CFA Okinawa, Japan | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at CFA Okinawa, Japan, navigating the complexities of military law can be daunting. Service members and their families face unique legal challenges that require a sound understanding of their rights and the procedures involved. Our guide is designed to
help you tackle these challenges head-on with confidence.
Introducing the UCMJ Survival Guide, your essential resource for understanding military legal proceedings. Download your free copy or get it from Amazon today.
Overview of CFA Okinawa, Japan and Surrounding Area
CFA Okinawa, Japan plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and security in the Pacific region. It hosts major units responsible for a variety of critical missions. The surrounding area blends local Okinawan culture with the influences of the military community, creating a
unique legal culture.
For an interactive view, check out the location.
Brief History of CFA Okinawa, Japan
CFA Okinawa, Japan was established post-World War II to support U.S. military operations in Asia. It played a strategic role during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and its mission has evolved over time to accommodate modern-day security needs in a post-9/11 world. Currently,
CFA Okinawa remains pivotal in balancing regional power dynamics and ensuring readiness.
Military Law & Legal Issues at CFA Okinawa, Japan
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Court-martial proceedings at CFA Okinawa commonly deal with charges under Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and Articles 133 and 134 (general misconduct). Understanding the processes involved, from investigation to trial, is crucial for a fair defense.
Remember, you have the right to civilian counsel.
Article 15 / Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP)
Service members facing Article 15 should deliberate whether to accept or refuse the punishment. This decision can significantly impact both immediate consequences and long-term career trajectories.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand (GOMORs) can be filed locally or permanently. Effective rebuttal strategies are essential to prevent permanent damage to your military record.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Understanding the process for Board of Inquiries and separation boards is vital for those facing administrative separation. Knowing how to preserve an Honorable discharge is crucial for future benefits and employment.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
Misuse of CDIs and IG complaints can lead to unjust outcomes. Be aware of the risks associated with waiving rights or providing statements without proper consultation.
Legal Services Available at CFA Okinawa, Japan
Base Legal (JAG)
The Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) office at CFA Okinawa provides essential legal services such as drafting powers of attorney, creating wills, and handling family law issues. However, they do not offer criminal defense or representation in boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian military defense lawyers offer independence, trial experience, and confidentiality. They’re essential for navigating serious charges that JAG attorneys may not handle directly.
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 near CFA Okinawa, Japan
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at CFA Okinawa, Japan?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at CFA Okinawa, Japan?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is CFA Okinawa, Japan considered a high-risk legal environment?
Take Control of Your Case Now
Whether you’re dealing with a toxic command, a false allegation, or just 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.