CFA Yokosuka, Japan | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at CFA Yokosuka, Japan, understanding your legal rights and obligations is crucial. Military personnel often face unique legal challenges, from court-martial proceedings to administrative separations. The UCMJ Survival Guide is a vital resource for safeguarding your career and rights. Download your free copy from Amazon to be prepared.
Overview of CFA Yokosuka, Japan and Surrounding Area
CFA Yokosuka serves as the nerve center for the U.S. Navy’s operations in the Pacific. The base’s primary mission is to provide logistical support to the U.S. Seventh Fleet. The surrounding city offers a rich cultural tapestry brimming with history and a diverse legal environment.
Brief History of CFA Yokosuka, Japan
Established during the post-WWII era, CFA Yokosuka has been pivotal in numerous conflicts, including the Korean and Vietnam Wars. It evolved post-9/11 to become a hub of strategic importance in the Pacific, adapting to modern military needs to maintain peace and security.
Military Law & Legal Issues at CFA Yokosuka, Japan
a. Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common Charges: Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), 133/134 (misconduct)
- Process Overview: Understand initiation, investigation, and trial phases.
- Right to Civilian Counsel: You can have independent legal representation.
b. Article 15 / NJP
- Accept or Refuse: Consider the implications carefully.
- Long-term Career Impact: How it affects your military record.
c. GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
- Local vs. Permanent Filing: Understanding the differences.
- Rebuttal Strategies: How to effectively challenge them.
d. Administrative Separation (Chapters)
- Process for Enlisted and Officers: Understanding different phases and procedures.
- Preserving an Honorable Discharge: Steps to protect your record.
e. Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
- Common Misuse: Awareness and protection strategies.
- Risks of Waiving Rights or Giving Statements: Be cautious before proceeding.
Legal Services Available at CFA Yokosuka, Japan
a. Base Legal (JAG)
Legal assistance on administrative matters such as powers of attorney and wills is available. However, they do not handle criminal defense or representation at boards.
b. Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian lawyers offer independence, confidentiality, and extensive military trial experience. Seeking their counsel can be beneficial for complex cases.
Download the UCMJ Survival Guide
Gain comprehensive insight into military law by downloading the free UCMJ Survival Guide. Protect your career, rights, and 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 CFA Yokosuka, Japan
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at CFA Yokosuka, Japan?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at CFA Yokosuka, Japan?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is CFA Yokosuka, Japan considered a high-risk legal environment?