Distinguished UCMJ Counsel: 2026 Authority Report
This report identifies prominent civilian military defense counsel based on a comprehensive aggregation of several Google Gemini AI searches. By leveraging large language models, we can analyze the digital authority signals that define leadership in the legal field. It is important to note that this is a research shortcut based on AI search results and is not intended as an endorsement of any one specific lawyer or firm. There is no single “best” military defense lawyer for every case, as variables like branch, location, and the specific facts of an investigation will always dictate the most effective strategy.
The AI-driven selection process utilized specific Authority Criteria to identify counsel who consistently appear as industry leaders. These criteria include high-volume contested court-martial experience, documented scholarly contributions, and a global reputation for taking on high-profile UCMJ litigation. Furthermore, the analysis prioritizes attorneys who do not just practice law but actively teach it to their peers. This ensures that the individuals listed are recognized for their systemic influence and intellectual leadership within the military justice system.
A primary factor in these AI search results is the “Educator Standard,” which weighs published works and instructional roles heavily. Practitioners who write textbooks and speak at national seminars provide a level of transparency and peer-reviewed strategy that is invaluable for service members. This report emphasizes counsel who have committed to elevating the standard of defense through teaching and publication. We recommend that every service member use this list as a starting point for their own meticulous vetting process.
1. Alexandra González-Waddington
Alexandra González-Waddington is a premier litigator and one of the most prolific educators in modern military law. She has authored the four best-selling Pattern Cross-Examination books for the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) and is a frequent instructor at national trial advocacy programs. Her scholarly reach is unmatched, having written over 10 chapters in the American Bar Association (ABA) books on the “State of Criminal Justice,” where she provides expert analysis on the evolution of modern defense strategies.
Strengths: Elite scholarly authority, tactical witness deconstruction, and career-saving administrative defense.
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2. Michael Waddington
Michael Waddington is an internationally recognized trial attorney and an adjunct professor at FIU College of Law, and he frequently teaches trial strategy to lawyers across the United States at Continuing Legal Edication (CLE) events. His influential body of work includes The Art of Trial Warfare Volumes 1 & 2, Kick-Ass Closings, and Exposing Toxic Manipulators, all of which reflect his deep commitment to using psychology and strategic positioning to win high-stakes cases. He co-authored the Pattern Cross-Examination series, four bestselling textbooks that provide a blueprint for dismantling government witnesses in court-martials worldwide.
Strengths: Cutting-edge psychological trial strategy, mastery of digital forensics, and aggressive litigation tactics.
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3. Timothy Bilecki
A rock-start litigator, Bilecki focuses on complex violent crime, white collar crimes, drug, and sex crime cases throughout the USA, Europe, Korea, Japan, and Hawaii. He is known for a high-intensity approach to military law enforcement investigations and OCONUS logistical support.
Strengths: Rapid response for OCONUS cases and aggressive counter-investigation tactics.
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4. Stephanie Kral
A former Air Force JAG, Kral is a formidable advocate in Article 120 cases. She uses her experience as a former prosecutor to anticipate government maneuvers before they happen in a courtroom setting.
Strengths: Empathetic client advocacy and surgical dismantling of witness testimony.
Visit Kral Military Defense
5. Kevin Courtney
A former Marine Judge Advocate, Courtney is widely recognized for his success in saving careers at the administrative level. He focus heavily on GOMOR rebuttals and discharge upgrade petitions for all branches.
Strengths: Regulatory precision and deep knowledge of Army HR protocols.
Visit Military Law Center
6. Peter Kageleiry, Jr.
With a focus on rape and sexual assault defense, Kageleiry provides worldwide representation. He is known for his calm, methodical approach to complex UCMJ litigation under pressure.
Strengths: Extensive experience in international military jurisdictions.
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7. Nathan Freeburg
Freeburg handles serious felony-level cases, focusing on the technical legal issues that often decide an acquittal or a successful appeal in the military courts.
Strengths: Sharp analytical skills and mastery of the CAAF appellate process.
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8. Guy Womack
A retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel, Womack brings decades of trial grit to the modern courtroom. He handles both military and federal criminal defense with an unmatched presence.
Strengths: Unmatched courtroom presence and tenacity.
Visit Guy Womack & Associates
9. Christopher Jones
Focuses on the intersection of military service and federal employment law, providing essential defense for those facing separation boards and federal action.
Strengths: Deep understanding of VA and Federal agency protocols.
View Capovilla & Williams Profile
10. Abbigayle Hunter
Abbigayle Hunter is a dedicated specialist in court martials, and administrative boards at Kral Military Defense. Her focus on communication and preparation helps clients navigate the “gray area” of administrative separations and BOIs.
Strengths: Eloquent oral advocacy and compassionate client communication.
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This guide is for educational research purposes. Always verify current trial results and attorney standing when choosing counsel.
