Fort Eustis, Virginia | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Fort Eustis, Virginia, it’s important to be informed about potential military legal challenges. Navigating military law can be complex, but understanding your rights and resources can make a significant difference. Explore the UCMJ Survival Guide, available for download, to gain insights into protecting your career and future.
Overview of Fort Eustis, Virginia and Surrounding Area
Fort Eustis, part of the Joint Base Langley-Eustis, serves as a United States Army facility in Newport News, Virginia. Known for its logistical and transportation missions, the base is home to the U.S. Army Transportation Corps. Newport News offers a diverse demographic with a rich historical and legal culture.
Brief History of Fort Eustis, Virginia
Established in 1918, Fort Eustis has played pivotal roles in military operations from World War II through the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. Over time, its focus shifted to transportation and training, solidifying its current role as a key player in military logistics.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Fort Eustis, Virginia
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Common charges at Fort Eustis include violations under Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and 133/134 (misconduct). Understanding the court-martial process is essential, and you have the right to hire civilian counsel to defend your case.
Article 15 / Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP)
Deciding to accept or refuse Article 15 is critical, impacting your military career long-term. Weigh options carefully, considering repercussions on your record.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand can be locally filed or made permanent. Explore rebuttal strategies to address these effectively.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Understand the processes for enlisted members and officers, including Board of Inquiry and separation boards. Know how to preserve an Honorable discharge status.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
Be aware of common misuse, and the risks associated with waiving rights or giving statements during investigations.
Legal Services Available at Fort Eustis, Virginia
Base Legal (JAG)
Fort Eustis JAG provides essential services like creating powers of attorney and wills. However, they do not offer criminal defense or represent you in administrative boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Choosing a civilian lawyer can be advantageous due to their independence, trial experience, and confidentiality.
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 Eustis, Virginia
- Fort Eustis Legal Assistance Office: Legal Assistance
- Joint Base Langley-Eustis Command: Command Page
- Military OneSource: Military Legal Assistance
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Fort Eustis, Virginia?
Yes, the UCMJ jurisdiction can extend off base. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Fort Eustis?
Yes, you can request civilian legal representation at any time. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusing an Article 15 could lead to a court-martial, which may have other implications. - Is Fort Eustis, Virginia considered a high-risk legal environment?
Legal risks at Fort Eustis are similar to other bases; thus informed awareness and preparedness are essential.