Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia | Military Legal Guide
If you’re stationed at Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia, you’re part of a crucial military community that contributes to national defense and security. However, military life also brings unique legal challenges that can affect your service, career, and family. Understanding and navigating these challenges starts with the right information, and that’s where the UCMJ Survival Guide can help. As a service member, you have rights and resources at your disposal. Download your free copy of the UCMJ Survival Guide here to stay informed and prepared.
Overview of Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia and Surrounding Area
Hunter Army Airfield (HAAF) is an essential installation supporting the 3rd Infantry Division and other tenant units. Its location in Savannah, Georgia, offers a blend of military capacity and cultural diversity. The area is known for its historic charm and vibrant community, combining Southern hospitality with a strong military presence. Legal culture here varies, with an appreciation for protocol and structure, typical of military communities.
Brief History of Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia
Hunter Army Airfield was established in 1940, originally serving as a strategic location for the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. Throughout the years, it has played a critical role in supporting operations in Korea, Vietnam, and modern conflicts in the Middle East. Post-9/11, the airfield supports rapid deployment capabilities, adapting its mission to meet contemporary security challenges. Today, it remains a dynamic hub for aviation and ground forces preparedness.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Court-martial at Hunter Army Airfield covers a range of charges, with Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence), and Article 133 or 134 (misconduct) being prevalent. During the process, you have the right to civilian counsel, which can offer independent legal defense.
Article 15 / NJP
When faced with Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP) under Article 15, you have the option to accept or refuse. Refusal may lead to a court-martial trial, influencing your long-term career potential and reputation.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand (GOMORs) can be locally or permanently filed. Filing strategy and rebuttal opportunities are critical to minimizing career impacts.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Administrative separation processes, such as Board of Inquiry or separation boards, differently affect enlisted members and officers. Maintaining an Honorable discharge is crucial, and skilled legal navigation is vital to achieving this.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
CDIs sometimes face misuse, making it important to understand your rights and the risks of waiving them during these investigations. Be cautious when providing statements without legal advice.
Legal Services Available at Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia
Base Legal (JAG)
At Hunter Army Airfield, the JAG office provides legal assistance with powers of attorney and wills but does not offer criminal defense services or representation in administrative boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Considering civilian military defense lawyers is beneficial for their independence, trial experience, and confidentiality. They offer unparalleled expertise beyond what base legal services can provide.
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
- Hunter Army Airfield Base Legal Office
- Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield Command Portal
- Military OneSource
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia?
Yes, the UCMJ applies to all active-duty military personnel, both on and off base. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia?
Yes, you have the right to consult with a civilian lawyer for any military legal issues. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusing an Article 15 could lead to a court-martial trial, which carries the potential for more severe consequences. - Is Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia considered a high-risk legal environment?
While maintaining a military standard, understanding local legal nuances helps mitigate perceived risks.
Closing: 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.