Naval Support Activity New Orleans, Louisiana | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Naval Support Activity New Orleans, Louisiana, understanding your military legal environment is crucial. Facing legal challenges is a reality for many service members here, whether due to local legal culture or the nuances of military law.
Our resource, the UCMJ Survival Guide, can be an invaluable asset in navigating these complex waters. Download your free copy here to arm yourself with the information you need.
Overview of Naval Support Activity New Orleans, Louisiana and Surrounding Area
Naval Support Activity (NSA) New Orleans serves multiple missions, playing a central role in logistics and support for naval operations. Located in the vibrant city of New Orleans, the base contributes to the area’s diverse demographic and unique legal culture.
New Orleans is known for its vibrant culture, historic architecture, and complex legal landscape, which can influence military legal proceedings both on and off the base.
Brief History of Naval Support Activity New Orleans, Louisiana
Established during WWII, Naval Support Activity New Orleans has evolved from a critical support location to a major logistics hub. Over the years, it has adapted to meet the needs of naval operations during conflicts in Korea, Vietnam, and the post-9/11 era. Today, it continues to support naval capabilities and services personnel stationed here.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Naval Support Activity New Orleans, Louisiana
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Common charges faced by service members can include Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and misconduct charges under 133/134. Understanding the court-martial process and the right to civilian counsel is essential.
Article 15 / NJP
The decision to accept or refuse an Article 15 can impact your career long-term. Consider the implications carefully and seek advice from trusted legal advisors.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
Understanding the difference between local and permanent filing is vital. Rebuttal strategies can be employed to contest unfair reprimands effectively.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Learn the processes for both enlisted and officers, including Board of Inquiry and separation boards, to preserve an Honorable discharge.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
These investigations are prone to misuse. Understanding the risks of waiving rights or unwisely giving statements is critical.
Legal Services Available at Naval Support Activity New Orleans, Louisiana
Base Legal (JAG)
The JAG office provides services like powers of attorney and wills but does not offer criminal defense or represent in boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian lawyers offer the benefits of independence, extensive trial experience, and confidentiality, crucial for protecting your rights.
Protect Your Career
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 Support Activity New Orleans, Louisiana
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Naval Support Activity New Orleans, Louisiana?
Yes, the UCMJ applies to all service members regardless of their location. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Naval Support Activity New Orleans, Louisiana?
Yes, service members have the right to seek civilian legal counsel at any time. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusing an Article 15 can lead to court-martial proceedings, where more severe penalties might be imposed. - Is Naval Support Activity New Orleans, Louisiana considered a high-risk legal environment?
The region’s legal complexities and its high volume of transient residents can create unique legal challenges.
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.