Fort Sill, Oklahoma | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, it’s essential to understand the military legal challenges that you or your family might encounter. Navigating the complexities of military law can be daunting, but with the right resources, you can make informed decisions and protect your rights. One crucial resource is the UCMJ Survival Guide, available for free download. Equip yourself with knowledge and prepare to tackle any legal hurdles confidently.
Overview of Fort Sill, Oklahoma and Surrounding Area
Fort Sill, located in Oklahoma, is a vital Army post known for its artillery training and support to joint and combined forces in peace and war. It houses major units such as the 75th Field Artillery Brigade and the Marine Artillery Detachment. Surrounding the base, the city of Lawton offers a diverse community and a robust legal culture aimed at supporting military personnel and their families.
Brief History of Fort Sill, Oklahoma
Established in 1869, Fort Sill has played a pivotal role in American military history. During World War II, it served as an important artillery training base. In recent decades, it has evolved to address training requirements for post-9/11 missions, continuing to play a key role in national defense and international military cooperation.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Fort Sill, Oklahoma
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Typical charges faced in military court-martial proceedings include Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence), and Articles 133/134 (misconduct). Understanding the process and securing the right to civilian counsel is crucial for defense.
Article 15 / NJP
Service members must decide whether to accept or refuse non-judicial punishment (Article 15). This decision can significantly impact your career long-term, and seeking guidance is advisable.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
Understanding the implications of General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand (GOMORs) and the strategies for rebuttal can help mitigate their impact, whether filed locally or permanently.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Both enlisted personnel and officers may face administrative separation processes, such as Boards of Inquiry and separation boards. Preserving an Honorable Discharge can be achieved with strategic actions and defense planning.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
Be cautious of common misuse associated with CDIs and Inspector General complaints. Understand the risks of waiving rights or making statements that could adversely affect your case.
Legal Services Available at Fort Sill, Oklahoma
Base Legal (JAG)
The Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) office provides essential services like drafting wills and powers of attorney. However, they do not represent service members in criminal defense or boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Independent civilian legal counsel can offer personalized defense strategies, confidentiality, and experienced trial representation, complementing the services provided by JAG.
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.
Fort Sill, Oklahoma Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQ
Does the UCMJ apply off base at Fort Sill, Oklahoma?
Yes, the UCMJ applies to service members worldwide, including activities conducted off base.
Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma?
Service members at Fort Sill can indeed request representation by civilian lawyers, especially for cases outside JAG’s purview.
What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusing Article 15 can lead to trial by court-martial, a more formal and potentially severe consequence; legal counsel should be consulted before deciding.
Is Fort Sill, Oklahoma considered a high-risk legal environment?
Fort Sill is not necessarily a high-risk environment, but like any military installation, service members should remain vigilant and informed about military law.
Take Control of Your Case Now
Whether you’re dealing with a toxic command, a false allegation, or have 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.