Fort Campbell, Kentucky | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, you’re part of one of the most dynamic and challenging military communities in the United States. However, the unique aspects of military life can also present a variety of legal challenges that demand your attention and understanding. As a service member, it’s crucial to be aware of these potential issues and know how to navigate them effectively.
One essential resource for handling military legal affairs is the UCMJ Survival Guide. We offer a free download of this guide to help you understand your rights and options under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).
Overview of Fort Campbell, Kentucky and Surrounding Area
Fort Campbell, situated on the Kentucky-Tennessee border, is a prominent U.S. Army installation home to the 101st Airborne Division and the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment. With its strategic role, the base supports both conventional military operations and specialized missions.
The surrounding towns offer a blend of small-town charm and resources tailored to military life. While the communities around Fort Campbell are supportive, they also exhibit a diverse legal culture that can affect service members and families stationed there.
Brief History of Fort Campbell, Kentucky
Fort Campbell was established during World War II to support the U.S. military’s need for an expanded training area. It played significant roles in various conflicts, from the Korean War and Vietnam to operations in the Middle East after 9/11. Fort Campbell continues to evolve with a focus on rapid deployment and special operations missions.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Fort Campbell, Kentucky
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common charges include Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and 133/134 (misconduct).
- The court-martial process involves investigation, preferral of charges, and a trial by military judge or panel.
- Service members have the right to civilian counsel, which can provide a significant advantage.
Article 15 / NJP
- Service members can accept non-judicial punishment or demand a court-martial.
- Long-term career impacts should be considered when facing NJP.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
- GOMORs can be locally filed or permanently placed in one’s record.
- Rebuttal strategies are available to contest such filings.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
- Processes differ for enlisted personnel versus officers, involving Board of Inquiry or Separation Boards.
- Preserving an Honorable discharge requires a keen understanding of one’s rights and the process.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
- Misuse of CDIs is not uncommon, and they can lead to more serious proceedings.
- Waiving rights or making statements without proper counsel can be risky.
Legal Services Available at Fort Campbell, Kentucky
Base Legal (JAG)
- JAG provides services such as powers of attorney and will preparation.
- They do not handle criminal defense or represent in administrative boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
- Civilian lawyers offer independence, extensive trial experience, and confidentiality that military JAG attorneys may not provide.
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
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Fort Campbell, Kentucky?
Yes, the UCMJ applies to service members both on and off base. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky?
Yes, and this can provide significant legal advantages. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusing can lead to a court-martial, which can have more serious consequences. - Is Fort Campbell, Kentucky considered a high-risk legal environment?
Risk can vary depending on specific circumstances, and staying informed is crucial.