Fort Benning Military Defense Lawyers

Stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia? Facing a court-martial, UCMJ action, Administrative Separation Board, or other Adverse Administrative Action? Call our experienced Fort Benning military defense lawyers at 1-800-921-8607 for a free consultation.

Facing a Court Martial or UCMJ Action at Fort Benning, GA?

Fort Benning military defense lawyers are critical in protecting the rights of the accused. They provide comprehensive legal support, from initial investigations to courtroom representation. By securing Gonzalez & Waddington’s Fort Benning military defense lawyers, soldiers can be confident that their case is in capable hands.

Fort Benning, Georgia: A Legacy of Service and Justice

Fort Benning, located in the heart of Georgia, is a testament to the enduring legacy of the United States Army. Established in 1940, this military installation has played a pivotal role in the nation’s defense, serving as a training ground for countless soldiers. Over the years, Fort Benning has seen its share of triumphs and challenges, particularly in military justice.

Historical Significance of Fort Benning

Named after Lieutenant General Hal Benning and his wife, Julia, Fort Benning has a storied history. Initially established as an infantry training center during World War II, the base has evolved to accommodate a range of training programs and units. It is home to the Army’s Maneuver Center of Excellence, where soldiers receive comprehensive training in maneuver warfare, leadership, and tactics.

Fort Benning Military Defense Lawyers & the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ)

The UCMJ is the foundation of military law in the United States, governing the conduct of all service members. At Fort Benning, GA, adherence to the UCMJ is paramount, as is ensuring that discipline and order are maintained. However, violations of the UCMJ can lead to severe consequences, including court martials and other judicial proceedings.

Court Martials at Fort Benning

Court-martials are the military’s judicial proceedings to try service members accused of UCMJ violations. These trials are serious and can result in significant penalties, including imprisonment, dishonorable discharge, and loss of military benefits. At Fort Benning, court-martials are conducted diligently to ensure justice is served.

Understanding Article 120 UCMJ

Article 120 of the UCMJ pertains to sexual assault and rape. This article is crucial in maintaining the integrity and safety of military personnel. Violations under Article 120 are treated with the highest severity, reflecting the military’s commitment to protecting its members from harm and maintaining a respectful environment.

Article 120b and Article 120c UCMJ

Article 120b addresses offenses involving child sexual abuse, while Article 120c covers indecent viewing, visual recording, or broadcasting. Both articles highlight the military’s stringent stance against sexual misconduct. Accusations under these articles can have life-altering consequences, emphasizing the need for a robust defense. Manual for Courts-Martial, United States (2024 ed.)

Severe Crimes and the Importance of Defense

Fort Benning is no stranger to severe UCMJ violations. From sexual assault to other grave offenses, the consequences for accused soldiers can be devastating. This underscores the importance of having a strong legal defense. Accusations can lead to long-term repercussions, both professionally and personally, making it essential to secure the best representation possible.

Why Fort Benning Military Defense Lawyers Are Essential

Any soldier accused of a UCMJ violation needs the best Fort Benning military defense lawyers. The complexities of military law require attorneys with extensive experience and a deep understanding of the UCMJ. Gonzalez & Waddington’s Fort Benning military defense lawyers possess the skills to navigate these challenging cases, ensuring every soldier receives a fair trial.

The stakes are high in UCMJ cases, and having knowledgeable Fort Benning military defense lawyers can make all the difference. Gonzalez & Waddington’s team understands the intricacies of military law and is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes for their clients.

Fort Benning military defense lawyers are vital in ensuring justice is served. Accused soldiers need aggressive and strategic representation. Gonzalez & Waddington’s Fort Benning military defense lawyers provide this level of defense, fighting tirelessly to protect their client’s rights.

Choosing the proper legal representation is crucial for any soldier facing UCMJ charges. Fort Benning military defense lawyers from Gonzalez & Waddington offer the expertise needed to effectively challenge the prosecution’s case. Their commitment to their clients is unmatched, making them the go-to choice for military defense.

