MacDill Air Force Base, Florida | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, you may face unique military legal challenges. Navigating these challenges can be daunting, but with the right resources and knowledge, you can protect your rights and your military career. As an active service member or a family member stationed at MacDill AFB, understanding the UCMJ and related legal procedures is critical. Our UCMJ Survival Guide is a comprehensive resource designed to help you navigate these challenges effectively. Download your free copy or purchase on Amazon.
Overview of MacDill Air Force Base, Florida and Surrounding Area
MacDill Air Force Base, located in Tampa, Florida, serves as a crucial hub for aerial refueling and air mobility. It hosts the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) and United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM), making it a significant strategic military location. The Tampa Bay area surrounding MacDill AFB is known for its vibrant community, diverse population, and rich legal culture. As a bustling metropolis, it provides a mix of suburban tranquility and urban excitement.
Brief History of MacDill Air Force Base, Florida
MacDill Air Force Base was established in 1939 and played a pivotal role during World War II as a training base for bomber crews. Throughout its history, MacDill has adapted to the changing needs of the military, involving itself in missions ranging from the Korean War to operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Today, it remains a strategic center for air mobility and special operations.
Military Law & Legal Issues at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Common charges at MacDill AFB include Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and 133/134 (misconduct). Understanding the court-martial process and your rights, including the right to civilian counsel, is crucial for a robust defense.
Article 15 / NJP
The decision to accept or refuse an Article 15 can significantly impact your career. Considering long-term consequences is important when making this decision.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
Understanding the difference between local and permanent filings and effective rebuttal strategies can safeguard your military record.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
The administrative separation process for enlisted and officers, including Board of Inquiry and separation boards, requires knowing your rights to preserve an Honorable discharge.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
CDIs and IG Complaints are often misused. Understanding the risks of waiving rights or giving statements without legal consultation is vital.
Legal Services Available at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida
Base Legal (JAG)
The JAG office at MacDill AFB provides services such as drafting powers of attorney and wills. However, they do not offer criminal defense or representation in administrative boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Engaging a civilian military defense lawyer offers the benefits of independence, trial experience, and confidentiality—qualities crucial for robust defense strategy.
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 MacDill Air Force Base, Florida?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at MacDill AFB?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is MacDill AFB 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.