Facing a Court-Martial?
Get the Defense You Deserve.
Experienced San Diego-Based Military Attorneys
Defending Service Members Worldwide Since 1987.
Facing a Court-Martial?
Get the Defense You Deserve.
Experienced San Diego-Based Military Attorneys
Defending Service Members Worldwide Since 1987.
Aggressive, reliable defense for U.S. service members when it matters most.
San Diego Based / Worldwide Military Representation
Your Rights, Our Fight: Military Legal Defense
Facing a military court-martial can feel overwhelming. Our experienced defense attorneys are here to protect your rights, preserve your future, and guide you through every step of the military justice process.
Facing a military court-martial can be a terrifying experience, leaving you feeling isolated, confused, and uncertain about your future. The stakes are high, with potential consequences that could impact your career, your freedom, and your reputation. You need a trusted legal partner who understands the complexities of military law and will fight tirelessly to protect your rights.
At Military Law Center, we’ve dedicated our careers to defending the rights of service members facing military justice challenges. Our experienced military defense attorneys have a proven track record of success in court-martial defense, administrative separations, and other military legal matters. We’ll be your advocate, guiding you through the legal process and fighting for the best possible outcome.
How We Can Help:
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Why Legal Representation Matters:
Military law is complex and ever-evolving. An experienced civilian military attorney can navigate the legal intricacies of your case and ensure your rights are protected throughout the court-martial process.
The Importance of Legal Representation:
- Negotiating lesser charges or alternative punishments.
- Suppressing evidence obtained illegally.
- Challenging the jurisdiction of the court-martial.
- Ensuring a fair and impartial hearing.
- Filing appeals if necessary.
Benefits of Civilian vs. Military Defense Counsel:
While you are entitled to appointed military defense counsel at a General Court-Martial, there are significant advantages to retaining a civilian attorney specializing in military law:
- Experience and Specialization: Civilian attorneys focus solely on military law and stay up-to-date on the latest legal developments. They may have more courtroom experience than detailed military attorneys who handle a wider range of legal issues.
- Objectivity and Aggressiveness: Civilian attorneys are not part of the military chain of command and can provide a more objective and aggressive defense.
- Caseload and Availability: Detailed military attorneys may have a high caseload, limiting the time and attention they can devote to your case. A civilian attorney can provide more personalized attention.
- Investigative Resources: Civilian attorneys may have access to greater investigative resources than those available to military counsel.
The Court-Martial Process: From Investigation to Appeals:
A court-martial is a serious legal proceeding with distinct stages. Understanding these stages can help you navigate the process and protect your rights.
Investigation:
Military law enforcement investigates the alleged offense. You may be questioned during this stage. It’s crucial to remain silent and seek legal counsel immediately.
Preferral of Charges:
Charges are presented to you by your commander. An Article 32 hearing may be held before charges are referred to a General Court-Martial (unless waived by the accused).
Arraignment:
You are formally read the charges against you and defer the entry of pleas for a later date in accordance with the Trial Management Order.
Motions Practice:
Your attorney can file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the jurisdiction of the court-martial.
Assembly:
The court-martial is convened, and members are selected (if applicable). You will have the opportunity to challenge the selection of members for bias.
Trial:
The prosecution presents evidence to prove your guilt, and you have the opportunity to present a defense. The rules of evidence are complex, and an experienced attorney is essential to ensure they are followed correctly.
Sentencing:
If convicted, the court will determine your punishment. Your attorney can argue for a lesser sentence or alternative punishments.
Appeals:
You have the right to appeal the verdict or sentence. An experienced attorney can guide you through the appeals process.
Don’t Wait to Act:
The consequences of not addressing a court-martial can be severe:
- Loss of rank and pay.
- Dishonorable or bad conduct discharge, making future employment difficult.
- Incarceration.
- Difficulty obtaining veterans’ benefits.
If you are under investigation or facing court-martial charges, contact a qualified civilian military defense attorney immediately.
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Military Law Center:
Your Trusted Ally
Military Law Center is a team of experienced and aggressive civilian military defense attorneys dedicated to protecting the rights of service members facing courts-martial in California and across the nation.
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