NASJRB New Orleans, Louisiana | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at NASJRB New Orleans, Louisiana, understanding the intricacies of military law is crucial. Military legal challenges can arise unexpectedly, and knowing how to navigate them is essential for safeguarding your career and rights. This guide provides a detailed overview of legal issues specific to NASJRB New Orleans and offers invaluable resources, including the downloadable UCMJ Survival Guide to equip you with the knowledge you need.
Overview of NASJRB New Orleans, Louisiana and Surrounding Area
NASJRB New Orleans houses various military commands and supports both Air Force and Navy operations. It serves as a training ground, a support center for regional operations, and a key base in the network of U.S. military installations.
Located in vibrant New Orleans, the community surrounding NASJRB is rich in culture and diversity, offering a unique blend of cuisines, music, and festivities. However, it’s important to understand the legal landscape in which service members operate, which can differ significantly from civilian environments.
Brief History of NASJRB New Orleans, Louisiana
Established during World War II, NASJRB New Orleans has played a pivotal role in various military conflicts, including Vietnam and the Gulf War. Over the years, the mission of NASJRB has evolved to support modern defense strategies, focusing on joint reserve operations and maintaining readiness for rapid deployments.
Military Law & Legal Issues at NASJRB New Orleans, Louisiana
a. Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Common charges at NASJRB New Orleans include Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and misconduct charges under Articles 133 and 134. Understanding the court-martial process is vital, as is exercising your right to civilian counsel who can offer independent guidance and robust defense.
b. Article 15 / NJP
Article 15, or non-judicial punishment (NJP), presents a tough decision: to accept or refuse. The long-term career impacts can be significant. Weighing your options with a knowledgeable legal advisor can make all the difference.
c. GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand (GOMORs) can be locally or permanently filed. A well-strategized rebuttal can mitigate lasting consequences.
d. Administrative Separation (Chapters)
The process for administrative separation involves either a Board of Inquiry for officers or a separation board for enlisted personnel. Ensuring an Honorable discharge requires strategic defense planning.
e. Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
Command-directed investigations can sometimes be misused; waiving rights or providing statements without counsel may pose risks.
Legal Services Available at NASJRB New Orleans, Louisiana
Base Legal (JAG)
The Legal Assistance Office at NASJRB provides essential services like drafting wills and powers of attorney. However, they do not handle criminal defense or boards. These areas require external counsel.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian lawyers bring the advantage of independence, extensive trial experience, and confidentiality, which can be critical in defending against serious charges.
Download Your Free Copy of the UCMJ Survival Guide
Learn how to protect your career, your rights, and your military future today.
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.
NASJRB New Orleans, Louisiana Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at NASJRB New Orleans, Louisiana?
- Yes, the UCMJ can apply to service members even when off base, depending on the circumstances of the offense.
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at NASJRB New Orleans, Louisiana?
- Service members are always entitled to seek civilian legal counsel at their own expense.
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Refusing Article 15 may lead to a court-martial process where formal charges are brought against you, leading to a trial.
- Is NASJRB New Orleans, Louisiana considered a high-risk legal environment?
- As with any military installation, the risk depends on individual conduct and command climate. Legal awareness is crucial.
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.