Fort Hood, Texas | Military Legal Guide
If you’re stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, you may encounter various military legal challenges during your service. Understanding your rights and the legal processes that may affect your career is crucial. This guide is designed to help you navigate through potential legal issues at Fort Hood, equipped with insights on UCMJ procedures, court-martial risks, and more. For an in-depth look at military justice, we recommend the UCMJ Survival Guide, available for free download to empower you with essential knowledge.
Overview of Fort Hood, Texas and Surrounding Area
Fort Hood is one of the largest military installations in the world, located in Killeen, Texas. Its primary mission is to train and prepare soldiers for combat and other military operations. The base houses units like 1st Cavalry Division and III Corps. The surrounding area, including Killeen, offers a diverse community with a legal landscape influenced by the significant military presence. Access to legal services varies, making it vital to understand local resources.
Brief History of Fort Hood, Texas
Established in 1942, Fort Hood was instrumental during World War II as a training ground for tank destroyers. Throughout its history, Fort Hood has been pivotal in operations during the Korean War, Vietnam War, and the Iraq War, reflecting shifts in military strategy and technology. Today, it serves as a critical center for training and deployment, adapting to modern military needs.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Fort Hood, Texas
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Service members at Fort Hood may face court-martial charges under UCMJ, such as Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence), and Articles 133/134 (misconduct). Understanding the court-martial process, including pretrial hearings and the right to civilian counsel, is essential for defense planning.
Article 15 / NJP
Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP) under Article 15 can impact your career significantly. Knowing when to accept or refuse NJP is crucial, considering the long-term career implications.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand (GOMORs) and letters of reprimand need careful handling. Whether they’re filed locally or permanently, understanding rebuttal strategies can influence your military record positively.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Administrative separations, for both enlisted personnel and officers, require navigating processes like Boards of Inquiry. Preserving an Honorable discharge is key during such proceedings.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
Understanding command-directed investigations and Inspector General (IG) complaints is vital. These processes can be misused, and there are risks associated with waiving rights or giving statements.
Legal Services Available at Fort Hood, Texas
Fort Hood Base Legal (JAG)
The JAG office at Fort Hood provides services like wills and powers of attorney but does not cover criminal defense or administrative boards. Knowing the scope of their services and exploring other legal options is important.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Engaging civilian military defense lawyers can be beneficial for their independence, trial experience, and confidentiality. They provide dedicated advocacy, essential in complex military legal matters.
Download the UCMJ Survival Guide
Arm yourself with knowledge to protect your career and rights. Download the UCMJ Survival Guide now and grasp the essentials of military justice.
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 Hood, Texas Local Military/Government Legal Resources
Fort Hood, Texas Legal FAQs
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Fort Hood, Texas?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Fort Hood, Texas?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is Fort Hood, Texas considered a high-risk legal environment?
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.