Training Support Center Hampton Roads, Virginia | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Training Support Center Hampton Roads, Virginia, you may face unique legal challenges related to your military service. Understanding these challenges is critical to protecting your rights and career. This military legal guide addresses common issues and resources available to you, including the UCMJ Survival Guide, our definitive handbook for understanding and navigating military legal challenges. Download Your Free Copy or find it on Amazon.
Overview of Training Support Center Hampton Roads, Virginia and Surrounding Area
Training Support Center Hampton Roads serves as a vital training and support hub for various naval missions and units. It is strategically located within the Hampton Roads area, a region known for its military-friendly environment and vibrant community.
The city of Hampton Roads provides a robust legal culture that includes well-established civilian legal service providers alongside base services. This ensures service members and their families have access to diverse legal support should the need arise.
Brief History of Training Support Center Hampton Roads, Virginia
Established during World War II, Training Support Center Hampton Roads has consistently evolved to meet the needs of a changing world. From efforts in the Korean conflict to pivotal roles during Vietnam and post-9/11 operations, the center has been at the forefront of naval training excellence. Today, it remains a cornerstone of Navy preparedness and strategic operations.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Training Support Center Hampton Roads, Virginia
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Court-martials can occur for a variety of charges, from Article 120 (sexual assault) to Article 134 (misconduct). Understand the process, which includes pre-trial motions, investigations, and the right to civilian counsel.
Article 15 / NJP
Known as Non-Judicial Punishment, Article 15 can significantly impact one’s military career. Affected service members must decide whether to accept or refuse this frequently career-altering action.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
Dealing with General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand (GOMORs) can be daunting. Understand the difference between local and permanent filing, and explore effective rebuttal strategies.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
The administrative separation process can affect both enlisted personnel and officers. Navigating inquiries and boards effectively is crucial for preserving your honorable discharge.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
These investigations can often be misused. Be aware of the risks of waiving rights or making statements without proper legal guidance.
Legal Services Available at Training Support Center Hampton Roads, Virginia
Base Legal (JAG)
The JAG office provides essential services such as powers of attorney and wills but does not offer criminal defense. For trial cases and more, external legal counsel may be necessary.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian lawyers offer unmatched independence, trial experience, and confidentiality. Their services are invaluable for serious legal matters.
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.
Training Support Center Hampton Roads, Virginia Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Training Support Center Hampton Roads, Virginia?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Training Support Center Hampton Roads, Virginia?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is Training Support Center Hampton Roads, Virginia 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.