Hurlburt Air Force Base, Florida | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Hurlburt Air Force Base, Florida, you may face unique legal challenges inherent to military life. Understanding the complexities of military law and the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) is critical to safeguarding your career and reputation. Our UCMJ Survival Guide offers an indispensable resource for navigating these challenges. Download your free copy or get it from Amazon today.
Overview of Hurlburt Air Force Base, Florida and Surrounding Area
Hurlburt Air Force Base, located in the Florida Panhandle, serves as a crucial installation for Air Force Special Operations Command. Its primary mission is to support special operations forces through training, deploying, and employing specialized air power. The surrounding area of Fort Walton Beach embraces a rich military and civilian culture, fostering a community of mutual support.
The city hosts a diverse demographic with a strong respect for military personnel, facilitating a favorable legal culture for service members. Access to a variety of legal services is enhanced by the informed civilian population and established legal networks.
Brief History of Hurlburt Air Force Base, Florida
Established in 1955 as a training facility for the Air Force, Hurlburt Field has played significant roles in various military operations, including the Vietnam War and operations in the Middle East post-9/11. Over time, it has evolved into a prime location for special operations and counterinsurgency operations, cementing its legacy in U.S. military history.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Hurlburt Air Force Base, Florida
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Service members at Hurlburt Air Force Base may face court-martial trials under the UCMJ for charges like Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence), and Articles 133/134 (misconduct). It is vital to understand the process and your right to civilian counsel, which can provide specialized defense.
Article 15 / NJP
The decision to accept or refuse an Article 15 can significantly impact your military career. While accepting might result in a less severe immediate consequence, it could have long-term effects on your advancement and retirement.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand (GOMORs) can be locally filed and later removed or permanently remain in your file, depending on the circumstances. A robust rebuttal strategy is essential to contest these documents.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
The separation process varies for enlisted members and officers, involving Board of Inquiry or administrative separation boards. Maintaining an Honorable discharge is crucial for post-military advancement and employment opportunities.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
It’s common for service members to encounter CDIs or IG complaints, which can be misused. Exercise caution when waiving rights or making statements, as these can lead to unintended legal consequences.
Legal Services Available at Hurlburt Air Force Base, Florida
Base Legal (JAG)
The Base Legal office at Hurlburt offers essential services, including drafting powers of attorney and wills. However, they do not provide criminal defense or legal assistance for administrative boards. For these, independent civilian legal counsel is recommended.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Hiring civilian legal defense provides enhanced confidentiality, independent advice, and attorneys with extensive trial experience. Civilian lawyers can often secure outcomes favorable beyond the scope of military counsel.
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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
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Hurlburt Air Force Base, Florida?
Yes, UCMJ applies globally, including off-base conduct. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Hurlburt Air Force Base, Florida?
Yes, service members can retain civilian legal counsel at any point during their service. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusing Article 15 proceedings may lead to a court-martial, which carries its own risks and benefits.
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.