Experienced Defense When Everything Is on the Line

Virginia is home to one of the nation’s largest concentrations of servicemembers, and experienced court-martial lawyers in Virginia can protect your rights when fast-moving allegations arise at Naval Station Norfolk, Joint Base Langley–Eustis, NAS Oceana, Dam Neck Annex, or Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek–Fort Story.

Those assigned to Marine Corps Base Quantico, Fort Belvoir, Fort Barfoot, or Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown face similar risks in high-tempo operational settings. Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a firm of former Marine Judge Advocates, delivers disciplined courtroom advocacy designed to protect servicemembers when the stakes are highest.

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What Is a Court-Martial in Virginia?

A court-martial is the military’s criminal trial system used to prosecute alleged violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. These trials are governed by unique procedures involving command authority, evidence rules, and investigative practices.

Official punitive articles and procedural instructions are published by the Joint Service Committee at https://jsc.defense.gov, forming the legal foundation of every military prosecution.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for Court-Martial Allegations

  • Protection of Rights Before Allegations Escalate. Many servicemembers unknowingly give statements under pressure. We ensure Article 31(b) protections are honored and prevent early mistakes from shaping the government’s case.
  • Evidence Analysis That Exposes Weaknesses. We examine law enforcement reports, digital communications, witness statements, and command findings to identify inconsistencies, contradictions, or errors that undermine the prosecution.
  • Defense That Safeguards Long-Term Military Careers. Court-martial convictions impact clearances, promotions, reenlistment, and benefits. Our representation protects not only the trial outcome but the future you have worked to build.
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Is Court-Martial Defense Relevant to My Situation?

Court-martial defense becomes essential when you are questioned as a suspect, placed under investigation, restricted to base, relieved of duty, or informed that allegations may advance to charges. Cases frequently involve interpersonal disputes, digital communication concerns, alcohol-related issues, property allegations, or off-duty incidents.

Even if the alleged misconduct occurred off base, commands may still take action. Early legal representation protects your account of events and ensures investigators do not draw conclusions without proper context.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our court-martial attorneys in Virginia 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 Court-Martial Process What to Expect

Step One: Understanding Your Rights and Reviewing Evidence

We review early evidence, police reports, command notifications, messages, and witness statements, and advise you on Article 31(b) rights. Many procedural rules appear in the Manual for Courts-Martial at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/.

Step Two: Conducting a Thorough Independent Investigation

We obtain additional documentation, analyze digital records, identify missing information, and interview witnesses. Many court-martial cases rely on incomplete or contradictory evidence that must be challenged.

Step Three: Article 32 Preliminary Hearing

For general courts-martial, the Article 32 hearing provides a vital opportunity to test the evidence, question witnesses, and influence whether charges move forward. Strong representation at this stage can change the direction of the entire case.

Step Four: Trial Preparation and Courtroom Defense

If charges proceed, we build a structured defense using expert analysis, cross-examination strategy, legal motions, and persuasive narrative development. DOJ principles at https://www.justice.gov/servicemembers help guide fairness considerations in related administrative consequences.

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After Your Court-Martial What Comes Next

A verdict does not end command involvement. Servicemembers often face collateral actions such as adverse evaluations, loss of qualifications, administrative separation, or record entries that affect future opportunities. These consequences may last longer than the criminal case itself. MJA continues supporting clients through appeals, post-trial submissions, administrative rebuttals, and record correction applications to ensure every avenue of protection is pursued.

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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
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Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Deep Military Justice Experience

Our attorneys are former Marine Judge Advocates with extensive trial backgrounds. We understand military evidence rules, command influence concerns, and the courtroom strategies that shape successful outcomes.

Proven Results and Strategic Advocacy

We have defended servicemembers nationwide in cases involving high-profile allegations, complex evidence, and aggressive prosecution tactics. Our disciplined approach maximizes opportunities for dismissal, acquittal, or charge reduction.

Dedicated Support for Servicemembers Across Virginia

We maintain direct attorney communication, never passing clients to case managers, and provide steady guidance from investigation through trial and beyond. Whether you serve in Hampton Roads, Quantico, or Northern Virginia, your defense receives focused attention. We deliver mission-driven representation grounded in clarity, precision, and unwavering commitment.

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Court Martial Attorney Serving Virginia FAQs

Can I be punished before my court-martial begins?

Yes. Commands may impose restrictions, duty limitations, or administrative actions during the investigation. Legal counsel can challenge unlawful conditions and prevent excessive or improper measures.

Do Article 31(b) rights apply if I’m questioned by civilian police?

Article 31(b) applies to military investigators, while Miranda applies to civilian authorities. Regardless, you should not answer questions before speaking with counsel to avoid harming your defense.

Can a court-martial affect my security clearance?

Absolutely. Investigations, accusations, or pending charges can trigger clearance reviews. Strong defense strategy and mitigation help prevent unnecessary career damage.

What if the incident occurred off base or off duty?

The military may still assert jurisdiction if the conduct affects good order and discipline. Commands often act even when civilian prosecutors decline charges.

When should I contact a court-martial defense attorney?

Immediately—when you become aware of an investigation, receive questioning, or anticipate charges. Early intervention protects your rights and strengthens your defense.

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Defend Your Freedom and Your Future

A court-martial threatens everything you’ve earned. 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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