In conclusion, Fort Benning, Georgia’s history and significance highlight the importance of maintaining discipline and justice within the ranks. The best Fort Benning military defense lawyers are essential for soldiers facing UCMJ violations. Gonzalez & Waddington’s team provides experienced and dedicated representation to navigate these challenging legal waters. Trust in Fort Benning military defense lawyers to protect your future and fight for your rights.

Examples of Fictitious Cases Our Fort Benning Military Defense Lawyers Could Handle and Potential Defenses:

1. Article 120 UCMJ – Rape: Staff Sergeant John Doe is accused of sexually assaulting a junior enlisted member after a unit social event. The alleged victim claims that Staff Sergeant Doe used his position of authority to coerce them into non-consensual sexual activities. Witnesses present at the event mentioned both parties seemed intoxicated, complicating consent issues. Experienced Fort Benning military defense lawyers can challenge the credibility of the alleged victim and scrutinize the intoxication levels to argue consent. Fort Benning court-martial attorneys would also examine the evidence chain and investigate potential biases.
2. Article 120b UCMJ – Sexual Abuse of a Child: Sergeant Jane Smith is charged with engaging in inappropriate sexual conduct with a minor on the base. Allegations surfaced after the minor’s parents noticed changes in behavior and discovered messages on their child’s phone. The messages reportedly contain explicit content and implicate Sergeant Smith. Fort Benning military defense lawyers can contest the validity of the digital evidence and the context of the messages. Fort Benning court-martial attorneys might also explore alternative explanations for the child’s behavioral changes.
3. Article 120c UCMJ – Indecent Exposure: Private First Class Michael Brown is accused of indecently exposing himself in a public restroom on base. Two service members claimed to have witnessed the act and reported it to their superiors. PFC Brown asserts that it was a misunderstanding and denies any intentional misconduct. Fort Benning military defense lawyers would challenge the reliability and consistency of the eyewitness testimony. Fort Benning court martial attorneys could seek to establish that the incident was an unintentional and innocent mistake.
4. Article 128 UCMJ – Assault: Corporal Alex Martinez faces charges of assaulting a fellow soldier during a physical altercation at the barracks. The alleged victim sustained minor injuries and claimed the attack was unprovoked. Witnesses offer conflicting accounts regarding who initiated the fight. Fort Benning military defense lawyers can present evidence supporting self-defense claims. Fort Benning court martial attorneys may also question the legitimacy and motivations of the witnesses’ testimonies.
5. Article 128b UCMJ – Domestic Violence: Sergeant First Class David White is accused of domestic violence against his spouse. His spouse reported the incident to military police, claiming repeated physical abuse documented with photographs and medical reports. SFC White denies the allegations and describes the relationship as mutually combative. Fort Benning military defense lawyers can dissect the consistency and timing of the spouse’s accusations. Fort Benning court martial attorneys might explore issues such as mutual combat and possible ulterior motives for the allegations.
6. Article 112a UCMJ – Drug Use: Specialist Emily Johnson is charged with using and distributing controlled substances on base. A routine barracks inspection uncovered drugs and paraphernalia in her room. Additional testimonies from fellow soldiers suggest a pattern of behavior indicating drug involvement. Fort Benning military defense lawyers would question the integrity of the search and seizure process. Fort Benning court martial attorneys could also challenge the credibility of the witness statements.
7. Article 85 UCMJ – Desertion: Private Noah Lee is accused of desertion after being AWOL for over 30 days. He was apprehended by civilian authorities in another state and claimed personal reasons for his absence. The military perceives it as a deliberate evasion of duty. Fort Benning military defense lawyers can argue mitigating circumstances and provide evidence of justifiable personal reasons. Fort Benning court martial attorneys would also highlight Private Lee’s clean service record before the incident.
8. Article 107 UCMJ – False Official Statement: First Lieutenant Chris Evans is accused of providing false statements during an investigation into misuse of unit funds. The prosecution alleges 1LT Evans intentionally misled investigators to cover for other unit members. 1LT Evans maintains he provided all information to the best of his knowledge. Fort Benning military defense lawyers can challenge the accuracy and coherence of the investigation process. Fort Benning court martial attorneys may demonstrate inconsistencies or gaps in the prosecution’s evidence.
