NSF Diego Garcia | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at NSF Diego Garcia, navigating the complex landscape of military law can seem daunting. From understanding the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) to managing local legal nuances, it’s crucial to arm yourself with the right knowledge.
To support you on this journey, our comprehensive UCMJ Survival Guide is available. Download your free copy today or find it on Amazon for purchase.
Overview of NSF Diego Garcia and Surrounding Area
Naval Support Facility (NSF) Diego Garcia is a strategic military base situated in the Indian Ocean. Primarily serving as a logistical support hub, the base plays a vital role in regional defense strategies. It hosts various units focused on maritime, air, and ground operations.
The surrounding area is a unique blend of cultures, with a small transient population largely comprising military personnel and contractors. Legal culture here can be complex, with specific considerations for those under the UCMJ.
Brief History of NSF Diego Garcia
NSF Diego Garcia was established during the Cold War to enhance strategic presence in the Indian Ocean. Its significance grew during the 1970s, becoming a critical point during conflicts such as the Gulf War and post-9/11 operations. Today, it remains an integral part of the U.S. military’s overseas infrastructure.
Military Law & Legal Issues at NSF Diego Garcia
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common charges include Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence), and Article 133/134 (misconduct).
- The court-martial process involves several steps, beginning with an inquiry and potential pre-trial confinement.
- Service members have the right to obtain civilian counsel for defense.
Article 15 / NJP
- Accepting or refusing an Article 15 can significantly impact career progression.
- Evaluate the long-term repercussions carefully before making a decision.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
- Understand the difference between local and permanent filing.
- Develop effective rebuttal strategies to mitigate negative impacts.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
- Separate procedures apply for enlisted members and officers, including Board of Inquiry and separation boards.
- Strategies to preserve an Honorable discharge can be crucial.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
- Recognize common misuse and exercise caution in waiving rights or making statements.
Legal Services Available at NSF Diego Garcia
NSF Diego Garcia Base Legal (JAG)
- The JAG office provides essential services like powers of attorney and wills.
- They do not handle criminal defense or administrative boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
- Civilian lawyers offer independent insight and bring extensive trial experience and confidentiality assurance, essential for defending complex cases.
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.
NSF Diego Garcia Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at NSF Diego Garcia?
- Yes, the UCMJ applies to active duty service members, regardless of their location, whether on or off base.
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at NSF Diego Garcia?
- Yes, you have the right to retain civilian counsel alongside military attorneys for additional defense or representation.
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- If you refuse an Article 15, your case may proceed to a court-martial, where a more formal legal process ensues.
- Is NSF Diego Garcia considered a high-risk legal environment?
- While not a high-risk environment, understanding the local legal expectations and UCMJ is vital for avoiding potential issues.