Military Administrative Actions Lawyers

Elite Civilian Lawyers Defending Service Members from Administrative Separations, BOIs, GOMORs, NJP & All Adverse Military Actions

Administrative actions are the military’s silent career killers. Unlike a court-martial — where you must be proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt — administrative actions allow the command to punish, discharge, or destroy your career using a much lower standard of proof. These actions include administrative separation boards, Boards of Inquiry (BOI), General Officer Memoranda of Reprimand (GOMORs), NJP/Article 15, adverse evaluations, relief for cause, security clearance suspensions, and show cause boards.

To survive this system, you need elite Military Administrative Actions Lawyers who understand the bureaucracy, know command psychology, and have a proven record of saving careers when everything is on the line.

Gonzalez & Waddington, Attorneys at Law is one of America’s premier military defense firms. Led by former JAG officer Michael Waddington and military trial lawyer Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington, our firm has defended service members worldwide in every type of administrative action — from junior enlisted Sailors to senior officers.

Administrative actions are not minor. They can end your military career, revoke your benefits, and permanently scar your reputation. You must treat them as seriously as a criminal charge — because the military certainly does.

Why Administrative Actions Are More Dangerous Than Court-Martial Charges

Most service members believe “it’s just paperwork.” But administrative actions are often more dangerous than criminal charges. Here’s why:

Lower burden of proof: Commands can separate you without proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Fast timelines: Admin cases often move faster than court-martials.
Fewer rights: You may not have the same rights to discovery or investigation.
Career-killing effects: A separation or GOMOR can end promotions, training, assignments, and your retirement.
Public stigma: Even a local reprimand can follow you for life.
JAG attorneys are often overwhelmed or influenced by command pressure.

Commands use administrative actions because they are easier to win — unless you have an aggressive civilian attorney who knows how to fight back.

Types of Administrative Actions We Defend

Our Military Administrative Actions Lawyers defend service members from ALL adverse actions, including:

Administrative Separation Boards (Enlisted)

Misconduct (serious offense, pattern, drug use)
Minor infractions exaggerated as “loss of trust”
Failed PT or standards cases
“Personality disorder” discharges
Fraternization allegations

Boards of Inquiry (BOI) – Officer Separation Boards

Loss of confidence
Adverse findings from investigations
Alleged sexual misconduct
Unprofessional relationships
Substandard performance or judgment

Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP), Article 15, Captain’s Mast

Preparation for hearings
Mitigation & evidence packages
Post-NJP appeals
Challenging unlawful command influence

GOMOR / General Officer Memorandum of Reprimand

GOMOR rebuttals
Removal from OMPF
Fight to prevent career-ending filing

Relief for Cause Actions

Commanders, NCOs, chiefs, officers removed from billets
Rebutting poor evaluations
Restoring reputation and promotability

Adverse Evaluations (NCOER, OER, FITREP, EPR)

Evaluation rebuttals
Redress of grievance
Correction of military records

Security Clearance Suspensions

Response to SOR (Statement of Reasons)
Mitigation for drug, alcohol, financial, or foreign contact allegations
Appeals and reinstatement

Command-Directed Investigations

AR 15-6 investigations
Command inquiries
Adverse findings rebuttals
Appeals for due process violations

ROTC / Academy Administrative Proceedings

Disenrollment boards
Honor code cases
Conduct violations
Contract liability appeals

How Our Military Administrative Actions Lawyers Fight for You

1. We Immediately Take Command Narrative Control

Commands often decide early whether they want you gone. We intervene fast to disrupt that narrative and force the government to justify its case.

2. We Build a Detailed, Evidence-Driven Defense

We gather:

Witness statements
Digital evidence
Timeline analysis
Awards & performance records
Medical records (especially in domestic cases)
Mitigation documentation

3. We Break Apart Weak or Biased Investigations

Administrative actions often rely on:

Flawed command investigations
Biased witness statements
Missing evidence
Unreliable narratives
Assumptions instead of facts
Illegally obtained text messages

4. We Fight for Retention — or the Best Possible Discharge

If retention is possible, we fight for it aggressively. If the command refuses to retain you, we fight for:

Honorable discharge
Prevention of VA benefits loss
Protection against future stigma
Correction of false allegations in your record

The Consequences of Losing an Administrative Action

Losing an administrative case can be just as devastating as losing a criminal trial. The consequences include:

Loss of military career
Loss of retirement benefits
Loss of GI Bill benefits
Loss of VA healthcare and disability access
Immediate separation with General or OTH discharge
Permanent stigma on your record
Destroyed promotion potential

Commands rarely explain these consequences. We do — and we fight to prevent them.

