Testimonials

Now a former service member, it was during a critical phase of my transition to civilian life that I
found myself in need of legal representation. A good friend referred me to the Military Law Center.
The civilian criminal case brought against me accused me of providing false witness on the
application to purchase a firearm. Although the charge was a misdemeanor, the timing could not
have been worse due to my imminent transition to civilian life; this case demanded skillful handling
to preserve what I had spent cultivating honorably over two enlistments. Through the advice of my
attorney, Gary Barthel, he was able get the criminal case dismissed. I am very grateful for the expert
advice and open line of communication between Gary and me. Not only did Gary get the charges
against me dismissed, but his expertise enabled me to receive my Honorable discharge from the
Marine Corps and salvaged the plans and benefits that I stood to lose. I wholeheartedly endorse
Gary to any active or prior service member finding themselves in a bind.

C.E., Former U.S.M.C

“We want to thank you for your professionalism and your genuine help in handling a serious legal situation in which you facilitated the very best outcome. We would highly recommend you to anyone and everyone who may need your sound advice and professional expertise. You are honest, trustworthy, experienced and knowledgeable in your practice. You gave us a sense of calm and security during the process as we knew we could depend on you to follow through. You were available to answer any questions along the way. The final outcome could not have been better! It was a pleasure working with you, and thank you again for all that you have done. Would like to put in a good word for your amazing Office Manager, Teresa, as well!”

Jim and Carol

“I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Courtney recently, and I can’t say enough good things about the exceptional legal services provided. From start to finish, Mr. Courtney demonstrated professionalism, expertise, and a deep commitment to my case.

Mr. Courtney and his team were incredibly responsive, always keeping me informed and addressing any concerns or questions I had promptly. They showed a strong understanding of the law and a strategic approach to my case, which ultimately led to a favorable outcome.

What impressed me the most was Mr. Courtney’s ability to explain complex legal concepts in a way that I could easily understand. This made me feel empowered and well-informed throughout the entire process. They took the time to listen to my needs and concerns, ensuring that my best interests were at the forefront of the case.

I would wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Courtney to anyone in need of legal representation. Their dedication, knowledge, and genuine care for their clients set them apart in the legal field. I am truly grateful for their help, and I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney to guide me through this challenging situation.

If you’re seeking a legal professional who will go above and beyond to protect your rights and interests, Mr. Courtney is the attorney you can trust.”

Seth, USMC

“I was wrongfully accused of a sexual assault I did not commit and wanted an experienced attorney who would fight for me. After doing my research, I retained Gary Barthel at the Military Law Center.
Mr. Barthel looked at the NCIS investigation, picked it apart and did his own investigation into the allegations. Not only was Mr. Barthel able to prove I had an alibi at the time of the alleged incident, but his investigation revealed facts that were overlooked by NCIS that destroyed the alleged victim’s credibility. At trial, Mr. Barthel tore apart every witness the government called. In the end, the jury at the general court-martial found me not guilty of the allegation. Throughout the entire court-martial process, Mr. Barthel was always available to answer any questions I had or that anyone else involved with the case might have. Mr. Barthel went above and beyond expectations with working past working hours and making himself available to talk outside of normal working hours. He kept me up to speed on everything going on with the case and went through everything with me to ensure that I had full understanding of the whole process and the case. I am so glad I decided to use Mr. Barthel at the Military Law Center. I would strongly recommend his services to anyone in the military who needs help with their case. ”

LCpl J.D.

“I am a combat veteran, with 10 years of service. In the fall of 2020, I received a call from the Public Defender’s office asking me if I was going to use their services. I told her that she must have the wrong number. She confirmed that she in fact had the correct number. She went on to tell me I was being indicted on two felony counts for attempting to exercise my 2nd Amendment right to purchase a shotgun. I thought, “This is some kind of joke.” It was not.” 

“In the summer of 2016, I was taken to a hospital by the police for an alcohol related incident. Prior to leaving the hospital for home, I apparently signed a document acknowledging that I could not purchase  a firearm for 5 years. I don’t remember this or really anything about that night.” 

