Legal Defenses for Violent Crimes Under the UCMJ
Gonzalez & Waddington, Attorneys at Law is a globally recognized law firm that defends U.S. military personnel accused of violent crimes under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Allegations of assault, aggravated assault, domestic violence, attempted murder, manslaughter, and related charges can destroy a career and result in years of confinement, loss of rank, and dishonorable discharge. Our legal team is trusted to defend those who stand accused when the stakes are highest.
Michael Waddington and Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington are elite military defense lawyers and UCMJ trial experts who have successfully defended clients around the world against some of the most serious allegations of violence. Whether you’re charged under Articles 118, 119, 128, 128b, or 134, we know how to dissect the government’s case, challenge forensic evidence, impeach witnesses, and build an aggressive counter-narrative to win in court.
- We defend cases involving aggravated assault, attempted murder, strangulation, domestic violence, and wrongful death allegations.
- We represent service members charged under UCMJ Articles 118 (Murder), 119 (Manslaughter), 128 (Assault), and 128b (Domestic Violence).
- We build defenses using expert witnesses, psychological evaluations, self-defense theories, accidental injury explanations, and mistaken identity claims.
- We challenge command bias, flawed law enforcement investigations, coercive interrogations, and illegally obtained statements.
- We travel worldwide to defend military clients at general courts-martial, Article 32 hearings, and pretrial boards.
If you’re facing violent crime charges under the UCMJ, contact Gonzalez & Waddington. We defend warfighters and service members in the toughest fights—on and off the battlefield.
Violent Crimes Under the UCMJ – Frequently Asked Questions
What types of violent crimes are prosecuted under the UCMJ?
Common violent crime charges include aggravated assault (Article 128), domestic violence (Article 128b), manslaughter (Article 119), attempted murder, murder (Article 118), and assault with a deadly weapon. These charges can carry decades of confinement and punitive discharges.
What defenses are available in violent crime cases?
Defenses may include self-defense, defense of others, accidental injury, mistaken identity, false accusations, provocation, mental health issues, and lack of intent. Our firm builds these defenses using evidence, experts, and rigorous cross-examination of government witnesses.
Can I win a violent crime case at court-martial?
Yes. Many service members win acquittals or receive reduced findings when defended by experienced military counsel. Our team has won verdicts in some of the most complex and aggressive UCMJ prosecutions involving violent crimes.
What should I do if I’m under investigation for a violent offense?
Do not speak to law enforcement or your command without a lawyer. Invoke your Article 31(b) rights and seek legal counsel immediately. Early mistakes can be fatal to your defense, especially in serious cases with physical evidence or alleged victim statements.
Will Gonzalez & Waddington travel to my base?
Yes. We represent military clients worldwide—including at bases in the U.S., Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. We appear in person for court-martials, Article 32 hearings, and high-level defense planning meetings.
Facing allegations under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) is never easy, especially when the charges involve violent crimes. If you or someone you care about is in this situation, it’s important to understand the role a strong Violent Crimes Defense can play in protecting your rights, career, and future. Accusations of violent behavior such as assault, murder, or domestic violence carry extremely serious consequences. Beyond the legal penalties, service members may face long-term damage to their reputation and military standing. That’s why it’s critical to comprehend your defense options and work with experienced legal counsel. An effective Violent Crimes Defense focuses on challenging evidence, exploring legal justifications, and ensuring that your side of the story is told clearly. In this article, we’ll explore what this defense entails, why it’s so critical in military contexts, and how to navigate the process with confidence.
Clarifying What a Violent Crimes Defense Involves
Under the UCMJ, a Violent Crimes Defense refers to legal strategies aimed at defending military personnel accused of physical offenses such as assault, manslaughter, sexual assault, robbery, or attempted murder. In military law, these crimes are treated seriously due to their potential to impact order and discipline within the ranks. A defense involves contesting the validity of the charges, presenting alternative narratives, identifying procedural missteps, or arguing justifiable use of force where applicable.
For instance, if a service member is accused of assault during a training exercise, their defense might argue that the contact was consensual or unintentionally escalated during a high-tension situation. Another example could involve a domestic violence charge where the accused claims self-defense after being attacked. These are highly sensitive cases that require careful legal navigation, a solid understanding of military law, and an aggressive defense strategy built on facts and context.
Why a Strong Defense Strategy for Violent Crimes Is So Important
The stakes in a Violent Crimes Defense are extraordinarily high. Military personnel can face a dishonorable discharge, prison time, rank demotion, and loss of benefits if convicted. In addition to these direct consequences, the emotional toll and reputational damage can follow a service member long after their case concludes. A proper defense ensures that all facts are fairly represented, and constitutional rights are protected throughout the process.
Without legal guidance, service members risk making incriminating statements, missing procedural defenses, or accepting plea deals that are not in their best interest. Injustice can occur, especially when complicated interpersonal dynamics or command climate issues are involved. Whether the accusation arises from a misunderstanding, a mishandled incident, or malicious intent, an effective defense helps clarify what really happened.
- A soldier involved in a bar fight off base could face assault charges and dishonorable discharge, even if they were protecting a fellow service member.
- A heated argument at home might escalate, leading to domestic violence accusations and immediate separation from their unit and family.
- A mistaken identity during a night operation could result in manslaughter charges if deadly force was applied in error.
A Closer Look at How Military Violent Crimes Defense Is Handled
- Step 1: The investigation begins with interviews, evidence collection, and potential confinement. This phase is led by law enforcement or command investigators. Your rights should be clearly explained, and any statements made can be used against you.
- Step 2: Charges are formally brought under appropriate UCMJ articles. A legal team will evaluate the prosecutor’s evidence to identify weaknesses or inconsistencies. Pretrial hearings may be held to determine admissibility of certain evidence.
- Step 3: The court-martial is conducted, often before a military judge or panel. The defense presents its case, challenges the prosecution’s version of events, and aims to introduce reasonable doubt about the alleged incident.
Expert Legal Advice for Handling Violent Charges in the Military
Your Questions Answered About Defending Violent Crime Charges in the Military
The Role Gonzalez & Waddington Plays in Your Defense
When facing violent crime allegations in a military court, enlisting the right legal team makes all the difference. Gonzalez & Waddington has extensive experience handling complex cases under the UCMJ. Their attorneys focus on defending military personnel around the globe, using thorough case preparation, skilled negotiation, and trial-tested advocacy techniques. From the first command inquiry to a full court-martial, they guide clients through every step of the process, staying fiercely protective of their rights and careers. Their reputation for securing favorable outcomes comes from their military background, legal insight, and attention to detail. Clients often express relief and renewed confidence after hiring their team, knowing the case is in trusted, capable hands.
Final Summary of What You Should Know About Violent Crimes Defense
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