Goodfellow AFB, Texas | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Goodfellow AFB, Texas, understanding the potential military legal challenges you’ll face is vital. The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) governs the conduct of military personnel, whether on or off duty. Our UCMJ Survival Guide offers invaluable insight into navigating these challenges. Download your free copy on Amazon to empower yourself and protect your future.
Overview of Goodfellow AFB, Texas and Surrounding Area
Goodfellow Air Force Base (AFB), located in San Angelo, Texas, is a key training site for the United States Air Force and works in concert with various intelligence and cryptology units. It plays a major role in training and developing intelligence and surveillance professionals.
The surrounding city of San Angelo is known for its rich history and vibrant community. A diverse demographic, it holds a culture that respects the law, with courteous law enforcement and legal resources available for service members.
Brief History of Goodfellow AFB, Texas
Established on June 28, 1940, Goodfellow AFB has played a crucial role through World War II, the Korean War, and beyond. Initially set up to train pilots, its mission evolved over the decades. Post-9/11, it became pivotal in intelligence training, shaping national security through its rigorous programs.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Goodfellow AFB, Texas
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Charges under the UCMJ can include serious offenses such as Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and 133/134 (misconduct). Service members have the right to civilian counsel to ensure their defense is firmly rooted in experienced representation.
Article 15 / NJP
Non-Judicial Punishment under Article 15 can be a delicate decision—whether to accept or refuse impacts long-term career prospects. Understanding your rights and the repercussions is crucial.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
Local versus permanent filing of GOMORs (General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand) can have significant implications on your career. Knowing how to effectively rebut these can protect your record.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
For enlisted and officers facing separation, understanding the Board of Inquiry or separation boards is vital. Preserving an Honorable discharge remains paramount.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
Misuse of CDIs and IG Complaints can occur, but service members must be cautious about waiving rights or making uninformed statements.
Legal Services Available at Goodfellow AFB, Texas
Base Legal (JAG)
The JAG office on base provides invaluable services including powers of attorney and wills. However, they do not engage in criminal defense or act on separation boards — for these, civilian counsel is indispensable.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian lawyers offer distinct advantages with expertise in independence, trial experience, and confidentiality, critical factors in securing favorable outcomes.
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
FAQs for Goodfellow AFB, Texas
Does the UCMJ apply off base at Goodfellow AFB, Texas?
Yes, the UCMJ applies to military personnel regardless of location.
Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Goodfellow AFB, Texas?
Absolutely, consulting with a civilian lawyer can provide you with a more robust defense strategy.
What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusing an Article 15 can lead to a court-martial, and the consequences should be carefully weighed with legal guidance.
Is Goodfellow AFB, Texas considered a high-risk legal environment?
No, however, legal issues can arise, thus readiness and knowledge of available resources are essential.
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.