Protecting Your Financial Rights While Serving

Service members across South Carolina often face financial challenges that lenders or landlords fail to handle correctly, and an experienced SCRA lawyer can help enforce their rights whether they are assigned to Fort Jackson, Joint Base Charleston, Shaw Air Force Base, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, or McEntire Joint National Guard Base.

Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, enforces these protections and stops unlawful financial actions before they damage your career or long-term financial security.

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What Is the SCRA?

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act protects active-duty personnel by restricting certain creditor actions and preventing financial harm caused by military service. Key rights include protection from repossession, interest-rate reductions, default judgment safeguards, and lawful lease termination options.

Creditors must verify service status through the Defense Manpower Data Center at https://scra.dmdc.osd.mil/scra/#/home, and federal enforcement authority is outlined by the Department of Justice at https://www.justice.gov/servicemembers.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for SCRA Violations

  • Immediate Action Against Unlawful Creditor Behavior. We intervene promptly when lenders ignore legal requirements or attempt improper repossession or collection.
  • Accurate Interpretation of SCRA Protections. We help you navigate interest caps, termination rights, and procedural safeguards that lenders often misunderstand.
  • Representation Tailored to Military Realities. Training cycles, deployments, and PCS orders frequently contribute to SCRA violations; we ensure your protections remain intact.
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Is the SCRA Relevant to My Situation?

SCRA protections apply when military service affects your ability to manage financial obligations. Servicemembers often face violations involving vehicle loans, credit cards, housing leases, storage contracts, and debt collection tactics.

If a lender refuses to honor an interest-rate reduction, denies lawful lease termination, proceeds with repossession without court approval, or files a lawsuit without proper military-status verification, your rights may have been violated. Early legal review prevents escalation and protects your record.

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 SCRA Enforcement Process What to Expect

Step One: Reviewing Service Status and Creditor Communications

We evaluate your orders, duty status, and financial documentation to determine which SCRA protections apply. Standards governing service verification appear in DoD resources at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/.

Step Two: Formal Notification to the Creditor

We notify lenders of their legal obligations, provide proof of service status, and demand corrective action. Many cases resolve quickly once creditors are confronted with proper documentation and legal authority.

Step Three: Reversing Violations and Ensuring Compliance

We work to stop unlawful actions and reverse damage, including repossessions, interest overcharges, improper collections, or default judgments. For complex cases, we rely on DOJ enforcement guidance to strengthen your position.

Step Four: Preventing Future Harm

We help protect your rights during future deployments, extended training, or PCS moves. This includes preparing documentation, reviewing agreements, and advising on potential risks.

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After Your SCRA Case What Comes Next

Following corrective action, some servicemembers continue experiencing financial consequences such as credit report issues, lingering disputes, or communication difficulties with lenders. These problems can affect security clearances, readiness, and family stability. MJA provides ongoing support by challenging inaccurate reporting, communicating with creditors, and documenting legal outcomes to prevent recurring issues. Our goal is to secure lasting financial relief and restore compliance with federal law.

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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?

Deep Military Justice Experience

Our SCRA attorneys are former Marine Judge Advocates with extensive experience enforcing servicemember protections. We understand how training schedules, deployments, and operational demands affect financial obligations.

Proven Results and Strategic Advocacy

We have corrected unlawful repossessions, forced compliance with interest-rate caps, and resolved disputes where creditors ignored SCRA provisions. Our advocacy is structured, evidence-driven, and mission-focused.

Dedicated Support for Servicemembers in South Carolina

We provide direct attorney access, not just case managers, and offer clear and timely communication throughout your case. Whether you serve at a major installation or a reserve facility, we are committed to protecting your financial security.

We deliver disciplined, effective advocacy that safeguards your rights and supports your military readiness.

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SCRA in South Carolina FAQs

Can I terminate my lease early due to PCS or deployment orders?

Yes. The SCRA allows lawful lease termination with proper notice, and landlords must comply regardless of location. Violations often occur due to misunderstanding, not a lack of legal authority.

Can a lender repossess my vehicle without a court order?

No. Repossession without a court order is unlawful when you qualify for SCRA protections. Quick legal action can often reverse or halt the process entirely.

Does the SCRA automatically reduce interest rates to six percent?

Not automatically. You must request the reduction and provide documentation, but lenders must comply once notified.

What if a creditor files a lawsuit against me while I am training or deployed?

Courts must verify military status before issuing a default judgment. If they fail to do so, the judgment may be invalid and subject to reversal.

When should I contact an SCRA attorney?

Immediately, when a creditor denies protections, threatens repossession, or demands payment inconsistent with the law. Early legal involvement prevents long-term financial damage.

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Protect Your Rights and Your Financial Future

You should not face financial threats while serving your country. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule your confidential consultation with a former Marine Judge Advocate.

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

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