Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma | Military Legal Guide
If You’re Stationed at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma
If you’re stationed at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, understanding the unique military legal challenges that may arise is crucial. Whether you’re facing a court-martial, concerned about military justice practices, or need assistance with administrative actions, knowing your rights and resources can make a significant difference in your military career. Access the UCMJ Survival Guide for comprehensive legal support.
Download your free copy here on Amazon.
Overview of Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma and Surrounding Area
Located in southwestern Oklahoma, Altus Air Force Base serves a critical role in aerial refueling and airlifting. Home to the 97th Air Mobility Wing, the base provides training on additional aircraft like the C-17 Globemaster III. The surrounding city of Altus is known for its friendly community and offers a glimpse into the culture and traditions of Oklahoma.
Brief History of Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma
Altus Air Force Base was established in 1943 as a training facility for B-17 Flying Fortress aircrews during World War II. Over the decades, it evolved to meet the changing needs of the U.S. Air Force and played significant roles in the Korean War, Vietnam War, and operations post-9/11. Today, Altus continues to be a key training and operational location for the Air Force.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma
a. Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common charges include Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence), and Article 133/134 (misconduct).
- The court-martial process involves investigation, a decision to proceed with a trial, and the right to legal counsel.
- Service members have the right to hire civilian defense counsel for additional legal representation.
b. Article 15 / Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP)
- Understand the option to accept or refuse Article 15 proceedings.
- Consider the long-term career impact of accepting non-judicial punishment.
c. GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
- Distinguish between locally-filed and permanently-filed administrative actions.
- Explore effective rebuttal strategies to challenge or mitigate the impact of censure.
d. Administrative Separation (Chapters)
- Understand the separation process for both enlisted personnel and officers.
- Learn how to preserve an Honorable discharge and defend your military career.
e. Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
- Recognize common misuse of CDIs and the investigative process.
- Beware the risks of waiving rights or making premature statements.
Legal Services Available at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma
a. Base Legal (JAG)
- The Base Legal Office provides powers of attorney, wills, and consultations on various civil matters.
- However, they do not offer criminal defense or representation in military boards.
b. Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
- Civilian lawyers provide independent legal representation and confidentiality.
- They have extensive trial experience, vital for defending military personnel in complex legal challenges.
UCMJ Survival Guide
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 Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma?
- Yes, service members remain subject to the UCMJ even off base.
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma?
- Yes, you may hire a civilian attorney for additional defense and representation.
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Refusing Article 15 can lead to formal court-martial proceedings; always consult a legal advisor.
- Is Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma considered a high-risk legal environment?
- While no unique risks are specific to Altus, legal challenges can occur at any installation.
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.