United Arab Emirates (UAE) Military Defense Lawyers – UCMJ Defense Attorneys
Focused UCMJ & Court-Martial Defense for Service Members in the UAE
The United Arab Emirates hosts U.S. forces at Al Dhafra Air Base, naval port facilities, special operations liaison offices, intelligence posts in Abu Dhabi, and joint training sites. These missions support operations in the Middle East, including surveillance, air refueling, cyber defense, and coalition coordination. Allegations of misconduct in the UAE can have severe consequences due to strict local laws and the geopolitical sensitivity of the region.
Gonzalez & Waddington, Attorneys at Law has defended service members across the Gulf region, including the UAE, for many years. Our attorneys understand the U.S.–UAE Defense Cooperation Agreement, Emirati law, and how quickly U.S. commanders act when accusations arise. We provide robust defense to protect your rights and career.
Why Accusations in the UAE Are Serious
The UAE is a conservative country with strict laws and heightened diplomatic sensitivities. U.S. forces operate under local and U.S. law, and commands react swiftly to protect alliances and maintain regional stability.
- Emirati police can detain and prosecute U.S. service members for off-base incidents under Sharia law; punishments can be severe
- U.S. commanders impose immediate liberty restrictions, curfews, and duty suspensions
- Investigations involve OSI, NCIS, CID, and sometimes Emirati security services
- Security clearances and operational roles are suspended quickly, harming career prospects
- Administrative actions, including separation boards, are initiated rapidly with a low standard of proof
- Media coverage and political considerations can influence command decisions
An aggressive defense is vital to protect your rights in this challenging environment.
Common UCMJ Charges and Administrative Actions in the UAE
U.S. personnel in the UAE face diverse allegations, including:
- Article 120 (Sexual Assault/Rape) – Allegations may arise from social interactions with coalition partners or civilians; convictions carry heavy penalties
- Article 128b (Domestic Violence) – Domestic incidents trigger immediate involvement from Emirati authorities and U.S. investigators
- Article 112a (Drug Use/Distribution) – The UAE imposes severe penalties for drug possession and use, even for small quantities
- Article 92 (Failure to Obey Orders) – Charges stem from fraternization, curfew violations, or ignoring local customs and regulations
- Article 121 (Larceny/Fraud) – Theft of equipment, misuse of allowances, or fraud cases often result in heavy punishment
- Article 134 (General Misconduct) – Covers adultery, online misconduct, indecent conduct, and behavior that offends local sensibilities
- Administrative Separation Boards/BOIs – Used to remove service members quickly, often with minimal evidence
- Security Clearance Suspensions – Immediate suspension can end careers if not fought effectively
Strategic Defense Methods for UAE Cases
Our defense tactics in the UAE are tailored to the region’s strict legal environment and high-stakes missions:
- Ensuring Emirati evidence meets U.S. legal standards and challenging violations of SOFA protections
- Highlighting inconsistencies in accuser statements to reveal ulterior motives
- Using digital forensics to reconstruct events, including messages, location data, and metadata
- Employing cultural experts to explain misunderstandings between American service members and Emirati civilians
- Exposing command bias and diplomatic pressure in administrative actions
- Preparing comprehensive appeals for separation boards and security clearance suspensions
Why Service Members in the UAE Choose Gonzalez & Waddington
Our firm is known for defending the most challenging cases in the Gulf region. Service members in the UAE rely on us because we deliver results in environments where local law and politics can jeopardize fairness.
- More than two decades of global court-martial defense success
- Former JAG attorney with experience in Middle Eastern operations and diplomacy
- Authors of influential trial advocacy guides used by attorneys worldwide
- Renowned for dismantling weak government cases with thorough investigation and cross-examination
- Deep knowledge of U.S.–UAE agreements, Emirati law, and local customs
Contact Our UAE Military Defense Lawyers & Court Martial Attorneys
If you are accused of misconduct in the United Arab Emirates, contact us immediately. Investigators and commanders in the Gulf region act quickly, and local authorities can impose severe penalties. Our firm has the experience and skill to protect your rights, rank, and future.
➤ Contact Gonzalez & Waddington for a Confidential Consultation
UAE Military Defense Lawyers – UCMJ Defense Attorneys – Frequently Asked Questions
Can Emirati police arrest U.S. service members?
Yes. Under SOFA agreements, Emirati authorities may investigate crimes committed off base. They can impose severe penalties under Sharia law. Having a lawyer ensures you understand your rights and challenges evidence gathered by local authorities.
Should I speak to OSI, CID, or NCIS without a lawyer in the UAE?
No. Politely decline and request legal counsel. In the UAE, investigators often assume guilt to protect diplomatic relations and operational security. Speaking without a lawyer can damage your case.
What allegations are most common for service members in the UAE?
Common allegations include sexual assault, domestic disputes, drug cases, fraternization, larceny, and online misconduct. Cultural differences and strict local laws mean that even minor incidents can result in severe penalties.
Can administrative actions end my career without charges?
Yes. Commands in the UAE frequently use administrative separations, reprimands, and clearance suspensions to remove service members quickly, even when evidence is lacking. Aggressive legal defense is essential to protect your career.
Who are Michael and Alexandra Gonzalez‑Waddington?
They are internationally recognized military defense lawyers known for winning difficult UCMJ cases across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia. Their firm is renowned for strategic court-martial defense, cross-examination skill, and protecting service members’ careers.
