Naval Base Coronado Command-Directed Investigation Defense Lawyers
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A Command-Directed Investigation is an administrative, non-criminal inquiry ordered by command to assess alleged misconduct or performance issues at Naval Base Coronado. Although administrative, findings can influence reprimands, separation, or escalation toward court-martial. Gonzalez & Waddington provide defense guidance; call 1-800-921-8607 for information.
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 can occur without a court-martial. A command may initiate this process when certain performance or conduct issues arise. The procedure is administrative rather than judicial and follows its own set of regulations.
A BOI is an administrative board, while NJP is a disciplinary action under the UCMJ. NJP focuses on minor offenses and involves a commanding officer’s authority, whereas a BOI reviews whether a service member should be retained. The two processes serve different purposes and carry different potential consequences.
The burden of proof is typically a preponderance of the evidence. This means the board determines whether the alleged basis for separation is more likely than not. It is a lower standard than the proof required in a court‑martial.
A BOI usually consists of three commissioned officers. At least one member is often senior to the service member being reviewed. The board members evaluate the evidence and make findings on retention and characterization.
The board may review documents, records, witness statements, and testimony. Both the government and the service member may present materials for consideration. The board determines the relevance and weight of all submitted evidence.
A BOI can influence whether a service member is allowed to reach retirement eligibility. Separation before qualifying service is completed may affect retirement status and benefits. Any impact depends on the board’s findings and the final administrative decision.
The board evaluates service record, performance, and conduct when determining characterization. Possible characterizations include Honorable, General (Under Honorable Conditions), or Other Than Honorable. The final characterization reflects the overall quality of the member’s service.
Yes, a service member may be represented by a civilian attorney at a BOI. The attorney can participate in presenting evidence and questioning witnesses. The service member remains responsible for any costs associated with civilian counsel.
Naval Base Coronado sits on the Pacific coastline of Southern California, directly across the bay from downtown San Diego. Its position spans Coronado Island and the Silver Strand, giving it immediate access to ocean and urban environments. This coastal setting allows close interaction with neighboring civilian communities that support daily base operations.
The base’s location along a narrow peninsula provides strategic reach into the Pacific and proximity to major maritime transit routes. Its setting in a densely populated region fosters strong ties with San Diego’s civic institutions and infrastructure. The surrounding climate supports year-round training without major seasonal interruptions.
The installation primarily supports the U.S. Navy, including aviation, special warfare, and operational support elements. Tenant commands conduct missions tied to maritime readiness and Pacific deployments. These units rely on the base’s coastal access and flight facilities for continual operations.
Naval Base Coronado provides essential platforms for aviation training, amphibious operations, and maritime support activities. The base enhances fleet readiness by maintaining rapid deployment capabilities. Its coastal infrastructure allows units to transition quickly between training and operational tasks.
The installation hosts a substantial active-duty population connected to aviation wings, special warfare components, and support units. Personnel frequently rotate through for training cycles and deployment preparation. Activity levels remain steady due to Pacific-focused commitments.
Flight operations, maritime training, and specialized mission rehearsals take place regularly across its airfields and shoreline areas. Units coordinate with regional bases to sustain operational tempo. The mix of air, sea, and littoral training distinguishes the installation’s daily rhythm.
Service members assigned to or transiting through Naval Base Coronado may encounter UCMJ matters, including investigations, administrative actions, NJP, or courts-martial. The base’s rigorous training cycles and deployment preparation can shape when and how such issues arise. Command structures handle these matters within established legal channels.
The military defense lawyers at Gonzalez & Waddington represent servicemembers at Naval Base Coronado. Their work includes supporting personnel confronted with UCMJ-related challenges linked to the base’s operational and training environment. Representation extends to those stationed permanently or temporarily assigned to the installation.
Naval Base Coronado is located on the Coronado Peninsula in Southern California, positioned across the bay from downtown San Diego. The installation spans multiple coastal sites, including the oceanfront training areas along Silver Strand and aviation facilities adjacent to residential Coronado neighborhoods. The region’s mild, dry coastal climate and expansive shoreline provide year-round access to maritime and aviation training corridors. Surrounded by the communities of Coronado, Imperial Beach, and San Diego, the base maintains a close connection with the local economy, transportation routes, and civilian waterfront activity. Its position on the Pacific Coast offers direct access to deep-water operating areas that are essential to fleet readiness and special warfare training.
Naval Base Coronado supports a significant U.S. Navy presence, anchored by aviation, amphibious, and special operations missions. The installation hosts major tenant commands that conduct carrier-based aviation training, fleet logistics, and naval special warfare preparation. Its runways, beaches, and offshore ranges serve as operational platforms for air wings, expeditionary units, and maritime security elements preparing for Indo-Pacific deployments. The base’s mission focus combines high-tempo training with support for forward-deployed forces, making it one of the Navy’s most strategically important West Coast hubs.
The active-duty population at Naval Base Coronado is substantial, with personnel involved in aviation squadrons, special warfare units, and shore-based support commands. The installation regularly receives rotating detachments conducting carrier qualifications, joint exercises, and pre-deployment workups. Daily operations include flight activity, amphibious rehearsals, intelligence support, and sustainment functions. This pace of activity creates a dynamic environment where permanent personnel, trainees, and temporarily assigned units operate side by side under demanding training and deployment schedules.
Given its high operational tempo and the intensity of aviation and special warfare training, service members at Naval Base Coronado may encounter a range of UCMJ-related issues. Investigations, administrative actions, non-judicial punishment, courts-martial, and separation proceedings can develop from incidents occurring on the flight line, during field evolutions, or within command environments shaped by rapid deployment cycles. The military defense lawyers at Gonzalez & Waddington represent servicemembers stationed at Naval Base Coronado, providing support to those facing military justice challenges connected to the base’s unique mission and operational demands.
https://www.cnic.navy.mil/Coronado/
CDIs are often triggered by complaints, performance concerns, policy violations, interpersonal conflicts, or incidents that require command clarification.
Yes, the scope of a CDI can be expanded if new allegations or issues arise during fact-finding. This is common in practice.
The length of a CDI varies depending on complexity, number of witnesses, and command urgency. Some are completed quickly, while others may take weeks or months.
Service members retain certain rights, including Article 31(b) protections when suspected of an offense. These rights apply even though the investigation is administrative.
Yes, statements made during a CDI are often included in the investigative report and can be used in later administrative or criminal proceedings.