Fort Riley, Kansas | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas, you’re part of a crucial military community that faces unique legal challenges. Understanding the intricacies of military law and your rights under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) is essential for protecting your military career and future. This guide introduces the UCMJ Survival Guide, available as a free download or through Amazon.
Overview of Fort Riley, Kansas and Surrounding Area
Fort Riley is a United States Army installation located in North Central Kansas. It’s home to the 1st Infantry Division, also known as “The Big Red One,” known for its role as a rapidly deployable force. The surrounding area, including cities like Junction City and Manhattan, offers a diverse community and legal environment.
Brief History of Fort Riley, Kansas
Established in 1853, Fort Riley has played a significant role in American military history. It was a cavalry post throughout the Indian Wars and became an important training center during World War II. Fort Riley’s mission evolved post-9/11, focusing on rapid deployment and modern warfare, cementing its status as a key military hub.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Fort Riley, Kansas
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common charges: Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), 133/134 (misconduct)
- Process overview: Investigation, preferral of charges, preliminary hearing, and trial by court-martial
- Right to civilian counsel: Service members can hire a civilian lawyer for better defense
Article 15 / NJP
- Decision to accept or refuse: Weigh consequences carefully
- Long-term career impact: Potential negative effects on promotion and reenlistment
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
- Local vs. permanent filing: Impacts future evaluations and career
- Rebuttal strategies: Diligent response can mitigate outcomes
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
- Process for enlisted and officers: Board of Inquiry, separation boards
- How to preserve an Honorable discharge: Employment of effective legal advocacy
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
- Common misuse: Often based on command bias
- Risks of waiving rights or giving statements: Consult legal counsel first
Legal Services Available at Fort Riley, Kansas
Base Legal (JAG)
- Offered services: Powers of attorney, wills, and legal advice
- Limitations: Do not provide criminal defense or representation in boards
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Why civilian lawyers matter: Independence, trial experience, confidentiality. Civilian lawyers provide personalized attention and may offer options any JAG officer might not present due to impartial constraints.
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 Riley, Kansas
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Fort Riley, Kansas?
- Yes, the UCMJ applies to service members both on and off base.
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas?
- Yes, service members can hire a civilian lawyer for their defense needs.
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Refusing an Article 15 can lead to a court-martial; consult with an attorney for guidance.
Closing: Take Control of Your Case Now
Whether you’re facing a toxic command, false allegations, or mistakes, 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 your battlefield.
This is your career. Your freedom. Your future. Arm yourself. Speak up. And win.