“After becoming sober, four years later in December 2019, I attempted to purchase a shotgun so I could teach my son to shoot.  On the 7th day of the 10-day waiting period I received a phone call that the gun store could not release the weapon to me. I didn’t know why. Two months later I was contacted by an investigator asking why I tried to purchase a gun. “You are barred from owning a firearm” he said. This was news to me. He explained that almost four years earlier I was given what’s called a 5150. This means that a doctor had determined that I am a danger to myself and others. I don’t remember ever hearing those words from a doctor.”

“I was given a public defender who, in my opinion, did nothing but try to intimidate me into taking the prosecutor’s deal. I refused because I honestly did not know that I was a barred person and was willing to fight for my 2nd amendment right, even if that meant I might become a convicted felon. It seemed like the DA’s office and the public defender both just wanted me to go away. I was getting irritated with the way the whole situation was developing.” 

“Finally, I was fed up. I started asking around for any effective attorneys who truly believed in our constitutional rights and that wouldn’t try to extend the case in order to increase their bill. A veteran neighbor suggested Attorney Gary Barthel at the Military Law Center. Mr. Barthel is a veteran himself and so I felt he could understand the nuance of this case. What he discovered blew my mind.”

“After retaining Mr. Barthel, he immediately started to examine the evidence and determined the 5150 determination, that I was threat to myself or others, was not properly assessed in accordance with California law.  Additionally, Mr. Barthel also determined I was denied a required hearing to appeal California’s 5-year ban to purchase a weapon.  Based upon the results of his investigation, Mr. Barthel was able to convince the District Attorney’s office to dismiss the charges.”  

“It took Mr. Barthel  only a few months to get all charges dropped. Attorneys are expensive so it is important to find one that is efficient. Mr. Barthel was able to win the case and since it was done so quickly, my total bill was very reasonable. I was also refunded the unused portion of the retainer. I don’t plan on ever needing a criminal defense attorney again, but if I do, I’m calling Gary Barthel. He is very competent, and I would highly recommend his services.”

Andrew

“July 2017, I received a phone call from my son who is a Corporal on active duty at Camp Pendleton, California. My son stated that he was being charged for hazing and was being processed from 29 Palms California back to CP to be placed in the brig pending formal charges. My first thought was “What happened” and what will the future for my son be going forward. My son is by all accounts what we old salts call “Squared Away” and was a standout Marine. The charges were filed and the process to move forward with a General Discharge by the Commanding General was set in motion. My son was facing a discharge by the Commanding General and would lose all his benefits that he earned as an active duty Marine. So what was the hazing charge? My son shaved the head of a Jr. Marine ——-shaved a head and for this my son was being kicked out of the Marines (side bar) no force of physical measure was used by my son.

“I hung up the phone and began the process of finding a strong legal team to defend my son and his career / benefits. I looked through many military legal ads and read each one with clear purpose – “find the right attorney”. The Military Law Center had some very positive reviews and so I reached out to Mr. Gary Barthel and his team. It was within hours of that phone call the wheels of justice began to grind and Mr. Barthel laid out his plan to defend my son. I would ask any of you looking for a strong military legal mind to please read Mr. Barthel bio – it is the who’s / who of lawyers in our military I call Gary, “The Perry Mason“ of our military! In the end Mr. Barthel and his team worked to get the charges dropped by the Commanding General and my son’s career was saved. This was not an easy process but one that required the best military legal counsel out there and make no mistake Mr. Gary Barthel is the best. The Military Law Center saved my Marine future and for that I am eternally grateful to Mr. Barthel and his professional team.”

Greg Messer
USMC Vet and father to this Marine

“Gary was integral in helping my son with a Marine Corps dispute. Because of his clear communication and professionalism, my son’s issues were resolved quickly and without incident. It was extremely helpful having someone that could advocate for my son and had access to Camp Pendleton! I cannot thank Gary enough for his help!”

