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.
Call 1-800-921-8607
or
Fill out this form to speak with a criminal defense attorney.
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).
read moreread less
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).
read moreread less
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).
read moreread less
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).
read moreread less
US Marine Corps E-7
Positive Experience, Excellent Outcome
"I had an excellent experience working with Alexandra. When my bitter ex-wife falsely accused me of abusing her and my children, my life almost came to an end. Immediately, the military turned on me and blocked me from seeing my kids. It took me almost two years to get justice. I could not have done it without Alexandra. From the start, she was incredibly attentive, kind, and knowledgeable. She took the time to explain everything to me until I understood fully. I deeply appreciated how honest she was about the laws, the facts of the case, and the many potential outcomes. She was trustworthy and had a good follow-through. I felt legally protected and had peace of mind for the first time in many months. Her advice was spot on, and she guided me through the military justice system and family advocacy process. Because of Alexandra, I saved my career, cleared my name, and got to see my children after a long 18 months. I had a very positive experience with her and the firm, and I strongly recommend Alexandra when the military and your command abandon you and you want justice." (US Marine Corps E-7).
read moreread less
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).
read moreread less
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).
read moreread less
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).
read moreread less
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).
read moreread less
US Air Force O-3
OSI got shredded on cross examination
"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).
read moreread less
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.