Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort Military Lawyers

For U.S. service members stationed at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, South Carolina, facing military criminal charges, a court-martial, or an administrative action under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), the stakes are incredibly high.

Your career, reputation, and freedom depend on securing immediate and aggressive legal representation. At Gonzalez & Waddington, LLC, our dedicated team of civilian military defense attorneys specializes in defending Marines and all other U.S. armed forces personnel at MCAS Beaufort and throughout the world.

Unwavering Defense for Marines at MCAS Beaufort

Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort (IATA: BFT, ICAO: KNBC, FAA LID: NBC) is a vital installation located approximately five kilometers northwest of Beaufort, South Carolina.

As one of the largest air bases in the United States, it spans an estimated 6,900 acres and is home to over 4,200 military personnel and 700 civilian employees. The base houses six Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornet fighter-attack squadrons and a Navy F-18 strike fighter squadron, making it a critical hub for aviation operations.

The primary mission of MCAS Beaufort is to support the Marine Corps by hosting Marine Aircraft Group 31 (MAG-31), an anti-air-warfare and air force support operation essential to Fleet Marine Forces.

Alongside MAG-31, MCAS Beaufort also comprises Marine Wing Support Squadron 273, Marine Air Control Squadron 2, and Combat Logistics Company 23. The nature of these high-stakes operations means that service members at MCAS Beaufort can face unique and complex legal challenges.

If you are a Marine, Sailor, Airman, Soldier, or Coast Guardsman at MCAS Beaufort and are under investigation or facing charges, do not wait.

Early intervention by an experienced military defense lawyer can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Our firm has decades of combined experience fighting court-martial cases, administrative proceedings, military separations, and non-judicial punishment (NJP) for service members both domestically and internationally.

Comprehensive Military Legal Services Offered in Beaufort, SC

Our team of Beaufort military defense attorneys is exceptionally qualified to aggressively defend and represent clients across all branches of the U.S. armed forces. We specialize in a wide array of legal services tailored to the unique needs of military personnel:

• Court-Martial Defense: Providing zealous defense for General, Special, and Summary Courts-Martial.
• Pre-Charging Investigation & Representation: Protecting your rights from the very outset of an investigation, before formal charges are even preferred.
• UCMJ Article 120 Sexual Assault Defense: Aggressive representation for allegations involving sexual assault, an area requiring specialized expertise and sensitivity.
• Show Cause Boards: Defending officers against involuntary separation proceedings.
• Administrative Separation Boards (ADSEP): Fighting to prevent involuntary discharge or to secure an honorable discharge.
• Article 15s & Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP): Providing counsel and representation for minor disciplinary actions that can still have significant career implications.
• Article 32 Investigations: Guiding clients through preliminary hearings, similar to a grand jury, which determine if there’s sufficient evidence for a court-martial.
• Appeals: Pursuing appeals of court-martial convictions to higher military courts.
• Discharge Upgrades: Assisting veterans in changing the characterization of their discharge.
• Correction of Military Records: Helping rectify errors or injustices in official military records.
• Administrative Proceedings: Beyond ADSEP and Article 15s, we handle a variety of other administrative actions.
• Letter of Reprimand Rebuttals: Crafting strong responses to official reprimands to mitigate career impact.

Our commitment extends beyond MCAS Beaufort. We proudly represent clients throughout the United States, Europe (including Germany, Italy, England, Spain, Cyprus, Belgium, Turkey), the Middle East (Bahrain, Kuwait, Afghanistan, Qatar), and the Pacific Rim (Korea, Guam, Hawaii, Japan).

Why Choose Gonzalez & Waddington: Your Advantage at MCAS Beaufort

Choosing the right military defense attorney is the most crucial decision you will make when facing charges. At Gonzalez & Waddington, we differentiate ourselves through our unwavering commitment to our clients and our aggressive, trial-focused approach.

Many military counsel or appointed defense attorneys may prioritize plea bargains. However, our philosophy is different. When our defense law firm takes on an accused service member, our military defense attorneys compel the opposing counsel to present the entire file and prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt.

We are not afraid to take almost every accusation to a contested court-martial and fight the allegations fiercely in front of a military jury.

Your trial will not be outsourced to an unknown lawyer. We believe in direct, personal representation. We will not bully you into taking a deal at the eleventh hour. Our defense lawyers have successfully defended trials and ADSEP proceedings across the U.S. and in numerous overseas locations, demonstrating our global reach and consistent application of our robust defense strategies.

Meet Our Distinguished Attorneys: A Legacy of Military Defense

Our firm’s reputation for excellence is built on the extensive experience and legal acumen of our founding partners:

• Alexandra González-Waddington: Partner Alexandra González-Waddington has tirelessly represented countless American service members accused of UCMJ crimes, including complex Article 120 crimes and some of the most high-profile war crime cases from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Her deep understanding of military law and passionate advocacy make her a formidable opponent for the prosecution. She is also a co-author of three best-selling trial advocacy guides, including “Pattern Cross-Examination for Sexual Assault Cases: A Trial Strategy & Resource Guide,” “Pattern Cross-Examination for DNA and Biological Evidence,” and “Pattern Cross-Examination of Expert Witnesses,” published by the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL). These influential books are utilized by criminal defense lawyers not just across the United States but globally, underscoring her expertise and thought leadership in trial strategy. Furthermore, Ms. González-Waddington’s invaluable experience as one of the first Public Defenders for the Augusta Judicial Circuit provides her with a comprehensive perspective on criminal defense.
• Michael Waddington: Our firm’s other founding attorney, Michael Waddington, is a graduate of Temple Law in Philadelphia, PA. He is a current member of the American Board of Criminal Lawyers, one of the most honored legal organizations comprising some of the most respected criminal attorneys in the world. Mr. Waddington’s profound impact on military law is such that some of his landmark cases have even been adapted into films, such as “The Kill Team.” He also regularly instructs defense counsel on effective closing arguments, sharing his strategic insights with the broader legal community. As a former member of the U.S. Army’s Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG), Michael Waddington possesses an insider’s understanding of military prosecutions, which he leverages to benefit our clients.

