Military Defense Lawyers for False Accusations of Article 120 UCMJ Sexual Assault Charges in the Military

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False Military Sexual Assault Allegations – False Article 120 UCMJ

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Military defense lawyer Michael Waddington discusses false allegations of sexual assault in the Military and why they happen so often. Call our Article 120 UCMJ military sexual assault lawyer to discuss your options if you or a loved one are wrongly accused of sexual assault or rape in the military.

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Unmasking the Truth: False Military Sexual Assault Allegations and Their Devastating Impact

The issue of sexual assault within the military is a grave concern, demanding serious attention and action.

However, alongside legitimate cases, false accusations of military sexual assault can wreak havoc on the lives of innocent service members, leaving lasting scars on their careers, reputations, and personal lives.

This article looks at the complexities surrounding false allegations, their motivations, and the far-reaching consequences for the accused and the military.

The Prevalence and Impact of False SHARP Allegations in the Military

While accurate statistics on false sexual assault accusations are difficult to ascertain, studies suggest that they do occur within the military, just as in civilian settings. The consequences of such accusations can be devastating for the accused, often leading to:

Ruined Careers: A false allegation can derail a promising military career, resulting in demotions, loss of security clearances, and even involuntary discharges.
Tarnished Reputation: The stigma associated with sexual assault can haunt the accused long after the allegations are proven false, impacting their relationships, employment opportunities, and social standing.
Psychological Trauma: The stress and anxiety of facing a false accusation can take a severe toll on the mental health of the accused and their families.
Eroding Trust: False accusations can erode trust within military units, creating a climate of suspicion and fear.

Motivations Behind False Accusations

The motivations behind false accusations can vary and are often complex. Some potential reasons include:

Revenge: Individuals may fabricate an allegation to seek revenge against someone they perceive as having wronged them.
Attention-Seeking: Some individuals may crave attention or sympathy and believe that making a false accusation will garner their support and validation.
Avoidance of Consequences: False accusations may be used to deflect blame or avoid punishment for other misconduct.
Mental Health Issues: In some cases, individuals with underlying mental health conditions may make false accusations due to delusions or other psychological factors.

Protecting the Rights of the Accused

While addressing the issue of sexual assault within the military is paramount, it’s equally crucial to protect the rights of the accused. This includes:

Thorough and Impartial Investigations: Training professionals should thoroughly investigate every allegation to ensure fairness and accuracy.
Presumption of Innocence: The accused should be presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Access to Legal Counsel: The accused should have access to competent legal representation to defend themselves against the allegations.
Support Services: Individuals facing false accusations should be provided with access to counseling and other support services to cope with the emotional and psychological impact.

Addressing the Issue of False Accusations

To address the issue of false accusations, the military can implement several measures, such as:

Education and Training: Provide comprehensive education and training to service members on the importance of reporting sexual assault accurately and the potential consequences of false accusations.
Clear Reporting Procedures: Establish clear and accessible reporting procedures for both victims of sexual assault and those falsely accused.
Anonymous Reporting Options: Offer anonymous reporting options to encourage individuals to come forward with information without fear of reprisal.
Strong Support Systems: Strengthen support systems for victims and the falsely accused to ensure they receive the necessary assistance and resources.

Hiring a Military Defense Lawyer to Defend False Accusations

False military sexual assault allegations are a complex and sensitive issue with devastating consequences for all involved. Striking a balance between supporting victims and protecting the rights of the accused is crucial. By implementing comprehensive measures to address this issue, the military can foster a culture of trust, respect, and accountability while upholding the principles of justice and fairness.

It is essential to remember that the vast majority of sexual assault allegations are true, and victims deserve our unwavering support and protection. However, by acknowledging and addressing the issue of false accusations, we can ensure that the pursuit of justice remains fair and equitable for everyone involved.

False Military Sexual Assault Allegations: Navigating the Complexities of Article 120 UCMJ

In the disciplined world of the military, where honor and integrity are paramount, false allegations, especially those related to sexual assault under Article 120 UCMJ, can be devastating. These allegations tarnish reputations and can lead to severe legal consequences.

