Experienced Defense When NJP Threatens Your Military Career

Service members across Virginia can face Nonjudicial Punishment such as Article 15 or Captain’s Mast, and experienced NPJ 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.

Those assigned to Marine Corps Base Quantico, Fort Belvoir, Fort Barfoot, or Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown face similar pressures. Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a firm of former Marine Judge Advocates, provides structured, evidence-driven defense to prevent unfair punishment and protect your career.

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What Is Nonjudicial Punishment in Virginia?

Nonjudicial Punishment is a command-level disciplinary process designed to address alleged violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice without resorting to court-martial. Punishments may include restriction, forfeitures, extra duties, or a reduction in rank.

NJP procedures must follow the rights and guidelines published by the Joint Service Committee at https://jsc.defense.gov, which outline the responsibilities of commanding officers and the protections afforded to service members.

The Benefits of Working With a Military Defense Attorney for NJP

  • Clear Guidance on Your Rights Before You Respond. Many servicemembers do not realize they may decline NJP (in certain circumstances) or present evidence at the hearing. Early legal advice prevents damaging mistakes.
  • Structured Rebuttals That Correct Misunderstandings. We gather performance records, witness statements, digital evidence, and operational context to present a persuasive argument that challenges the allegation’s accuracy or severity.
  • Career-Focused Protection Against Lasting Damage. NJP may affect promotions, reenlistment, qualifications, and long-term evaluations. We defend against unfair conclusions and prevent collateral consequences from harming your future.
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Is NJP Relevant to My Situation?

NJP becomes relevant when your command notifies you of an alleged violation, requests your statement, or indicates that administrative action may occur. Many NJP cases stem from miscommunication, interpersonal conflict, misunderstandings, or off-duty issues that become magnified under command scrutiny.

Even when the underlying conduct is minor or unintentional, NJP can lead to permanent record entries. Early representation ensures your version of events is documented and prevents escalation to more serious disciplinary action.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our NPJ 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 NJP Process What to Expect

Step One: Reviewing Allegations and Advising You on Rights

We review notifications, preliminary evidence, and command correspondence. If misconduct is suspected, Article 31(b) rights apply. Related procedural standards appear in the Manual for Courts-Martial at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/.

Step Two: Building a Strong Defense or Written Rebuttal

We collect statements, performance reports, digital messages, and mitigating evidence to craft a persuasive defense package. Many NJP actions rely on incomplete facts that must be corrected through structured documentation.

Step Three: Preparing You for the NJP Hearing

We help you prepare your statement, identify supporting evidence, and present your case clearly and effectively. Commanders must consider all relevant information before deciding on punishment.

Step Four: Appeals and Record Corrections

If NJP is imposed, we assist with appeals based on legal error, insufficient evidence, or unfair consideration. Administrative processes similar to those used for duty-status verification at https://scra.dmdc.osd.mil/scra/#/home help establish factual accuracy.

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After Your NJP What Comes Next

Even after the NJP hearing ends, commands may pursue secondary actions such as adverse evaluations, loss of qualifications, or separation processing. These consequences may follow you across duty stations and impact your long-term military advancement. MJA assists servicemembers with appeals, additional rebuttals, and record corrections, ensuring NJP does not shape the remainder of your career.

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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 attorneys are former Marine Judge Advocates with extensive experience defending servicemembers facing NJP, command investigations, and administrative actions across all branches and installations in Virginia.

Proven Results and Strategic Advocacy

We have overturned unfair NJPs, corrected inaccurate records, and prevented minor incidents from escalating into long-term consequences. Our defense emphasizes clarity, evidence, and disciplined strategy.

Dedicated Support for Servicemembers Across Virginia

Clients work directly with experienced attorneys, not case managers, and receive personalized guidance at every step. Whether you serve in Hampton Roads, Quantico, or Northern Virginia, we protect your career with purpose and precision. We bring mission-focused advocacy grounded in integrity, attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to your future.

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Non-Judicial Punishment Attorney Serving Virginia FAQs

Can I refuse NJP in Virginia?

In some cases, yes. Your ability to decline depends on your rank, duty status, and branch. Declining may result in a court-martial, so you should seek legal advice before making any decision.

Does accepting NJP mean I admit guilt?

No. Many accept NJP to avoid greater legal exposure. Acceptance is not an admission, but it may still affect evaluations, qualifications, and promotion opportunities.

Can I bring evidence or witness statements to the NJP hearing?

Yes. Commanders must consider the relevant information you provide. Strong documentation can significantly influence whether punishment is imposed or reduced.

Will NJP remain on my permanent military record?

It depends on your branch and the level of NJP. Some entries are filed locally; others may become permanent. Legal counsel helps determine the long-term impact and available remedies.

When should I contact an NJP defense attorney?

Immediately when notified or asked to provide a statement. Early involvement strengthens your defense, prevents harmful statements, and maximizes opportunities for a favorable outcome.

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Protect Your Record Before NJP Becomes Permanent

You should never face NJP without legal support. 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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