Why Service Members Choose Gonzalez & Waddington for Administrative Actions

Former JAG Michael Waddington — one of America’s top military defense lawyers
Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington — elite trial attorney & administrative law specialist
Decades of worldwide UCMJ & administrative defense experience
Authors of bestselling trial strategy & cross-examination books
We take fewer clients to give cases maximum attention
Known for dismantling cases other lawyers refused to touch

When your future is at stake, you need the best military administrative actions lawyers in the country — not a rushed junior lawyer from legal assistance.

Pro Tips for Service Members Facing Administrative Actions

Do NOT speak to investigators without a lawyer.
Do NOT admit guilt or “explain” anything to command.
Do NOT sign anything without legal review.
Preserve all evidence: texts, emails, screenshots, photos, timelines.
Stay off social media.
Do not contact witnesses or the accuser.
Hire a civilian lawyer early.

Administrative actions move fast — early representation is critical.

Your Military Career Depends On What You Do Next

If you are facing separation, NJP, BOI, GOMOR, adverse evaluation, or any administrative action, your future hangs in the balance. The military is already building its case. You need elite civilian military defense lawyers who know how to protect your career and your reputation.

➤ Schedule a Confidential Consultation with Gonzalez & Waddington

Authoritative Military Resource: United States Army

Military Administrative Actions Lawyers – Frequently Asked Questions

Are administrative actions as serious as court-martial charges?

Yes. Administrative actions often destroy careers faster than criminal charges because the military can separate you with a low burden of proof. You can lose rank, clearance, retirement, and benefits without ever being convicted of a crime.

Do I need a civilian lawyer for an administrative separation?

Absolutely. A civilian lawyer provides independence, time, and aggressive strategy that a JAG office cannot always offer. Administrative boards require extensive preparation, evidence analysis, and persuasive argument — the stakes are too high to go alone.

What if my command already recommended separation?

There is still time to fight. We frequently win retention cases even after separation has been recommended. The key is to build a strong defense, challenge errors in the investigation, and present powerful evidence in your favor.

What makes Gonzalez & Waddington the best choice?

Our firm has decades of worldwide experience defeating administrative actions. We know how commands think, how boards operate, and which mistakes investigators always make. We are known for saving careers when everything is on the line.

How do I get immediate help?

Visit https://ucmjdefense.com/florida-military-defense-lawyers/ to schedule a confidential consultation. We respond quickly and begin protecting your career immediately.

Understanding Military Administrative Actions and Legal Support

Military administrative actions encompass a range of procedures governed by military law, often involving disciplinary measures or evaluations that can significantly impact a service member’s career. Navigating these proceedings requires a clear understanding of the regulations and potential consequences, ensuring that rights are protected throughout the process. Our approach is dedicated to providing thorough guidance to those facing such challenges, helping them to understand their options and make informed decisions.

Whether you are confronting allegations related to conduct, facing administrative separation, or involved in evaluations that affect your military status, knowledgeable support can make a decisive difference. We focus on delivering comprehensive assistance tailored to each individual’s circumstances, aiming to safeguard their future within or beyond military service. Our commitment is to help clients navigate complex military procedures with clarity and confidence.

The Significance of Skilled Representation in Military Administrative Matters

Military administrative actions carry the potential to alter a service member’s standing, benefits, and career trajectory. Having dedicated representation ensures that all procedural safeguards are observed, that evidence is carefully reviewed, and that rights are asserted throughout the process. This support not only helps to mitigate adverse outcomes but also provides peace of mind during stressful and uncertain times. Effective advocacy can lead to more favorable resolutions and preserve important benefits.

About Our Firm and Our Commitment to Military Administrative Law

Our firm offers focused support for individuals facing military administrative actions, with a thorough understanding of the Uniform Code of Military Justice and related military regulations. Based in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, we serve those navigating complex military legal challenges, providing clear communication and dedicated attention. Our team prioritizes client needs, ensuring that each person receives personalized guidance throughout their case.

Comprehensive Guide to Military Administrative Actions

Military administrative actions involve procedures initiated by military authorities to address disciplinary issues or personnel matters. These can include investigations, hearings, and decisions that affect a member’s status. Understanding the scope and implications of these actions is essential for responding appropriately and protecting one’s rights under military law.