As military defense lawyers, we understand the gravity of such accusations and are committed to ensuring that justice prevails. This page delves into the intricacies of false military sexual assault allegations and the importance of expert legal defense.

Understanding Article 120 UCMJ & False Military Sexual Assault

Article 120 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) addresses sexual assault and rape within the military community. It’s a comprehensive statute that defines various sexual offenses and their respective penalties. Given the military’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment for its members, the allegations in this article are treated with utmost seriousness. However, the very gravity of these allegations makes the consequences of false accusations particularly severe.

Why False Military Sexual Assault Allegations Occur

False Military Sexual Assault allegations arise due to various reasons:

Retaliation: Personal disputes or disagreements might escalate, leading one party to use false accusations as a form of revenge.
Career Advancement: In the competitive military environment, some might perceive that making an accusation can provide a career edge.
Misunderstandings: Cultural or personal differences might lead to incidents being misinterpreted, resulting in allegations.
External Pressures: Occasionally, individuals might feel pressured by peers or superiors to label an incident as sexual assault.

The Impact of False Allegations

The repercussions of a false accusation under Article 120 UCMJ are profound:

Career Implications: The accused might face immediate administrative actions, hindrance in promotions, loss of security clearances, or even forced retirement.
Social Consequences: Given the close-knit nature of military communities, the accused might experience isolation, mistrust, and strained personal relationships.
Legal Ramifications: Without a robust defense, the accused might face undeserved legal penalties, including potential imprisonment.

The Role of a Military Defense Lawyer

In the face of false military sexual assault, a military defense lawyer plays a pivotal role:

Skill in Military Law & False Military Sexual Assault: Allegations Military law, especially Article 120 UCMJ, is intricate. A specialized lawyer can navigate its complexities, upholding the accused’s rights.
Impartial Investigation: A dedicated defense lawyer will conduct a thorough and unbiased investigation, gathering evidence to counter false allegations.
Representation in Military Court: Military court proceedings differ from civilian ones. An experienced military defense lawyer can effectively present a defense, ensuring a fair trial.

Why Choose Us?

Experienced Team: Our lawyers are well-versed in the nuances of military law, ensuring that you receive expert representation.
Client-Centric Approach: We understand the emotional and psychological toll of false allegations. Our approach is legal and empathetic, ensuring that you feel supported throughout the process.
Proven Track Record: Our history of successfully defending clients against false Article 120 UCMJ allegations speaks for itself. We are committed to ensuring that justice is served.

False military sexual assault allegations under Article 120 UCMJ

False military sexual assault allegations under Article 120 UCMJ can be life-altering. The stakes are high, both personally and professionally. Having a seasoned military defense lawyer by your side can make all the difference in such challenging times. We are dedicated to ensuring that the truth prevails, safeguarding your rights, reputation, and future. If you or someone you know is facing such allegations, contact us. Let our skill be your shield in these trying times.

Below is a transcript of the YouTube video False Allegations of Sexual Assault in the Military & Why Are They So Common?

It doesn’t matter if you’re guilty. It doesn’t matter if you’re innocent. They want to get rid of you. My name is Michael Waddington, and I’m a military defense lawyer. Many of my cases involve false claims of military sexual assault. In this video, I will explain to those who are watching who call us after being accused or put under investigation. You cannot understand why the military is taking the side of someone falsely accusing you.

False Military Sexual Assault and False Article 120 UCMJ claims sexual assault happen all the time.

False allegations of Article 120 UCMJ sexual assault happen all the time in the military. A lot of the statistics that they throw around are not accurate. They’re speculative. They are written up by victim advocacy lobby groups that say that false sexual assault allegations do not exist. They claim that, in the military, there’s no such thing as a false sexual assault.

I can tell you from 20 years of experience, that they happen constantly. We defend fake rape claims in the military all the time. We expose these fake accusations all the time. That being said, if you don’t believe they exist, you can click out of this video and drink the Kool-Aid elsewhere.

I want to talk to those of you out there that know false sexual assault accusations exist because you’re at the receiving end of such an allegation now. If you are falsely accused of sexual assault in the military, the prosecution, the JAG Corps, your command, your co-workers, and particularly NCIS, OSI, CID, or whatever law enforcement investigative agencies looking into this, all agree on one thing, you’re guilty.

