West Point, New York | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at West Point, New York, understanding your legal rights and resources is critical. Military service can present unique legal challenges, making it essential to be prepared. This guide offers insights into the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and other military legal issues. For comprehensive legal protection, consider downloading the UCMJ Survival Guide for free.
Overview of West Point, New York and Surrounding Area
West Point is a premier military academy known for developing leaders of character for the Army. Situated on the Hudson River, it hosts major units focusing on academics, military training, and character development. The nearby community is steeped in history, providing a supportive environment but requiring awareness of local legal nuances.
Brief History of West Point, New York
Established in 1802, West Point played pivotal roles in major conflicts like WWII, Vietnam, and post-9/11 military operations. Its mission evolved from training military engineers to creating leaders adept in modern warfare strategies.
Military Law & Legal Issues at West Point, New York
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common Charges: Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), 133/134 (misconduct)
- Process Overview: Accused service members have the right to a fair trial, evident through an Article 32 hearing leading to possible court-martial.
- Right to Civilian Counsel: Military members can hire civilian attorneys to ensure a comprehensive defense.
Article 15 / NJP
- Accept or Refuse: Service members have the option to accept NJP or request a court-martial.
- Long-Term Career Impact: NJP can impact career progression; understanding consequences is crucial.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
- Local vs. Permanent Filing: Understand the implications of local and permanent filings on your record.
- Rebuttal Strategies: Knowing how to effectively respond can mitigate negative impacts.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
- Process for Enlisted and Officers: Board of Inquiry or separation boards determine outcomes.
- Preserving an Honorable Discharge: Detailed guidance on maintaining military record integrity.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
- Common Misuse: Raised concerns must be thoroughly checked for proper usage.
- Risks of Waiving Rights: Consult before waiving any rights or making statements.
Legal Services Available at West Point, New York
West Point Base Legal (JAG)
- Services Provided: Powers of attorney, wills, and tax assistance.
- Services Not Provided: Criminal defense, representation at administrative boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian military lawyers provide an independent perspective, extensive trial experience, and ensure confidentiality in handling cases. They are crucial in complex legal scenarios where base legal may lack resources.
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.
West Point, New York Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at West Point, New York?
- Yes, the UCMJ applies to service members both on and off base.
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at West Point, New York?
- Yes, service members have the right to hire civilian lawyers irrespective of their duty station.
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Refusing an Article 15 can lead to a court-martial, depending on the command’s decision.
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 a 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.