I. Introduction to Florida Military Law

The military legal system in the United States (and in Florida) operates under a distinct set of laws and procedures, entirely separate from the civilian court system. This unique framework is primarily governed by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) a comprehensive federal law that applies to all service members across all branches: the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force.

Whether active duty, reservist, or even in some cases, retired personnel, individuals affiliated with the military are subject to the UCMJ’s jurisdiction, even for offenses committed off-base or unrelated to official duties.

Understanding the nuances of military law is crucial for any service member facing legal challenges in Florida. Unlike civilian criminal proceedings, military justice prioritizes good order and discipline within the armed forces. Navigating UCMJ offenses requires specialized knowledge, making the selection of an experienced Florida military defense lawyer paramount.

These legal professionals are adept at handling the unique complexities of military court-martial defense and other disciplinary actions that can profoundly impact a service member’s career and future.

II. Common Types of Military Law Cases

Service members in Florida may encounter a variety of legal challenges within the military justice system. These cases often demand highly specialized legal representation due to their unique procedures and potential for severe career-altering consequences. Key categories of military law cases include:

• Court-Martials: These are formal military trials for more serious offenses. They are categorized into three types:
  • Summary Court-Martial: For minor offenses, often involving a single commissioned officer as judge and jury.
  • Special Court-Martial: For intermediate-level offenses, comparable to a civilian misdemeanor or lesser felony, with potential for significant penalties.
  • General Court-Martial: Reserved for the most serious UCMJ violations, similar to civilian felonies, with the broadest range of punishments, including dishonorable discharge and significant confinement.
• Article 15 / Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP) / Captain’s Mast: These are non-judicial disciplinary actions imposed by a commanding officer for minor offenses, offering a quicker and less formal alternative to a court-martial. While less severe, they can still result in loss of pay, reduction in rank, or extra duty, impacting a service member’s record. Fighting an NJP as a Florida-based service member requires strategic legal advice.
• Administrative Separation Boards / Boards of Inquiry: These proceedings determine whether a service member should be involuntarily separated from the military, often due to misconduct, unsatisfactory performance, or other reasons. The outcome can profoundly affect veteran benefits and civilian employment.
• Specific UCMJ Offenses: Lawyers frequently defend against charges under particular articles, such as Article 120 (Sexual Assault), Article 128 (Assault), and Article 112a (Drug Offenses). Defending against Article 120 UCMJ sexual assault charges in Florida is particularly complex and requires a nuanced approach.
• Conduct Offenses: Articles like Article 133 (Conduct Unbecoming an Officer and a Gentleman) and Article 134 (General Article) cover a broad range of misconduct not specifically enumerated elsewhere in the UCMJ.
• Reprimands (e.g., GOMORs) and Command Investigations: These are formal administrative actions that can be highly detrimental to a service member’s career progression, often requiring a strong defense to mitigate their impact.

For service members facing these serious accusations, understanding the specific charges and the implications for their military and civilian future is critical.

III. Why Florida Service Members Need an Experienced Civilian Military Defense Lawyer

When facing charges under the UCMJ, the decision to hire an experienced civilian military defense lawyer can be one of the most critical choices a service member makes, especially for those stationed at Florida bases like MacDill AFB, NAS Jacksonville, or Eglin AFB. While military-appointed counsel (JAG) provides a vital service, a civilian attorney offers distinct advantages that can significantly impact the outcome of a case.

Firstly, civilian lawyers operate entirely independently of the command structure. Unlike JAG attorneys, whose careers are within the military, civilian counsel faces no real or perceived pressure from the military chain of command. This independence ensures their sole loyalty is to the client, allowing them to pursue the most aggressive defense strategies without fear of professional repercussions within the military system. This objectivity is paramount when defending against serious charges.

Secondly, civilian attorneys often bring extensive experience and a specialized focus to military cases. Many have prior experience as JAGs or have dedicated their entire careers to military justice, providing them with a deep understanding of the UCMJ, military regulations, and the unique culture of the armed forces. They can offer a fresh perspective and often possess a broader range of legal resources and expert networks.