In the military, you’re guilty of Article 120 UCMJ sexual assault, no matter what

You’re guilty because false allegations of Article 120 UCMJ sexual assault don’t exist? What else could it be, you must be guilty, and they come to that conclusion because they’re biased. So these folks go into the job, assuming that everyone who makes an allegation against someone else is telling you the truth.

Even without any evidence, we see it all the time where the prosecution argues that you can believe someone beyond a reasonable doubt with no evidence. I mean, these bogus prosecutors need to go back to law school and read the Constitution. But, they argue that in so many cases.

To the command, you are collateral damage in the war on sexual assault.

I want you to get this through your head. Suppose you’re a mom or dad, particularly. The command doesn’t care if your son served 25 years in combat. The command doesn’t care if your son has never been accused of anything in their entire life. The command doesn’t care if your son has never done anything to anyone.

The command doesn’t care if your son has no criminal record. They don’t care if your son is innocent. They don’t care. If your son treats everyone with respect. They are a model soldier, sailor, airman, or Marine. They don’t care. If your son is the best person in the world. They don’t care. They don’t care if your son has a bronze star with valor.

They don’t care if your son is innocent.

Why? Because somebody (an alleged victim) they don’t even know has said that your son is a rapist, a bad person, or a sexual offender. Why? Because someone accused your son of being a military sexual offender. Therefore, the command must do whatever they can to support, back up, and prove the alleged victim’s claim, even if it is a false sexual assault accusation.

Article 134 UCMJ – Sexual Harassment

Military Sexual Harassment Lawyers – Article 134 UCMJ

It is about politics and politically correct, weak commanders and their JAGs.

Even if you are innocent, don’t assume you’re in the same situation as before the allegations were launched against you. You’re not in the same situation as every other service member. Keep that in mind.

You’re guilty until proven innocent.

You’re GUILTY until proven innocent in the military justice system, despite what the law says. Now, that goes from the beginning of the case until the end. So even if you are acquitted of an Article 120 UCMJ crime in a court-martial, your commander will likely still treat you as if you are guilty.

Military juries are often biased for the alleged victim and against the accused.

When we go before a jury, their true bias starts leaking out. So many of them say, “Whoa, if I was innocent, I would take the stand.” They have an inherent bias that the accused did something wrong. “Otherwise, you wouldn’t be sitting there.”

None of them ever raised their hands, in all my years of experience, and agree that the accused is truly innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. They often say, “If the JAG prosecutors did not have the evidence or the proof, it would not have gotten this far, to a court-martial.” Many military jurors believe if you’re under investigation, you are guilty.

In military sexual assault investigations, JAGs almost always say the case is “founded” or substantiated” – Even with little proof and a lying alleged victim.

JAGs always say it’s founded. Because if they say that the sexual assault allegation is unfounded, they have to write this super long memo. Then, Congress is going to be all over their butts. Plus, their command is going to be over the butts. If they don’t write a long memo covering the command, the command will press forward. Very few JAGs are willing to put their neck out on a line even when there isn’t enough evidence.

So they just say, substantiated, or founded. Then they press the case forward to trial. Over the past couple of years, we’ve had many, many people falsely accused of military sexual assault. In these cases, the government knows they can’t prove the charges. They’re not even close.

So the command will take the easy way out. Instead of having the moral integrity to say this is a false allegation, or we don’t have the proof, they will almost always take negative action against the accused. They try to hurt the accused even when the allegation is 100% false.

A lot of military commanders are cowards.

A lot of military commanders are cowards when it comes to dealing with false military rape and sexual assault allegations. They sacrifice innocent service members rather than risk their careers. These types of commanders would sacrifice your son in combat for no good reason, just to make themself look good.

Then, they’ll hit you with their GOMAR or reprimand, even if you are innocent of sexual assault. Or, they’ll do some sort of administrative action against you. Maybe hit you with non-judicial punishment, which has a different proceeding, so you don’t have the same amount of rights. They will try to separate you quickly with an Other than Honorable Discharge, even for a false allegation.

