Powerful Protection When Creditors Violate Your Federal Rights

Servicemembers across Virginia rely on the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) to shield them from unlawful repossessions, excessive interest rates, default judgments, and unfair lease or contract penalties. Whether stationed at Naval Station Norfolk, Joint Base Langley–Eustis, NAS Oceana, Dam Neck Annex, or Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek–Fort Story, violations can disrupt readiness, stability, and security.

Those serving at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Fort Belvoir, Fort Barfoot, or Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown face similar challenges, especially during deployments or rapid PCS cycles. Military Justice Attorneys (MJA), a team of former Marine Judge Advocates, enforces SCRA protections to restore financial security and stop unlawful actions immediately.

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What Is the SCRA?

The SCRA is a federal law that protects active-duty servicemembers from financial and legal harm caused by civilian creditors. These protections include interest-rate reductions, safeguards against repossession, restrictions on eviction, protection from default judgments, and rights related to terminating leases.

Creditors must verify service status through the Defense Manpower Data Center at https://scra.dmdc.osd.mil/scra/#/home. SCRA enforcement guidance is published by the Department of Justice at https://www.justice.gov/servicemembers.

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

  • Immediate Intervention to Stop Harmful Actions. We contact creditors directly to halt repossessions, improper charges, wrongful collections, or legal filings that ignore your SCRA protections. Swift action often prevents lasting damage.
  • Clear Identification of Violations and Financial Remedies. We analyze creditor behavior, service status, contract terms, and payment history to prove violations and pursue restitution, credit repair, or corrective measures.
  • Representation That Understands Military Demands. Deployments, detachments, training cycles, and PCS orders frequently collide with financial obligations. We help creditors understand those realities and force compliance when they refuse.
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Is the SCRA Relevant to My Situation?

SCRA protections apply when military service affects your ability to manage certain financial or legal obligations. Common violations include improper vehicle repossession, failure to reduce interest rates, wrongful evictions, and actions taken without verifying military status.

If a lender contacted you aggressively, demanded payment you could not legally be charged, or initiated legal proceedings while you were serving, your rights may have been violated. Early legal intervention prevents deeper financial consequences.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our 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 Documentation and Confirming SCRA Eligibility

We review your active-duty orders, creditor correspondence, contract terms, and payment records. Guidance related to administrative verification appears in DoD resources at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/.

Step Two: Notifying Creditors of Violations

We send a formal notice demanding compliance and correction. Many lenders immediately reverse wrongful actions once confronted with clear legal authority and documentation of service status.

Step Three: Securing Restitution or Corrective Action

We work to reverse repossessions, refund improper charges, correct account errors, and fix related credit reporting issues. When necessary, DOJ enforcement principles support demands for further remedy.

Step Four: Long-Term Protection and Financial Stability

We help servicemembers implement proactive safeguards before deployments or PCS moves, reducing the risk of future violations and ensuring creditors remain compliant.

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After Your SCRA Case What Comes Next

Even when violations are corrected, servicemembers may face residual financial issues such as damaged credit, inaccurate payment histories, or concerns that affect security clearances. These problems can disrupt career progression and create long-term stress. MJA assists with documentation for credit bureaus, lender disputes, and follow-up communications to ensure your financial standing and your future opportunities remain protected.

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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
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Why Choose Military Justice Attorneys?

Deep Military Justice Experience

Our attorneys are former Marine Judge Advocates with extensive experience enforcing SCRA protections and helping servicemembers navigate the financial challenges that arise during military service.

Proven Results and Strategic Advocacy

We have successfully reversed repossessions, stopped unlawful collection efforts, secured refunds, and corrected financial records for servicemembers nationwide. Our approach is disciplined, evidence-driven, and tailored to your needs.

Dedicated Support for Servicemembers Across Virginia

Clients receive direct attorney communication, not case managers, and clear, informed guidance from the first consultation through final resolution. Whether serving in Hampton Roads, Northern Virginia, or Quantico, we protect your financial security.

We bring mission-focused advocacy grounded in experience, clarity, and unwavering commitment.

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SCRA Attorney Serving Virginia FAQs

Can I reduce interest rates on pre-service loans under the SCRA?

Yes. Lenders must reduce interest to six percent once proper notice and orders are provided. They cannot add fees to offset the reduction, and they must apply it retroactively.

Can a creditor repossess my vehicle while I’m deployed?

No. Repossession without a court order is unlawful when SCRA protections apply. Legal intervention can reverse the action and force the lender to comply with federal requirements.

Does the SCRA protect against default judgments?

Yes. Courts must verify military status before issuing judgments. If they fail to do so, the judgment may be invalid and subject to reopening or dismissal.

What if a landlord refuses to honor my lease termination request?

SCRA allows termination of certain leases with proper notice and orders. If a landlord refuses, legal action can compel compliance and prevent financial penalties.

When should I contact an SCRA attorney?

Immediately, when a creditor threatens repossession, denies the interest-rate reduction, files suit, or ignores proof of military service. Early action prevents further damage.

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Protect Your Financial Rights Under the SCRA

Unlawful creditor actions should never disrupt 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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