Fort Bliss, Texas | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas, understanding the military legal landscape is crucial. Military service members often face unique legal challenges, from court-martials to administrative separations. Navigating these can be daunting, but with the right resources, you can protect yourself and your career. Introducing the UCMJ Survival Guide—your essential tool in grasping your legal rights and options. Download it for free or get a copy from Amazon.
Overview of Fort Bliss, Texas and Surrounding Area
Fort Bliss, located in El Paso, Texas, serves as a critical hub for military operations. It is home to the 1st Armored Division and supports various missions involving training and readiness. The city of El Paso offers a vibrant cultural scene with a rich legal culture characterized by a diversity of military and civilian interactions.
Brief History of Fort Bliss, Texas
Established in 1848, Fort Bliss has played a significant role in various military campaigns, including WWII and post-9/11 operations. Originally designed as a frontier outpost, Fort Bliss evolved into a pivotal military installation supporting modern warfare and technology training. Today, it remains one of the Army’s largest installations with a diverse mission portfolio.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Fort Bliss, Texas
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Common charges include Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence), and Articles 133 and 134 (misconduct). The court-martial process involves several stages including investigation, pre-trial hearings, and trial. Service members have the right to be represented by a civilian attorney to help navigate the complexities of military law.
Article 15 / NJP
An Article 15, or non-judicial punishment, presents a serious decision: accept minor punishment or risk court-martial. Accepting could impact your career long-term, while refusal could lead to more severe consequences if found guilty.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand (GOMORs) and Letters of Reprimand can be either locally or permanently filed. It is crucial to respond promptly with a well-crafted rebuttal to challenge unfair accusations.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
For both enlisted personnel and officers, administrative separation can entail Board of Inquiry or separation board processes. Understanding your rights and securing an honorable discharge is crucial for future career paths.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
CDIs and Inspector General (IG) complaints are often misused. Be cautious of waiving rights or providing statements without counsel, as these can unintentionally incriminate.
Legal Services Available at Fort Bliss, Texas
Base Legal (JAG)
The JAG office at Fort Bliss offers services like powers of attorney and wills. However, they do not provide criminal defense or assistance with administrative boards. It is essential to understand the limitations of on-base legal advice.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian lawyers offer a level of independence and confidentiality that base legal services cannot match. Their extensive trial experience and ability to protect your rights without command influence make them invaluable.
Download your free copy of the UCMJ Survival Guide to learn how to protect your career, rights, and 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 Fort Bliss, Texas
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Fort Bliss, Texas?
Yes, the UCMJ applies to service members both on and off base. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas?
Yes, you have the right to retain a civilian lawyer for legal defense. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusing an Article 15 may lead to a court-martial; however, a civilian lawyer can help you decide the best course of action. - Is Fort Bliss, Texas considered a high-risk legal environment?
While Fort Bliss has a robust legal structure, being informed and prepared is always recommended.
Closing: 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.