JAG Defense Attorney Serving Virginia

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

Administrative actions can damage your reputation and career long before a criminal allegation ever arises.

Protecting Your Record When Command Scrutiny Intensifies

Servicemembers across Virginia face administrative investigations, reprimands, and adverse paperwork, and experienced JAG defense lawyers can protect your rights whether serving at Naval Station Norfolk, Joint Base Langley–Eustis, NAS Oceana, Dam Neck Annex, or Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek–Fort Story.

Personnel assigned to Marine Corps Base Quantico, Fort Belvoir, Fort Barfoot, or Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown experience similar pressures as commands respond to perceived misconduct or leadership concerns. Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, delivers disciplined representation designed to protect your record before administrative actions escalate.

What Is JAG Defense in Virginia?

JAG defense involves representing servicemembers during administrative matters such as command investigations, adverse counseling, Letters of Reprimand, adverse evaluations, loss-of-qualification actions, and the early stages of NJP or separation. These actions, while not criminal, can significantly harm promotion potential and future assignments.

Many administrative rights derive from standards published in the Manual for Courts-Martial at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/, which outline procedural fairness and evidentiary expectations.

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

Early Legal Guidance Prevents Escalation. Commands often seek statements before explaining consequences. Early counsel ensures you do not provide incomplete or harmful information that shapes later actions or investigations.
Structured, Evidence-Based Rebuttals. We prepare detailed responses supported by performance history, context, witness statements, and relevant documentation, helping commands understand the full circumstances rather than relying on partial information.
Career-Focused Representation That Protects Your Future. Administrative actions influence evaluations, qualifications, reenlistment eligibility, and promotion boards. Our advocacy strengthens your standing and corrects inaccuracies before they become permanent.

Is JAG Defense Relevant to My Situation?

You may need JAG defense if you receive adverse counseling, a reprimand, or notice of a command investigation. These actions may arise from misunderstandings, interpersonal conflict, leadership dynamics, or off-duty incidents that carry more weight than intended.

Even without criminal allegations, administrative findings can permanently affect your record. Early involvement by an experienced attorney prevents commands from reaching conclusions without full context and ensures your position is clearly documented.

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: Reviewing Evidence and Advising You on Rights

We examine all documents, messages, evaluations, and investigative notes. If a command suspects misconduct, Article 31(b) rights apply. The Joint Service Committee at https://jsc.defense.gov provides governing standards for how these rights must be applied.

Step Two: Identifying Errors and Gathering Supporting Evidence

We collect statements, digital communications, operational context, and relevant records to expose inaccuracies or missing information. Many administrative actions rely on assumptions that must be corrected through clear evidence.

Step Three: Drafting a Strong Rebuttal or Mitigation Package

We present a structured narrative explaining your conduct, performance history, context behind the incident, and any mitigating factors. Effective rebuttals often prevent escalation to NJP or long-term record entries.

Step Four: Preventing Escalation and Protecting Career Trajectory

If the command considers NJP, adverse entries, or separation, we intervene early. Related fairness principles reflected in DOJ resources at https://www.justice.gov/servicemembers support challenges when actions lack a proper basis.

After Your JAG Case What Comes Next

Even after the immediate issue is resolved, commands may impose follow-on consequences such as qualification loss, negative evaluations, or barriers to reenlistment. These outcomes may not reflect your true performance, but can still shape your future assignments or promotions. MJA assists with further appeals, record corrections, and strategic planning to ensure that one administrative action does not overshadow years of dedicated service.

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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 adverse action rebuttals. We understand how Virginia’s commands operate and how decisions are made.

Proven Results and Strategic Advocacy

We have overturned reprimands, corrected inaccurate records, and prevented administrative actions from escalating. Our submissions emphasize clarity, evidence, and persuasive reasoning.

Dedicated Support for Servicemembers Across Virginia

We provide direct attorney access, not case managers, and steady communication from the first consultation through final resolution. Whether you serve in Hampton Roads, Quantico, or Northern Virginia, you receive focused, disciplined defense.

We bring mission-focused advocacy rooted in precision, integrity, and unwavering commitment.

JAG Defense Attorney Serving Virginia FAQs

Can administrative actions harm my promotion prospects?

Yes. Even minor adverse entries may influence promotion boards or qualification decisions. A strong rebuttal helps ensure a single incident does not overshadow an otherwise strong record.

Am I required to give a statement during a command investigation?

No. If investigators suspect misconduct, Article 31(b) rights apply. You should consult counsel before speaking to avoid providing information that could be misinterpreted or used unfairly.

Can I challenge a counseling entry or reprimand?

Absolutely. Many administrative documents contain incomplete or inaccurate information. A well-prepared rebuttal can correct the record and prevent escalation.

What if my command is acting on incomplete or incorrect information?

This is common. Commands may act quickly without full context. Early legal intervention ensures your side is documented clearly and decisions are based on accurate information.

When should I contact a JAG defense attorney?

Immediately upon receiving adverse paperwork or learning about an investigation. Early involvement offers the strongest opportunity to protect your record and reduce long-term consequences.

Protect Your Career With Experienced JAG Defense

Administrative actions can shape your future if not challenged early. Contact Military Justice Attorneys today to schedule your confidential consultation with a former Marine Judge Advocate.