Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington | Military Legal Guide
Overview of Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington and Surrounding Area
Fairchild Air Force Base, located near Spokane, Washington, serves a critical role as a key player in the Air Mobility Command. Home to the 92nd Air Refueling Wing, its primary mission is to provide air refueling and support to deployed air operations. The Spokane area, known for its vibrant community and legal support services, offers a blend of cultural and demographic diversity.
Brief History of Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington
Established during World War II in 1942, Fairchild Air Force Base was initially a part of the Army Air Forces Technical Training Command and played a pivotal role in training airmen. Through Korea, Vietnam, and post-9/11, its mission evolved, ultimately becoming a linchpin in aerial refueling operations. Today, Fairchild’s strategic importance continues with its commitment to global mobility and readiness.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common Charges: Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), 133/134 (misconduct)
- Process Overview: Understanding the stages of court-martial proceedings from investigation to trial
- Right to Civilian Counsel: Know your right to hire a civilian lawyer for your defense
Article 15 / NJP
- Accept or Refuse? Carefully weigh the implications and potential outcomes before deciding
- Long-term Career Impact: Understanding how an Article 15 can affect your military career
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
- Local vs. Permanent Filing: Differentiating between locally filed and permanently filed letters
- Rebuttal Strategies: Effective ways to respond or contest a GOMOR
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
- Process for Enlisted and Officers: Examining the procedures for both enlisted members and officers
- How to Preserve an Honorable Discharge: Strategies to maintain your discharge status
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
- Common Misuse: Understanding instances where CDIs may be improperly utilized
- Risks of Waiving Rights: Recognize the danger of making statements without counsel
Legal Services Available at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington
Base Legal (JAG)
- What They Provide: Legal assistance including powers of attorney, and drafting wills
- What They Do Not Provide: Criminal defense services and representation in boards
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian lawyers offer independent advice, bring extensive trial experience, and ensure confidentiality, providing invaluable support beyond the scope of JAG services.
Download Your Free Resource
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
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington?
Yes, the UCMJ applies to service members both on and off base. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington?
Absolutely, having independent civilian legal counsel can provide additional support and advocacy. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusing an Article 15 may lead to a court-martial, allowing you to present your case before a military judge or a panel. - Is Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington considered a high-risk legal environment?
Understanding the local legal culture and risks is essential, while being proactive about knowing your rights and resources is always prudent.