Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Norfolk, Virginia Military Criminal Lawyers

If you are an active duty servicemember stationed at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story in Norfolk, Virginia and facing criminal charges under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), it is critical that you obtain experienced legal representation from a military defense attorney. Military criminal law is complex and the consequences for convictions can be severe, potentially resulting in jail time, demotions, fines, and even discharge from service. As a servicemember, you have rights that civilian defendants do not. You need a military lawyer who understands the UCMJ and military justice system and will fight aggressively to protect your rights. A skilled military defense lawyer knows the procedures, laws, and strategies that apply specifically to defending servicemembers against military criminal charges.

Why Hire a Military Criminal Lawyer

Here are some key reasons it is vital to hire a military criminal defense attorney if you are facing court martial or non-judicial punishment at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story:

• They understand military law and criminal procedure - The UCMJ and Manual for Courts-Martial contain complex rules for military trials and investigations that civilian lawyers may not fully understand.
• They have experience with military courts and culture - Military trials differ significantly from civilian court proceedings. A military lawyer knows how to navigate the military justice system.
• They can negotiate with military prosecutors - An experienced JAG lawyer knows how to effectively negotiate with military prosecutors (Trial Counsel).
• They defend your military career - A conviction can seriously impact or end your military service. A military defense lawyer knows how to protect your career.
• They know your rights - You have certain rights under the UCMJ that civilian defendants do not. A military lawyer will ensure your rights are protected.

Common Criminal Offenses Under UCMJ

Some of the most common criminal offenses servicemembers face under the UCMJ at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story include:

• Drug offenses - possession, use, distribution of illegal drugs
• Sexual assault
• Domestic violence and spouse/child abuse
• DUI/DWI
• Assault, battery, violence
• Larceny, theft of military property
• Adultery, fraternization
• AWOL, desertion
• Disobeying orders, insubordination
• Conduct unbecoming an officer

These are serious criminal offenses that require an experienced trial defense lawyer to build the strongest case in your defense. Even minor UCMJ convictions can carry severe consequences that impact your military service and benefits.

Courts Martial and Article 15 Non-Judicial Punishment

If accused of a crime under the UCMJ at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, you may face court martial or an Article 15 non-judicial punishment:

• Courts Martial - A formal military trial and conviction on serious criminal charges. Types include general, special, and summary courts martial.
• Article 15 - Non-judicial punishment imposed by your commander for minor offenses. No trial is held.

In both situations, an experienced military defense lawyer can defend your case and negotiate for the best possible outcome under the circumstances. They understand your rights in each type of proceeding.

How a Military Lawyer Can Defend Your Case

An aggressive military defense lawyer will use every legal strategy and defense available to fight the charges and protect your future military service. This can include:

• Contesting evidence and challenging the legal merits of the charges
• Raising affirmative defenses such as self-defense, lack of mental responsibility, obedience to orders
• Negotiating with the prosecution for dismissal or reduction of charges
• Seeking to suppress evidence that was unlawfully obtained
• Presenting mitigating circumstances to reduce potential penalties
• Pursuing post-trial appeals if convicted

In addition, a military lawyer can represent you in related administrative discharge proceedings and boards to avoid a punitive discharge characterization.

Why Choose Our Military Defense Firm

If you have been accused of a UCMJ offense at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story that jeopardizes your military service, contact our experienced military law firm immediately for a free case review. Here is why servicemembers choose us:

• We are all former active duty JAG attorneys familiar with every facet of military law.
• Our sole focus is defending servicemembers against military charges.
• We have an outstanding record of success in courts martial and UCMJ cases.
• We offer free consultations and affordable legal fee options.
• We are aggressive military defense lawyers who fight relentlessly for our clients.

Don't leave your military career to chance. Contact our team today for expert UCMJ representation.

Contact Our Military Defense Lawyers

If you have been charged with an offense under the UCMJ at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, contact our military law firm immediately for a free case consultation. Call us at 555-555-1234 or contact us online to schedule an appointment and discuss your charges in confidence. A court martial conviction can ruin your military service - fight back with an experienced military lawyer on your side.