B. Stuart

“Based upon a recommendation from a fellow Marine, I retained Mr. Gary Barthel and the Military Law Center to represent me with an alleged DUI charge on Camp Pendleton. Mr. Barthel’s advice and guidance throughout the entire matter was outstanding. Facing disciplinary action from my command and DUI charges in federal district court, Mr. Barthel provided me with peace of mind throughout the entire case. Mr. Barthel was instrumental in getting the unjust allegations dismissed both with my command and federal district court. In the end Mr. Barthel helped me clear my name. His outstanding knowledge and dedication will never be forgotten. I strongly recommend Mr. Gary Barthel and the Military Law Center to anyone who needs help in dealing with any allegation made against them.”

Charles, S. F.

“My son in law who was in the Marine Corps was facing charges for possession of child pornography. I wanted to ensure that my son-in-law was represented by an attorney with experience in military law, and Gary Barthel came highly recommended by a trusted attorney and friend. Gary Barthel was instrumental in guiding us through the entire general court martial and military justice process. As a result of his thorough preparation and development of a strong sentencing case, Gary succeeded in getting the Court to dismiss the government’s request for eight-year confinement and instead the Judge only awarded our son-in-law 18 months.”

Reverend Reyenga

“Gary Barthel responded quickly when we reached out looking for legal representation for our son in dealing with the United States Marine Corps. He really listened to what we had to say about our son’s case and the unfair treatment he was receiving. If it had not been for Gary, we would have been completely in the dark about what was really going on. He always treated our family with respect and kindness. He really made a difference, and our son would have gotten much worse treatment if it were not for him.”

B.B. and J.B

“Gary Barthel represented my son in early termination of probation and expungement of a misdemeanor from his record. He and his Paralegal represented us very professionally and kept us constantly informed during the long process. We were fortunate to have him on our side. “

KG

“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

“In June 2014, Gary Barthel represented me in a DUI charge on board Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton. Gary’s years of experience, knowledge, trusted advice and steadfast dedication to my case resulted in my being found not guilty of the charge. Gary was also able to get my driving privileges aboard the base reinstated. Once I was found not guilty of the DUI and my driving privileges aboard the base were reinstated, my command immediately moved forward with my promotion to Sergeant. I was very relieved and fortunate to have Gary represent me. He literally saved my Marine Corps career. I strongly recommend Gary to anyone facing legal trouble.”

Sergeant Colin Chapman, USMC

“Gary, We want to thank you again for assisting Jim in getting back to work. (First day back went well.) We’re not sure the outcome would have been the same without your representation on his behalf and we are grateful you were available and willing to help us.

Although we pray circumstances never arise where we need your services again, you would be the one we would call if they did.

May the Lord bless you as you continue to help others as you have helped us!”

Sincerely,
Jim and Donna Field

“The Military Law Center has been a true pleasure to work with. Gary took the time to walk me though the legal process I would be going through and recommended to me courses of action based off of his years of military and civilian experience. I hope that I never need a lawyer again, but if I do, the Military Law Center is who I will call.”

I.H.

“Hiring the Military Law Center to represent our son was the best decision we could have made. Gary Barthel’s knowledge of and experience with the UCMJ made all the difference in getting the best outcome possible. In a process that we were not familiar with, it was comforting to have such skilled counsel.”

Philip Lanzafame

“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

“Gary is a man of high integrity and honesty. He treats his clients with dignity and respect, and makes it easy to trust him in return. He is thorough in building a defense case, and at trial he does not allow the prosecution to get away with any misuse or abuse of the judicial process. I will forever be grateful that I found Gary online (militarylawcenter.com) and brought him on board as lead attorney. His energy, focus, and diligence brought my case to the best possible outcome. I was initially concerned about the cost of a civilian attorney, but in Gary’s case, it was worth every penny. He does not “nickel and dime” his clients for extraneous charges, rather he uses the fees to devote his time and energy to a case. I give Gary my most highest endorsement – you will not regret hiring him!”

David Cockrum

“Gary Barthel worked on my case to help defend me in a sexual assault allegation. He helped keep me calm through the process, spotted all of the contradictions in the accuser’s testimony, and worked very diligently to defend my rights. Eventually, the charges were dropped before even going to trial. I strongly recommend Gary’s services.”

Cpl R.A.

