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 Army E-7
Outstanding Services
"An accusation of sexual assault or Assault and Battery is a major life-changing event for any military service member. As a Senior NCO with over 20 years, you will be ignored, looked at like you are guilty before you even have a trial. DoD-provided Trial defense lawyers; you'll be told to "just wait" or "stand by" until things get to the worst possible point and then offered a Chapter 10 to speed up the process of getting you out losing everything you worked for. If you’re a fighter for what you earned in your career and family life. I highly recommend you hire a dedicated professional like Michael Waddington and his team. My investigation started in November 2019 and then charged in September 2020 causing extreme life stressors. The process of locating a civilian lawyer is also not intuitive, as many of the websites are misleading or confusing. Again, consider what your life is worth to you. Consider the lifelong repercussions of a dishonorable or other-than-honorable discharge, and realize that you will not be able to fight the vast resources of the U.S. Government alone. The Waddington team actually answers their phones. They text back in a timely manner. They will review all the evidence, even as it continues to change and grow over time, and they will construct the best possible case to save your life. Expenses may seem like a lot of money, but I know to this day that it's some of the best money I have ever spent. Do yourself a favor; before talking to anyone, hire Michael Waddington." (US Army E-7).
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US Navy E-7
Difficult Situation
"In May 2023 I found myself in a frightening situation. I had been notified by NCIS that I was being investigated and immediately began to spiral. I reached out to a few attorneys online and was not super impressed. A week after being notified and my mental health is suffering. Finally, I called the Waddingtons and was put in contact with Alexandra.. one of the first things she told me was that I had to take care of myself and to stay off Google (too late). None of the attorneys that I had spoken with to this point seemed to understand me as a service member who was in a bad situation AND a person. Alexandra got it. After speaking with her (also very bright-she seemed to have a plan right away), I knew the Waddingtons were the legal help I was going to use. The resolution of my case was really the best possible outcome (didn’t go to court martial-general discharge-adsep). I was prepared to take the Waddingtons as far in this case as necessary and was confident having them backing me. Just for the sake of your peace of mind, call them and let them help you!" (US Navy E-7).
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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 Army E-4
Top notch legal counselor
"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).
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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 Army Cadet
Mr. Waddington saved my career
"I was falsely accused of abusive sexual contact while attending a military service academy. The investigation started the summer before my final year. During this time, I was in a very dark place. Although my commission and graduation were in jeopardy, I did not tell my parents until the holiday break. My parents wanted to look outside the military for a quality defense lawyer. We spoke with New York law firms and some lawyers we found online. We decided to hire Gonzalez and Waddington. A few other reviews mentioned that the Waddington’s were expensive. However, they were much less expensive than the New York lawyers that we talked to. They also had much more experience than the other law firms we interviewed. A few New York lawyers quoted my family over $150,000 for a trial, plus expenses. The Waddington firm cost much less, which surprised us a little. Trust me; they were well worth it. At first, I had faith in the system. Then, I realized the investigators assumed I was guilty when they did not interview many people who were favorable to me. When I heard from my friends that the investigators were trying to get my classmates to change their testimony, I knew they were gunning for me. After we hired them, Mr. Waddington worked closely with me to build a timeline, collect evidence, and assemble a list of witnesses. They gave me "homework," which kept me active and engaged in my case. When I called, they listened to me and gave me hope. I could tell that they cared about me and my situation. Mr. Waddington explained that I was a key witness, so I documented as many details as possible. He guided me through the process, working together to build my defense. We decided to keep critical information hidden (texts, photos, statements) from the prosecution until the right time. Instead, we captured as much evidence as possible to use later. When the time came, Mr. Waddington used the information we gathered with great skill. He exposed the lies and holes in the prosecutor's case. Finally, the Waddington's cleared my name and reputation. Thankfully, I was commissioned and am on my way to a successful career. I owe my life and career to Michael and Alexandra. My family is forever grateful." (US Army Cadet).
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US Army E-7
David to the Governments Goliath
"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).
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US Army E-5
If you’re reading this you’ve done your research.
"If you’re looking for attorneys that don’t back down you’ve came to the right place. I was facing 3x sexual assault charges and 3x assault charges if it wasn’t for Mr.Waddington and his wife I’d be in prison. TDS Army attorney wanted me to say I was guilty and telling me I was going to prison. Mr.Waddington went in that court room and took control the prosecution didn’t know what to do. I can’t thank them enough any questions I had were answered. Without a doubt worth every penny. The panel took about 45 min to come out NOT GUILTY." (US Army E-5).
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US Army E-3
Forever grateful mother
"I hired Michael and Alexandra Waddington to represent my son for an Article 120 case at Fort Hood. When my son called and broke the news, we knew we were in for a heck of a fight. From the beginning, the Army came after him with all their might. Aside from his squad leader, everyone abandoned him. After a few months of stress and getting nowhere with the Army lawyer, our family hired Michael and Alexandra. I was very happy with the responsiveness to our phone calls and texts. They worked together as a team and kept us updated. They really cared about the best interest of my son. After a year long struggle, I am happy to say that my son was able to finish his service and get out with an honorable discharge and without a criminal record. The Waddington's cleared his name and reputation. We are forever grateful." (US Army E-3).
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US Air Force E-4
The Truth Uncovered
"Mr. Waddington‘s attention to detail and thoroughness overly exceeded our initial expectations. From the very beginning, Mr. Waddington displayed the highest level of integrity and genuinely cared about his client; our son. His experience and expertise in defending these type of sexual assault cases became very apparent and comforting as he gathered, compiled, and studied the facts of the case. Mr. Waddington‘s defense was so compelling that the prosecution in our son’s case did not even present evidence in the General Court Martial. His knowledge preparation and genius are second to none. We trusted him with the most precious thing in our lives; our son. The stakes were extremely high and Mr. Waddington came through in the most impressive way. We give thanks to God for his mighty deeds done in and through Mr. Waddington and his entire defense team. He turned our mourning into dancing. We highly recommend Mr. Waddington as a defense attorney." (US Air Force E-4).
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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.