
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 Navy Defense Process What to Expect

1. Initial Case Review and Rights Protection

Your attorney examines the circumstances, identifies immediate risks, and ensures that you do not make statements or decisions that harm your position.

2. Evidence Review and Investigative Analysis

Your lawyer reviews government evidence, interviews key witnesses when appropriate, identifies inconsistencies, and assesses whether NCIS or command complied with required procedures.

3. Strategic Planning for Criminal or Administrative Defense

Whether you face NJP, court-martial, separation, or adverse evaluations, your attorney develops a tailored defense strategy based on the facts, regulations, and your goals.

4. Representation in Hearings, Boards, and Court Proceedings

Your attorney advocates aggressively on your behalf—challenging evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and presenting arguments that protect your service, rank, and future.

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Case Results We’ve been in the fight & know how to win

View All Results

NEGATIVE EVALUATIONS REMOVED

U.S. Navy Reserve. Negative Evaluation and Counseling Removed from Records for Senior Enlisted Sailor.

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NCIS GRANTS TITLING EXPUNGEMENT

Department of the Navy. NCIS Grants Titling Appeal, Removes Sailor from DCII, NCIC, and III Databases.

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ADSEP TERMINATED

San Antonio, Texas. Adsep terminated for Navy Petty Officer accused of ignoring orders from command.

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CAREER SAVED

Norfolk, Virginia. Navy Petty Officer investigated for alleged harassment of a fellow Sailor informally counseled.

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ADSEP TERMINATED

United States Navy Reserve. Petty Officer Third Class threatened with termination for refusing COVID-19 vaccine.

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NO MISCONDUCT

Pensacola, Florida. Separation Board Finds “No Misconduct” by Sailor Accused of Drug Abuse.

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"NO BASIS" FINDING ("DELTA-9" THC)

San Diego, California. Sailor Retained, Adsep Board Finds "No Basis" After Sailor Tests Positive for “Delta-9” THC.

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"NO BASIS" FOR ALLEGED SEX ASSAULT

Yokosuka, Japan. Adsep Board Unsubstantiates Sexual Assault Allegations, Retains Sailor in the Navy.

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RELEASED FROM CONFINEMENT

Camp Pendleton, California. Marine Lance Corporal (E-3) Accused of Domestic Violence Released From Navy Brig.

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CHARGES DISMISSED

Naval Base Coronado, California. Navy Senior Chief (E-8) under NCIS investigation avoids court-martial.

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View All Results
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After Your Case What Comes Next

Even after the immediate legal issue is resolved, your attorney may assist with:

  • Discharge upgrade applications
  • Correction of records through the BCNR
  • Security clearance responses
  • Recovery of benefits or rank
  • Post-trial or post-board mitigation
  • Future career planning and documentation

The Board for Correction of Naval Records (BCNR) is the highest administrative authority for correcting Navy records, and you can learn more about its process at: https://www.secnav.navy.mil/mra/bcnr/Pages/default.aspx. Military Justice Attorneys provides ongoing support to ensure adverse actions do not hinder your long-term progression—both inside and outside the Navy.

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Available 24/7 to Help Anyone in the World

Contact Us (843) 755-6535

Client Testimonials Their Words. Their Cases. Their Results.

View All Testimonials

"Professional and Understanding"

I'm very grateful that he went...

Mr. Healy was very professional and understanding. He was very fierce when he was speaking on my behalf and was very thorough with everything. I'm very grateful that he went to bat for me and saved me my job, my career and I would recommend him to any military member going through a situation I did. Thanks Gerry for all the hard work.

-PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS, USN

"Worth Every Cent if You Need a Military Defense Attorney!"

I cannot thank Gerry enough fo...

I had the unfortunate experience to become involved in an investigation on a Marine Corps Officer while I was TAD with the Marine Corps. I immediately began looking for a civilian attorney to help with the process. I came across the MJA website and put in a request for a consult. Gerry called that night and spent over an hour on the phone with me discussing the case until that point.After refusing NJP, the CO sent it for an administrative separation for my misconduct, but thanks to Gerry’s advice, I didn’t have substantiated charges as I had not gone to NJP where I would have no rights, It was not referred to court martial.I received the notice right as I was informed that I was on 48 hours notice to deploy in response to the COVID response. Gerry was able to get an extension for the response, and then was able to contact the witness I provided. His expertly written brief was worth everything I had paid for and was written so much better then I could have ever hoped to have written myself. Gerry was able to point out the flaws with the command’s lack of investigation, was able to cite case law to support why the charges were not supported and forced the command to look at my entire career. It was submitted and the day that Gerry followed up with the Command JAG, I was notified that the CO was dropping the charge for dereliction of duty and would issue a NPLOC for the Conduct Unbecoming Charge and a report of no misconduct was routed to PERS. I cannot thank Gerry enough for the work he put into my response and saving my career! I would recommend him to anyone and vouch that he is worth every penny to save your career.

