NAS Oceana, Virginia | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at NAS Oceana, Virginia, you’re part of a dedicated community facing unique military legal challenges. Understanding these challenges is pivotal for your military career and personal life. Our UCMJ Survival Guide is here to provide essential insights into military law and procedures. Download it for free or purchase on Amazon.
Overview of NAS Oceana, Virginia and Surrounding Area
NAS Oceana stands as a major naval air station in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Its primary mission is to support the U.S. Navy’s fleet by providing air operations and aviation training. The surrounding city of Virginia Beach offers a diverse demographic with a strong military culture known for supporting its service members and families.
Brief History of NAS Oceana, Virginia
NAS Oceana was established during the World War II era to train and deploy naval aviators. Over the years, Oceana has played significant roles in conflicts such as the Korean War, Vietnam, and Iraq. Today, it serves as the East Coast Master Jet Base, vital for operations and strategic planning in contemporary defense efforts.
Military Law & Legal Issues at NAS Oceana, Virginia
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Service members at NAS Oceana can face court-martial for serious offenses under Articles 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and others. Understanding the process and securing the right to civilian counsel is essential.
Article 15 / NJP
Deciding whether to accept or refuse an Article 15 can significantly impact your career. Consideration of long-term consequences is crucial.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
General Officer Memoranda of Reprimand (GOMORs) can be filed locally or permanently, affecting future opportunities. Developing an effective rebuttal is important.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
The separation process differs for enlisted personnel and officers. Understanding how to preserve an Honorable discharge during administrative proceedings is vital.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
CDIs and IG complaints can be misused. It’s important to understand the risks associated with waiving rights or making statements.
Legal Services Available at NAS Oceana, Virginia
NAS Oceana Base Legal (JAG)
The JAG office provides services like powers of attorney and wills, but doesn’t offer criminal defense or representation in military boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian lawyers provide independence, extensive trial experience, and confidentiality, making them a valuable asset in legal defense.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at NAS Oceana, Virginia?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at NAS Oceana, Virginia?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
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.