Your Career Can Change With One NJP

Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP) is often viewed as a lesser consequence than a court-martial, but its impact can be severe. It can lead to restriction, forfeitures, extra duty, loss of rank, negative evaluations, and even recommendations for administrative separation.

For servicemembers at Fort Liberty, Camp Lejeune, MCAS Cherry Point, New River, and other North Carolina installations, NJP can be a turning point in their career—either a setback or a defended victory.

Military Justice Attorneys, a team of former Marine Corps Judge Advocates, helps servicemembers understand their rights, prepare for NJP proceedings, and challenge unjust allegations. Whether you plan to accept NJP, present evidence in your defense, or demand trial by court-martial, having legal guidance can dramatically change the outcome.

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What Is Non-Judicial Punishment?

Non-Judicial Punishment is a disciplinary process authorized by Article 15 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), allowing commanders to address alleged misconduct without referring the case to a court-martial. Article 15 outlines your rights to remain silent, review evidence, present matters in defense, and—when permitted—refuse NJP and demand trial. (See: https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/10/815 ) Each branch uses different terms:

  • Army & Air Force: Article 15
  • Marine Corps: Office Hours
  • Navy & Coast Guard: Captain’s Mast

Though not a criminal conviction, NJP carries consequences that can affect:

  • Promotions
  • Special duty assignments
  • Reenlistment eligibility
  • Security clearances
  • Future command opportunities
  • Potential administrative separation

Because NJP outcomes often depend on command discretion, not courtroom rules, working with a knowledgeable Non-Judicial Punishment attorney in North Carolina ensures your defense is strategic and well prepared.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for NJP

  • Help Deciding Whether to Accept or Refuse NJP - Refusing NJP and demanding a court-martial may be advantageous in some cases. Your attorney helps you weigh the strength of the government’s evidence, the command climate, and your career goals.
  • Strong Rebuttals and Evidence Preparation - Even if you accept NJP, you can present statements, documents, witnesses, and mitigation evidence. Your attorney ensures these materials support the best possible outcome.
  • Protection From Long-Term Career Damage - NJP can influence evaluations, advancement, and retention. An attorney helps mitigate these consequences and defend your military record.
  • Representation Through Appeals and Follow-On Actions - If NJP is imposed unfairly, your attorney may help pursue an appeal or prepare subsequent actions related to separation boards or adverse evaluations.
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Is Non-Judicial Punishment Relevant to My Situation?

You may need legal guidance if your command:

  • Notifies you of pending NJP
  • Issues a rights advisement
  • Requests a statement or written acknowledgment
  • Mentions "possible misconduct" or "ongoing inquiry"
  • Initiates preliminary questioning

Many NJP cases stem from command inquiries or investigations conducted by military law enforcement agencies such as NCIS, CID, OSI, or CGIS. (Example: Naval Criminal Investigative Service overview – https://www.ncis.navy.mil/About-NCIS/ )

Common NJP allegations include alcohol-related incidents, minor assault or altercations, disrespect or insubordination, unauthorized absence, fraternization, misuse of government property, violations of orders, and lesser drug-related offenses. If you believe the allegations are unfair, exaggerated, or misunderstood, consulting an attorney early can prevent avoidable damage.

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 Non-Judicial Punishment Process What to Expect

1. Notification and Understanding of Rights

Your attorney reviews the written notification, explains your options, and helps you understand the possible consequences of each decision.

2. Accepting or Refusing NJP

This decision shapes your entire defense strategy. Your attorney evaluates evidence, listens to your goals, and recommends the strongest path forward.

3. Preparation for the NJP Hearing

If you proceed with NJP, your attorney helps prepare:

  • Written statements
  • Evidence packets
  • Witness requests
  • Mitigation materials

This preparation can significantly influence your commander’s final decision.

4. Post-Hearing Actions

If punishment is imposed, your attorney can guide you through:

  • Appeal submissions
  • Rebuttals to adverse evaluations
  • Record corrections
  • Separation board preparation if the command escalates the issue
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After Your NJP What Comes Next

Even after NJP is finalized, its consequences may extend into:

  • Performance evaluations
  • Clearance reviews
  • Reenlistment decisions
  • Career progression
  • Assignment opportunities

Your attorney can assist with long-term strategies to protect your career, including correction board petitions and preparation for future administrative actions.

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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 NJP and Administrative Law Experience

As former Marine Corps Judge Advocates, our attorneys understand how commands make decisions—and how to challenge unsupported allegations.

Successful Defense Strategies for North Carolina Servicemembers

We have helped servicemembers defend against NJP findings, overturn unfair actions, and prevent negative career outcomes across installations in the state.

Dedicated, Client-Focused Representation

Clients receive direct attorney access and clear, personalized guidance designed to protect their rights and preserve long-term military opportunities.

Together, these strengths make Military Justice Attorneys a trusted Non-Judicial Punishment lawyer in North Carolina for servicemembers seeking strong defense and informed guidance.

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Non-Judicial Punishment Attorney Serving North Carolina FAQs

Should I accept NJP or demand trial by court-martial?

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

Can I bring an attorney to the NJP hearing?

No. You cannot have representation at the hearing, but an attorney can prepare your entire defense before the proceeding.

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 results often trigger separation actions, making early legal counsel essential.

Will NJP affect promotions or reenlistment?

Yes. NJP can negatively influence evaluations, career progression, and retention decisions.

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Defend Your Record and Your Military Future

Schedule your confidential consultation today to speak with an NJP attorney in North Carolina who can help you make the best decisions for your career.

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.

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