NB Kitsap, Washington State | Military Legal Guide
Overview of NB Kitsap, Washington and Surrounding Area
Naval Base Kitsap, located in Washington, serves as a major hub for the United States Navy. It houses multiple missions, including submarine operations and ship maintenance. The surrounding area, rich in naval history, offers a supportive legal environment for service members.
Brief History of NB Kitsap, Washington
NB Kitsap was established during World War II to support naval operations in the Pacific. It played a significant role during the Korean and Vietnam wars. Post-9/11, its mission has evolved to include strategic deterrence and rapid deployment capabilities.
Military Law & Legal Issues at NB Kitsap, Washington
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Common charges at NB Kitsap include Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence), and Articles 133/134 (misconduct). Service members have the right to civilian counsel during court-martial proceedings.
Article 15 / NJP
Choosing whether to accept or refuse an Article 15 is a critical decision that impacts long-term career prospects. Understanding the implications of Non-Judicial Punishment is vital.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
Understanding the distinction between local and permanent filing is critical. Rebuttal strategies are essential to counter non-judicial punishments effectively.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
The process for enlisted members and officers involves separation boards and boards of inquiry. To preserve an honorable discharge, members must be proactive.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
CDIs can be misused, and there are risks associated with waiving rights or giving statements. Always be informed before participating in these procedures.
Legal Services Available at NB Kitsap, Washington
NB Kitsap Base Legal (JAG)
The JAG office provides services such as powers of attorney and wills but does not offer criminal defense or representation in administrative boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian lawyers are important due to their independence, trial experience, and confidentiality. They can offer robust defense strategies effectively.
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.
NB Kitsap, Washington Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQ
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at NB Kitsap, Washington?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at NB Kitsap, Washington?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is NB Kitsap, Washington considered a high-risk legal environment?
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.