Chievres Air Base, Belgium | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Chievres Air Base, Belgium, it’s essential to understand the unique legal challenges you may face. Military life comes with its own set of legal circumstances, whether related to the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) or interactions with local laws.
The UCMJ Survival Guide is a valuable resource that equips service members with the knowledge to navigate these potential challenges successfully. Download your free copy here or find it on Amazon.
Overview of Chievres Air Base, Belgium and Surrounding Area
Chievres Air Base serves a strategic role for the U.S. military in Europe, hosting several key units involved in support and logistical missions. Located in a picturesque setting in Belgium, the base facilitates essential military operations connected with NATO commitments.
The surrounding region is known for its rich cultural heritage and welcoming community. However, service members should be aware of the different legal systems in place here, which may vary significantly from U.S. laws.
Brief History of Chievres Air Base, Belgium
Established during WWII, Chievres Air Base has played a vital role in various military operations. Initially serving as a point of defense, it transitioned into a central hub for logistics and support in subsequent conflicts like Korea and post-9/11 operations. Today, it continues to support U.S. and NATO missions across Europe.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Chievres Air Base, Belgium
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Common charges include Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence), and Articles 133/134 (misconduct). It’s crucial to understand the court-martial process and your right to retain civilian counsel.
Article 15 / NJP
Choosing to accept or refuse an Article 15 can have long-term impacts on your career. The process can be complex, but understanding your rights and the potential consequences is crucial.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand (GOMORs) can be filed locally or permanently. Structuring a solid rebuttal is key to mitigating negative career effects.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Both enlisted personnel and officers may face administrative separation. Understanding the procedures, including Board of Inquiry and separation boards, can help you preserve an honorable discharge.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
Be aware of how CDIs can be misused. Protect yourself by understanding the risks of waiving rights or giving unsolicited statements.
Legal Services Available at Chievres Air Base, Belgium
Base Legal (JAG)
The Judge Advocate General (JAG) office can assist with powers of attorney and wills, but cannot represent or defend you in criminal cases or administrative boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Seeking the counsel of civilian lawyers can be beneficial due to their independence, trial experience, and confidentiality. They can offer specialized insights and representation.
UCMJ Survival Guide
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 near Chievres Air Base, Belgium
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Chievres Air Base, Belgium?
Yes, service members are subject to the UCMJ both on and off base. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Chievres Air Base, Belgium?
Yes, you are entitled to seek civilian legal representation at your own expense. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
You may face a court-martial, which carries the potential for more severe penalties, depending on the charges. - Is Chievres Air Base, Belgium considered a high-risk legal environment?
While not inherently high-risk, understanding your legal obligations and rights is crucial, given the unique legal landscape.
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.