The collective experience and recognized leadership of Gonzalez & Waddington’s military defense lawyers are directly applied to every case at MCAS Beaufort, ensuring you receive the highest caliber of legal representation for your court-martial or administrative separation case in South Carolina.

Common Questions About Military Justice at MCAS Beaufort

What should I do if I am under investigation at MCAS Beaufort?

If you learn you are under investigation by NCIS, CID, OSI, or any military law enforcement agency, the first and most crucial step is to remain silent and immediately contact a military defense attorney. Do not make any statements, written or verbal, without legal counsel present. You have the right to an attorney, and exercising this right cannot be used against you.

Can a civilian lawyer represent me at a court-martial at MCAS Beaufort?

Yes, absolutely. Civilian military defense lawyers, like those at Gonzalez & Waddington, can represent service members at courts-martial. In fact, many choose civilian counsel due to their independent status, often allowing for a more aggressive and less politically constrained defense compared to military-appointed attorneys. We work to complement, or if necessary, replace your detailed military counsel.

What is the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ)?

The UCMJ is the foundation of military law in the United States. It applies to all active duty personnel, National Guard and Reserve members, and retired armed forces personnel across all branches. If you or someone close to you has been charged with a crime under the UCMJ at MCAS Beaufort, you must turn to experienced lawyers for help right away. The relentless military criminal defense lawyers at Gonzalez & Waddington can help you navigate these complex regulations.

What is the difference between a court-martial and an administrative separation?

A court-martial is a formal criminal trial within the military justice system, potentially leading to criminal conviction, imprisonment, and a punitive discharge. An administrative separation (ADSEP) is a non-judicial process that can result in a service member’s involuntary discharge from the military, affecting benefits and future employment, but without a criminal conviction. Both can have severe, life-altering consequences, and both require skilled legal defense.

How can I get a discharge upgrade or correct my military records?

If you believe your military discharge was unjust or that your military records contain errors, you may be eligible for a discharge upgrade or record correction. This process typically involves submitting an application to a review board (e.g., the Board for Correction of Naval Records for Marines/Navy). Our attorneys can assist you in preparing a compelling case and navigating this often-complex process.

About Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort and the Lowcountry

Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort is strategically positioned near the charming business district of Beaufort, South Carolina. This area, known as the “Lowcountry,” is celebrated for its rich history, antebellum architecture, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant Gullah culture. It’s a place where service members and their families can experience the unique blend of military life and Southern charm.

Beaufort: A Historic & Welcoming Community

The city of Beaufort, South Carolina, is consistently recognized as one of America’s most beautiful and happiest towns. It’s situated on Port Royal Island, one of the largest sea islands off the southeast Atlantic coast. Beaufort is the center of an urban cluster with an estimated population of 70,000, encompassing surrounding towns and areas such as Port Royal, Burton, Lady’s Island, St. Helena Island, and the historic Parris Island, home to Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island.

This picturesque city is known for its stately Antebellum mansions, towering Spanish moss-draped oaks, and incredibly welcoming residents. Beaufort’s historical significance is evident in its preserved architecture and its role in various historical periods, including the Civil War. The Beaufort Visitor Center is an excellent starting point for exploring the city’s heritage.

Local Attractions & Quality of Life:

• Natural Beauty: The sweeping, tidal Beaufort River winds through the downtown area, offering magnificent scenic views and excellent opportunities for fishing, shrimping, crabbing, and oyster roasts. The Beaufort County Open Land Trust actively protects the region’s essential ecological and cultural sites.
• Cultural Hub: Recognized as a cultural center, Beaufort boasts a vibrant arts scene, including the University of South Carolina Beaufort North campus and the Technical College of the Lowcountry.
• Recreation: Visitors and residents can explore Beaufort on foot, by bike, or via horse-drawn carriage tours, enjoying its Mediterranean charm and hospitality. The proximity to the Naval Hospital and MCAS Beaufort makes it a well-supported military community.
• Renowned Accolades: Named “America’s Favorite Town” by Travel & Leisure magazine and “America’s Coolest Small Town” by Budget Traveler magazine, Beaufort consistently ranks high for quality of life and as a top retirement destination.

Contact Our Relentless Military Defense Lawyers for MCAS Beaufort

At Gonzalez & Waddington, we understand the immense pressure and uncertainty that military investigations and UCMJ charges can bring to service members and their families. Our primary goal is to provide immediate, expert legal counsel and a formidable defense to protect your rights, your military career, and your future.

If you or a family member are located in South Carolina, particularly at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, and are accused of a UCMJ crime, facing an officer show-cause board, or an administrative separation board, do not hesitate. Contact our court-martial counsel now for a free, confidential consultation.

Your future is too important to leave to chance. Call Gonzalez & Waddington today to speak with a seasoned MCAS Beaufort military defense attorney.