Fort Pickett, Virginia | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Fort Pickett, Virginia, you are likely aware of the unique legal challenges that come with military service. Addressing these challenges requires an understanding of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and the legal resources available to you. This guide aims to provide you with essential information and guidance. Download your free copy of the UCMJ Survival Guide to better protect your career and rights.
Overview of Fort Pickett, Virginia and Surrounding Area
Fort Pickett is a Virginia Army National Guard installation designed to support various training missions. Its primary purpose is to facilitate combat readiness and training for National Guard units. The base is located near Blackstone, Va, a small town known for its rich history and community spirit. The nearby area has a supportive legal culture, with numerous resources for military personnel.
Brief History of Fort Pickett, Virginia
Fort Pickett was established in 1941 as a training site for the U.S. Army and played a significant role during World War II as well as other conflicts, including the Korean War and post-9/11 operations. Over the years, its focus has shifted from preparing conventional forces to now enhancing the readiness of Virginia’s National Guard units.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Fort Pickett, Virginia
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Common charges at Fort Pickett may include Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence), and Articles 133/134 (misconduct). The court-martial process involves a series of procedural stages where the accused has the right to civilian counsel for legal defense.
Article 15 / NJP
Article 15s, or Non-Judicial Punishments (NJP), offer an opportunity for service members to accept or reject these administrative actions. Accepting can impact your career, so consider the long-term implications carefully.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
General Officer Memoranda of Reprimand (GOMOR) can be filed locally or permanently in a service member’s file. Understanding rebuttal strategies is essential for mitigating any lasting damage to one’s military career.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Both enlisted personnel and officers can face administrative separation, which leads to board hearings. It’s imperative to understand how to argue for an Honorable discharge to maintain benefits and future opportunities.
Command-Directed Investigations & IG Complaints
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) can be misused, and it’s essential to know the risks of waiving rights or providing statements without fully understanding the implications.
Legal Services Available at Fort Pickett, Virginia
Base Legal (JAG)
The Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) office at Fort Pickett provides legal assistance services such as preparations of powers of attorney and wills. However, they do not provide criminal defense or representation in boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Retaining a civilian defense lawyer offers independence, trial experience, and confidentiality. Civilian lawyers can be an invaluable asset in navigating serious legal allegations and proceedings.
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 Pickett, Virginia
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Fort Pickett, Virginia?
– Yes, the UCMJ applies to servicemembers wherever they are located, whether on base or off base. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Fort Pickett, Virginia?
– Yes, you are entitled to request a civilian lawyer for legal challenges that may arise during your service. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
– Refusing an Article 15 can lead to a court-martial, which could be more severe but offers the opportunity for a full defense and a chance to be exonerated.
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.