CFA Sasebo, Japan | Military Legal Guide
Overview of CFA Sasebo, Japan and Surrounding Area
CFA Sasebo is a pivotal naval installation with missions that include supporting forward-deployed naval forces. The surrounding city, Sasebo, is characterized by its rich cultural heritage and bustling legal scene.
Brief History of CFA Sasebo, Japan
CFA Sasebo was established in the early 20th century and played a significant role in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Post-9/11, its mission expanded, playing a crucial role in regional security and humanitarian missions.
Military Law & Legal Issues at CFA Sasebo, Japan
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Common charges at CFA Sasebo include Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and 133/134 (misconduct). The court-martial process can be complex, and service members have the right to civilian counsel.
Article 15 / NJP
Deciding whether to accept or refuse an Article 15 is crucial as it can have long-term career impacts. Understanding your rights and options is essential.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
These can be filed locally or permanently, and developing effective rebuttal strategies is vital.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Both enlisted and officers must understand the process, which includes Boards of Inquiry and separation boards. It’s critical to act to preserve an Honorable discharge.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
CDIs often face misuse, and service members should be cautious about waiving rights or giving statements without counsel.
Legal Services Available at CFA Sasebo, Japan
Base Legal (JAG)
The base legal office provides services like powers of attorney and wills but not criminal defense or representation in boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Engaging civilian lawyers offers independence, extensive trial experience, and confidentiality, which can be crucial in complex cases.
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 CFA Sasebo, Japan?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at CFA Sasebo, Japan?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is CFA Sasebo, 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 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.