The experienced military attorneys at Gonzalez & Waddington have earned a reputation for representing service members worldwide at Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard installations. If you are stationed in West Point, NY, and are suspected of a military offense, then retaining the most experienced military lawyer can be the difference between losing your case versus winning it or saving your career. Our court martial defense lawyers represent West Point, NY, service members in both UCMJ and administrative matters, including defending military service members accused of sexual assault, rape, and other crimes under military law.
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We defend criminal cases throughout Florida (Military, Federal & State) & Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard cases worldwide.
This film perfectly exemplifies why you should retain the best defense attorneys possible.
Our criminal defense attorneys defend false accusations of rape, child abuse, and sexual assault under Articles 120 UCMJ, 120b UCMJ, and 120c UCMJ.
Unlike most civilian military lawyers or your free military attorney, pleading guilty is not something we commonly recommend. When our lawyers take a case, we force the military to prove their case. We take almost every case to trial and fight the allegations before a panel.
CLIENT REVIEWS
Rated 5 out of 5 stars based on 146 customer reviews.
US Air Force E-4
Representation unparraled
"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).
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US Army E-8
Second Chance
"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).
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US Army E-6
Top Tier Representation
"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).
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US Navy E-7
Best Defense Lawyer. Period!
"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).
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US Navy O-5
Top Notch Legal Counsel
"Alexandra is an outstanding military defense lawyer and a wonderful person. My case was quite difficult because I had a 23-year career on the line and I was deployed. I felt like my command hung me out to dry. I needed a criminal lawyer that knew the Navy system and had the experience and wisdom to guide me through the landmines I faced. I also needed someone to get the command to back off and give me a fair investigation. I called Alexandra late one evening on a weekend and hired her the next day. She immediately went to bat for me and got me through this with full retirement and dignity intact. Thank you, Alexandra." (US Navy O-5).
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US Army E-5
Saved my life
"The Waddington’s saved my life! If I would have used a military appointed “TDS” attorney I would have been in jail. The military lawyer told me without even reviewing the case to take a plea deal. As soon as Michael got on board he handled everything professionally and timely! The quality of work this family puts into a case is unparalleled! Michael ensured I got the fairest possible trial with all the proper legal defense I was entitled to. He advised me every step of the way. Michael exposed all the corruption and lies from CID the prosecutors and my command team as well as the person who made the allegations against me. No stone was left unturned! Don’t chance it with the military they will lie and lie and lie and get you thrown in jail. Call Michael immediately and sleep easy at night knowing that the Waddington’s are on it! Outstanding professional no nonsense down to earth people and even better attorneys! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!" (US Army E-5).
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US Air Force O-5
NOT GUILTY! Lt Col w/23 years sent to a General Court Martial for positive Urinalysis, do not fight this battle alone!
"I was facing 2 counts of UCMJ 112a, being a convicted felon, up to 10 years in prison and a dismissal. When I was arrested, I was completely shocked and knew that I needed counsel and not to say anything, but that was the extent of my knowledge. I had never been in trouble and now I am being told, I will lose everything. I am a single parent, facing not only losing my retirement, but my VA benefits, even my house. I did my research, took a long look at everything I could find, I didn’t want a good lawyer, I wanted the very best lawyer there is. When comparing up to $4 million in retirement benefits and paying up to $50,000 to have your life back, you do not “skimp” on getting good enough. You get the absolute most experienced, best trial council there is, that is Michael Waddington. The government only needs probably cause to take you to a general court martial, a positive urinalysis is that probable cause. I did not hire Mr. Waddington to find me a plea deal, I hired Mr. Waddington because he is the very best trial defense lawyer there is. There was not a close second that I found. He is routinely ranked in the top 100 lawyers in the country, he has defended more federal cases, actually fought it out in court, than anyone I could find. Do not take being charged by the government lightly. The government has unlimited resources and time. Do not try to beat the government alone, get someone who will fight for you, someone who does this job only for service members, get someone with honor and integrity, get Michael Waddington. Everyone wants to win, I was more concerned about that than how, but Michael Waddington did it above board, by the book, with integrity and defended me in a way that impressed the prosecution, the judge and the 8 Colonels on the panel. Michael is an honest person, an excellent lawyer, and someone you will never regret hiring. He is one of the good guys, trust him completely, he will not let you down. After 24 years of service, I am going to retire honorably and get to watch my kids grow up and I owe it to Michael Waddington." (US Air Force O-5).
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US Army E-7
Top Notch Lawyer with a Heart
"I consulted with Alexandra about an ongoing CID investigation that I had been dealing with for over a year. In my situation, I had an affair with a woman that became my stalker after I stopped returning her calls and texts. Given the current victim SHARP climate in the Army, I should have hired a lawyer much earlier instead of going with TDS. After my first conversation with Alexandra I decided to hire her firm. I am glad that I did. She gave me very realistic advice and listened to my side. Other lawyers I talked to we negative and judgmental. Alexandra gave me a sense of hope during a dark period of my life. Alexandra put together a plan of action for the court martial that was coming. We were able to do a cell phone extraction using Mr Roloff a digital expert that she recommended. Thankfully, we recovered a lot of helpful information, like photos and text messages from the woman falsely accusing me of sexual assault. Her advice and the info we got off of my cell phone were enough to get my false accuser to back down before charges were filed. I was able to continue with my life and career thanks to Alexandra. I recommend her for anyone that is falsely accused of a sex crime in the Army." (US Army E-7).
