Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst, New Jersey | Military Legal Guide
If you’re stationed at Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst, New Jersey, you may face unique military legal challenges that can impact your career and well-being. Understanding your rights under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) is crucial. Educating yourself on proper legal procedures and potential military legal issues is key to protecting your future. Download our UCMJ Survival Guide for comprehensive insights and prepare to defend your rights effectively.
Overview of Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst, New Jersey and Surrounding Area
Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst is an integral base tasked with significant engineering missions tied to the development and testing of advanced naval aircraft. Situated in central New Jersey, the station is enveloped by the rich history and bustling community of the surrounding towns. The legal culture in this area is supportive, though distinct, given the proximity to both military and civilian jurisdictions.
Brief History of Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst, New Jersey
Established in 1921, Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst has played a pivotal role in aeronautic innovation, contributing significantly through its technological advancements. Throughout WWII, and continuing into modern conflicts, its mission has evolved to incorporate cutting-edge research vital to national defense. Now, Lakehurst remains a cornerstone in navy aviation advancement, ensuring it adapts and responds to contemporary defense needs.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst, New Jersey
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common charges can include Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and 133/134 (misconduct).
- The court-martial process includes investigation, pre-trial proceedings, and the court-martial trial itself.
- Service members have the right to civilian counsel which can be critical for defense.
Article 15 / NJP
- Service members may accept or refuse NJP, but must weigh the potential impacts on their long-term military career.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
- These may be filed locally or permanently. Proper rebuttal strategies are vital for defense.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
- This process includes hearings before Board of Inquiry or administrative separation boards, with vital steps to preserve an Honorable discharge.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
- CDIs can be commonly misused. Understanding the risks of waiving your rights or giving statements is essential.
Legal Services Available at Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst, New Jersey
Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst Base Legal (JAG)
- JAG provides services such as powers of attorney and wills, but they do not offer criminal defense or board representation.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
- Consideration of civilian lawyers offers independence, experience, and confidentiality pivotal to navigating military 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.
Local Military/Government Legal Resources Near Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst, New Jersey
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst, New Jersey?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst, New Jersey?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst, New Jersey 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.