Serving in the United States Army? Facing a court-martial, UCMJ action, Administrative Separation Board, or other Adverse Administrative Action? Call our experienced Army military defense lawyers at 1-800-921-8607 for a free consultation.
Our military defense lawyers are among the most experienced and hard-hitting in the world. With an unparalleled track record, we provide aggressive, strategic defense tailored to each client’s unique situation. Trust us to fight relentlessly for your rights and deliver the best possible outcome.” (Michael Waddington, Military Defense Lawyer)
“I was an Army NCO and was about to be medically retired when my recently divorced ex-wife made serious allegations against me. I was terrified and didn’t know what to do. I spent a week trying to get a hold of TDS and received no response. I took my father’s advice and decided to find a civilian lawyer. I have to admit, I’ve never hired a criminal defense lawyer before, so I was a little bit overwhelmed by the number of lawyers out there. What caused me to choose Alexandra and her law firm was their videos and my initial consultation with her. She is the real deal. I was giving up hope, and she talked some sense into me. We came up with a plan, and she talked me through the process. She also took care of CID so they would stop harassing me. After a long investigation, the command took my wife’s side, even though her allegations were full of lies, and we had the proof. Knowing they would lose at a court-martial, the JAG persecutors tried to take me out with an administrative board, and they failed. Thanks to Gonzalez and Waddington, I won my board, and I’m now medically retired and living my best life.” (US Army E-7).
“I’m an active duty Army 1LT and I was wrongfully charged with two counts of Sexual Assault on a fellow Officer. I knew the odds were seriously stacked against me and the situation seemed truly hopeless. At first, I was hesitant to retain the Waddingtons given the cost of their representation but I ultimately decided on hiring Michael and his wife Alexandra for their legal services. This decision proved to be the best I have ever made. I was found not guilty of both charges and was fully acquitted. It is clear that both Michael and his wife truly care about their clients and will take the time to ensure you are prepared for your court-marshal. I believe their experience and professionalism made the difference in my case and I am confident I wouldn’t be writing this review had I solely went with TDS alone. They truly gave me a second chance at life and I would recommend them to anyone facing felony charges in the military. Don’t gamble with your future. You don’t want to look back on this decision wondering if things would have been different had you hired this team.” (US Army O-2).
“I first retained the Waddington’s back in 2018, when I filed for divorce after I caught my wife cheating on me. In retaliation, she falsely accused me of sexually assaulting her throughout our marriage and domestic violence. OSI did no investigation. None, other than to take my wife’s statement. They took her word as gold and dragged the investigation out over a year. I don’t know what took so long. My command turned on me instantly and sided with my ex-wife. They removed me from my job and assigned me to a menial job. They destroyed my 12-year career in the blink of an eye. At first, I was in shock. How could the Air Force turn on me after so many years? Then, I became bitter and depressed as the months wore on. A few months into the investigation, I hired Michael and Alexandra and instantly felt like a weight was lifted from my shoulders. Alexandra was my rock. I mainly dealt with her during the investigation. She gave me hope. By the time I was charged, I was ready to fight. I had gathered a lot of evidence to use in court during the investigation. When I got the preferred charges, I was glad to get it over with. By this point, my ex had dragged out our divorce for a year. She was using the false allegations against me in family court as leverage. Her corrupt Air Force victim’s lawyer and her divorce lawyer kept delaying the divorce, hoping to get a conviction so that she could take the kids, the house and get three years of victim compensation benefits. As we got ready for court, the Waddington’s and my ADC worked together seamlessly. By the time Michael flew in for trial, we were prepared for battle. In the court martial, it was no contest. The Air Force JAGs were no match for Michael, and they literally looked like fools as Michael ripped their witnesses apart. It was kind of entertaining. My ex-wife was a puppet in his hands. I thought the OSI agent was going to start crying on the witness stand when Michael exposed his incompetent investigation and bias. At the beginning of his cross examination, Michael asked him if “his investigation was thorough and complete.” The OSI agent said “yes.” Then, Michael exposed him for not following his own training and the OSI instruction. In the end, after exposing his biased investigation, all of the evidence he did not collect, the people he did not interview, , Michael asked him again, “so you still think your investigation was thorough and complete?” The agent’s face turned bright red, and he said “yes.” The jury rolled their eyes. During the trial, I was nervous, but I was also enjoying every moment of it. The jury found me NOT GUILTY, and I was a free man. Yes, I had to rebuild my life and reputation, but that is better than sitting in jail for a crime you did not commit. I am grateful that I hired Alexandra and Michael when I did and cannot recommend them enough.” (US Air Force O-3).