9. Article 92 UCMJ – Failure to Obey Order or Regulation: Captain Sarah Clark faces charges for failing to enforce safety regulations, resulting in a training accident that injured several soldiers. The investigation found lapses in oversight and adherence to protocols. Captain Clark defends that she took all reasonable steps to ensure safety. Fort Benning military defense lawyers can show evidence that Captain Clark followed standard procedures. Fort Benning court martial attorneys would emphasize any attributable external factors or mishaps beyond her control.
10. Article 133 UCMJ – Conduct Unbecoming an Officer: Major Brian Adams is charged with conduct unbecoming an officer after engaging in an extramarital affair, which was discovered through social media. The military considers this behavior to have compromised his integrity and the unit’s morale. Major Adams admits to indiscretion but contests the severity of the charges. Fort Benning military defense lawyers can focus on mitigating circumstances and argue against disproportionate punishment. Fort Benning court martial attorneys would strive to redeem Major Adams’s distinguished service record.
11. Article 121 UCMJ – Larceny: Specialist Paul Thompson is accused of stealing military equipment from the supply room and selling it online. Reports surfaced after a discrepancy was found in inventory checks. Specialist Thompson contends that he was unaware the items were missing and denies involvement. Fort Benning military defense lawyers could dispute the evidence linking Specialist Thompson to the theft. Fort Benning court-martial attorneys may demonstrate the possibility of an error in inventory accounting.
12. Article 132 UCMJ – Fraudulent Claims: Captain Maria Gonzales faces charges for submitting fraudulent travel vouchers and allowances over several months. The investigation reveals incongruities between claimed and actual travel. Captain Gonzales insists any discrepancies were unintentional errors. Fort Benning military defense lawyers can argue that inaccuracies were administrative mistakes without malicious intent. Fort Benning court martial attorneys may present evidence supporting her professional integrity and attention to duty.
13. Article 124 UCMJ – Maiming: Sergeant First Class Mike Jackson is charged with maiming after a violent altercation left another soldier with permanent injuries. The incident occurred during an escalated heated argument. SFC Jackson claims self-defense and mitigating circumstances. Fort Benning military defense lawyers would present self-defense evidence and testimonies supporting SFC Jackson’s account of provocation. Fort Benning court martial attorneys can also investigate the injured soldier’s role in the conflict.
14. Article 81 UCMJ—Conspiracy: Lieutenant Colonel Emma Green faces conspiracy charges related to an alleged scheme to defraud government funds using falsified contracts. Several others are implicated, including military and civilian personnel. LTC Green denies involvement, claiming she was unaware of the fraudulent activities. Fort Benning military defense lawyers can scrutinize the evidence linking LTC Green to the conspiracy. Fort Benning court martial attorneys may highlight her consistent denial and investigate the possibility of wrongful association.
15. Article 118 UCMJ – Murder: Private Lewis Carter faces a murder charge after allegedly killing a fellow soldier during a patrol. The incident was reported by other squad members who described a sudden and unprovoked attack. Private Carter claims it was an accident during a struggle over a weapon. Fort Benning military defense lawyers can examine the circumstances of the incident to support the accident theory. Fort Benning court-martial attorneys would seek to reveal any extenuating factors that led to the tragic outcome.

When You Need an Army Court Martial Lawyer in Fort Benning, Georgia

If you are stationed at Fort Benning and are accused of a crime under the UCMJ, you need the best military defense lawyer to defend your case. Our lawyers do not allow military prosecutors to bully our clients inside the military courtroom.

Fort Benning straddles the Georgia-Alabama border in eastern Georgia and is one of the most recognized Army installations in the United States. The sprawling army installation, located near Columbus, GA, operates in heavily wooded areas, providing the perfect training for troops requiring supreme conditioning for fighting in humid climates.