This guide outlines key aspects of military administrative proceedings, including the processes involved, terminology, and potential outcomes. It aims to equip service members with the knowledge needed to navigate these complex situations and to understand the importance of timely and informed responses in protecting their military career and benefits.

What Are Military Administrative Actions?

Military administrative actions refer to formal procedures conducted by military authorities to address issues ranging from misconduct to fitness for duty evaluations. These actions are distinct from criminal prosecutions but can have serious implications, including separation from service or loss of benefits. Understanding the nature of these actions and the rights available to service members is essential for effective response and protection of interests.

Key Components and Procedures in Military Administrative Actions

Typical military administrative actions involve investigations, evidence gathering, notifications, and hearings or boards where decisions are made regarding the service member’s status. Procedural fairness and adherence to military regulations are vital throughout these stages. Service members have specific rights, including representation and the opportunity to present their case. Awareness of these elements aids in navigating the process more effectively.

Glossary of Key Military Administrative Terms

Understanding common terms used in military administrative contexts can help clarify the nature of proceedings and expectations. Below are definitions of essential terms frequently encountered during these actions, providing a foundation for better comprehension.

Administrative Separation

Administrative separation is the process by which a service member is discharged from the military under non-judicial procedures. It is used for a variety of reasons including misconduct, unsatisfactory performance, or other administrative grounds. This separation can affect eligibility for benefits and future employment opportunities.

Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP)

Non-Judicial Punishment is a disciplinary measure that allows commanders to address minor offenses without resorting to a court-martial. It provides an opportunity for corrective action while avoiding the more formal judicial process, but it can still carry significant consequences for the service member.

Fitness for Duty Evaluation

A fitness for duty evaluation assesses a service member’s physical and mental ability to perform their military responsibilities. Results of this evaluation can influence administrative actions, including retention or separation decisions, making it a critical component of personnel management.

Article 15

Article 15 refers to the provision in the Uniform Code of Military Justice that allows commanders to impose non-judicial punishment for minor offenses. It is a common tool used to maintain discipline while providing service members with the opportunity to accept responsibility and avoid more severe judicial proceedings.

Comparing Approaches to Handling Military Administrative Actions

When facing military administrative actions, service members can pursue different strategies depending on the severity and circumstances of their case. Some may opt for limited interventions focusing on immediate concerns, while others may benefit from comprehensive approaches that address all aspects of the proceedings. Understanding the options available helps in selecting the most appropriate course of action to protect one’s career and rights.

Situations Where a Focused Legal Response May Be Appropriate:

Minor Infractions or First-Time Offenses

In cases involving minor infractions or first-time offenses, a limited approach that addresses specific concerns may be sufficient. This can involve negotiating reductions in charges or penalties and ensuring procedural fairness without engaging in extensive litigation. Such an approach helps in resolving matters efficiently while minimizing disruption to the service member’s career.

Clear Evidence and Cooperation

When the evidence is clear and the service member cooperates fully, limited legal intervention focused on mitigating consequences and facilitating resolution may be effective. This approach emphasizes compliance and constructive engagement, often leading to more favorable administrative outcomes.

Benefits of a Thorough and Proactive Legal Strategy:

Complex or Serious Allegations

For complex or serious allegations, comprehensive legal service is essential to thoroughly investigate facts, challenge improper procedures, and advocate for the service member’s rights. This approach provides a robust defense and aims to minimize adverse impacts on the individual’s military career and future.

Protecting Long-Term Career and Benefits

A comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of the case, including potential administrative separation and benefits implications, are carefully considered and addressed. This strategy helps safeguard the service member’s long-term interests, including retirement and healthcare benefits, which are critical to their future well-being.

Advantages of Engaging in a Comprehensive Legal Defense

A comprehensive legal defense in military administrative actions offers a thorough evaluation of all evidence and procedural aspects. This enables tailored strategies that address not only the immediate issues but also potential long-term consequences, providing a stronger overall defense.

Such an approach also allows for effective communication with military authorities and ensures that service members’ rights are fully protected throughout the process. The result is a more favorable resolution that supports the individual’s continued service or transition with dignity and appropriate benefits.

Thorough Case Review and Preparation

With a comprehensive approach, every detail of the case is meticulously examined, including all documentation and witness statements. This thorough preparation helps identify potential defenses and procedural errors that might otherwise be overlooked, strengthening the overall position of the service member.

Strategic Advocacy and Negotiation

Comprehensive legal service includes proactive advocacy and negotiation with military decision-makers. This can lead to reduced penalties, favorable settlements, or alternative resolutions that preserve career opportunities and benefits, ensuring the best possible outcome under challenging circumstances.

