Fort Dix, New Jersey | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Fort Dix, New Jersey, you know that balancing military duties and personal life is challenging enough without added legal hurdles. However, understanding potential military legal issues you might face is crucial to maintaining your military career and rights. Our UCMJ Survival Guide is here to help you navigate these challenges effectively. Download it for free or get it on Amazon.
Overview of Fort Dix, New Jersey and Surrounding Area
Fort Dix, located in New Jersey, serves as a major training and mobilization center for the Armed Forces. The base’s primary mission is providing initial training for Army Reserves and National Guard units. The surrounding area includes a mix of suburban and rural environments, offering a diverse range of cultural and legal settings.
Brief History of Fort Dix, New Jersey
Established in 1917 during World War I, Fort Dix has a rich history of serving as a vital training ground for American soldiers. Over the years, it played a critical role during World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and post-9/11 operations. Today, Fort Dix continues its mission by preparing and equipping troops for various global missions.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Fort Dix, New Jersey
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Service members may face charges under the UCMJ, including Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and 133/134 (misconduct). If charged, you have the right to a fair trial and to appoint a civilian lawyer to defend you. The process begins with an investigation and might proceed to a general, special, or summary court-martial.
Article 15 / Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP)
When receiving an Article 15, you have the option to accept or refuse it. Accepting might lead to non-judicial penalties, while refusing may escalate the issue to a court-martial, which could severely impact your career.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand (GOMORs) may be filed locally or permanently. You can submit a rebuttal to contest any assertions made. Consulting with a qualified attorney is advised.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Administrative separation involves a legal process for both enlisted and officers, such as a Board of Inquiry or a separation board. Preserving an Honorable discharge depends on asserting your rights and presenting a solid defense.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
Be wary of potential misuse of CDIs and understand the risks involved in waiving your rights or making statements without legal counsel.
Legal Services Available at Fort Dix, New Jersey
Fort Dix Base Legal (JAG)
The Judge Advocate General (JAG) provides essential legal services such as powers of attorney and will preparations. However, they do not provide criminal defense or representation in military boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Engaging a civilian lawyer ensures independence, offers substantial trial experience, and maintains confidentiality, all essential for combating legal challenges.
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 Fort Dix, New Jersey
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Fort Dix, New Jersey?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Fort Dix, New Jersey?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is Fort Dix, New Jersey considered a high-risk legal environment?
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.