Gonzalez & Waddington – Elite Court-Martial & Military Defense Attorneys
Gonzalez & Waddington – Elite Court-Martial & Military Defense Attorneys
Gonzalez & Waddington, Attorneys at Law, is one of the nation’s premier military defense law firms, with a long history of representing U.S. Army soldiers in serious legal matters. Our team provides aggressive, experienced legal representation for soldiers facing UCMJ charges, court-martials, GOMORs, Article 15s, and administrative separation actions — both in the United States and at Army bases worldwide.
Our founders, Michael Waddington and Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington, are two of the most respected and experienced Army military defense lawyers in the world. They have successfully defended soldiers in high-profile and complex cases at nearly every major Army post, including Fort Benning, Fort Bragg, Fort Hood, Fort Drum, Fort Carson, Fort Campbell, Fort Leonard Wood, and installations overseas. Both attorneys are published authors, featured legal analysts, and seasoned trial lawyers trusted by Army officers and enlisted soldiers alike.
If you’re a U.S. Army soldier under investigation or facing punishment, a court-martial, or separation, contact Gonzalez & Waddington today. We defend soldiers across all Army ranks and locations with one mission: to protect your freedom, career, and future.
Serving in the United States Army? Facing a court-martial, UCMJ action, Administrative Separation Board, or other Adverse Administrative Action? Call our experienced Army military defense lawyers at 1-800-921-8607 for a free consultation.
Our military defense lawyers are among the most experienced and hard-hitting in the world. With an unparalleled track record, we provide aggressive, strategic defense tailored to each client’s unique situation. Trust us to fight relentlessly for your rights and deliver the best possible outcome.” (Michael Waddington, Military Defense Lawyer)
Michael Waddington and Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington are widely considered among some of the best military defense lawyers for U.S. Army personnel. Their firm, Gonzalez & Waddington, has defended Army soldiers in court-martials and UCMJ actions at bases across the globe, earning a reputation for skillful trial work and fearless advocacy.
Yes. We defend U.S. Army soldiers stationed overseas at bases in Germany, South Korea, Italy, Japan, and other locations. We travel worldwide to provide courtroom representation and fight UCMJ charges wherever our clients are based.
We handle Army court-martials, Article 120 sexual assault defense, domestic violence allegations, drug charges, false official statements, GOMOR rebuttals, Article 15 appeals, separation boards, and Boards of Inquiry. We also defend against CID investigations and online sting operations.
Civilian military lawyers like Gonzalez & Waddington offer independent, experienced, and aggressive representation. We are not part of the Army chain of command, which allows us to challenge bad command decisions and focus solely on your defense. Many of our clients come to us after being poorly advised or abandoned by appointed JAG counsel.
If you are under CID investigation, do not speak to investigators without first consulting an experienced Army defense attorney. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Contact Gonzalez & Waddington immediately for guidance. We regularly intervene early to stop charges from being filed or to prepare for trial if they are.
The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) serves as the foundational legal framework governing the conduct of military personnel in the United States Army and other branches of the armed forces. Enacted to maintain discipline, order, and justice within the military, the UCMJ covers many offenses and procedural rules for handling violations. Army UCMJ and military defense lawyers play a crucial role in this system, ensuring that service members receive fair trials and legal representation.
The UCMJ was established by Congress in 1950, replacing earlier codes that varied between different military branches. It standardizes legal procedures and offenses across all branches, promoting uniformity and fairness. The UCMJ includes substantive laws defining criminal offenses and procedural laws outlining the steps for prosecuting and adjudicating these offenses. It applies to all active-duty military personnel, reservists, and, under certain circumstances, retired service members and civilians subject to military law.
Several common charges under the UCMJ can lead to court-martial proceedings, each varying in severity and potential consequences. Army court martial attorneys and military defense lawyers are essential in navigating these charges and defending the accused.
Sexual assault and rape are serious offenses under Article 120 of the UCMJ. These charges can encompass a range of behaviors, including non-consensual sexual acts, attempted assaults, and inappropriate contact. Convictions can result in severe penalties, including dishonorable discharge, confinement, and registration as a sex offender. Military defense lawyers work to challenge the evidence, establish consent, and ensure that the rights of the accused are protected.
Article 121 UCMJ deals with theft-related offenses, including larceny and wrongful appropriation of military or personal property. Convictions can lead to confinement, reduced rank, and forfeiture of pay. Court martial attorneys often scrutinize the evidence of ownership, intent, and value of the property involved to build a defense.
Assault charges under Article 128 can range from simple assault to aggravated assault involving a weapon or resulting in severe injury. Penalties can vary widely based on the circumstances and severity of the assault. Military defense lawyers focus on self-defense claims, the credibility of witnesses, and the intent behind the actions.
Drug-related offenses under Article 112a include the use, possession, distribution, or manufacture of controlled substances. Such charges can severely impact a service member’s career, leading to discharge and confinement. Court martial attorneys often challenge the procedures used in drug testing, chain of custody for evidence, and the intent behind possession or use.
Violations under Article 92 include the failure to obey lawful orders or regulations, dereliction of duty, and other acts of insubordination. These charges are crucial for maintaining military discipline and can result in significant penalties. Military defense lawyers aim to demonstrate compliance, miscommunication, or the unlawfulness of the order itself.
Article 134 serves as a catch-all for offenses not specifically covered elsewhere in the UCMJ but which are prejudicial to good order and discipline or bring discredit upon the armed forces. This can include conduct such as adultery, disorderly conduct, and fraternization. Court martial attorneys use their expertise to argue what constitutes prejudicial conduct or discredit.
Military defense lawyers and Army court-martial attorneys are critical in the military justice system, providing legal representation to service members facing UCMJ charges. These attorneys are well-versed in military law and procedures, ensuring that the rights of the accused are upheld throughout the investigative and judicial process. They conduct thorough investigations, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and develop defense strategies tailored to the specific circumstances of each case.
In Army court-martial proceedings, these lawyers challenge the prosecution’s evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and present exculpatory evidence. They also negotiate plea deals when appropriate and provide mitigation during sentencing to achieve the best possible outcome for their clients. The expertise and dedication of military defense lawyers are essential in maintaining the integrity of the military justice system and ensuring that service members receive fair and just treatment.
Gonzalez & Waddington is a law firm with extensive experience handling UCMJ cases. Their team of Miami, FL, military defense lawyers and court martial attorneys are committed to defending service members’ rights and achieving favorable outcomes in complex military legal matters. Whether facing charges under Article 120, Article 92, or any other UCMJ article, their expertise and dedication make them invaluable advocates for those who serve.