Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico, it’s essential to be informed about potential military legal challenges you might encounter. Understanding the procedures and your rights under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) is crucial. We introduce the UCMJ Survival Guide, a comprehensive resource that you can download for free or purchase on Amazon.
Overview of Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico and Surrounding Area
Fort Buchanan is a key military installation in Puerto Rico, supporting the U.S. Army Reserve, active duty Army, National Guard, and various other units. Located near San Juan, the base is part of an area characterized by a rich blend of military and civilian life, with legal norms influenced by both U.S. federal and Puerto Rico laws.
Brief History of Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico
Fort Buchanan was established in 1923, originally serving as a supply depot. It played a strategic role during WWII, the Korean War, and Vietnam, adapting to various military needs over the decades. Today, it remains a vital logistics and support hub for U.S. military operations in the Caribbean and Latin America.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Common charges at Fort Buchanan include Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and 133/134 (general misconduct). Understanding the court-martial process is vital, where the accused has the right to civilian defense counsel.
Article 15 / NJP
Service members faced with an Article 15 must decide carefully whether to accept or refuse, both of which have significant long-term career impacts.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
Knowing whether a General Officer Memorandum of Reprimand (GOMOR) will be filed locally or permanently is crucial. Effective rebuttal strategies can mitigate future career repercussions.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
The process for administrative separation varies between enlisted personnel and officers. Preserving an honorable discharge through proper defense strategies is essential.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
Understanding the common misuse of CDIs and the risks when waiving rights or giving statements during these investigations can protect service members’ careers.
Legal Services Available at Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico
Base Legal (JAG)
The JAG office provides crucial services including powers of attorney and wills. However, they do not offer criminal defense or representation before boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Working with a civilian lawyer is important for independence, strategic trial experience, and maintaining client confidentially, often critical during legal proceedings.
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 Buchanan, Puerto Rico
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico?
Yes, the UCMJ applies to military personnel both on and off base. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico?
Yes, service members have the right to seek civilian legal representation. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusing an Article 15 can lead to a court-martial, where formal charges are pursued.
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.