What Does a Military Defense Lawyer Do?
A military defense lawyer defends service members accused of violating the
Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).
Their job is to protect your rights, challenge the government’s case, and fight to safeguard your career, rank, benefits, and freedom.
Key Roles of a Military Defense Lawyer
- Advising service members of their rights under Article 31(b) UCMJ
- Defending against charges in courts-martial (summary, special, general)
- Challenging unlawful searches, statements, and unreliable evidence
- Cross-examining government witnesses and experts
- Protecting service members during Article 15/NJP proceedings
- Representing clients at administrative separation boards and Boards of Inquiry
- Defending against General Officer Memoranda of Reprimand (GOMORs) and Letters of Reprimand (LORs)
Step-by-Step Defense Work
1. Early Protection
Military defense lawyers advise clients not to self-incriminate, handle interrogations, and preserve favorable evidence immediately.
2. Investigation
They interview witnesses, gather records, and work with independent experts to counter the government’s case.
3. Pretrial Motions
Defense counsel file motions to suppress coerced statements, exclude junk science, and enforce discovery rights.
4. Trial Preparation
They develop a strong narrative, prepare cross-examinations, and rehearse testimony to dismantle the prosecution’s theory.
5. Administrative Advocacy
Outside trial, defense lawyers fight GOMORs, rebut LORs, and represent clients at separation boards to preserve careers.
Military vs. Civilian Defense Lawyers
Appointed JAG lawyers are free, but they often juggle heavy caseloads. Civilian military defense lawyers, such as
Gonzalez & Waddington, bring independence, extensive trial experience, and additional resources
to balance the scales against the government’s prosecutors and investigators.
Video: What Does a Military Defense Lawyer Actually Do?
Common Questions
Do military defense lawyers only handle trials?
No. They also represent service members at administrative separation boards, Boards of Inquiry, and in appeals.
Can a civilian lawyer join my JAG lawyer?
Yes. You may hire civilian counsel, and your appointed JAG will remain as co-counsel if you choose.
Do military defense lawyers travel?
Yes. Civilian counsel routinely defend cases worldwide, including deployed environments.
What if I cannot afford a civilian lawyer?
You will always have a free JAG defense counsel assigned to you.
Why Gonzalez & Waddington
Our attorneys have defended service members across the globe for over 20 years.
We focus exclusively on military law and have been featured on 60 Minutes, CNN, and in
the Academy Award-winning documentary Taxi to the Dark Side.
We bring unmatched trial experience and independence to your defense.
Call: 1-800-921-8607 |
ucmjdefense.com
Talk to a Military Defense Lawyer
Protect your rights, your rank, and your future. Call 1-800-921-8607 or visit ucmjdefense.com.
Disclaimer
This page is for educational purposes and does not create an attorney–client relationship. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Consult an attorney about your specific situation.
