Incirlik Air Base, Turkey | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, you must be aware of the unique military legal challenges that can arise. Navigating these complexities requires understanding your rights and the processes in place. This guide aims to provide you with the foundation you need to protect yourself and your loved ones.
The UCMJ Survival Guide is a critical resource for every service member. Download your free copy today or purchase on Amazon to learn more.
Overview of Incirlik Air Base, Turkey and Surrounding Area
Incirlik Air Base, located in southern Turkey, serves as a strategic airbase for the United States Air Force. Home to several key units, its primary missions include supporting NATO operations and regional security tasks.
The surrounding city offers a diverse cultural landscape. Service members may encounter different legal customs as compared to the United States, emphasizing the need for thorough legal understanding and preparedness.
Brief History of Incirlik Air Base, Turkey
Incirlik Air Base was established in 1951 as a joint U.S. and Turkish initiative to bolster NATO defenses during the Cold War. Over the decades, it became pivotal during conflicts such as the Gulf War and more recently in operations against ISIS.
The base’s mission has evolved from a deterrence role during the initial Cold War period to a strategic hub for contemporary military operations, maintaining its significance in the region to this day.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Court-martials at Incirlik commonly involve charges under Articles 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and 133/134 (misconduct). The process can be daunting, but service members retain the right to civilian counsel, offering a critical defense asset.
Article 15 / NJP
Choosing to accept or refuse an Article 15 carries significant long-term implications on your military career. A thorough understanding of these impacts can guide your decision-making process.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
Letters of Reprimand may be locally or permanently filed, each with differing repercussions. Utilize sound rebuttal strategies to ensure the best possible outcome.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
The administrative separation process differs for enlisted personnel and officers. Protecting an Honorable discharge amidst these proceedings is paramount.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
Misuse of CDIs is not uncommon. Maintaining awareness of your rights and the risks of waiving them or providing statements is essential.
Legal Services Available at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey
Base Legal (JAG)
Incirlik’s JAG office provides essential services like powers of attorney and wills. However, they do not encompass criminal defense or board representation, making external resources necessary for those areas.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
The independence, trial experience, and confidentiality offered by civilian lawyers make them invaluable, especially in complex court-martial cases.
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.
Incirlik Air Base, Turkey Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey?
Yes, the UCMJ applies both on and off the base, ensuring jurisdiction over military members. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey?
Absolutely. Service members have the right to seek a civilian lawyer for trials and other legal proceedings. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusing an Article 15 can lead to a court-martial, where you can defend against the charges professionally. - Is Incirlik Air Base, Turkey considered a high-risk legal environment?
While legal scenarios can vary, being stationed overseas requires heightened awareness of local and military laws.
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.