When Should I Hire a Military Defense Lawyer?
If you’re asking yourself whether you need a lawyer, the answer is almost always: yes—and right now. In military justice, hesitation is dangerous. Service members under investigation often wait too long, hoping the issue will resolve itself. By the time charges are filed, damage may be irreversible.
The military justice system is fast-moving and unforgiving. CID, OSI, or NCIS may already be building a case before you hear a word. In some cases, the decision to prosecute is made before you even know you’re under investigation. The moment you sense something is wrong, you need legal defense in place.
Watch: Understanding Military Defense Strategies
Learn directly from our legal experts at Gonzalez & Waddington, Attorneys at Law—a globally recognized firm in UCMJ defense and military legal strategy. This video explores key tactics for fighting back in administrative separation boards, court-martials, and more.
For help with your military legal situation, contact us at ucmjdefense.com or call 800-921-8607. Serving clients worldwide.
5 Signs It’s Time to Hire a Lawyer
- ⚠️ You’re being questioned by law enforcement or command
- You’ve been ordered to give a statement or take a polygraph
- You’re told to stay away from someone or given a no-contact order
- Your security clearance is suspended or under review
- You receive notice of a court-martial, Article 15, or separation board
Waiting until you’re charged gives the government a head start. Hiring a skilled defense lawyer early lets you take control, protect your record, and in some cases, avoid charges altogether.
Work with Battle-Tested Military Defense Lawyers
Gonzalez & Waddington, Attorneys at Law is a globally known military law firm with a history of defending service members under intense scrutiny. Michael Waddington and Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington have tried court-martial cases in 12 countries and defended clients from more than 30. They represent officers, NCOs, and enlisted personnel facing the full range of UCMJ charges.
Our Approach
- ️♂️ We investigate immediately—before charges are locked in
- We build a defense strategy while the government is still assembling theirs
- ⚖️ We push back against unlawful command influence and pretrial leaks
- We use elite forensic consultants and cross-examination strategies from day one
If you’re being investigated, accused, or even just “flagged”—do not wait. Call 800-921-8607 or visit ucmjdefense.com for a confidential review of your case.
When Should I Hire a Military Lawyer? – Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer if I haven’t been charged yet?
Yes. If you’re being investigated, questioned, or restricted in any way, the government is gathering evidence. Early legal advice can help avoid mistakes and sometimes prevent charges from being filed.
Will hiring a lawyer make me look guilty?
No. It makes you look prepared and smart. In fact, commands and investigators often treat represented service members with more caution and respect, knowing their rights are protected.
Can a lawyer help before charges are filed?
Absolutely. A skilled defense lawyer can request discovery, interview witnesses, coordinate expert review of evidence, and sometimes negotiate with prosecutors to avoid referral altogether.
How early should I involve Gonzalez & Waddington?
As early as possible. Our attorneys prefer to get involved before charges are finalized, when we can still shape the government’s understanding of the case. Early intervention can often prevent a career-ending mistake.
How do I contact your firm?
Call 800-921-8607 or submit a confidential contact form at ucmjdefense.com. Our firm defends clients worldwide and is available 24/7 for urgent consultations.
