METC Fort Sam Houston, Texas | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at METC Fort Sam Houston, Texas, you may encounter unique military legal challenges that require a solid understanding of your rights and military justice procedures. This guide aims to provide you with essential information on handling legal matters at the base. Be sure to explore our UCMJ Survival Guide available for free download or purchase on Amazon.
Overview of METC Fort Sam Houston, Texas and Surrounding Area
METC Fort Sam Houston, located in San Antonio, Texas, serves as a premier military medical training facility. The base hosts key units and provides crucial medical training for all branches of the military. San Antonio, known as Military City USA, offers a diverse cultural and legal environment with a focus on supporting its military community.
Brief History of METC Fort Sam Houston, Texas
Established in 1845, Fort Sam Houston has evolved from a frontier post to a pivotal military medical center. Noteworthy historical involvements include World War II, the Korean War, and post-9/11 operations. Today, it remains a critical component of the military’s medical education and training.
Military Law & Legal Issues at METC Fort Sam Houston, Texas
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Common charges include Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and 133/134 (misconduct). If charged, service members have the right to civilian counsel, who can provide specialized defense in these complex proceedings.
Article 15 / NJP
The decision to accept or refuse an Article 15 can significantly impact one’s military career. It’s crucial for service members to consider the long-term implications of non-judicial punishment.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
Addressing General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand and Letters of Reprimand involves strategic rebuttal and understanding the differences between local and permanent filing.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
The process may involve separation boards or a Board of Inquiry. Understanding the steps to preserve an Honorable discharge is vital for service members facing administrative separation.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
Service members must be cautious about waiving rights or making statements during investigations and complaints, as these can be misused.
Legal Services Available at METC Fort Sam Houston, Texas
Base Legal (JAG)
The base JAG office provides services such as powers of attorney and wills, but does not offer criminal defense or board representation.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian lawyers offer independence and confidentiality, with extensive trial experience in military cases. Their role is critical in delicate legal situations.
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 near METC Fort Sam Houston, Texas
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at METC Fort Sam Houston, Texas?
- Yes, the UCMJ applies to all service members regardless of location, including off base.
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at METC Fort Sam Houston, Texas?
- Yes, service members have the right to hire civilian defense counsels for court-martials and other legal matters.
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Refusing an Article 15 typically means opting for a court-martial, which carries its own risks and benefits.
- Is METC Fort Sam Houston, Texas considered a high-risk legal environment?
- While military legal proceedings are a reality, being informed and prepared can help mitigate 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.