Strong Protection When Creditors Violate Your Federal Rights

Servicemembers across Texas rely on the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to protect themselves and their families from unlawful financial pressure, and an experienced SCRA lawyer can help enforce those rights whether stationed at Fort Cavazos, Joint Base San Antonio (including Lackland, Randolph, and Fort Sam Houston), Goodfellow Air Force Base, Dyess Air Force Base, or Sheppard Air Force Base.

Those serving near Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, Naval Air Station Kingsville, or Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base face similar risks. Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, enforces SCRA protections and stops unlawful actions before they cause lasting harm.

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What Is the SCRA?

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act limits certain creditor actions and ensures fair treatment for active-duty servicemembers. It provides interest-rate caps, protection from repossession, safeguards against default judgments, and rights related to lease termination.

Creditors must verify active-duty status using the Defense Manpower Data Center at https://scra.dmdc.osd.mil/scra/#/home. Federal enforcement standards can be found through the Department of Justice at https://www.justice.gov/servicemembers.

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

  • Swift Action Against Creditor Misconduct. We intervene immediately when lenders attempt unlawful repossession, refuse to honor interest-rate reductions, or pursue aggressive collection tactics, ensuring violations stop before further damage occurs.
  • Precise Interpretation of Federal Protections. Many creditors misunderstand SCRA rules. We evaluate contracts, communications, and service records to enforce your rights and secure corrective action for unlawful charges or actions.
  • Representation Informed by Military Lifestyles. Deployments, training cycles, and high-tempo operations often collide with financial obligations. We defend servicemembers by ensuring creditors respect the realities of military life.
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Is the SCRA Relevant to My Situation?

SCRA protections apply when military service affects your ability to manage financial obligations. Violations commonly involve vehicle loans, credit cards, storage contracts, mortgages, or leases. Servicemembers often encounter creditors who deny protections, issue improper fees, or initiate repossession without a court order.

If a lender continues collection efforts despite being notified of your active-duty status, or if you face legal action without proper verification, your rights may have been violated. Early legal involvement helps prevent lasting financial and professional damage.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our SCRA 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 Financial Documents

We review your active-duty orders, contracts, creditor communication, and relevant financial documentation to determine which SCRA protections apply. Related administrative guidance appears in DoD resources at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/.

Step Two: Formal Notification and Demand for Compliance

We notify the creditor, provide proof of service status, and demand immediate corrective action. Many lenders resolve issues quickly once confronted with clear legal authority.

Step Three: Correcting Violations and Reversing Damage

We work to reverse unlawful repossessions, improper interest charges, faulty judgments, and other violations. When necessary, we rely on DOJ enforcement principles to support claims of improper creditor conduct.

Step Four: Long-Term Financial Protection

We help ensure continued compliance during future deployments or assignments by preparing documentation, reviewing contracts, and advising on steps to avoid recurring issues.

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After Your SCRA Case What Comes Next

Even after a violation is corrected, many servicemembers face residual challenges such as credit score damage, lender disputes, or issues affecting security clearances. These consequences can linger without proper documentation and follow-up. MJA assists by preparing dispute letters, coordinating with lenders, and ensuring accurate reporting. We remain engaged until your financial stability and legal rights are fully restored.

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Available 24/7 to Help Anyone in the World

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 attorneys are former Marine Judge Advocates with extensive experience enforcing servicemember protections and addressing the financial challenges associated with deployments, training, and PCS cycles.

Proven Results and Strategic Advocacy

We have corrected improper repossessions, reversed unlawful charges, and forced lenders to comply with federal law. Our approach is evidence-driven, disciplined, and tailored to the unique needs of Texas servicemembers.

Dedicated Support for Servicemembers Across Texas

We provide direct attorney access, responsive communication, and steady guidance throughout your case. Whether you serve in San Antonio, Corpus Christi, Killeen, Wichita Falls, or Houston, we protect your financial security. We deliver mission-focused advocacy that safeguards your rights and preserves your readiness.

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SCRA Attorney Serving Texas FAQs

Can I terminate a vehicle or housing lease early due to PCS or deployment orders?

Yes. The SCRA allows lawful lease termination when proper notice is provided, and landlords or leasing companies must comply. Violations often occur due to a misunderstanding of your rights rather than intentional misconduct.

Can a creditor repossess my car without a court order while I'm serving?

No. Repossession without a court order is unlawful when SCRA protections apply. Swift legal intervention can often reverse or stop the action, especially when lenders ignore documentation.

Are interest-rate reductions automatic under the SCRA?

No. You must notify the lender and provide active-duty orders. Once submitted, creditors must reduce interest to six percent and cannot impose additional fees to offset the change.

What if a creditor files a lawsuit against me during deployment?

Courts must verify military service status before issuing default judgments. If they fail to follow mandatory procedures, the judgment may be invalid and subject to correction.

When should I contact an SCRA attorney?

Immediately, when a creditor denies protections, threatens repossession, demands accelerated payment, or files legal action. Early involvement prevents long-term financial consequences and strengthens your position.

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Protect Your Financial Rights Under the SCRA

Financial pressure should never interfere with your service. 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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