Their strategic focus is entirely on achieving the best possible outcome for their individual client, rather than balancing the needs of the service with individual defense. They can also provide comprehensive legal support for related issues that cross between military and civilian law.

Crucially, the UCMJ explicitly grants service members the right to hire civilian legal counsel at their own expense. Exercising this right provides legal assistance for Florida-based active-duty personnel that is confidential, unbiased, and dedicated to protecting their rights, careers, and freedoms. For those seeking a Florida court-martial civilian attorney or a military defense lawyer near NAS Pensacola, an independent civilian counsel is often the most effective route to a favorable trial outcome or resolution.

IV. Prominent Military Defense Lawyers Who Handle Florida Cases

Florida hosts numerous vital military installations, including MacDill Air Force Base, NAS Jacksonville, Eglin Air Force Base, NAS Pensacola, Naval Station Mayport, Homestead Air Reserve Base, Patrick Space Force Base, and Tyndall Air Force Base. Service members stationed at or living near these bases can seek representation from highly regarded civilian military defense attorneys who regularly handle UCMJ cases across the state and worldwide.

• Michael Waddington, Esq. – Gonzalez & Waddington, LLC

  Based in: Weston, FL / Worldwide

  Website: https://www.ucmjdefense.com

  Phone: 1-800-921-8607

  Summary: A highly respected military trial lawyer, Michael Waddington has defended hundreds of high-profile court-martial cases, including those involving combat war crimes, Article 120 sexual assault, and classified national security matters. He is known for his aggressive defense strategies.

• Alexandra González-Waddington, Esq. – Gonzalez & Waddington, LLC

  Based in: Weston, FL / Worldwide

  Website: https://www.ucmjdefense.com

  Phone: 1-800-921-8607

  Summary: A former public defender and skilled courtroom litigator, Alexandra González-Waddington is a nationally recognized expert in defending sex crimes, addressing toxic command environments, and handling wrongful separations, particularly those involving false accusations.

• Patrick Korody, Esq. – Korody Law, P.A.

  Based in: Jacksonville, FL

  Website: https://www.korodylaw.com

  Phone: 904-383-7261

  Summary: Patrick Korody is an experienced military defense lawyer serving service members in Florida and beyond. He has a strong focus on UCMJ cases, including court-martials and administrative actions, offering dedicated representation to clients at various Florida military installations, including NAS Jacksonville and NAS Pensacola.

• Michael Hanzel, Esq. – The Hanzel Law Firm

  Based in: Florida / Worldwide

  Website: https://www.hanzellawfirm.com

  Phone: (843) 202-4714

  Summary: A former Navy Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps officer, Michael Hanzel brings extensive active-duty experience to his military defense practice. He provides compassionate yet aggressive legal support to service members facing criminal charges and UCMJ violations across all branches, including those stationed at Florida bases.

• David Donet, Esq. – Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A.

  Based in: Coral Gables, FL

  Website: https://www.dmtlaw.com

  Phone: 305-444-0030

  Summary: David Donet is part of a legal team providing representation in all areas of military law, serving service members in the South Florida area and throughout the United States. His firm specializes in defending courts-martial, Article 15s, administrative separations, and military investigations.

• Timothy Bilecki, Esq. – Bilecki Law Group

  Based in: Tampa, Florida

  Website: https://www.bileckilawgroup.com

  Summary: Timothy Bilecki leads a firm recognized for its aggressive and experienced defense in high-stakes military cases. With a focus on UCMJ punitive articles, including Article 120 sexual assault, his team represents service members worldwide, including those in Florida, through court-martials, NJP, and adverse administrative actions.

• Robert G. Collins, Esq. – Weaver, Weaver & Collins, P.A.

  Based in: Shalimar, FL (serving Florida installations)

  Website: https://wwcattorneys.com/military-issues

  Phone: 850-939-5299

  Summary: A retired Army Reserves military Judge Advocate with over thirty-nine years of military service, Robert G. Collins provides consultation and counsel for military personnel and their spouses. His firm assists with a wide range of military issues, including court-martials, particularly at bases like Eglin Air Force Base, Hurlburt Field, and NAS Pensacola.