Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Command-Directed Investigation Defense Lawyers
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A Command-Directed Investigation is an administrative inquiry ordered by a commander to examine alleged misconduct or performance issues. Although not criminal, it can threaten a service member’s career and may escalate to reprimands, separation actions, or court‑martial. At Joint Base McGuire‑Dix‑Lakehurst, Gonzalez & Waddington provide guidance; call 1‑800‑921‑8607.
Watch the criminal defense lawyers at Gonzalez & Waddington break down how they defend criminal cases and service members worldwide against Federal Charges, Florida State Charges, UCMJ allegations, CID/NCIS/OSI investigations, court-martials, Article 120 cases, administrative separations, and GOMORs. If you’re under investigation or facing charges, this video explains what your rights are and how experienced criminal defense lawyers can make the difference.
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges or a criminal investigation by federal authorities, the military, or the State of Florida, early defense matters. Gonzalez & Waddington provide disciplined, trial-focused criminal defense for high-stakes cases involving serious allegations and complex evidence. To speak with experienced criminal defense lawyers and get confidential guidance, call 1-800-921-8607 or text 954-909-7407 to request a no-cost, confidential consultation.
Yes. Administrative separation is a non-judicial process that can occur even when no court-martial has taken place. It focuses on a member’s suitability for continued service rather than criminal guilt.
A Board of Inquiry is an administrative hearing that examines whether separation is appropriate. Nonjudicial Punishment addresses alleged misconduct under command authority and does not decide separation eligibility.
The burden of proof is generally a preponderance of the evidence standard. This means the board determines whether the evidence shows it is more likely than not that the alleged basis for separation occurred.
The board typically consists of three officers appointed by the convening authority. Members are selected to ensure impartiality and appropriate experience for evaluating the case.
The board may review documents, service records, witness statements, and other admissible materials. It may also hear live testimony when relevant and authorized.
A BOI may examine a member’s overall service record, which can influence whether continued service toward retirement is permitted. Retirement eligibility is considered within the context of the separation basis and service history.
The characterization is based on the quality of the service member’s performance and conduct. The board reviews both positive and negative aspects of the member’s record when making that determination.
Yes. Service members are generally permitted to retain civilian counsel at their own expense. The civilian attorney may participate in the hearing according to established procedural rules.
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst sits in central New Jersey, linking the communities of Burlington and Ocean counties. Its proximity to Trenton, Philadelphia, and the coastal region gives it access to major transportation corridors. The surrounding mix of suburban towns and Pine Barrens terrain shapes both base activity and regional cooperation.
The base maintains long-standing ties with towns such as Wrightstown, Pemberton, and Lakehurst. Local businesses, schools, and municipal services often coordinate with installation leadership on shared concerns. This alignment supports both routine operations and large-scale movements.
The installation integrates Air Force, Army, and Navy missions under one joint framework. It hosts aviation, mobility, and ground training elements that operate in close coordination. This diverse presence gives the base a wide operational reach.
The base supports global air mobility, joint training, and expeditionary readiness. Its runways, ranges, and support facilities enable rapid movement of personnel and cargo. These capabilities allow it to function as a key transit and preparation hub.
Flight operations, large-scale exercises, and ground training cycles occur year-round. Units prepare for rotational deployments and international missions. The mix of permanent and transient forces keeps the base consistently active.
The population includes thousands of active duty personnel across multiple services. It supports trainees, mobility crews, logistics specialists, and command staff. The steady influx of temporary personnel adds to the operational tempo.
Service members stationed at or passing through the base may encounter UCMJ matters tied to investigations, administrative reviews, or courts-martial. The joint environment and continuous activity can shape how cases develop. Procedures often reflect the pace and structure of multi-branch operations.
The military defense lawyers at Gonzalez & Waddington represent servicemembers at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. Their work spans cases connected to training cycles, mobility operations, and joint mission demands. Representation extends to personnel from all branches operating on the installation.
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst is located in central New Jersey, positioned between the Philadelphia metropolitan area and the Jersey Shore region. The installation spans portions of Burlington and Ocean counties, placing it near communities such as Wrightstown, Pemberton, and Lakehurst. Its location provides access to major transportation corridors along the Mid-Atlantic, enabling rapid movement of personnel and equipment. The surrounding region features flat coastal plains, pine forests, and a climate with cold winters and humid summers, all of which support year-round training and flight operations. The base is closely integrated with local communities through shared economic activity, employment, and cooperative relationships built over decades.
The installation is unique as a tri-service base combining Air Force, Army, and Navy missions under a unified structure. It supports global mobility, joint training, and aviation testing, with major tenant units that include airlift and refueling wings, Army training elements, and Navy aviation engineering capabilities. Its joint configuration allows multiple branches to conduct interoperable operations, from long-range airlift missions to ground force preparation and aircraft systems development. The base plays a central role in deployment support, air mobility operations, and integrated training for units preparing for overseas missions or domestic response requirements.
The service member population at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst is substantial and diverse, consisting of active duty personnel, reservists, and trainees rotating through various schools and readiness programs. The installation hosts large-scale mobility operations, aviation activity, and persistent training cycles, contributing to a dynamic operational tempo. Its airlift and refueling missions maintain consistent ties to overseas theaters, while Army training areas support year-round field exercises. This mix of missions creates a continuous flow of personnel transiting the base for deployments, training, and joint operations.
The complex environment at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst also brings frequent interactions with the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Service members stationed at or passing through the base may encounter investigations, administrative actions, non-judicial punishment, courts-martial, or involuntary separation proceedings. The installation’s high operational pace and joint nature can influence how legal issues develop and are processed. The military defense lawyers at Gonzalez & Waddington represent servicemembers at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.
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Yes, CDI results can be used to initiate administrative separation or a Board of Inquiry, even if no criminal charges are filed.
After completion, the Investigating Officer submits a written report with findings and recommendations. The command then decides what action, if any, to take.
Yes, digital evidence such as texts, emails, social media messages, and call logs are commonly reviewed during CDIs.
Yes, a CDI can proceed without live witnesses if sufficient documentary or digital evidence exists. Written statements are often used.
Legal advisors typically review the CDI for sufficiency and compliance before command action is taken. However, the Investigating Officer is not the service member’s lawyer.
