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

Your Naval Career Deserves a Strong, Strategic Defense

A court-martial is one of the most serious challenges a Sailor can face. Whether you are under NCIS investigation, awaiting referral of charges, or preparing for trial, the consequences can include confinement, loss of pay and benefits, reduction in rank, and a punitive discharge that follows you for life. The Navy's justice system moves quickly, and commands often exert pressure long before the case reaches a courtroom.

Military Justice Attorneys provides experienced, mission-driven representation for Sailors facing criminal allegations. Our team includes former Judge Advocates who have tried complex cases, challenged government evidence, and defended service members across the globe. Whether you need a court-martial defense attorney for trial or a court-martial appeal lawyer after conviction, we are prepared to protect your rights at every stage.

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What Is a Navy Court-Martial?

A court-martial is the Navy’s criminal trial process governed by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). It is used to prosecute service members for offenses ranging from minor misconduct to serious felonies. There are three levels of courts-martial:

  • Summary Court-Martial – For minor offenses; limited punishment and no military judge.
  • Special Court-Martial – Intermediate level; may result in confinement and a bad-conduct discharge.
  • General Court-Martial – Reserved for the most serious offenses with the highest potential penalties.

Court-martial attorneys defend Sailors against charges, challenge NCIS investigative methods, expose procedural errors, and protect constitutional rights throughout the process. If you want to reference the Manual for Courts-Martial (which includes the Rules for Courts-Martial and the Military Rules of Evidence), you can learn more about it at: https://www.loc.gov/item/2023298507/.

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

  • Early Intervention That Shapes the Direction of the Case - Before charges are referred, your attorney can engage with command and legal authorities, challenge weak evidence, and prepare mitigation that may prevent your case from going to trial.
  • Skilled Trial Advocacy Against Government Prosecutors - A seasoned court-martial defense lawyer can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, cross-examine witnesses, file motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence, and build a strong trial strategy.
  • Detailed Understanding of NCIS Investigations and Navy Procedures - Your attorney understands how NCIS collects digital, forensic, and testimonial evidence—and how to expose shortcomings, inconsistencies, or violations of investigative rules.
  • Detailed Understanding of NCIS Investigations and Navy Procedures - Your attorney understands how NCIS collects digital, forensic, and testimonial evidence—and how to expose shortcomings, inconsistencies, or violations of investigative rules.
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Is a Navy Court-Martial Defense Attorney Relevant to My Situation?

You likely need an attorney if you:

  • Were contacted by NCIS for questioning
  • Received an Article 32 hearing notice
  • Were offered a plea deal or pretrial agreement
  • Have charges pending for trial
  • Face administrative actions related to alleged misconduct
  • Believe your rights were violated during the investigation

Common Navy court-martial cases involve allegations such as:

  • Sexual assault or sexual misconduct
  • Domestic violence
  • Drug use, possession, or distribution
  • Larceny or financial fraud
  • Assault or violent offenses
  • Dereliction of duty
  • AWOL/desertion
  • Computer and cyber-related misconduct
  • Hazing or fraternization

If the allegations could impact your rank, career, or freedom, legal counsel is essential from the earliest stages.

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 Court-Martial Defense Process What to Expect

1. Initial Case Review and Rights Protection

Your attorney analyzes the allegations, reviews investigative files, and ensures you do not make statements that could harm your defense.

2. Evidence Evaluation and Pretrial Strategy

Your lawyer examines physical evidence, digital forensics, witness statements, and NCIS procedures. Motions may be filed to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.

3. Preparation for Trial or Negotiated Resolution

If a trial is unavoidable, your attorney prepares a comprehensive defense strategy, identifies expert witnesses when needed, and aggressively challenges the prosecution’s case.

4. Post-Trial Action and Appeal

After trial, your attorney may pursue clemency, sentence reduction, or appellate review before higher military courts to ensure justice and correct legal errors.

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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 Court-Martial What Comes Next

Even after trial, Sailors often need support with:

  • Appeals to the Navy-Marine Corps Court of Criminal Appeals (NMCCA)
  • Review by the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces (CAAF)
  • Petitions for clemency or parole
  • Correction of military records
  • Discharge upgrade requests
  • Restoring rank or benefits lost at trial

The Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces is the highest military appellate court, and you can learn more about its role and jurisdiction at: https://www.armfor.uscourts.gov/. Military Justice Attorneys continues advocating for Sailors long after the verdict, helping them rebuild their careers and futures.

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 Court-Martial Experience Across Complex Navy Cases

We have defended Sailors in some of the most serious and high-profile military cases, including digital evidence, sexual misconduct, and violent offenses.

Former Judge Advocates With Deep Knowledge of Naval Justice Procedures

Our team understands the Navy’s command culture, investigative patterns, and courtroom strategies—giving you a decisive advantage.

Dedicated, Personalized Defense for Every Sailor

Clients receive direct attorney access, detailed case preparation, and a defense tailored to their goals and circumstances. These qualities make Military Justice Attorneys a trusted choice among Sailors seeking a skilled court-martial defense attorney or court-martial appeal lawyer.

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Court-Martial Defense FAQs

What should I do if NCIS wants to question me?

Do not speak with investigators without a lawyer present. NCIS agents are trained to gather statements that may later be used against you, even if you believe you are innocent or have nothing to hide. An attorney protects your rights and prevents self-incrimination.

How serious is a Navy court-martial conviction?

Very serious. A conviction can lead to confinement, loss of pay and benefits, punitive discharge, and long-term career damage. It may also affect veteran benefits, civilian employment opportunities, and your ability to serve in the future. Skilled representation is crucial.

Can a court-martial defense lawyer help before charges are filed?

Yes—and this is often the most important stage. Early legal involvement can influence command decisions, challenge weak evidence, and prevent escalation to a court-martial entirely. Many cases are resolved favorably before charges are ever referred.

Can I appeal a court-martial conviction?

Absolutely. A court-martial appeal attorney can challenge legal errors, unlawful command influence, improper evidence, or sentencing issues. Appeals may go to the NMCCA, CAAF, or even the Supreme Court in rare cases.

Does hiring a civilian attorney give me an advantage?

Civilian court-martial lawyers often have more time, broader experience, and greater freedom to challenge the government aggressively. Many Sailors choose civilian counsel in addition to military-appointed attorneys to strengthen their defense.

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Protect Your Navy Career With Experienced Court-Martial Defense

Schedule a confidential consultation today with Navy court-martial attorneys who know how to fight for your freedom, your rank, and your future.

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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