Fort Carson, Colorado | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado, you’re part of a unique community that’s integral to our nation’s defense. With this honor comes a host of responsibilities, including the possibility of facing complex military legal challenges. Understanding your rights under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and navigating these challenges effectively is crucial. The UCMJ Survival Guide is an invaluable tool for service members defending their rights. Download your free copy or order on Amazon today.
Overview of Fort Carson, Colorado and Surrounding Area
Fort Carson, often known as the “Best Hometown in the Army,” is home to several major units, including the 4th Infantry Division. Its strategic location near Colorado Springs supports a variety of missions, from troop training to rapid deployment, aimed at maintaining readiness and defense capabilities.
Located just outside Colorado Springs, Fort Carson enjoys proximity to a vibrant city with a strong military presence. Colorado Springs offers a rich legal culture and array of resources for military families, making it a supportive environment for service members.
Brief History of Fort Carson, Colorado
Established during World War II, Fort Carson has been a pivotal military installation for over 75 years. Its history is marked by significant involvement in global conflicts like Korea, Vietnam, and the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Originally established to train and house troops, Fort Carson has evolved into a comprehensive military hub. Today, it supports a wide range of missions, including state-of-the-art training facilities and rapid mobilization units.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Fort Carson, Colorado
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Service members at Fort Carson may face charges under the UCMJ for offenses ranging from Article 120 (sexual assault) to Article 128b (domestic violence) and Articles 133/134 (misconduct). Understanding your rights and the court-martial process is essential to defending yourself. You have the right to civilian counsel during these proceedings.
Article 15 / Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP)
Receiving an Article 15 can have a profound long-term impact on your military career. It’s crucial to weigh the decision of accepting or refusing NJP, which often depends on the evidence against you and the possible consequences on your service record.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand (GOMORs) can be filed locally or become a permanent part of your personnel file, affecting future advancements. Understanding rebuttal strategies and the filing process is vital.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
For both enlisted personnel and officers, administrative separation can result from a Board of Inquiry or separation boards. Preserving an Honorable discharge status is crucial, and understanding your rights within this process is key.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
CDIs and Inspector General (IG) complaints can sometimes be misused, leading to undue personal and professional stress. Recognizing the risks of waiving your rights or providing statements without counsel is important.
Legal Services Available at Fort Carson, Colorado
Base Legal (JAG)
Fort Carson’s JAG office provides essential legal services, including drafting powers of attorney and preparing wills. However, it’s important to note they do not offer criminal defense or representation at administrative boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
While JAG officers provide invaluable services, seeking counsel from civilian defense lawyers can be beneficial. Civilian attorneys bring independence, extensive trial experience, and confidentiality essential to building a robust defense strategy.
Download the 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.
Fort Carson, Colorado Local Military/Government Legal Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Fort Carson, Colorado?
Yes, the UCMJ applies to all service members, regardless of their location. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado?
Yes, service members have the right to retain civilian legal representation. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusing an Article 15 can result in a formal court-martial, where you may present your defense in a trial setting.
Closing: Take Control of Your Case Now
Whether you’re dealing with a toxic command, a false allegation, or just made a mistake—your rights are paramount. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Download 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.