Guam Military Defense Lawyers – Court Martial Attorneys
Elite UCMJ & Court-Martial Defense for Service Members Stationed in Guam
Guam is one of the most strategically important U.S. territories in the Pacific. With major installations such as Andersen Air Force Base, Naval Base Guam, and the Joint Region Marianas, thousands of service members support critical missions involving missile defense, Indo-Pacific operations, and forward-deployed readiness. Because of the island’s high visibility and its central role in U.S. regional posture, commanders respond aggressively to any allegations of misconduct.
If you are under investigation or facing court-martial in Guam, your case will be shaped by the unique pressures of being stationed on a remote island with heightened political sensitivity. NCIS, OSI, CID, and local naval security forces often assume guilt first and build the narrative around that assumption. You need experienced military defense lawyers who understand Guam’s legal environment and can protect you against an aggressive and often biased investigative climate.
Gonzalez & Waddington, Attorneys at Law is one of the world’s most experienced military defense firms. We have defended service members throughout the Pacific for more than 20 years and understand how UCMJ cases unfold on remote bases like Guam.
Why UCMJ Allegations in Guam Are Especially Serious
The isolation of Guam, combined with the island’s strategic role in the Indo-Pacific, leads to fast-moving investigations and command decisions. Even minor accusations can spark major legal consequences.
- Commands want to avoid any perception of indiscipline on a strategic island
- NCIS and OSI investigators assume guilt early to avoid criticism
- Local civilian authorities may coordinate or investigate under territorial law
- Rumors spread quickly in the small military community
- Administrative actions such as separation boards and reprimands are fast tracked
- Security clearance suspensions are common even without solid evidence
Allegations in Guam often escalate rapidly due to command pressure and the small, interconnected community.
Common UCMJ Charges in Guam
Many cases in Guam arise from off-base nightlife, relationship conflicts, barracks issues, and misunderstandings involving local residents.
- Article 120 – Sexual assault and rape allegations
- Article 128b – Domestic violence and partner disputes
- Article 112a – Drug use or possession (including island-specific substances)
- Article 92 – Orders violations, fraternization, curfew, alcohol restrictions
- Article 121 – Larceny, fraud, BAH/OHA entitlement issues
- Article 107 – False official statements during NCIS/CID/OSI interviews
- Article 134 – Adultery, indecent conduct, online misconduct
- Off-Base Incidents – Fights, traffic events, allegations by local civilians
Administrative Actions in Guam
Commands often seek administrative measures first, especially when cases have diplomatic sensitivity or local media attention.
- Administrative Separation Boards – Fast-moving and often based on limited evidence
- Officer BOIs – Common for misconduct allegations or loss of confidence
- GOMORs & Reprimands – Used aggressively to document accusations
- Security Clearance Suspensions – Harmful to aviation, intel, nuclear, and logistics careers
- Command-Directed Investigations – AR 15-6, JAGMAN, IG, EO inquiries
Defense Strategies We Use in Guam
Guam-based cases require a strong understanding of island culture, command dynamics, investigative weaknesses, and cross-jurisdiction issues. Our defense strategies are built for the unique challenges of remote Pacific postings.
- Expose contradictory witness statements and inconsistencies
- Challenge NCIS/OSI investigative shortcuts or bias
- Use digital forensics to retrieve deleted messages and metadata
- Highlight cultural misunderstandings involving Guam’s civilian population
- Counter command influence and pressure to “make an example” of accused members
- Use expert witnesses in forensics, psychology, and toxicology
- Build narrative-driven defenses that resonate with court-martial panels
Why Service Members in Guam Choose Gonzalez & Waddington
Our global experience and proven record of courtroom victories make us the firm of choice for service members in Guam facing serious allegations.
- 20+ years of worldwide UCMJ defense
- Former Army JAG with Pacific and overseas trial experience
- Authors of leading books on cross-examination and trial strategy
- Known for dismantling weak government cases through aggressive advocacy
- Extensive experience with joint, naval, aviation, and expeditionary units
Contact Our Guam Military Defense Team
If you are stationed in Guam and are facing a UCMJ investigation, administrative action, or court-martial, time is against you. The government is already building a case. You need a powerful civilian defense team to level the playing field.
➤ Contact Gonzalez & Waddington for a Confidential Consultation
Guam Military Defense Lawyers – Frequently Asked Questions
Do NCIS, CID, or OSI operate differently in Guam?
Yes. Because Guam is isolated and politically sensitive, investigators often act aggressively and assume guilt early. This makes early legal representation essential.
Can Guam civilian police investigate U.S. service members?
Yes. Guam’s territorial police can investigate off-base incidents. Their reports are often used by military prosecutors, making early defense intervention crucial.
What UCMJ allegations are most common in Guam?
Frequent cases include sexual assault allegations, domestic disputes, drug accusations, larceny, online misconduct, and altercations involving local civilians. Many originate from nightlife or relationship conflicts.
Can I be administratively separated in Guam without being convicted?
Yes. Administrative separations in Guam are common and often based solely on allegations. A strong defense is necessary to protect your career.
Who are Michael and Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington?
They are internationally recognized military defense lawyers with decades of experience defending UCMJ cases across the Pacific, including Guam, Japan, and South Korea. They are known for aggressive, strategic courtroom advocacy and a long record of victories worldwide.