“I hired Alexandra when I was investigated by CID for abusive sexual contact, sexual harassment, and violation of a regulation. The TDS office was always closed because of COVID and they never answered the phone. But, it was a blessing in disguise because I found Gonzalez and Waddington online. From the start, Alexandra listened to my side and she guided me through a very difficult time. Just having someone to talk to and strategize with made all the difference. I truly believe that her wise advice and guidance saved me. It definitely kept me sane. Alexandra quickly returned my calls and texts and kept me motivated to fight to clear my name. Thankfully, after a 9 month investigation the case was closed out and my command decided against a court martial. Having Alexandra by my side made all the difference. It was money well spent.” (US Army E-4).
“I want to start by saying I am extremely satisfied with the work of Michael and Alexandra, you guys are an amazing team and I am so thankful for you both. I (Staff NCO in the Army) waited until 1 week before the Article 39 hearing to schedule a consultation with Michael and Alexandra; I wish I had done so from the beginning. I was dealing with a lot of psychological issues from the allegations, unanswered questions, and uncertainties. Bringing them onto my team provided immediate relief, they helped me to think clearly and focus on the goal of winning my case. In the weeks leading up to my Court martial, the Waddingtons and my detailed attorney revealed numerous inconsistencies. All I had to do at this point was show up and explain what actually happened. Naturally, lies don’t make sense especially when the are compounding on each other. This all held true during the court proceedings. Long story short, my accuser got on the stand and gave her well rehearsed testimony for the prosecutor. When Michael got up there to do cross, he was calm and slowly started peeling apart her layers and layers of deceit. There were dozens of inconsistencies, the majority of which were blatant lies or cover-ups and even crimes which were highlighted for the panel to see. The Court room is truly Michael’s domain. In the end I was acquitted of all charges and specifications. I was able to have a nice dinner with my family and talk about the future without prefacing “depends on how this court martial goes but”; that feels amazing. Hiring Michael and Alexandra was the best decision of my life, if you are in a similar situation get them on the phone asap. Some additional tips for whoever finds themselves here: -If you are being investigated by CID for allegations of violating article 120, do not wait around. Be pro-active, retain a great attorney and get to work. The Army will not provide you an assigned attorney until you have actually been charged with a crime; What if there is something in your case that could curtail the entire process? You wouldn’t even know and that’s how the Government likes it. Because they have every intention of charging you even if it’s solely based on the word of you accuser. -DO NOT talk to CID, do not confide in you Chain of Command. Don’t even discuss the details of your case with Mom, Dad, or best friend. -Your CO will issue a Military Protective Order as a “standard” thing. This will deny you certain liberties like purchasing and owning a firearm since it gets submitted to the FBI. Make sure to ask the question why your CO is processing an MPO without an expiration date, or as a matter of fact without any evidence. Seems unlawful to me, but this is all in retrospect because I ignorantly signed it as I had no real legal representation at the time it was issued. -You’ll be flagged the entire time, no way around this. Just continue to do your best at work, show them how resilient you are and contribute to the growth of your Company. Do not give them any excuse to label you a dirt bag, or worse stack on additional charges. Good luck.” (US Army E-6).