Fort Benning’s Impressive Military Pedigree

In 1918, President Woodrow Wilson commissioned Fort Benning as one of the primary training bases for army personnel deployed to Europe to fight towards the end of World War II. Dwight D. Eisenhower served at Fort Benning right after the base opened, and he parlayed his training into historically significant stints as a United States General and President.

During World War II, Fort Benning expanded to cover nearly 200,000 acres, making it one of the largest military installations in the world. The 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion began training at Fort Benning in 1943 to practice maneuvers that carried them behind enemy lines to blow up munitions.

On August 1, 1962, the Army Adjunct General restored parts of the famous 99th Reconnaissance Troop that, 30 years before reinstatement, also comprised the 197th and 198th Infantry Brigades. The Base Realignment and Closing Commission decided to realign Fort Benning in 2011 by making the army base the new home of the Maneuver Center of Excellence.

Aggressive Fort Benning Military Defense Lawyers

The aggressive military defense attorneys at Gonzalez & Waddington have gained a reputation for representing service members at Army installations worldwide. If you are stationed at Fort Benning and are under investigation for a military crime, having the most aggressive military attorney can be the difference between getting convicted versus winning your case or redeeming your career. Our court-martial defense lawyers represent Fort Benning service members in both UCMJ and administrative matters, including representing Soldiers accused of sexual assault, drug offenses, and other offenses under the UCMJ.

Unlike the majority of civilian-military defense lawyers or your free US Army lawyer, we do not commonly recommend pleading guilty. Our lawyers force the US Army to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. We take almost every case to trial and fight the allegations before a military jury.

Our Army court-martial victories speak for themselves. The accused Soldier and their future are our primary concerns. Our Fort Benning Military Defense Lawyers keep lighter caseloads than the usual free US Army defense attorneys so that we can focus on every trial individually. Your case will not be outsourced to a random lawyer, and we will not push you into pleading guilty at the eleventh hour. Our military defense lawyers have successfully represented clients in Army court-martial and administrative separation (ADSEP) cases in the United States and worldwide.

Fort Benning Court Martial Attorneys

Michael Waddington was voted a “Super Lawyer” in Georgia and is rated Superb on AVVO.com. A few of Michael Waddington’s cases were made into films, such as “Killings at the Canal,” a CNN documentary special that unveils what caused the murders of Iraqi terrorists by Army soldiers. He also regularly instructs criminal lawyers on trial techniques. Our hard-hitting Army military defense lawyers will use our history to fight your court-martial or ADSEP case at Fort Benning.

Call today to speak with an experienced Fort Benning Military Defense Lawyers.

Soldiers working at Fort Benning merit the best court-martial attorneys available to defend them at their court-martial or administrative separation (ADSEP) board.

If you or a family member are stationed at Fort Benning and are suspected of a military crime such as sexual assault or if you are facing an administrative separation, Article 15, show cause board, letter of reprimand or GOMOR, then call our military defense lawyers immediately.

The Fort Benning Training Infrastructure

The Maneuver Center provides agile, trained, adaptive, and combat-ready soldiers and leaders for the army during wartime. At the same time, the center’s mission remains to prepare leaders for future conflicts. The Armor School educates and trains United States soldiers in armored vehicle units. A major part of the training ensures army soldiers quickly close in on the enemy and destroy any strongholds by setting off armored vehicle fire. The Infantry School helps soldiers integrate armored vehicle skills with the skills required to achieve great things operating within large infantry divisions.

When Military Prosecutors Use the Shotgun Legal Strategy

You’ve heard the timeless adage, “Throw everything against the wall until something sticks.” Well, military prosecutors have brought the adage into military courtrooms by charging defendants with multiple crimes in hopes that one or more of the charges stick. Led by a highly respected military defense lawyer, Michael Waddington, our Fort Benning military defense lawyers play hardball with military prosecutors and sneaky witnesses.