What to Do After Receiving Notice of a Military Investigation
Gonzalez & Waddington, LLC is one of the most experienced military defense law firms in the world. If you’ve been contacted by CID, NCIS, OSI, CGIS, or your command about an investigation—stop talking and call a lawyer immediately. The government is already building a case. Anything you say or do will be used against you. Our attorneys step in early to protect your rights, shut down direct contact, and build a powerful pre-charge defense.
- 25+ years of global military investigation defense experience
- Clients defended in over 30 countries across every service branch
- Rapid legal response to all types of UCMJ allegations
Step 1: Do Not Talk to Investigators Without a Lawyer
This is the biggest mistake service members make. Military law enforcement will claim you “look guilty if you don’t talk.” That’s a trap. Declining to speak is your right under Article 31(b). Never waive it without legal counsel.
Step 2: Do Not Talk to Your Chain of Command
Commanders and NCOs are not confidential. They can testify. Even casual statements to friends, roommates, or coworkers can become damaging evidence. Stay quiet—anything you say can be twisted later.
Step 3: Call Gonzalez & Waddington Immediately
- We notify investigators and command that you are represented
- We block further questioning or manipulation
- We advise you on what to do and say from this moment forward
Step 4: Document Everything
- Start a timeline of events related to the accusation
- Secure text messages, photos, emails, and relevant documents
- Write down names and details of any interactions with law enforcement
Step 5: Avoid Social Media and Email
Delete nothing—but post nothing. Investigators monitor your digital presence. Even vague statements can be misinterpreted or used to impeach you later.
Step 6: Begin Preparing Your Defense Now
- Identify potential witnesses and favorable documents
- Secure character references, duty performance evaluations, and awards
- Let our team begin investigating the accuser’s background, motives, and statements
Types of Cases We Handle During Investigations
- Sexual assault (Article 120), sexual harassment (Article 92, 93)
- Domestic violence, strangulation, stalking
- Drug use, urinalysis failures, Article 112a
- Fraternization, adultery, conduct unbecoming
- False official statements, obstruction, misuse of authority
Why Early Legal Intervention Works
- We often stop cases before charges are filed
- We preserve exculpatory evidence that otherwise disappears
- We frame your case early and influence charging decisions
Related Resources
- Military Investigation Defense Overview
- What to Do When CID or NCIS Calls You
- Your Rights Under Article 31(b) UCMJ
