Fort Greely, Alaska | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Fort Greely, Alaska, understanding your legal environment is crucial. Like all military bases, Fort Greely presents unique legal challenges governed by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). This guide will navigate the complexities of UCMJ procedures, court-martial risks, and available legal resources to empower you with knowledge and tools for your protection. Download our UCMJ Survival Guide for an in-depth resource on your legal rights.
Overview of Fort Greely, Alaska and Surrounding Area
Fort Greely is a United States Army launch site for anti-ballistic missiles, located near the town of Delta Junction, Alaska. The base is crucial for strategic defense and houses significant military operations. The vicinity is sparsely populated, with a strong military presence influencing the local culture and economy.
Brief History of Fort Greely, Alaska
Established in 1942, Fort Greely was initially created as a staging area for the construction of the Alaska Highway during World War II. It has a history of strategic importance, adapting from its role in the Cold War to its present-day missile defense operations. The evolution of its mission reflects its ongoing importance to national defense in a post-9/11 world.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Fort Greely, Alaska
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Service members at Fort Greely may face charges that include Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and misconduct under Articles 133/134. The court-martial process is rigorous, with service members having the right to be represented by civilian counsel.
Article 15 / NJP
Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP) under Article 15 may be accepted or refused. Refusal can lead to a court-martial, impacting long-term career opportunities crucial for military personnel to understand.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
A General Officer Memorandum of Reprimand (GOMOR) may be locally or permanently filed, affecting your career trajectory. Effective rebuttal strategies are essential to mitigate negative consequences.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Administrative separations involve review processes like Boards of Inquiry for officers and separation boards for enlisted personnel. Ensuring an Honorable discharge is imperative for post-service benefits and employment.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
CDIs and Inspector General (IG) complaints are often misused, posing risks of waiving rights with premature statements. Careful legal navigation is essential.
Legal Services Available at Fort Greely, Alaska
Fort Greely Base Legal (JAG)
The JAG office provides services like powers of attorney and wills. However, they do not offer criminal defense or representation in administrative boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Independent, experienced civilian lawyers offer confidentiality and trial expertise that is crucial in complex military cases, providing an essential layer of defense.
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.
Local Military/Government Legal Resources Near Fort Greely, Alaska
FAQ
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Fort Greely, Alaska?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Fort Greely, Alaska?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is Fort Greely, Alaska 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.