Criminal Defense Attorney Serving Virginia

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

A criminal allegation can jeopardize your freedom, your career, and the life you’ve built in and around military service.

Strategic Defense When Everything Is at Stake

Servicemembers and veterans in Virginia operate within one of the nation’s largest military communities, and a skilled military criminal defense lawyer can protect your rights when even minor 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. Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, provides disciplined, evidence-driven defense to protect your future.

What Is Criminal Defense for Servicemembers in Virginia?

Criminal defense in Virginia involves representing servicemembers and veterans accused of offenses in civilian courts, military jurisdiction, or both. Cases may involve interpersonal conflicts, digital communication issues, alcohol-related incidents, property allegations, or off-base encounters that draw command attention.

UCMJ rights and procedures, often relevant even when charges are civilian, are published by the Joint Service Committee at https://jsc.defense.gov, shaping how commands respond and how investigations unfold.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for Criminal Allegations

Protection From Early Missteps That Harm Your Case. Service members often speak with police or command investigators before understanding the consequences. We intervene immediately to preserve your rights and prevent harmful admissions.
Independent, Evidence-Focused Investigation. We analyze law enforcement reports, witness statements, digital records, and command documents to identify inconsistencies, procedural problems, or missing context that can significantly change the case.
Defense That Safeguards Long-Term Military Interests. Criminal allegations can affect security clearances, reenlistment, evaluations, and promotion potential. Our defense protects both the legal outcome and the career attached to it.

Is Criminal Defense Relevant to My Situation?

Criminal defense becomes essential when you are identified as a suspect, questioned by authorities, directed to provide statements, or informed about an investigation. Cases often begin with incomplete information, misunderstandings, or assumptions that escalate quickly under command scrutiny.

Even if civilian prosecutors decline charges, your command may pursue administrative or punitive actions. Legal representation ensures your account is accurately documented and prevents actions that jeopardize your career.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our military criminal 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 Criminal Defense Process What to Expect

Step One: Understanding Your Rights and Reviewing Early Evidence

We begin by reviewing police reports, command notifications, and digital records. We also advise you on Article 31(b) rights, which must be honored under procedures outlined in the Manual for Courts-Martial at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/.

Step Two: Conducting a Thorough Independent Investigation

We collect additional evidence, review surveillance footage, interview witnesses, and analyze messages or electronic data. Many cases hinge on clarifying facts that investigators overlooked.

Step Three: Strategic Engagement With Civilian and Military Authorities

We communicate with prosecutors, investigators, and command representatives to present mitigating evidence, challenge unsupported allegations, and influence decisions on charges, diversion, or administrative alternatives.

Step Four: Preparing a Defense for Hearings or Trial

If charges proceed, we develop a structured defense based on evidence, expert analysis, cross-examination planning, and legal argument. DOJ resources at https://www.justice.gov/servicemembers help support fairness considerations in related administrative matters.

After Your Criminal Case What Comes Next

Even after a civilian case resolves, commands may impose secondary actions such as adverse evaluations, restrictions, or separation processing. These consequences often linger longer than the criminal accusation itself. MJA supports clients through administrative rebuttals, appeals, record corrections, and a long-term strategy to protect military careers and ensure one allegation does not define your service.

Military aircraft cockpit with star insignia

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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

Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Deep Military Justice Experience

Our team is composed entirely of former Marine Judge Advocates who understand both military culture and civilian criminal procedure. This dual perspective strengthens every part of your defense.

Proven Results and Strategic Advocacy

We have defended servicemembers and veterans nationwide in high-stakes cases involving contested evidence, command influence, and complex legal issues. Our preparation-focused approach produces strong, credible defenses.

Dedicated Support for Servicemembers Across Virginia

We maintain direct attorney communication, responsive guidance, and disciplined strategy from your first call through final resolution. Whether your case involves civilian prosecutors or military authorities, we protect your future.

We deliver mission-focused advocacy rooted in integrity, precision, and relentless defense.

Criminal Defense Attorney Serving Virginia FAQs

Will a civilian criminal case impact my military status?

Yes. Even if charges do not proceed, your command may initiate administrative actions. Early representation ensures coordination between civilian and military systems to protect your career.

Do I have to speak to the police or command investigators?

No. You have the right to remain silent and speak with counsel first. Exercising this right prevents harmful statements and cannot be used as evidence against you.

Can a criminal accusation affect my security clearance?

Absolutely. Clearances may be suspended or reviewed during investigations. Strong defense strategy and mitigation help preserve your eligibility.

What if the alleged incident happened off base?

The military may still take action, including administrative proceedings. A coordinated defense protects your rights in both jurisdictions and limits long-term consequences.

When should I contact a criminal defense attorney?

Immediately, before answering questions, submitting statements, or engaging with law enforcement or command. Early involvement strengthens your defense and prevents damaging mistakes.

Protect Your Rights With Proven Criminal Defense

You should never confront criminal allegations alone. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule your confidential consultation with a former Marine Judge Advocate.