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US Coast Guard E-6
Saved Coast Guard Career
"I retained the services of Alexandra Waddington as my defense attorney in July 2022 and couldn't be happier with her representation in my false sexual assault case. Alexandra's knowledge of military law was impressive and she effectively communicated the details of my case to me. She provided reliable legal advice and was always accessible for any questions. Through her hard work and expertise, Alexandra secured my freedom and future. I highly recommend her as a top-notch criminal defense lawyer, with unparalleled dedication to her clients. Ultimately, she succeeded in getting my charges dismissed before trial, allowing me to continue with my Coast Guard career." (US Coast Guard E-6).
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US Air Force E-7
Justice Was Served
"Mr. Waddington and his team are a true powerhouse duo! I was facing three charges: Article 120, w/2x specifications, Article 128b, w/2x specifications, and Article 128, w/1x specification. All these charges combined was enough jail time for two lifetimes. I knew I needed a professional with experience under the laws of the UCMJ. My ex-wife is a master manipulator. She convinced several officers, OSI agents, adult protective services, child protective services and her entire prosecution team they had a solid case moving forward. Mr. Waddington helped me gather and analyze information that supported the case. His thinking outside the box created new ways to relay information to the court. Waddington and González have extensive knowledge in dealing with Article 120 cases and their expertise ensured the outcome was favorable. They recommended and hired key experienced doctors to examine evidence providing critical insight to the lies and manipulation being alleged. Three days into the court martial the prosecution realized based on the extensive evidence we compiled that it was in the best interest of my ex-wife to tell the truth before she severely perjured herself on the stand. My ex-wife decided not to participate resulting in all charges being dismissed. Waddington and González's professional team have given me the opportunity to finish my last couple years in the Air Force and to retire without any repercussions to my career. Thanks to Mr. Waddington and his team justice was served. He saved my life." (US Air Force E-7).
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Our military court martial victories speak for themselves. The suspected service member and his or her well-being is our principal concern. Our military defense attorneys keep smaller caseloads than the typically assigned defense lawyer so that we can concentrate on every trial individually. Your trial will not be delegated to a third party, and we will not coerce you into pleading guilty at the eleventh hour. Our military lawyers have successfully defended military court martial and ADSEP cases in the United States and worldwide.
West Point, NY Court Martial Lawyers
Our experienced court martial lawyers will use our experience to fight your court martial or administrative separation (ADSEP) case in West Point, NY.
Call today to consult with a high-powered court martial attorney.
Military service members working in West Point, NY, merit the best military lawyers possible to defend them at their trial or administrative separation (ADSEP) hearing.
If you or a loved one are stationed in West Point, NY, and are suspected of a UCMJ offense such as sex assault or if you are dealing with an administrative discharge, Article 15, elimination board, or reprimand, then contact our military defense attorneys today.
West Point, NY: The Real Point for All Things Military
West Point, NY, is in the Town of Highlands in Orange County. It was established in the year 1802 by Thomas Jefferson as a federal military reserve. It occupies an area of about 16000 acres, including the campus area occupied by the famed ‘United States Military Academy’ often known as just ‘The Point’. Considered to be a part of the New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA Metropolitan Statistical Area and the larger New York-Newark, NY-NJ-CT-PA Combined Area in a statistical context, its population comprises 6,763 people according to the 2010 census report.
Key Highlights of West Point, NY
West Point, formerly Fort Clinton, was a heavily reinforced site during the days of the Revolutionary War. It was administered by a group of continental army men throughout the war. In fact, this area was strategically used to place an iron chain across the river Hudson to make it difficult for the British naval forces to travel up the river. One can see various examples of revolutionary-era military establishments, some of which, like Fort Putnam, are still preserved today.
It is also known as the site of the most daring act of betrayal ever committed on American soil. Benedict Arnold, a general, had connived with the British Army. Promised as a bribe of the position of a Brigadier General of the British Army and a sum of -20,000, he wanted to turn over the site to the British. However, his plans were foiled when the Americans captured John Andre, a major with the British Army as a spy.
West Point is a popular tourist destination owned to its rich historical importance as a military site since the Revolutionary War. Visitors to the academy must take guided tours available from the West Point Visitors Center every day except during major holidays, football, or student graduation days. These tours are operated by an exclusive tour operator, West Point Tours, which operates individual and group tours of the academy and the surrounding museum, student chapel, cemetery, Fort Putnam, etc. Being a secured military establishment, all visitors must always carry their IDs, and entry is usually restricted to guided tours.
Military Significance
The United States Military Academy has been training and educating military soldiers and leaders of the nation for the past 200 years. It has state-of-the-art sports and training facilities along with academic halls, all of which have only added to its significance as one of the most famous Military Academies in the whole world.
Some of the notable departments in the base academy are:
Brigade Tactical Department
Department of Military Instruction
Department of Physical Instruction
Simon Center for the Professional Military Ethic
The Center for the Army Profession and Ethic
West Point in the United States is famed as the oldest continuously running military establishment and includes the country`s earliest military academy.
At West Point, the military is actively been conducting many new research activities with the help of its various centers. They are affiliated with the Institute for Innovation and Development (IID), which provides infrastructural and administrative support to help ameliorate the country`s most pressing and challenging problems. In addition to applied research, other centers help support the various aspects of the USMA mission in the United States. These centers are just one of the alternate ways in which West Point directly networks with the army and the nation as a whole.
West Point is a real jewel on the crown amongst our nation’s military academies.