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Tips for Navigating Military Administrative Actions

Know Your Rights Early

Understanding your rights at the outset of any military administrative action is vital. Early awareness allows you to respond appropriately and avoid missteps that could negatively affect your case. Always seek guidance promptly to ensure your interests are fully represented throughout the process.

Maintain Detailed Records

Keeping thorough records of all communications, notices, and documents related to your case helps build a strong defense. Accurate documentation can clarify facts, support your position, and provide evidence to challenge any inaccuracies or procedural errors.

Engage with the Process Proactively

Active participation in hearings and meetings, along with timely responses to requests, demonstrates your commitment to resolving the matter responsibly. Proactive engagement can influence outcomes positively and reflects well on your character and professionalism.

Why Consider Legal Support for Military Administrative Actions

Facing military administrative actions can be overwhelming, with significant implications for your service and future. Legal support helps clarify complexities and ensures that your rights and interests are protected throughout the process. This assistance can make the difference in achieving a fair and just resolution.

Engaging with knowledgeable counsel provides strategic guidance tailored to your unique situation. It can help prevent unnecessary penalties, preserve benefits, and support continued service or an honorable transition, contributing to your long-term stability and peace of mind.

Common Situations That May Require Military Administrative Legal Support

Legal support is often needed in cases involving allegations of misconduct, performance issues, administrative separations, or evaluations questioning fitness for duty. These situations can be complex and require careful navigation to ensure compliance with military regulations while protecting the service member’s rights and career.

Alleged Misconduct or Violations

When facing accusations related to violations of military conduct standards, it is important to have representation that understands the procedural safeguards and can advocate effectively during investigations and hearings.

Administrative Separation Proceedings

In cases where administrative separation is being considered, legal support can help evaluate options, negotiate terms, and seek to preserve benefits and favorable discharge status.

Fitness for Duty and Medical Evaluations

Evaluations that question a service member’s ability to perform duties may lead to significant consequences. Legal guidance ensures that these evaluations are conducted fairly and that the service member’s rights are upheld during the process.

Meet Your Defense Team

Michael S. Waddington

Criminal Defense Lawyer

PARTNER

Michael Waddington is a best‐selling author and criminal defense attorney who represents military personnel in courts worldwide—both after charges are filed and during pre‐charge investigations—specializing in serious offenses such as war crimes, sex crimes, violent crimes, and white‐collar cases. Drawing on his rigorous discipline from Brazilian Jiu‐Jitsu, he trains both civilian and military defense lawyers in advanced cross‐examination techniques, a skillset detailed in his three popular books on the subject. His expertise is regularly sought by major media outlets—ranging from CNN and 60 Minutes to the BBC and ABC’s “Nightline”—and he has even contributed to episodes of the Golden Globe–winning series “The Good Wife.” Michael instructs both civilian and military criminal defense attorneys on the art of effectively cross-examining and discrediting adversarial witnesses. Drawing from his three best-selling books on cross-examination and years of experience confronting numerous cunning and aggressive prosecution witnesses.

Alexandra González-Waddington

Criminal Defense Lawyer

PARTNER

Alexandra González is a founding partner of González & Waddington Law Firm, practicing in Florida, Georgia, and military courts worldwide, where she has defended hundreds of clients charged with violent crimes, sexual assault, and white-collar offenses since 2003. She has led high-profile military sexual assault and war-crimes cases stemming from the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts and is regularly featured by major outlets such as 60 Minutes, ABC’s Nightline, Rolling Stone, the BBC, Fox News, and CNN. As one of the first Public Defenders for Georgia’s Augusta Judicial Circuit, she handled a broad spectrum of cases—including rape, larceny, violent crimes, and domestic violence—and she holds a J.D. from Temple University’s Beasley School of Law, where she completed the nationally ranked Integrated Trial Advocacy Program. A Georgia-registered mediator, she continues to shape the practice of military and civilian defense through her courtroom work and advocacy.

