Do I really need a civilian lawyer, or is my assigned JAG enough?
The Short Answer: You Get What You Pay For.
Detailed military counsel (JAGs) are hardworking, but they are often inexperienced and overwhelmed by the system.
If you are facing an Administrative Separation, an Article 15, or a minor issue, a JAG may suffice. However, if you are facing a Court-Martial, sexual assault charges, or the loss of your retirement, relying solely on a free lawyer is a gamble with your freedom. At Gonzalez & Waddington, we provide the experience and independence that a uniformed lawyer simply cannot offer.
The “Assembly Line” Defense Problem
The military justice system is an assembly line. Prosecutors, judges, and detailed defense counsel often rotate in and out of jobs every 2 to 3 years. This means your detailed counsel might be a Captain or Lieutenant who graduated from law school only a few years ago and has tried fewer than five contested cases.
Furthermore, your detailed counsel works for the military. While they have a duty to defend you, they are still subject to military rank structure, fitness reports, and the bureaucracy of the JAG Corps. They cannot afford to burn bridges; they have to work with the same prosecutors next week.
We do not have that limitation. We answer to no one but you. We are not afraid to aggressively cross-examine a Commander or challenge the Convening Authority.
The Data: Experience Matters
In high-stakes litigation, experience is the primary predictor of success. A typical detailed military counsel handles dozens of cases simultaneously, leaving them little time to focus on the intricate details of your specific case.
Michael Waddington has been defending service members for decades and has written best-selling books on cross-examination strategies. When you are fighting for your life, you need a surgeon, not a general practitioner.
Comparison: Gonzalez & Waddington vs. Assigned JAG
Here is the reality of the difference between a free military lawyer and retaining our firm.
| Feature | Assigned JAG (Free) | Gonzalez & Waddington (Civilian) |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Often Junior Officers (2-5 years experience) | Decades of Trial Experience |
| Caseload | High volume, split focus | Low volume, dedicated focus on you |
| Chain of Command | Subject to military hierarchy | 100% Independent Civilian |
| Resources | Limited government budget | Private investigative resources |
| Worldwide Travel | Limited to local base (usually) | We fly to you, anywhere in the world |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I hire a civilian lawyer and keep my JAG?
A: Yes. This is the smartest tactical move. When you hire Gonzalez & Waddington, you do not lose your free military counsel. Instead, we become the Lead Counsel, and your JAG stays on the team to handle local filings, logistics, and assist us. You get a full defense team for the price of one civilian attorney.
Q: Will the jury think I’m guilty if I hire a fancy lawyer?
A: No. In fact, military panels often respect defendants who take the charges seriously. Hiring a top-tier defense attorney signals that you intend to fight the charges aggressively. It shows you value your career and your reputation.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: Quality defense is an investment. We charge flat fees so you know exactly what to expect—no hidden hourly billing. When you compare our fee to the loss of a $2 million+ retirement pension, VA benefits, and your freedom, the cost of a defense lawyer is a fraction of what you stand to lose.
Don’t Gamble With Your Future
The military has unlimited resources to convict you. You need a team that can level the playing field.
Gonzalez & Waddington has successfully defended service members in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and across the United States. If you want to know if your case is winnable, call us.
