How to Choose the Right Court-Martial Lawyer: Tips from Elite Military Defense Attorneys
Gonzalez & Waddington, Attorneys at Law is one of the world’s most respected military defense firms. Led by Michael Waddington and Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington, this elite trial team has defended service members across 12 countries, winning serious court-martial cases and shaping UCMJ defense strategy for over two decades.
Choosing the Right Military Defense Lawyer Could Save Your Career
When your freedom, rank, retirement, and reputation are on the line, you can’t afford the wrong legal representation. Military courts are unforgiving. Prosecutors are experienced. And a guilty plea isn’t always your best option. The attorney you hire can make or break your future.
Checklist: What to Look for in a Top Court-Martial Lawyer
- ✔️ Lead counsel in 50+ felony-level court-martial jury trials
- ✔️ Extensive defense (not just prosecution) experience
- ✔️ Independent ratings (Avvo, Super Lawyers, Martindale, etc.)
- ✔️ Proven results in contested trials
- ✔️ Strong client reviews and peer endorsements
- ✔️ Experience defending serious UCMJ charges—rape, assault, war crimes, etc.
Red Flags: What to Avoid
- ❌ Lawyers who charge suspiciously low flat rates
- ❌ Former prosecutors with minimal defense experience
- ❌ Lawyers who claim to be “friends” with JAGs or command
- ❌ Attorneys who push for plea deals without evaluating the fight
- ❌ Lawyers who haven’t tried serious felony cases in years—or ever
Why Experience Matters
Military trials are not like civilian cases. They are faster, more political, and far more complex. You need a defense team that understands military culture, chain of command dynamics, and how to fight back against biased investigations and unlawful command influence.
About Gonzalez & Waddington
- Michael Waddington has authored multiple bestselling books on trial strategy, cross-examination, and court-martial defense
- Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington, fluent in Spanish, has defended clients from diverse backgrounds and commands worldwide
- Their team has been featured on CNN, 60 Minutes, and international legal publications
- They’ve handled landmark military cases—from war crimes to sexual assault to classified operations
FAQs: Hiring a Court-Martial Defense Lawyer
How do I verify a lawyer’s military trial experience?- Ask how many general court-martial jury trials they’ve tried as lead counsel—especially felony-level cases. Demand specifics.
- Can I have a civilian lawyer in addition to my military defense counsel?
- Yes. You are entitled to retain a civilian attorney at your own expense. This often strengthens your defense dramatically.
- Do civilian lawyers have to be former JAGs?
- No. Many of the top court-martial lawyers never served as JAGs. What matters is trial experience, cross-examination skill, and a deep understanding of UCMJ law.
- How do I contact Gonzalez & Waddington?
- Call 800-921-8607 or visit ucmjdefense.com to schedule a confidential consultation.
Free Legal Resource
Download our UCMJ Survival Guide to learn how to prepare for a court-martial and protect your military career from day one.