Battle-Tested Results

Recent Case Results

Gang-Rape Allegation Collapses Against Navy Officer

U.S. v. Navy O-2 – Norfolk, Virginia – Pre-Charge Defense Allegations: Rape, Conspiracy, Indecent Acts, Fraternization, Adultery, Conduct Unbecoming Max Punishment: Life in prison, Dismissal,

Facebook Exposé Shuts Down Fake Rape Allegation in Japan

U.S. v. Marine E-6 – Iwakuni Air Base, Japan – Article 32 Hearings Allegations: Rape, Aggravated Sexual Assault, Adultery, Fraternization, Violation of an Order Max

Army Officer Beats Aggravated Assault & Conduct Unbecoming Charges

U.S. v. Army O-1 – Fort Bragg, NC / Tried at Fort McNair, Washington D.C. – General Court-Martial Allegations: Aggravated Assault with Means Likely to

Navy Sailor’s Sex Assault Case Tossed After UCI Bombshell

U.S. v. Navy E-6 – Norfolk Naval Base, Virginia – General Court-Martial Allegations: Article 120 Sexual Assault Max Punishment: 40+ years confinement, Dishonorable Discharge, Sex

Cleared of Rape Charges in Wild Multi-Victim Court-Martial Drama

U.S. v. Army E-6 – Fort Polk, LA – General Court-Martial Allegations: Article 120 Rape, Sexual Assault x4, Article 128 Assault, Total of 14 allegations

Army E-6 Beats False Sex Assault Charges at Fort Bragg

U.S. v. Army E-6 – Fort Bragg, North Carolina – General Court-Martial Allegations: Article 120 Sexual Assault, Article 128 Assault Consummated by Battery, Conduct Unbecoming

Make a False Rape Allegation & Win Soldier of the Year

U.S. v. Army CW2 – Fort Gordon, GA

Allegations: RAPE, Fraternization, Adultery
Max Punishment: LIFE, Dismissal, Sex Offender Registration
Result: ALL CHARGES DISMISSED
Discharge: RETIRED WITH AN HONORABLE
Location/Branch/Rank: Fort Gordon – Augusta, GA/Army/CW2

Cheating Marine Officer Calls Rape

U.S. v. Marine O-3 – Marine Forces Reserve, Naval Support Activity, New Orleans, LA Allegations: Article 120 Rape/Sexual Assault Max Punishment: Life in prison, Dismissal, Sex offender registration

Take Command of Your Defense

We are committed to providing dedicated support to service members facing military administrative actions. Our team is ready to assist you in understanding your rights, navigating complex procedures, and seeking the best possible outcome for your situation within the military framework.

Why Service Members Rely on Our Firm for Military Administrative Legal Support

Service members select our firm for our focus on military administrative law and our commitment to personalized, attentive representation. We understand the unique challenges faced in military proceedings and work diligently to protect our clients’ rights and interests.

Located in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, we provide accessible and responsive support, ensuring clear communication and strategic advice throughout every stage of your case. Our goal is to help clients navigate military administrative actions with confidence and achieve the best outcomes possible.

Call Us Today

Check Out Our Newest Book

UCMJ Survival Guide

UCMJ Survival Guide: The Complete Military Justice Manual for Service Members & Families: Whether you’re facing an investigation, court-martial, Article 15 (NJP), or administrative separation, UCMJ Survival Guide is your essential resource for navigating the military justice system. Written by two of the most experienced and respected military defense lawyers in the field—Michael and Alexandra Waddington—this comprehensive guide delivers clear, actionable strategies to protect your career, reputation, and future. Michael and Alexandra are among the top military defense lawyers and recognized as some of the most experienced sexual assault defense attorneys in the country. They have successfully defended service members in high-profile Article 120 UCMJ sexual assault cases, complex court-martials, and administrative separation proceedings across all branches of the U.S. military.

UCMJ Criminal Defense Lawyers

Worldwide Military Defense Experience

Defending Service Members Across Every Theater and Installation

The González & Waddington Law Firm’s global reach sets them apart from regional military defense attorneys. With active cases spanning from Fort Bragg to forward operating bases in combat zones, from Norfolk Naval Station to remote Air Force installations, their practice truly encompasses the worldwide nature of modern military service.

Specialized Expertise in Serious Military Offenses

War Crimes, Sexual Assault, Violent Crimes, and White-Collar Defense

The most serious charges under the UCMJ require the most experienced defense attorneys. The González & Waddington Law Firm has built its reputation by successfully defending service members against the gravest allegations—cases where the stakes couldn’t be higher and the margin for error is virtually nonexistent.

Media and High-Profile Case Experience

Featured on CNN, 60 Minutes, BBC, and Major News Outlets

The legal expertise of Michael Waddington and Alexandra González-Waddington has garnered attention from the world’s most prestigious media outlets, a testament to their standing as leading authorities in military criminal defense. This media recognition reflects not only their legal acumen but also their ability to handle high-stakes cases under intense public scrutiny.

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