Fort McNair, Washington, D.C. | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Fort McNair, Washington, D.C., you may encounter unique legal challenges while serving
your country. Understanding military law, from navigating the complexities of the Uniform Code of Military
Justice (UCMJ) to handling administrative proceedings, is crucial. Our comprehensive UCMJ Survival Guide is
designed to empower you with the knowledge to protect your rights and career. Click
here to download your free copy or find it on Amazon.
Overview of Fort McNair, Washington, D.C. and Surrounding Area
Fort McNair, located in the nation’s capital, is integral to the military’s defense strategy. As home to the
National War College, it is a center for military education and training. The base is surrounded by
Washington, D.C., a city known for its vibrant legal culture and a diverse population. Service members can
access numerous legal and professional resources within the city.
Brief History of Fort McNair, Washington, D.C.
Established in 1791, Fort McNair is among the oldest military installations in the United States. Noteworthy
historical events include its use during WWII and its ongoing role in military education post-9/11. Today,
Fort McNair’s mission has evolved to include a focus on strategic defense and leadership training, crucial
for national security.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Fort McNair, Washington, D.C.
a. Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Common charges in court-martials include Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence),
and Articles 133/134 (misconduct). The process involves investigating charges, preferring charges, undergoing
an Article 32 hearing, and potentially facing trial. Service members have the right to civilian counsel, a
critical component of a robust defense strategy.
b. Article 15 / NJP
Article 15, or non-judicial punishment (NJP), is an administrative measure that can impact long-term career
trajectories. Service members can accept the NJP or refuse it, opting for a court-martial instead. Decisions
here should consider future promotion opportunities and other career factors.
c. GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand (GOMORs) can be filed locally or permanently. Understanding rebuttal
strategies and the long-term career implications is crucial for service members who wish to maintain an
honorable service record.
d. Administrative Separation (Chapters)
The administrative separation process is significant for both enlisted personnel and officers. For enlisted
members, this might involve a board of inquiry, while officers could face separation boards. Preserving an
honorable discharge is essential, impacting benefits and post-military opportunities.
e. Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
These enforcement mechanisms should be approached cautiously, given common misuses. Service members should be
wary of waiving rights or making statements without proper advisement, as these cases can significantly
affect career and personal life.
Legal Services Available at Fort McNair, Washington, D.C.
a. Base Legal (JAG)
The Judge Advocate General (JAG) office at Fort McNair provides essential legal services such as powers of
attorney, wills, and other personal legal matters. However, they do not offer criminal defense or
representation in boards.
b. Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Retaining a civilian military defense lawyer can offer benefits such as independence, trial experience, and
confidentiality not always available through military counsel. These lawyers provide critical assistance in
defending against serious charges, ensuring that the service members’ rights are fully protected.
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 McNair, Washington, D.C.
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Fort McNair, Washington, D.C.?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Fort McNair, Washington, D.C.?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is Fort McNair, Washington, D.C. 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.