-LCDR, USN

"The Best Choice for a Military Defense Counsel"

I trusted him with my career o...

When I was put under investigation with my Command pending Court Martial, I didn’t know who to turn to for help. Thankfully I came across MJA’s law firm website and immediately hired Mr. Hill after consultation and looking over their reviews. After 7 long months of waiting, the week of my Court Martial came and I would see the fearlessness and confidence of Mr. Hill in the courtroom. He tore apart the government’s theory piece by piece which would result in the outcome in our favor. I trusted him with my career on the line, and he was outstanding. I 10/10 would highly recommend Mr. Hill to anyone who is going through legal challenges with their command.

-PETTY OFFICER THIRD CLASS, USN

"I trusted him with my career on the line, and he was outstanding. I 10/10 would highly recommend Mr. Hill."

When I was put under investiga...

When I was put under investigation with my Command pending Court Martial, I didn’t know who to turn to for help. Thankfully I came across MJA’s law firm website and immediately hired Mr. Hill after consultation and looking over their reviews. After 7 long months of waiting, the week of my Court Martial came and I would see the fearlessness and confidence of Mr. Hill in the courtroom. He tore apart the government’s theory piece by piece which would result in the outcome in our favor. I trusted him with my career on the line, and he was outstanding. I 10/10 would highly recommend Mr. Hill to anyone who is going through legal challenges with their command.
-PETTY OFFICER THIRD CLASS, USN

"Titling & Indexing Petition for Expungement"

Josh Hill brought in a big win...

Josh laid a course of action to petition against a ‘titling’ from a military investigation on my criminal record and worked diligently through every step of the process to make my case. It was an uphill battle, requiring us to petition at each level of authority. It didn’t come quickly and certainly not without effort – but Josh Hill brought in a big win for me that will have a positive change for the rest of my life. He was open & honest from the start, didn’t make any promises & was real about what we were up against. What I appreciate about Josh is that he knows what he’s doing. I consulted with other attorneys & it seemed like a cash grab with them – but with Josh I could tell he had experience. There was a good chance my petition could have been denied, but Josh worked it through to put up the best fight we could & it really paid off.
-CHIEF PETTY OFFICER, USN
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Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Extensive Criminal and Administrative Defense Experience for Sailors

We have represented service members in cases involving digital forensics, sexual misconduct allegations, drug offenses, financial fraud, and serious operational incidents.

Former Judge Advocates With Deep Knowledge of Navy Justice Systems

Our team understands NCIS procedures, command authority, trial advocacy, and the complex interplay between administrative and criminal processes.

Dedicated, Personalized Representation You Can Trust

We offer direct attorney access, clear communication, and focused legal strategy designed to protect your naval career at every stage.

These qualities make Military Justice Attorneys a trusted choice for Sailors seeking skilled defense counsel.

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Navy Defense FAQs

Do I need an attorney even if NCIS hasn’t charged me yet?

Yes. Most NCIS cases are built long before charges are filed. Early legal intervention helps prevent damaging statements, challenges improper investigative steps, and positions you for a stronger defense if the case progresses to NJP or court-martial.

How can a Navy criminal defense lawyer help during an investigation?

An attorney protects you from self-incrimination, reviews the government’s evidence, helps you invoke your rights properly, and develops a defense strategy before the command makes decisions about disciplinary or administrative action.

What should I do if my command wants to send me to Captain’s Mast?

Do not proceed without legal advice. An attorney can help you evaluate whether to accept NJP, request court-martial, or prepare a strong defense package to mitigate potential punishment or challenge unjust allegations.

Can an attorney help if I already received an adverse EVAL or FITREP?

Yes. A defense attorney can help you submit a rebuttal, appeal inaccuracies, and petition higher authorities—and may pursue correction through the BCNR if necessary.

What if I’ve already been separated from the Navy?

You may still be eligible for a discharge upgrade, correction of military records, or relief based on injustice or error. An attorney can determine the best path to restore lost benefits or correct harmful entries.

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Protect Your Naval Career With Experienced Defense Counsel

Schedule a confidential consultation today with a Navy criminal defense attorney who can help you stand strong against criminal allegations and administrative threats.

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

(843) 755-6535
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