When Administrative Actions Put Your Career at Risk

Adverse administrative actions can severely damage a service member’s military record and affect their potential for reenlistment, promotion, billet, duty station, and overall career advancement. Such adverse actions may include 6105 entries, Letters of Reprimand/Counseling, General Officer Memoranda of Reprimand (GOMOR), adverse fitness reports, referred/referral performance evaluations, Relief for Cause packages, Article 15 (nonjudicial) punishments, administrative demotions, and titling actions, and others.

Regardless of the specific administrative action involved, our military justice attorneys are experienced in helping service members appropriately respond to and, when necessary, appeal adverse administrative actions. Contact our military lawyers now to learn more about protecting your record and your future.

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That’s the best damn rebuttal I’ve read in 26 years.

-Commander, USMC
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What Are Military Administrative Appeals?

Military administrative appeals are formal processes that allow service members to challenge adverse administrative actions or decisions made by their command or military authorities. These decisions may include administrative separations, unfavorable performance evaluations, denials of promotion, or revocation of security clearances.

The appeals process is designed to ensure fairness, transparency, and adherence to governing regulations while giving service members an opportunity to present evidence, arguments, or mitigating factors that support reversing or modifying the original decision.

How the Military Administrative Appeals Process Works

The process typically begins with the service member submitting an appeal to the appropriate authority. The appeal often includes a detailed explanation of the issue, relevant evidence, and supporting documentation tailored to the applicable regulation or instruction.

Once submitted, the appeal undergoes a review that may involve legal analysis, witness statements, or expert opinions. In some cases, the service member may receive a hearing to present their case in person. The reviewing authority then issues a decision affirming, modifying, or overturning the original action.

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 Role of Legal Representation in Appeals

Legal representation can be critical in military administrative appeals, as the process often involves complex regulations, strict deadlines, and nuanced legal standards. Attorneys help service members navigate the system, draft persuasive submissions, and assemble strong evidentiary records.

Counsel can also advise on applicable regulations, prepare clients for hearings, and advocate effectively during oral arguments. While legal representation is not always required, experienced advocacy significantly improves the likelihood of a successful outcome.

Timelines and Filing Deadlines

Timelines for filing military administrative appeals vary depending on the type of action and the governing authority. Some appeals, including those related to Article 15 punishments or performance evaluations, may have deadlines measured in days or weeks.

Service members must act quickly to preserve their rights and should consider requesting extensions when appropriate. Missing a deadline can permanently foreclose an opportunity for relief, making early legal guidance essential.

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

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NO GOMOR ISSUED

Fort Cavazos, Texas. Army Officer Rebuts Allegations of Online Social Media Misconduct; No GOMOR Issued.

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GOMOR LOCALLY FILED

Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. Army Major (O-4) reprimanded for extramarital sexual conduct, GOMOR locally filed.

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NO ADVERSE ACTION

Fort Stewart, Georgia. An Army Sergeant (E-5) was flagged for allegedly violating a restriction of movement (ROM) order following a suspected case of COVID-19.

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GOMOR REMOVED

Fort Stewart, Georgia. GOMOR removed for Army Ranger arrested for DUI less safe after failing to submit to a field sobriety test.

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GOMOR LOCALLY FILED

Fort Knox, Kentucky. Army Major (O-4) facing an investigation and possible removal from the Army contacted MJA to help him respond appropriately.

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MARINE SNCO PROMOTED

Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Marine Staff Sergeant (E-6) refused NJP, avoids court-martial and earns promotion.

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PROMOTED AFTER GOMOR

United States Army Japan. An Army First Lieutenant (O-2) received a permanently filed GOMOR for allegedly being drunk and disorderly in violation of USF Japan liberty policy.

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GOMOR WITHDRAWN AND DESTROYED

Army Reserve Support Command. Army Sergeant First Class (E-7) reprimanded for alleged aggravated sexual contact.

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GOMOR LOCALLY FILED

1st Theater Sustainment Command, Middle East. Army Major (O-4) reprimanded for allegations of extramarital sexual conduct.

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GOMOR TRANSFERRED

Department of the Army Suitability and Evaluation Board (DASEB). Army Captain (O-3) reprimanded for drunk and disorderly.

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Possible Outcomes of a Military Administrative Appeal

The outcome of a military administrative appeal depends on the nature of the action and the reviewing authority. Possible results include full reversal of the adverse action, modification of the original decision, or denial of the appeal.

In certain cases, corrective measures may be ordered, such as expungement of records, reinstatement, setting aside punishment, or financial reimbursement. If relief is denied, additional review options may exist through higher authorities or the federal court.

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Common Challenges in the Appeals Process

One of the most frequent challenges is gathering sufficient evidence, including records, witness statements, or expert opinions. Understanding procedural requirements and complying with documentation standards can also be difficult without guidance.

Service members often face significant emotional stress, particularly when appeals involve career-ending consequences. Successfully navigating these challenges requires careful preparation, attention to detail, and, in many cases, experienced legal assistance.

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

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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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