Nellis AFB, Nevada | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Nellis AFB, Nevada, understanding your legal rights and challenges is crucial. Military service is demanding, and the legal intricacies specific to military life can present unique challenges. Our UCMJ Survival Guide provides comprehensive insights and strategies for legal protection. Download the guide here or find it on Amazon.
Overview of Nellis AFB, Nevada and Surrounding Area
Nellis Air Force Base is a premier training ground for the U.S. Air Force. It hosts various missions and major units including the USAF Warfare Center. Situated near Las Vegas, Nevada, Nellis benefits from a dynamic city atmosphere with an engaging legal culture influenced by both its military presence and the city’s entertainment industry.
Brief History of Nellis AFB, Nevada
Established in 1941, Nellis AFB has played a crucial role throughout history, from World War II to present-day operations. Initially serving as a foundational training center during WWII, its mission has evolved post-9/11 into a comprehensive combat training and tactics development facility, pivotal for air operations.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Nellis AFB, Nevada
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Service members at Nellis AFB face various potential charges under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), such as sexual assault (Article 120), domestic violence (Article 128b), and general misconduct (Articles 133/134). Understanding the court-martial process, including the right to civilian counsel, is essential for defense.
Article 15 / Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP)
Deciding to accept or refuse an Article 15 carries significant career implications. Evaluating long-term impacts and exploring alternative paths with legal guidance is crucial.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
GOMORs and reprimands can be locally or permanently filed, affecting career trajectories. Crafting a strategic rebuttal is vital for contesting these actions.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Enlisted and officer separations involve complex proceedings including boards of inquiry. Preserving an Honorable discharge demands meticulous preparation and advocacy.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
Command investigations often lead to misuse or overreach, and waiving rights can jeopardize outcomes. Legal counsel can guide preservation of rights and effective complaint processes.
Legal Services Available at Nellis AFB, Nevada
Nellis AFB Base Legal (JAG)
The JAG office provides essential legal services like powers of attorney and will drafting. Note, however, they do not offer defense in criminal cases or board representations.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Enlisting civilian lawyers offers independence, trial expertise, and confidentiality, distinct from military counsel.
Book CTA:
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.
Nellis AFB, Nevada Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Nellis AFB, Nevada?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Nellis AFB, Nevada?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is Nellis AFB, Nevada 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.