Fort Huachuca, Arizona | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, understanding the scope of military legal challenges you may face is crucial. Navigating the complexities of military law requires awareness and preparedness. That’s where the UCMJ Survival Guide comes in—a resource designed to arm you with the necessary knowledge and strategies. Download your free copy or visit Amazon to learn more.
Overview of Fort Huachuca, Arizona and Surrounding Area
Fort Huachuca serves as a significant hub for military intelligence and cybersecurity operations, hosting major units like the 111th Military Intelligence Brigade. Located in southern Arizona, the base is close to the city of Sierra Vista. The area’s legal culture is influenced by its military presence, providing various legal services for service members and their families.
Brief History of Fort Huachuca, Arizona
Established in 1877, Fort Huachuca played a pivotal role during the Indian Wars and served as a training ground during World War II. It supported operations in Iraq, Korea, Vietnam, and post-9/11 activities, evolving into a critical intelligence and communications center. Its current mission focuses on advanced training and technological development, continuing to adapt to modern military needs.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Fort Huachuca, Arizona
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common Charges: Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence), Articles 133/134 (misconduct)
- Process Overview: Legal proceedings include investigation, pre-trial, trial, and potential appeal stages.
- Right to Civilian Counsel: You have the right to retain a civilian attorney to ensure a robust defense.
Article 15 / NJP
- Accept or Refuse?: Understanding the implications and deciding whether to accept or contest is crucial.
- Long-Term Career Impact: Consider the potential effects on promotions and reenlistment.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
- Local vs. Permanent Filing: Know the difference and implications for your record.
- Rebuttal Strategies: Effective approaches to contest and manage the impact.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
- Process: For enlisted and officers through Board of Inquiry or separation boards.
- How to Preserve an Honorable Discharge: Critical steps to maintain your discharge status.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
- Common Misuse: Understanding how they may be improperly used against you.
- Risks of Waiving Rights or Giving Statements: Protect your position by knowing your rights.
Legal Services Available at Fort Huachuca
Base Legal (JAG)
- Services Provided: Powers of attorney, wills, and notary services.
- What They Do Not Provide: Criminal defense and representation at boards—seek civilian counsel for these.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Opting for civilian lawyers can provide greater independence, trial experience, and confidentiality compared to military legal services. Their role is essential in ensuring unbiased representation and a comprehensive defense strategy.
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 Huachuca, Arizona
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Fort Huachuca, Arizona?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Fort Huachuca, Arizona?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
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.