“First, if you are reading this stop and email the Waddington’s NOW! It will immediately give you a fighting chance. Second not all lawyers on the internet are the same, so be careful, Do your research and don’t settle for a sub par lawyer. My story is from a distinguished senior NCO, that was preparing to return to the USA from Germany, When I was falsely accused of rape and assault of my former step daughter (7 years removed) in violation of 120b & 128. My world immediately stopped and I was LABELED A CHILD Rapist for 21 months even tho I was supposed to be presumed innocent. After a very biased and incomplete CID investigation I found my self standing before a jury. The Waddington’s flew to Germany prepared and ready to fight. Mr. Waddington destroyed the Governments case one element at a time, even making ALL THE WITNESSES, admit they LIED in some form of capacity. The Government even used my CID Interview against me, even tho the whole time (5hrs) I said I didn’t do it. After three long days and the worst case of booty shaking-nerves, the verdict of not guilty of all accounts was announced after a 40 min deliberation. Bet you are wondering how not guilty right. Well the Waddington’s was able to investigate and found out that my former step daughter had become out of control and when she found out I was coming back and that her mother wanted to get back together she said I raped her. Over 21 months the Government did nothing to vindicate me the target was painted and they had their man. The Waddington’s did the due diligence to show I was innocent. So in short what I am trying to say is give yourself a chance no matter what the case maybe. If you think their price is steep imagine loosing everything or spending life behind bars because you went with a subpar lawyer. And for heavens sake SHUT UP, DONT TALK TO ANYONE, because they can and will use everything you say against you, even tho it was you denying it all!!! Thank you Mr. & Mrs Waddington you saved my life from heinous accusations. I’ll forever be grateful.” (US Army E-7).
“Best Defense Lawyers. Period. I first contacted Mr. Michael Waddington and Mrs. Alexandria Waddington right after my Command started an investigation into the CMEO report that was filed by a junior of mine. I first spoke with Mrs. Waddington and she advised me to make no statement and to retain them once charges were formally made. My Command however, conducted three investigations over the span of 5 months. During this time I was promoted, and then after the last and final investigation it nearly sealed the deal on my career, resulting in my Commanding Officer removing my hard earned promotion administratively and giving me two adverse evaluations. All of this was based on the investigation and the CO’s subsequent “Loss of Confidence.” The Command sent me TAD to the next higher Command while I waited to receive punishment. That day I called and retained the Waddington’s. Through multiple attempts my Command failed to return any correspondence to my counsel as to why for 3 whole months this had happened. I waited and desperately wanted to know what I was officially accused of since everything had been so quiet. I finally received notice of the investigation findings. They were heavily biased opinions stated as fact, fabricated stories and statements, significant questions as to why individuals were not questioned by the Investigating Officer. These all later proved to aid Mr. Michael Waddington into dismantling their whole case one character witness at a time. I refused NJP and then elected to do Courts-Martial and was subsequently given an Administrative Separation Board. I was completely unsure how this whole case would play out. My JAG assured me I was in good hands. Mr. Waddington was clearly in his element while arguing my case to the board. During that opening statement I knew right then and there that I definitely made the right choice to retain them. You can compare him to the side of the prosecution, but it wouldn’t be fair. The prosecution was clearly out matched. Their case was feeble, and if logic prevailed we would be victorious. The prosecution called no witnesses, submitted no further evidence, and Michael called them out on it. Even after multiple attempts to contact witnesses who made statements against me the Command and that witness made no attempt to communicate with the Waddington’s or show up to my board as requested. This didn’t look good for the prosecution. We submitted multiple character statements and called forth witnesses in person and via phone. Each witness questioned by Mr. Waddington showed more of my side of the story, and dismantled their case before I had even taken the stand. At Michael’s request I took the stand. I was confident, and ready to explain and answer any question. I did so and through my testimony the story was set straight. I finished testifying and the prosecution’s closing statement was so outshined by Mr. Waddington’s closing statement you completely forgot what the prosecution had said.. He is THE CLOSER. We left the room and the board deliberated for less than 30 minutes with a finding of NO MISCONDUCT. That was a great feeling. I am extremely glad and thankful I chose the Waddington’s to defend me, my career, and my future. If you need representation look no further. I would definitely seek their counsel in the future, and would refer them to anyone who would need their counsel. If you know you’re innocent, the Military will punish you first and ask questions later. Hit them hard, and keep what is yours!” (US Navy E-7).
