Kunsan Air Base, Korea | Military Legal Guide
Overview of Kunsan Air Base, Korea and Surrounding Area
Kunsan Air Base, located in South Korea, is a pivotal location for the US Air Force, playing a critical role in air defense missions. It supports various major units and is essential for maintaining regional stability. The surrounding city of Gunsan provides a blend of modern amenities and traditional Korean culture, offering a unique legal landscape for military personnel and their families.
Brief History of Kunsan Air Base, Korea
Established during World War II, Kunsan Air Base has been a key strategic point in the military landscape of Korea. Its role evolved significantly from the Korean War through to post-9/11 operations, adapting to the ever-changing demands of global military strategy. Today, it remains a cornerstone of US military presence in Asia.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Kunsan Air Base, Korea
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common Charges: Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence), Articles 133/134 (misconduct)
- Process Overview: Understand the stages and your rights during a court-martial.
- Right to Civilian Counsel: You have the right to legal representation beyond JAG.
Article 15 / NJP
- Accept or Refuse?: Considerations and consequences of your decision.
- Long-term Career Impact: How NJP outcomes can affect your military career.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
- Local vs. Permanent Filing: Differences and implications.
- Rebuttal Strategies: How to effectively contest a reprimand.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
- Process for Enlisted and Officers: From Board of Inquiry to separation boards.
- How to Preserve an Honorable Discharge: Essential steps to protect your record.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
- Common Misuse: Understanding the risks of heeding investigation requests.
- Risks of Waiving Rights or Giving Statements: Being aware of the potential pitfalls.
Legal Services Available at Kunsan Air Base, Korea
Base Legal (JAG)
- Services Provided: Powers of attorney, wills, and general legal advice.
- Services Not Provided: Criminal defense and board representations.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Choosing a civilian military lawyer provides independence, trial experience, and confidentiality, offering a robust defense against serious charges.
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.
Kunsan Air Base, Korea Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQ
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Kunsan Air Base, Korea?
Yes, the UCMJ applies irrespective of the location. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Kunsan Air Base, Korea?
Yes, you can request civilian legal representation at any time. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusing an Article 15 can lead to a court-martial where you will have the chance to defend yourself. - Is Kunsan Air Base, Korea considered a high-risk legal environment?
Being overseas may add complexities, but Kunsan is not uniquely high-risk beyond normal UCMJ enforcement.