“I engaged the Military Law Center for a consultation after my Commanding Officer issued separation proceedings to me for allegations of fraud committed against the government. I retained Mr. Barthel because of his extensive background in practicing military law, and because he understands the needs of military clients. Throughout the seven months leading up to my separation board, Mr. Barthel was diligent in spearheading the effort to preserve my military career. He examined and scrutinized all of the evidence and facts, finding several discrepancies in the false allegation levied against me. Because of Mr. Barthel’s persistent work, I was entirely prepared to give my defense to the board which resulted in a unanimous vote by its members, who found no basis for separation. I am eternally grateful for the service that Mr. Barthel provided, and for the encouragement and professionalism of his paralegal. It is a joyous privilege to continue serving my country with the bedrock of my character—Honor, the heart engrained in me—Courage, and my spirit of determination—Commitment.”

Semper Fidelis,
Dennis C., USMCR

“Mr. Barthel saved my military career by successfully petitioning the removal of a career ending judgment against me. I will always be grateful to him for his irreplaceable legal advice and assistance during this ordeal. Mr. Barthel is competent, dependable, and offers a fair price for his legal services. There are few attorney’s whether retired or active duty military that has the amount of experience of Mr. Barthel that can back it up with successful legal representation.”

Jared

“As a senior civilian government employee on a military base, I found myself facing allegations that threatened my future employment and career. As a result of the allegations, I was temporarily suspended without pay during the investigation. While researching options for representation, I was referred to Gary Barthel by another law firm that understood my need for an attorney with expertise in military and civilian law, who was committed to fighting for my rights. I found Gary Barthel, to be ethical, professional and most importantly to me, compassionate. I was immediately put at ease by Mr. Barthel, and his team, and they always kept me apprised of any updates to my case.”

Mark W.

“Military Law Center showed their experience, tenacity, and skill in taking my lawsuit to a successful settlement. It was a far more favorable outcome than anyone told me was possible, even the judge. They were thorough over months of preparing my suit. As it escalated toward a trial, they managed expert witnesses, depositions, and documents. Then they advised us well as we finally negotiated a settlement. Military Law Center is outstanding for their specialized knowledge about military customs and traditions as well as the law. They are highly recommended in their specialty.”

Michael Lawless, LCDR USN ret

“Ten months ago I was wrongfully accused of conspiring with other students to violate the command’s Academic Honor Code at the Surface Warfare Medical Institute here in San Diego, CA. In addition, I was accused of Obstructing Justice. Pretty serious allegations. I retained Gary Barthel’s services after being notified by my command that they were going to administratively separate me for misconduct. He immediately went to work on my behalf. His diligence and unquestionable expertise in preparation for my Administrative Separation Board resulted in a unanimous vote of no misconduct. No basis for separation! Having never been involved in a legal proceeding before, I had many doubts over the course of those long ten months leading up to the board. My case in particular seemed complicated, to me that is. But once the board started and the first witness was called, I knew I was in good hands. For fourteen hours I watched Mr. Barthel finesse his way through a complicated case with ease! From the timing of specific witnesses to keeping the board members educated and engaged… the poor JAG representing the government never stood a chance. If you’re wrongfully accused of criminal activity, you want Mr. Barthel in your corner. If your Military career is on the line, you want Mr. Barthel in your corner. For fourteen long hours Mr. Barthel owned the room… I cannot stress it enough that this is the man you want in your corner.”

Dean G.

“Attorney Barthel represented my soldier son in military court in a he said she said criminal case. Attorney Barthel’s actual experience in military law was evident at the first meeting as he worked with the details of the he said she said. When in court he was to the point and out of court he gave us an understanding of what to expect and how the system works. After firing our first lawyer which we hired in an emotional fog of fear being sold on the statement “I was a soldier and know military law” is not the same as giving your trust to a true military lawyer. After the charges were dropped brought by the pressure of facts and details Attorney Barthel summited, he didn’t just close the case he wanted to ensure my son’s record was cleared for his future service. The on-base Jag officer commented Attorney Barthel was the best she had ever witnessed. I recommend Attorney Barthel not only for his knowledge of military law but also for his sincere belief in good service for his clients.”

Kim Gongwer

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

Kathryn Cooney