“Let me start by saying that I was falsely accused of sexual assault by this crazy lady. My old CSM gave me the best advice at the moment; he told me to seek a civilian attorney and not talk to CID. The whole process was completed in 17 months. Charges were preferred at around 12 months. I immediately called Mr. and Mrs. Waddington. Once they decided to take on my case, I was happy because I believed I had a fighting chance against the US government. I saved all my messages between me and this crazy lazy and sent Mr. and Mrs. Waddington everything to show her erratic behavior. I hired one attorney, but I gained two exceptional attorneys. The Army issued me a TDS attorney a week before my Article 32 hearing which we waived. TDS attorney PCS two months before the trial date, I was assigned another TDS lawyer, and she was terrific. Now my legal was set, and I know it will be a battle. The Government dropped evidence on our lap 30 days out. Mr. Waddington called me. I explain my side of the story. The whole time Mr. and Mrs. Waddington treated me with dignity and respect and believed in my truth, always finding a way to make me feel at ease. Once again, my case went on for 17 months; it was a long, painful journey. You need someone like Mr. and Mrs. Waddington to represent you in this biased military justice system (UCMJ). The Government had every intention of trying to convict me of something I did not do, especially in this War against sexual assault. Mr. and Mrs. Waddington flew to Germany a week before the Trial, and we prepared to fight. The night before the Trial, this liar changes her story in version five. From the open statement, witness cross-examination to the closing statement, Mr. Waddington is FANTASTIC. The Army had their most senior and best on the case; however, Mr. Waddington was outclassed and outmatched; it was not even close. Mr. Waddington caught this lady on every lie while on the stand. He asked the right questions and argued only relevant things. The Government did not present a CID agent, Amberg police, DNA evidence, or any experts; let’s not forget a video that was missing the first five minutes. The prosecutor says members of the Jury, all these things are irrelevant. We don’t want to waste your guy’s time presenting this nonsense. The truth came out in the courtroom, and after four hours of waiting on deliberation, NOT GUILTY!!!!!!!! I stood in the position of attention and cried so hard for 17 months, and it was over on the day of my 17th year in the Army; Mr. and Mrs. Waddington gave me a second chance at life. To end this, the military could care less if you get accused of anything. Their goal is to get a conviction. Don’t hesitate to call The Waddington’s. It will be money well spent; I promise you will make that money.” (US Army E-8).
“This man understood that he has a son in the military & would never want this to ever happen to his son. He didn’t talk down to me he talked to me as if I was an equal to him as if he has been through life an understands that this can happen to anyone. I can honestly talk all day of the great person Mr. & Mrs Waddington are so happy A.H. introduced me to you an we got this taken care of I hope the best for you an your family thank you so much for everything.” (US Navy E-4).
“Mr and Mrs waddington represented me at a board for accusations of sexual assault kidnapping and assault as well as various other offenses. From the moment I was notified that I was going to a board I knew that my command was going to throw everything they could at me. I embarrassed them and they accused me of a crime I was innocent of. I knew I needed a great attorney .I ended up getting two great attorneys a husband and wife team. Whenever I had questions or needed information about my case Mrs. Waddington was on it. She responded lighting quick and was clear concise and very comforting. Together with Mr.Waddington they prepared for conflict. We did get that conflict and to say the prosecution was outgunned outclassed would be underselling it. From the moment Mr.Waddington first opened his voice and presence was commanding and powerful. Mr.Waddington did something that the prosecution did not do. He appealed to the boards common sense and used reason and logic to win over our case something the prosecutors were trying vehemently to suppress. When cross examination came for the special investigators of our case we were all in for a treat. Mr.Waddington took control of the court room and embarrassed a rookie agent and showed how poor and inadequate a job he had done investigating my allegations. He failed to investigate my allegations impartially and had the audacity to say after raising his right hand that he was impartial. Mr.Waddington asked the agent if he used the DOD regulations to investigate my accusation, this man who graduated from special agent school did not even know what the regulations were. It goes to show you how careless they investigated my case not even following there own regulations. When a young man’s life is in jeopardy you should know those regulations. After a three day battle at the board, we had our closings. The prosecutation failed to appeal to the boards emotion. They name called me belittled me and degraded me. Mr.Waddington did the opposite throughout the closing and the trial. He showed that I was a human being with hope’s and dreams. A young man who swore an oath to defend the constitution just like those on the board. He used logic common sense and reasoning which the government just did not have. His Closing was powerful and straight to the point. The board deliberated and came back with all counts being unfounded. Let me tell you there were a lot of counts. It was incredible and reinvigorated me, a guy that at one point was down and out for the count. Mr and Mrs waddington thank you for what you did for me and what you do for other service members I will never forget it.” (US Air Force E-4).