Your innocence is irrelevant.

You may be wondering, wait a minute, I’m innocent. I served 17 years in the military. I served multiple combat tours with no misconduct in my background. So you’re telling me that if I get falsely accused of a sexual crime, the military may still try to ruin my career and kick me out?
Yeah, that’s what I’m telling you. I’ll tell you again if you didn’t get that point this far. It doesn’t matter if you’re guilty. It doesn’t matter if you’re innocent. They want to get rid of you.
In these JAG prosecution meetings, they say, where there’s smoke, there’s fire. Smoke means a false allegation or some allegation. So if there’s smoke, they’re going to cut you out.
The philosophy of the senior military leaders is that sexual assault is like cancer. Even if you have a little growth on you, it could be cancer and might not be cancer. Why risk it? Cut it out.
In this analogy, anyone accused of military sexual assault is the suspected cancer. However, in this case, even if you are innocent, they have to kick you out with an Other than Honorable Discharge. Why? It would look ridiculous if you were falsely accused, and they knew it, and they have you as an Other than Honorable.

Military Defense Attorneys for Article 120 UCMJ Military Sexual Assault

So they need to fabricate some basis to kick you out with an OTH. In that case, they must give you a letter of reprimand or non-judicial punishment. Then they use that reprimand, which requires no evidence at all other than an allegation against you.
They will hit you with a reprimand, which you can’t do much about.

Then they’ll try to separate you administratively. When they administratively separate you at an administrative separation board, they have a decent chance of winning, even with little to no evidence.

Why? At an administrative separation board, the standard of proof is 51%. This is a much lower standard of proof than at a court-martial. At an administrative separation board, you don’t have the same rights. You cannot subpoena witnesses. You’re often stuck in a no-win situation at an administrative separation board.

Now, we can win at an administrative separation board. But it depends on how fair the prosecution is. It depends on whether they stack the board members. The JAGs may handpick board members who are buddies with the commander.

They may pack the board with members the commander knows will kick you out even if you’re innocent. It depends on whether or not they hand over the evidence.

We’ve had many cases where the sexual assault allegations are fake. These cases didn’t end up in a court-martial but were sent to an administrative separation board. Sometimes, we don’t get all the evidence in these administrative separation boards. There’s no judge to compel them to hand over the evidence. You don’t have the same rights when the prosecution is not playing fair. So sometimes, we don’t get the evidence until it’s too late.

You might not get the complete investigative file if you’re administratively separated for a false sexual assault allegation. We’ve had several cases where we go to an administrative separation board. After the administrative separation board, we start getting evidence showing that the person’s lying or showing holes in the investigation or exculpatory evidence. In other words, they hid the evidence, and we later found out when it was too late.

Article 120 UCMJ Sexual Assault Defense Attorneys

So again, go back to the beginning of this video where I say, how can they railroad you if you’re falsely accused? If you’re a veteran? How can they treat your son, daughter, or family member like this? Easy. They have to vilify you and dehumanize you first.
Like I’ve been saying, they call you a rapist. They say you’re a predator. They say that they might not have the evidence. But, they know you did something. It makes it much easier for them to dehumanize you, as a sexual assault predator, as a rapist, as someone who commits military sexual assault. It makes it much easier for everyone along the chain to go along with it.

What’s the big deal? Are we protecting future servicemembers?
“Just because we didn’t have the evidence,” they always say, “doesn’t mean he didn’t do it.”
Well, that doesn’t make any sense. If they don’t have the evidence, then you have no evidence that he did it. So it’s illogical to say, just because we don’t have the evidence doesn’t mean he didn’t do it. It does not mean he did not do it, either. So why are you railroading somebody and kicking them out?

So the bottom line is if you’re accused of rape in the military, military, sexual assault, abuse of sexual contact and military, or anything like that. You’re not guilty, and you’re falsely accused, or if you even may have done some of it, you need to talk to a lawyer who is experienced in dealing with military sexual assault in defending military sexual assault cases as soon as possible.

Videos: Military Sexual Assault & Article 120 UCMJ

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