NAS Lemoore, California | Military Legal Guide
If you’re stationed at NAS Lemoore, California, understanding the military legal system is crucial for safeguarding your rights and career. Military service members often face unique legal challenges, governed by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). This guide introduces you to those challenges, the processes involved, and the resources available to assist you. Download our comprehensive UCMJ Survival Guide for free to navigate these complexities with confidence.
Overview of NAS Lemoore, California and Surrounding Area
Naval Air Station Lemoore is the primary homeport for the U.S. Navy’s Pacific Fleet strike fighter squadrons. Positioned in the central California valley, it plays a critical role in naval aviation. The nearby city of Lemoore, with its diverse population and legal environment, provides a supportive community for service members and their families.
Brief History of NAS Lemoore, California
NAS Lemoore was established in 1961 to support the demands of naval aviation during the Cold War. Over the decades, it has supported missions throughout Vietnam, the Iraq conflict, and beyond. Now, it is instrumental in post-9/11 operations, maintaining strategic air superiority and readiness.
Military Law & Legal Issues at NAS Lemoore, California
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Service members at NAS Lemoore may face charges under the UCMJ for offenses such as Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence), and Articles 133/134 (misconduct). Understanding the court-martial process, including your right to civilian counsel, is critical.
Article 15 / NJP
You may have the option to accept or refuse a Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP) under Article 15. This decision can have long-term impacts on your military career, so it’s vital to understand your rights and the potential implications.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
A General Officer Memorandum of Reprimand (GOMOR) or a Letter of Reprimand can affect your personnel file. Strategies to counter or rebut these actions can be crucial for preserving your military record.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Understanding the administrative separation process is key for enlisted personnel and officers at NAS Lemoore. Knowing how to conduct a Board of Inquiry and maintain an honorable discharge is vital for your future.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
CDIs and Inspector General complaints serve specific purposes but can sometimes be misused. Recognizing these risks and knowing how to protect your rights is essential for your defense.
Legal Services Available at NAS Lemoore, California
Base Legal (JAG)
The JAG office at NAS Lemoore provides essential services such as drafting powers of attorney and wills but does not offer criminal defense for NJP or courts-martial.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian military lawyers provide valuable independence, trial experience, and confidentiality that base legal may not offer. Their expertise can be critical in navigating complex legal challenges.
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.
NAS Lemoore, California Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off-base at NAS Lemoore, California?
- Yes, the UCMJ applies to service members even when they are off base.
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at NAS Lemoore, California?
- Yes, you have the right to hire a civilian attorney to assist in your defense.
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Refusing an Article 15 can lead to a court-martial, so it’s important to weigh your options carefully.