Why Should I Hire a Civilian Lawyer if the Military Gives Me One for Free?
Service members often ask: “If the military provides me with a free Judge Advocate General (JAG) defense counsel,
why should I spend money on a civilian military defense lawyer?”
The answer lies in independence, resources, and experience. While JAG lawyers are competent and dedicated,
they face constraints that civilian counsel do not. For background, see the
Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).
Limitations of Appointed JAG Defense Counsel
- Heavy caseloads: JAGs may be defending multiple clients simultaneously, limiting individualized attention.
- Rotations: Many JAGs rotate billets every 2–3 years, reducing long-term trial depth.
- Command approval: Requests for investigators or expert witnesses often require command authorization.
- No choice: You cannot pick your JAG; the military assigns one to you.
Benefits of Hiring Civilian Counsel
- Independence: Civilian lawyers answer only to their client—not to the chain of command.
- Experience: Many civilian attorneys have tried hundreds of contested UCMJ cases, including sexual assault, homicide, and fraud.
- Resources: Civilian counsel bring private investigators, forensic experts, and consultants without military restrictions.
- Time: Civilian attorneys generally manage smaller caseloads, allowing more preparation for each client.
In serious cases—such as Article 120 sexual assault, homicide, or career-ending misconduct—the added strength of civilian counsel can be decisive.
The Two-Lawyer Team Advantage
Many service members use both: keeping their free JAG while adding a civilian lawyer.
This approach combines your JAG’s on-base access and procedural familiarity with your civilian lawyer’s independence and trial-tested advocacy.
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Common Questions
Will hiring a civilian lawyer make me look guilty?
No. It is common in serious cases and shows you are taking your defense seriously.
Can I still keep my JAG if I hire a civilian?
Yes. Most service members keep their JAG as co-counsel while adding a civilian attorney to lead strategy.
Are civilian lawyers allowed to appear overseas?
Yes. Civilian military defense attorneys regularly defend service members worldwide.
Do civilian lawyers have more trial experience?
In most cases, yes. Civilian defense lawyers often spend decades specializing in military trials.
Why Gonzalez & Waddington
For over 20 years, our firm has defended service members in the toughest courts-martial worldwide.
We bring independence, global reach, and unmatched trial experience to every case.
Commands and prosecutors know when we are involved, the defense will be aggressive and strategic.
Call: 1-800-921-8607 |
ucmjdefense.com
Talk to a Military Defense Lawyer
Don’t leave your future to chance. Call 1-800-921-8607 today to strengthen your defense.
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 for specific guidance.
