Naval Support Facility Anacosta, Washington, D.C. | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Naval Support Facility Anacosta, Washington, D.C., you may encounter various legal challenges specific to military life. Understanding these challenges and how to navigate them can be crucial for preserving your career and protecting your rights. This guide is designed to equip you with essential knowledge of military law, including procedures under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), court-martial risks, and available legal resources. Additionally, we provide you with a free download of the UCMJ Survival Guide to further empower you in safeguarding your military future.
Overview of Naval Support Facility Anacosta, Washington, D.C. and Surrounding Area
Naval Support Facility Anacosta, located in Washington, D.C., plays a critical role in supporting the U.S. Navy’s operations. The base is home to several units focused on pivotal missions, contributing to both national security and the local economy. The surrounding area, known as the nation’s capital, is rich in history and culture, offering a diverse population and legal practices that cater to the unique needs of military personnel and their families.
Brief History of Naval Support Facility Anacosta, Washington, D.C.
Established during World War II, Naval Support Facility Anacosta has evolved significantly over the decades. Its strategic location in the nation’s capital made it integral to operations throughout the Korean and Vietnam Wars, as well as the post-9/11 era. Today, it continues to adapt to modern military demands, reaffirming its position as a key component of the U.S. Navy’s infrastructure.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Naval Support Facility Anacosta, Washington, D.C.
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common charges: Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), 133/134 (misconduct)
- Process overview: The court-martial process begins with a preliminary hearing to evaluate evidence followed by the actual trial.
- Right to civilian counsel: You have the right to hire civilian legal defense in addition to your appointed military counsel to strengthen your defense.
Article 15 / NJP
Service members have the option to accept or refuse an Article 15/non-judicial punishment. Acceptance can result in faster resolution, while refusal may lead to a court-martial. Consider the long-term career impact before deciding.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
Whether filed locally or permanently, General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand (GOMORs) can significantly impact your career. Effective rebuttal strategies are essential to mitigate their consequences.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
- The process varies for enlisted personnel and officers, typically involving a Board of Inquiry or separation boards.
- Understanding how to preserve an Honorable discharge during administrative separation is crucial for maintaining benefits.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
CDIs and Inspector General (IG) complaints are commonly misused and can be detrimental if rights are waived or statements are given without proper counsel. Be aware of the risks involved.
Legal Services Available at Naval Support Facility Anacosta, Washington, D.C.
Base Legal (JAG)
- Provides: Powers of attorney and wills are among the essential services offered by the base legal office.
- Limitations: They do not provide criminal defense or representation in boards, which may necessitate seeking external legal help.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian lawyers offer significant advantages such as independence, extensive trial experience, and confidentiality. They can be imperative allies in navigating complex legal challenges.
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.
Naval Support Facility Anacosta, Washington, D.C. Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Naval Support Facility Anacosta, Washington, D.C.?
The UCMJ applies to all active-duty service members regardless of their location, including off-base occurrences. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Naval Support Facility Anacosta, Washington, D.C.?
Yes, you can retain civilian counsel in addition to your military attorney. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusal of an Article 15 may lead to a court-martial, which carries more severe penalties but also affords additional legal protections.
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.