JAG Defense Attorney in South Carolina

Name: JAG Defense
Brand: Military Justice Attorneys
Rating: 5 (44 reviews)

Administrative actions can damage your record, your career, and your future long before formal punishment ever occurs.

Strategic Support When Command Scrutiny Puts Your Record at Risk

Service members across South Carolina regularly face command investigations, adverse counseling, reprimands, and other administrative issues that can escalate quickly, and a skilled JAG defense lawyer can protect your rights whether you serve at Fort Jackson, Joint Base Charleston, Shaw Air Force Base, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, or McEntire Joint National Guard Base.

Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, provides strategic, disciplined representation to protect servicemembers from unfair or unsupported administrative decisions.

What Is JAG Defense in South Carolina?

JAG defense involves representing servicemembers during administrative inquiries such as command investigations, Letters of Reprimand, adverse counseling, loss-of-qualification actions, or preliminary steps toward separation. These matters often begin with little notice and move rapidly.

Investigative and administrative standards often reference rules in the Manual for Courts-Martial, available at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/, which outline procedural fairness requirements for command actions.

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

Early Defense Before Action Escalates. Missteps during early questioning can shape the entire case. We help you avoid harmful statements.
Clear, Evidence-Based Rebuttals. We prepare structured, persuasive submissions that challenge errors and highlight context.
Protection of Career and Reputation. Administrative matters influence evaluations, qualifications, and promotion potential. We defend both immediate and long-term career interests.

Is JAG Defense Relevant to My Situation?

You may need JAG defense if you receive adverse paperwork, learn that you are the subject of a command inquiry, or are directed to provide statements related to an incident. Administrative concerns often arise from interpersonal issues, misunderstandings, off-duty incidents, or performance concerns.

Even when no criminal allegation exists, adverse administrative actions can lead to lasting consequences. Early legal involvement ensures your perspective is accurately documented and prevents escalation.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our JAG defense 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

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

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

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

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

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

The JAG Defense Process What to Expect

Step One: Rights Advisement and Initial Review

We review the allegations, relevant documents, and any initial statements. We also explain your Article 31(b) protections. These rights are outlined by the Joint Service Committee at https://jsc.defense.gov and apply whenever misconduct is suspected.

Step Two: Gathering Evidence and Identifying Errors

We analyze witness statements, correspondence, digital records, and command findings. Many administrative actions rely on incomplete information or misunderstandings that must be corrected.

Step Three: Preparing Rebuttals or Mitigation Packages

We build detailed responses addressing factual errors, performance history, operational demands, and mitigating factors such as stress, family circumstances, or leadership responsibilities. A well-structured rebuttal often prevents more serious consequences.

Step Four: Preventing Escalation and Protecting Your Record

If a command action may lead to NJP, separation, or long-term record damage, we prepare a proactive defense. In certain cases, fairness considerations referenced by the Department of Justice at https://www.justice.gov/servicemembers may support your position.

After Your JAG Case What Comes Next

Even when an issue appears resolved, administrative actions may continue affecting evaluations, duties, or promotion eligibility. These lingering effects can follow you to future assignments or influence reenlistment decisions. MJA assists servicemembers with appeals, record corrections, and strategies to safeguard their career path. Our representation continues beyond the immediate action to protect the opportunities you’ve worked for.

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

Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Deep Military Justice Experience

Our attorneys are former Marine Judge Advocates with extensive experience in administrative law, command investigations, and rebuttal preparation. We understand how South Carolina’s major installations operate and how command culture shapes outcomes.

Proven Results and Strategic Advocacy

We have overturned adverse findings, corrected inaccurate records, and prevented administrative escalations that threatened long-term careers. Our approach emphasizes clarity, structure, and persuasive evidence.

Dedicated Support for Servicemembers Across South Carolina

We provide direct access to attorneys, not case managers, and clear communication throughout every stage of your case. Whether stationed at a major installation or a reserve unit, you receive reliable, disciplined support. We deliver mission-focused representation that protects your record and strengthens your future.

JAG Defense in South Carolina FAQs

Can administrative actions affect my reenlistment or promotion eligibility?

Yes. Even minor administrative findings can influence reenlistment decisions, limit special-duty assignments, and reduce promotion competitiveness. Strong rebuttals and early legal guidance help protect your long-term career opportunities.

Do I have Article 31(b) rights during administrative investigations?

Yes. If you are suspected of misconduct, investigators must advise you of your rights before questioning. Failure to provide proper advisement can undermine the command’s conclusions and strengthen your defense.

Can I challenge an unfair counseling entry or reprimand?

Absolutely. Many administrative documents contain errors or incomplete information. A well-prepared rebuttal can correct the record, mitigate impact, or prevent escalation into more serious action.

What if the command recommends action based on incomplete or inaccurate information?

This is common. Commands may act quickly without full context or evidence. Legal representation ensures missing details are addressed and the complete story is presented before decisions are made.

When should I contact a JAG defense attorney?

Right away, upon receiving adverse paperwork or learning that you are under investigation. Early legal involvement significantly improves your ability to challenge errors and protect your record.

Protect Your Record Before Damage Becomes Permanent

A single administrative action can reshape your career. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule your confidential consultation with a former Marine Judge Advocate.