Turkey Military Defense Lawyers – UCMJ Defense Attorneys
High-Stakes UCMJ & Court-Martial Defense for Service Members in Turkey
Turkey is a critical partner within NATO, hosting U.S. forces at Incirlik Air Base, Ankara’s strategic facilities, joint command posts, and rotational deployments throughout the country. Due to Turkey’s geopolitical significance bridging Europe and the Middle East, service members stationed here operate under intense scrutiny from Turkish authorities, NATO allies, and U.S. commanders. Allegations of misconduct can become international incidents, placing careers, freedom, and alliances at risk.
Gonzalez & Waddington, Attorneys at Law has significant experience defending U.S. personnel in Turkey. We understand the complexities of the U.S.–Turkey SOFA, the Turkish legal system, and how quickly U.S. commanders move to protect diplomatic relations. When accusations arise, our court martial attorneys are ready to respond with a strategic defense.
Why Allegations in Turkey Are Dangerous
With political tensions, security challenges, and media scrutiny surrounding American operations in Turkey, commands often act aggressively to avoid controversy. Even minor allegations can result in severe punishments or deportation under SOFA rules.
- Turkish police can investigate and detain U.S. personnel for alleged crimes committed off base, and trials may be in Turkish courts
- U.S. commands impose immediate liberty restrictions, no-contact orders, and suspensions of privileges
- Combined U.S.–Turkish investigations can lead to conflicting legal standards
- Security clearances and special duty statuses are suspended as soon as allegations arise
- Administrative separations and Boards of Inquiry are initiated rapidly to “protect the mission”
- Local media and political actors often pressure commands to punish accused service members
A robust legal strategy is essential to counter biased investigations and ensure due process.
Common Charges and Administrative Actions in Turkey
Our defense team frequently handles the following accusations in Turkey:
- Article 120 (Sexual Assault/Rape) – Allegations may stem from nightlife or off-base encounters; convictions bring severe confinement and life‑altering consequences
- Article 128b (Domestic Violence) – Domestic incidents can involve both Turkish police and military investigators
- Article 112a (Drug Use/Distribution) – Turkey enforces harsh drug laws; possession of small quantities can lead to lengthy imprisonment or dishonorable discharge
- Article 92 (Failure to Obey Orders) – Violations include fraternization, curfew violations, or disobedience of base policies
- Article 121 (Larceny/Fraud) – Cases often involve misuse of housing allowances, travel funds, or theft from on-base facilities
- Article 134 (General Misconduct) – Includes adultery, online misconduct, indecent language, or conduct that offends local sensibilities
- Administrative Separation Boards/BOIs – Used to remove service members with little evidence, often to avoid diplomatic tension
- Security Clearance Suspensions – These can abruptly end careers in intelligence, special operations, or nuclear roles
Defense Strategies for Turkey-Based Cases
Defending cases in Turkey requires navigating different legal systems, ensuring SOFA protections, and exposing flawed investigations. Our approach focuses on:
- Demanding access to Turkish investigative files to ensure evidence meets U.S. legal standards
- Cross-examining witnesses to highlight contradictions and show bias or ulterior motives
- Leveraging digital forensics to reconstruct timelines and debunk fabricated allegations
- Presenting expert witnesses on Turkish criminal procedures, forensic science, or psychological evaluation
- Demonstrating cultural differences and how miscommunication can lead to false accusations
- Preparing persuasive rebuttals for separation boards and clearance suspensions
Why Choose Gonzalez & Waddington in Turkey
Service members trust our firm because we have a proven record of winning complex cases in Turkey. We understand how Turkish authorities work with OSI, CID, and NCIS, and we know how to challenge improper collaboration and protect our clients’ rights.
- More than 20 years of UCMJ defense success worldwide
- Former Army JAG with firsthand experience in NATO operations and SOFA negotiations
- Writers and educators on trial advocacy and cross-examination techniques
- Publicly known for defending troops in high-profile cases in Turkey, the Middle East, and Europe
- Knowledgeable about Turkish criminal law, U.S.‑Turkey SOFA protections, and host-nation legal procedures
Contact Our Turkey Military Defense Lawyers & Court Martial Attorneys
If you are stationed in Turkey and accused of misconduct, contact us immediately. Investigators and commanders in Turkey act quickly to protect diplomatic relations, so time is not on your side. Having a skilled civilian defense team is your best chance of obtaining justice.
➤ Contact Gonzalez & Waddington for a Confidential Consultation
Turkey Military Defense Lawyers – Court Martial Attorneys – Frequently Asked Questions
Do Turkish police have authority over U.S. service members?
Yes. Under the U.S.–Turkey SOFA, Turkish authorities may investigate crimes committed off base and prosecute service members in Turkish courts. However, uniquely military offenses remain under U.S. jurisdiction. Understanding your SOFA rights and having a lawyer who knows both systems are critical.
Should I give a statement to OSI or CID without a lawyer in Turkey?
No. Politely decline and ask for counsel. In Turkey, investigators often assume guilt to protect diplomatic relationships, and anything you say can be used against you in both U.S. and Turkish courts.
What kinds of cases are most common in Turkey?
Common cases include sexual assault, domestic violence, drug offenses, larceny, fraternization, and conduct that offends local cultural norms. Allegations can arise from misunderstandings or political tension, making legal defense vital.
Can administrative actions end my career in Turkey?
Yes. Commands often rely on administrative separations, BOIs, reprimands, and clearance suspensions to remove service members quickly, without a full trial. An aggressive civilian lawyer can contest these actions and safeguard your career and benefits.
Who are Michael and Alexandra Gonzalez‑Waddington?
Michael and Alexandra Gonzalez‑Waddington are internationally recognized attorneys specializing in military law. They have defended service members across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Their firm is known for strategic, aggressive court‑martial defense and for winning cases in complex environments like Turkey.
