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 Navy E-4
The best decision I have ever made
"From day 1 of talking to him over the phone and meeting him in person he always kept it light and answered any and all questions I had. He was amazing in trial with the cross examinations and reading the jury members even when we had information dumped on us last minute and witnesses change the statements they had made to NCIS. He gave me a second chance in a case that had been going on for over 3 years that the prosecution was intent on burning me for. Never once did I feel hopeless or discouraged. Hiring him was the best decision I have ever made." (US Navy E-4).
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US Army O-2
A defense attorney that will even the odds
"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).
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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 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 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-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 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 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 O-5
Super grateful! Saved my career
"I have had the pleasure of working with Alexandra for the past year; she has done a remarkable job. Her expertise in military law is immediately evident, and her professionalism is second to none. But beyond that, Alexandra is a very warm and friendly person, making her a joy to work with. When I was facing allegations of abusive sexual contact in my final stretch of service in the military, Alexandra was able to reduce the charges to a simple Letter of Reprimand. She wisely counseled me not to submit a statement or rebuttal to the reprimand, as it would likely be used against me later. Alexandra then helped me avoid an administrative separation and retire with an Honorable Discharge, leaving my record as clean as possible. Throughout the process, she kept my best interest at the forefront while also considering my financial situation. In my experience with military lawyers, Alexandra is the one I would most highly recommend. I spoke to several lawyers before deciding on Alexandra and I am certain that it was the best decision I could have made."(US Air Force O-5).
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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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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.