Bolling AFB/AF Pentagon, Washington, D.C. | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Bolling AFB/AF Pentagon, Washington, D.C., you may encounter a range of military legal challenges that can impact your service and future. Understanding your rights and the legal landscape is crucial to safeguarding your career. This comprehensive guide, along with the UCMJ Survival Guide, is designed to equip you with vital knowledge. Download your free copy today to navigate potential legal hurdles with confidence.
Overview of Bolling AFB/AF Pentagon, Washington, D.C. and Surrounding Area
Bolling Air Force Base, now part of Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, is a vibrant military installation supporting a variety of Air Force and Navy operations. Located in Washington, D.C., the base plays a key role in defense missions. Its proximity to federal establishments brings together a diverse community, rich in cultural and legal dynamism. The surrounding area, as the nation’s capital, boasts a unique legal culture, hosting numerous governmental and military institutions.
Brief History of Bolling AFB/AF Pentagon, Washington, D.C.
Established in 1918, Bolling AFB has a deep-rooted legacy in U.S. military aviation history. Notably involved in WWII as a strategic operations hub, its mission evolved over decades, supporting conflicts across Korea, Vietnam, and post-9/11 operations. Today, the base remains essential for national defense, adapting to modern military innovations and strategies.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Bolling AFB/AF Pentagon, Washington, D.C.
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) adjudicates military criminal offenses. Common charges at Bolling AFB can include Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence), and Articles 133/134 (misconduct). The process begins with an investigation, followed by charges, and potentially a trial. Service members have the right to consult civilian counsel for representation.
Article 15 / Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP)
Article 15 allows commanders to address minor offenses administratively. Deciding whether to accept or refuse an Article 15 is pivotal, as acceptance can have lasting career implications. Refusal may lead to a court-martial where the stakes are higher but a full defense is possible.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand (GOMORs) can be filed locally within the unit or permanently. Permanent filings can negatively affect a military career. Prompt rebuttal with factual evidence is crucial to mitigate adverse outcomes.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Administrative separation processes vary for enlisted members and officers. While enlisted personnel face separation boards, officers undergo a Board of Inquiry. Ensuring an Honorable discharge involves presenting mitigating circumstances and positive service accomplishments.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
CDIs and Inspector General (IG) complaints can be delicate situations. While these tools serve genuine investigations, misuse can occur. It’s essential to understand risks, such as waiving rights or giving uninformed statements, which may adversely impact your case.
Legal Services Available at Bolling AFB/AF Pentagon, Washington, D.C.
Base Legal (JAG)
The Judge Advocate General (JAG) office at Bolling AFB provides essential legal services such as drafting powers of attorney and wills. However, they typically do not offer criminal defense or represent service members at boards, necessitating external legal assistance.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian defense lawyers offer several benefits over JAG, including independence from the military command structure, extensive trial experience, and confidentiality that can be crucial in sensitive legal matters.
Download the UCMJ Survival Guide
Empower yourself with knowledge. Download your free copy of the UCMJ Survival Guide to learn how to protect your career, your rights, and your military future.
Some Well-Known Civilian Military Defense Lawyers that Serve this Area
There’s no single “best” military defense lawyer. When choosing representation, consider these key qualities:
- Proven track record in UCMJ, trial, Article 15, and court-martial defense
- Experience with administrative separation boards and GOMOR rebuttals
- Familiarity with military law protocols and base-specific culture
- Clear communication and timely responsiveness
- Willingness to provide personalized support and strategic advice
1. Gonzalez & Waddington, LLC
Website: ucmjdefense.com
Based in: Florida / Worldwide
Specialties: Article 120 UCMJ defense, military sex crimes, war crimes, administrative separations, high-profile court-martials
Why they’re on the list:
Military defense lawyers Michael Waddington and Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington are widely considered among the best sex crime and war crime defense attorneys in the military justice system. With hundreds of high-profile military trials under their belts—including cases involving SEAL Team 6, Green Berets, and fighter pilots—they are known for unmatched trial strategy, elite cross-examination skills, and a record of full acquittals. Michael is also a bestselling author of Kick-Ass Closings and Kick-Ass Impeachment.
2. Tim Bilecki – The Bilecki Law Group
Website: bileckilawgroup.com
Based in: Florida / Global
Specialties: Military sexual assault, fraud, international courts-martial
Why he’s on the list:
Tim Bilecki is a former Army JAG with a global reputation for defending complex military cases, often involving combat zones or classified operations. With a commanding presence in the courtroom and a reputation for strategic pretrial dismantling of government cases, Bilecki has become a go-to lawyer for officers and senior enlisted members facing high-level prosecution. His firm focuses on international clients and military members in the Pacific and Asia regions.
3. Artie Vaughn
Website: vaughndefense.com
Based in: Alabama, but defends cases worldwide
Specialties: Article 120 UCMJ, toxic command climates, stacked allegations
Why he’s on the list:
He built his rep the old-school way—by walking into hostile courtrooms and winning cases nobody else would touch. Vaughn’s specialty is turning around cases that look unwinnable on paper: Article 120 allegations where the accused is being railroaded by command, stacked charges driven by command influence, and cases involving combat stress, PTSD, and behavioral health complexities that most lawyers don’t know how to argue.
4. Terri R. Zimmermanna
Website: www.texasdefenselawyers.com/terri-zimmermann/
Based in: Conroe, TX
Specialties:Appellate litigation, military crimes, UCMJ defense
Why he’s on the list:
Terri R. Zimmermann is a nationally-recognized expert criminal litigator with over 30 years of experience representing citizens accused of violating the law or convicted of crimes in civilian and military courts. Her unwavering passion is to secure the best possible outcome for each client, whether through challenging the prosecution at trial or presenting compelling appeals to overturn convictions. Ms. Zimmermann is on a mission to ensure that government entities, be it state, federal, or military, adhere to the rules, treating her clients fairly and with dignity.
5. Bill Cassara
Website: court-martial.com
Based in: Augusta, GA
Specialties: Appellate litigation, military sex crimes, UCMJ defense
Why he’s on the list:
With decades of experience and deep knowledge of military case law, Philip Cave is a sought-after expert for appeals and complex legal motions. His firm often collaborates with other attorneys to handle high-level constitutional or evidentiary challenges.
Why These Lawyers Made the List
This list is based on actual courtroom experience, published verdicts, legal credentials, peer recognition, and results—not on paid placements or advertising. Many so-called “military lawyers” have never defended a court-martial trial. These attorneys do it regularly and at the highest levels.
Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Bolling AFB/AF Pentagon, Washington, D.C.?
Yes, the UCMJ governs the conduct of service members worldwide, including off-base conduct. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Bolling AFB/AF Pentagon, Washington, D.C.?
Yes, service members are entitled to civilian legal representation, ensuring unbiased and robust legal advocacy. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusing an Article 15 may result in a court-martial, where formal trial procedures will apply, offering a platform to present a full defense. - Is Bolling AFB/AF Pentagon, Washington, D.C. considered a high-risk legal environment?
As a base within the political and military hub of the U.S., it encounters complex legal dynamics that require vigilance and understanding.
Closing: Take Control of Your Case Now
Whether you’re dealing with a toxic command, a false allegation, or have made a mistake—you still have rights. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Download your copy of the UCMJ Survival Guide, learn how to fight back, and contact an experienced civilian military defense lawyer who understands the battlefield you’re on.
This is your career. Your freedom. Your future. Arm yourself. Speak up. And win.