The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) serves as the foundational legal framework governing the conduct of military personnel in the United States Army and other branches of the armed forces. Enacted to maintain discipline, order, and justice within the military, the UCMJ covers many offenses and procedural rules for handling violations. Army UCMJ and military defense lawyers play a crucial role in this system, ensuring that service members receive fair trials and legal representation.
The UCMJ was established by Congress in 1950, replacing earlier codes that varied between different military branches. It standardizes legal procedures and offenses across all branches, promoting uniformity and fairness. The UCMJ includes substantive laws defining criminal offenses and procedural laws outlining the steps for prosecuting and adjudicating these offenses. It applies to all active-duty military personnel, reservists, and, under certain circumstances, retired service members and civilians subject to military law.
Several common charges under the UCMJ can lead to court-martial proceedings, each varying in severity and potential consequences. Army court martial attorneys and military defense lawyers are essential in navigating these charges and defending the accused.
Sexual assault and rape are serious offenses under Article 120 of the UCMJ. These charges can encompass a range of behaviors, including non-consensual sexual acts, attempted assaults, and inappropriate contact. Convictions can result in severe penalties, including dishonorable discharge, confinement, and registration as a sex offender. Military defense lawyers work to challenge the evidence, establish consent, and ensure that the rights of the accused are protected.
Article 121 UCMJ deals with theft-related offenses, including larceny and wrongful appropriation of military or personal property. Convictions can lead to confinement, reduced rank, and forfeiture of pay. Court martial attorneys often scrutinize the evidence of ownership, intent, and value of the property involved to build a defense.
Assault charges under Article 128 can range from simple assault to aggravated assault involving a weapon or resulting in severe injury. Penalties can vary widely based on the circumstances and severity of the assault. Military defense lawyers focus on self-defense claims, the credibility of witnesses, and the intent behind the actions.
Drug-related offenses under Article 112a include the use, possession, distribution, or manufacture of controlled substances. Such charges can severely impact a service member’s career, leading to discharge and confinement. Court martial attorneys often challenge the procedures used in drug testing, chain of custody for evidence, and the intent behind possession or use.
Violations under Article 92 include the failure to obey lawful orders or regulations, dereliction of duty, and other acts of insubordination. These charges are crucial for maintaining military discipline and can result in significant penalties. Military defense lawyers aim to demonstrate compliance, miscommunication, or the unlawfulness of the order itself.
Article 134 serves as a catch-all for offenses not specifically covered elsewhere in the UCMJ but which are prejudicial to good order and discipline or bring discredit upon the armed forces. This can include conduct such as adultery, disorderly conduct, and fraternization. Court martial attorneys use their expertise to argue what constitutes prejudicial conduct or discredit.
Military defense lawyers and Army court-martial attorneys are critical in the military justice system, providing legal representation to service members facing UCMJ charges. These attorneys are well-versed in military law and procedures, ensuring that the rights of the accused are upheld throughout the investigative and judicial process. They conduct thorough investigations, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and develop defense strategies tailored to the specific circumstances of each case.
In Army court-martial proceedings, these lawyers challenge the prosecution’s evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and present exculpatory evidence. They also negotiate plea deals when appropriate and provide mitigation during sentencing to achieve the best possible outcome for their clients. The expertise and dedication of military defense lawyers are essential in maintaining the integrity of the military justice system and ensuring that service members receive fair and just treatment.
Gonzalez & Waddington is a law firm with extensive experience handling UCMJ cases. Their team of Miami, FL, military defense lawyers and court martial attorneys are committed to defending service members’ rights and achieving favorable outcomes in complex military legal matters. Whether facing charges under Article 120, Article 92, or any other UCMJ article, their expertise and dedication make them invaluable advocates for those who serve.