The Right Guidance Before a Situation Escalates

Legal issues in the military rarely begin with formal charges. They often surface through subtle but serious indicators—investigators asking questions, sudden performance scrutiny, unexpected counseling statements, or command-directed inquiries. For servicemembers stationed at Fort Liberty, Camp Lejeune, Cherry Point, New River, and installations across North Carolina, these moments can be overwhelming and confusing.

Military Justice Attorneys, a team of former Marine Corps Judge Advocates, provides immediate clarity and strategic support. Whether you’re dealing with administrative paperwork, an Article 15/NJP, or the early stages of a criminal investigation, a skilled JAG defense lawyer in North Carolina helps you avoid mistakes and ensures your rights are protected at every step.

Topography textured background
two soldiers aiming with snipers

What Is JAG Defense?

JAG defense includes legal representation for servicemembers confronted with administrative, disciplinary, or investigative actions under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). The UCMJ is federal law governing all branches of the armed forces and is administered by the Department of Defense: https://www.defense.gov/Resources/Military-Law/. These matters can involve:

  • Command investigations
  • Article 15 / NJP proceedings
  • GOMORs and written reprimands
  • Referred performance evaluations
  • Adverse counseling
  • Administrative separation boards
  • Boards of inquiry
  • Derogatory paperwork or command actions
  • Early indicators of potential court-martial

Each branch operates differently, but all actions can seriously impact promotions, assignments, security clearances, and long-term career viability. Working with a JAG defense attorney in North Carolina ensures your case is handled with precision, knowledge, and strategic foresight.

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

  • Early Protection Against Investigators and Command Actions - Investigators may attempt to obtain statements or pressure you into explanations that damage your case. Your attorney helps you navigate these encounters safely.
  • Strategic Response to Administrative Actions - A JAG defense lawyer in North Carolina drafts rebuttals, collects supporting evidence, and challenges adverse paperwork to prevent escalation or mitigate consequences.
  • Experience With Boards and Hearings - Whether facing NJP, a separation board, or a board of inquiry, your attorney ensures your case is fully prepared and your rights are protected throughout the process. (For DoD-level enlisted separation framework, see DoDI 1332.14: https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodi/133214p.pdf ).
  • Long-Term Career and Reputation Protection - Administrative actions can affect reenlistment eligibility, promotion potential, and retirement. Your attorney works to preserve your standing and future opportunities.
Banner media

Is JAG Defense Relevant to My Situation?

You may need legal representation if you have experienced:

  • Questioning by investigators
  • A rights advisement
  • Sudden command interest or unusual scrutiny
  • A formal memorandum of concern or reprimand
  • Referred or adverse performance evaluations
  • Notification of pending separation
  • Allegations of misconduct, even informally

Issues that begin small often escalate quickly without proper legal guidance. Whether you serve in the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, or Coast Guard, consulting a JAG defense attorney in North Carolina early provides strong protection from avoidable missteps.

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
Topography textured background

The JAG Defense Process What to Expect

1. Initial Consultation and Case Review

Your attorney examines the allegations, reviews command communications, and helps you understand what actions may be occurring behind the scenes.

2. Evidence Analysis and Defense Preparation

Your attorney assesses administrative documents, investigation reports, evaluations, and witness statements to identify inconsistencies or procedural violations.

3. Command Engagement and Rebuttal Strategy

Your attorney prepares responses, rebuttals, and evidence to challenge unjust actions, influence command decisions, and prevent escalation.

4. Representation in Hearings or Further Proceedings

If your case advances to an NJP, separation board, board of inquiry, or potential court-martial, your attorney provides strong advocacy and strategic guidance.

Topography textured background

After Your JAG Case What Comes Next

Administrative issues often lead to additional consequences, even after the immediate matter is resolved. You may face:

  • Adverse evaluations
  • Denial of reenlistment
  • Security clearance challenges
  • Future administrative or disciplinary actions

Your attorney can assist with appeals, correction board petitions, and further advocacy to protect your service record. A committed JAG defense lawyer in North Carolina ensures you have long-term guidance beyond the initial action.

People in white uniforms holding hats

Available 24/7 to Help Anyone in the World

Client Testimonials Their Words. Their Cases. Their Results.

View All Testimonials

"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
Topography textured background

Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Deep Experience in Military Administrative and Investigative Actions

As former Marine Corps Judge Advocates, our attorneys have extensive experience navigating investigations, administrative actions, and disciplinary proceedings across all branches.

Proven Success Supporting North Carolina Servicemembers

We have helped servicemembers at Fort Liberty, Camp Lejeune, Cherry Point, and other installations overturn unjust actions, mitigate consequences, and preserve careers.

Dedicated, Responsive Support for Every Client

Clients receive direct access to their attorney, clear explanations, and strategic recommendations tailored to their goals and circumstances.

These strengths make Military Justice Attorneys a trusted JAG defense attorney in North Carolina for servicemembers seeking strong, informed representation.

Topography textured background

JAG Defense Attorney Serving North Carolina FAQs

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

Yes. Early involvement protects your rights and can prevent escalation into more serious disciplinary or criminal actions.

Can an attorney help with a written reprimand or adverse counseling?

Absolutely. These documents can impact promotions and reenlistment. An attorney can prepare a strong rebuttal.

What if investigators ask me to make a statement?

Do not speak with investigators until you consult an attorney. Even innocent statements can harm your case.

Can administrative actions lead to separation?

Yes. Many administrative issues eventually lead to separation boards. Representation is crucial.

Do you help all branches?

Yes. Our attorneys represent servicemembers in all branches stationed throughout North Carolina.

Textured background

Protect Your Career, Reputation, and Future

Schedule a confidential consultation today with a JAG defense lawyer in North Carolina who can guide you through the process and defend your rights at every step.

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
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
Submit Information
Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (843) 755-6535.
Contact Us