Lackland AFB, Texas | Military Legal Guide
If you’re stationed at Lackland AFB, Texas, you may face unique legal challenges as a military service member. Understanding these challenges is crucial for protecting your rights and responsibilities within the military justice system. This guide offers an in-depth look into the legal landscape at Lackland AFB and highlights the UCMJ Survival Guide, available for free download to help you navigate these complexities.
Overview of Lackland AFB, Texas and Surrounding Area
Lackland AFB is a major component of Joint Base San Antonio, primarily serving as a center for Air Force basic military training. The base is also home to various tech training schools and is renowned for its advanced education and military leadership programs. Located in San Antonio, Texas, Lackland enjoys a community rich in cultural diversity, legal professionals with military focus, and a supportive environment for service members.
Brief History of Lackland AFB, Texas
Established during World War II, Lackland AFB initially served as a training facility for enlisted personnel. Its significance grew during the conflicts in Korea and Vietnam, evolving to accommodate diverse military operations. Post-9/11, its role expanded to include specialized training programs for emerging military threats, maintaining its status as a pivotal training base.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Lackland AFB, Texas
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Service members may face charges under Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), or Articles 133/134 (misconduct). Understanding the court-martial process is essential, including your right to seek civilian counsel.
Article 15 / NJP
Deciding whether to accept or refuse an Article 15 is critical, as it can significantly impact your military career and future opportunities.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand can be filed locally or permanently, affecting your record. Consider effective rebuttal strategies to counter them.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Understand the process for separation, whether you’re enlisted or an officer, and explore ways to maintain an Honorable discharge.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
Be aware of potential misuse of CDIs and IG complaints, the risks associated with waiving rights, and the implications of providing statements without counsel.
Legal Services Available at Lackland AFB, Texas
Base Legal (JAG)
The JAG office offers essential services like drafting wills and powers of attorney. However, they don’t provide criminal defense or representation in punitive boards and inquiries.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Choosing a civilian lawyer ensures independent counsel with extensive trial experience and ensures confidentiality essential for a robust defense.
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 Lackland AFB, Texas
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Lackland AFB, Texas?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Lackland AFB, Texas?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is Lackland AFB, Texas 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.