Fort Jackson, South Carolina | Military Legal Guide
Overview of Fort Jackson, South Carolina and Surrounding Area
Fort Jackson is a significant U.S. Army training installation where thousands of soldiers undergo Basic Combat Training. Located near Columbia, South Carolina, the base covers more than 52,000 acres and is home to numerous units, including the Drill Sergeant School and the U.S. Army Soldier Support Institute.
Columbia is the state capital and offers a vibrant legal culture. The area around the base has a mix of military and civilian populations that contributes to a diverse community.
Brief History of Fort Jackson, South Carolina
Fort Jackson was established in 1917 during World War I to train infantry forces. It continued to play a pivotal role during WWII, the Korean War, Vietnam, and post-9/11 operations. Its mission has evolved to become the Army’s largest basic combat training site, preparing soldiers for modern military operations.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Fort Jackson, South Carolina
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common Charges: Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), 133/134 (misconduct)
- Process Overview: Understand the stages and your rights during a court-martial.
- Right to Civilian Counsel: A key aspect of protecting your interests during legal proceedings.
Article 15 / NJP
- Deciding to Accept or Refuse: Weigh the short-term and long-term impacts on your career.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
- Local vs. Permanent Filing: Understand the implications and potential impacts on your record.
- Rebuttal Strategies: Learn how to effectively respond and protect your record.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
- Exploration of Processes: For both enlisted and officers, including Board of Inquiry and separation boards.
- Preserving an Honorable Discharge: Key strategies and steps to safeguard your military career.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
- Common Misuse: Be aware of potential pitfalls and abuses of the process.
- Risks of Waiving Rights or Giving Statements: Navigating the balance between cooperation and self-protection.
Legal Services Available at Fort Jackson
Base Legal (JAG)
- Available Services: Powers of attorney, wills, and general legal assistance.
- Exclusions: Note that JAG does not provide criminal defense or legal representation at boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Why Civic Lawyers Matter: Civilian lawyers offer independence, trial experience, and confidentiality essential in handling complex cases effectively. They can provide a critical advantage in both negotiations and trials.
Book CTA
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 near Fort Jackson, South Carolina
FAQs
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Fort Jackson, South Carolina?
- Yes, the UCMJ applies to you 24/7 regardless of your location.
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Fort Jackson, South Carolina?
- Yes, you can hire a civilian attorney to enhance your defense strategy alongside JAG representation.
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Refusing can lead to a court-martial, allowing for more formal proceedings and a potential full acquittal.
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.