Civilian Military Lawyer – Criminal Defense

Protecting Service Members in San Diego & Orange County Courts and Commands

Local Military Defense Attorney Serving San Diego and Orange County — 40 Years Experience, Former JAG

Defending Service Members Since 1987

Criminal Allegations in Civilian Court? Your Military Career Is at Risk

When you’re a service member charged in civilian court, you’re fighting on two fronts. Your command doesn’t need a conviction to take action against you. Allegations alone can lead to:

You need a defense attorney who understands both legal systems. A civilian military lawyer can:

Represent you in civilian court
Advise you before your command takes action
Help protect your career, rank, and benefits

The goal isn’t just avoiding conviction — it’s preserving your service and your future.

Service Members Facing Civilian Criminal Charges

Facing charges in San Diego or Orange County? You need the right defense — now.

Military Law Center can represent your interests in both:

Civilian criminal court, and
Military disciplinary or administrative actions

Attorney Gary Barthel will advise and defend you aggressively. As a former JAG officer and “Mustang” Marine, he knows the stakes and understands your position — from both sides of the system.

Civilians Charged for Crimes on Military Installations

If you’re a civilian — whether a dependent, guest, civilian employee, or contractor — and you’ve been charged with a crime on base in San Diego County, you’re facing federal criminal charges.

In addition to federal prosecution, the base Commander may impose:

A permanent bar from all military installations
Administrative actions that jeopardize your job or security clearance

If your work or access depends on the installation, your livelihood is at risk.

You need a civilian military defense attorney who can:

Represent you in Federal District Court
Defend your ability to work on or access military installations

“Mr. Barthel and Military Law Center were incredible advocates. They were extremely responsive, attentive, respectful, and detail oriented. Mr. Barthel carefully examined every aspect of my case, while using the help of his team, to ensure a favorable and fair outcome. I highly recommend Mr. Barthel and Military Law Center. I have used and known many different lawyers in my life, and Mr. Barthel’s advocacy ranks among the highest.”
J

A Proven Military Legal Career

Attorney Barthel brings decades of experience to your defense:

20 years active duty in the USMC — served as both enlisted Marine and officer
Federal prosecutor and criminal defense attorney
Handled jury trials involving:
- Capital murder
- Homicide
- Rape
- Assault
- Drug charges
- Fraud
Argued appellate cases before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit
Nearly 40 years in military law and litigation

Civilian Military Attorney Gary S. Barthel

You won’t find this combination of courtroom skill, military insight, and federal experience elsewhere.

Put Heavy-Weight Experience on Your Side

If you’re under investigation or already charged, time is critical.

You need a civilian military attorney with the experience to move fast and protect your position.

Attorney Gary Barthel brings:

Nearly 40 years in military law
20 years of active-duty Marine Corps service
Former federal prosecutor, U.S. Attorney’s Office
Over 20 years defending service members in civilian criminal court
Retained expert in military law

“Attorney Barthel recently represented a significant client of mine in a difficult criminal trial in San Diego, California involving allegations of domestic violence. After a three day jury trial, including expert testimony offered by the prosecutor, the jury returned a not guilty verdict. As a fellow trial lawyer, watching Attorney Barthel in Court was tantamount to attending a masters class in trial advocacy. Attorney Barthel was quick on his feet, understood his way around the Court and spoke in plain English making it easy for the jury to warm to the defense. He is an outstanding attorney and a credit to the criminal defense bar.”
Steve Hamann, Shareholder Vedder Price P.C. Chicago, Illinois

Call us Today (760) 536-9038 to Schedule Your Consultation.

If you’re facing civilian criminal charges in San Diego or Orange County, don’t wait.

Military Law Center is ready to represent you — in the courtroom and with your command.

Get Help Now

Call us Today at (760) 536-9038 or complete the below form for a free, no obligation initial consultation.

“My experience with Gary is that he is a fine Marine and an outstanding military attorney.”

– Kathryn Cooney