NAS Corpus Christi, Texas | Military Legal Guide
Overview of NAS Corpus Christi, Texas and Surrounding Area
NAS Corpus Christi serves as a premier United States Navy base dedicated to training naval aviators. Its strategic location and state-of-the-art facilities support various military operations and units.
The surrounding city of Corpus Christi offers a diverse community with a rich cultural heritage and a supportive environment for service members and their families. Known for its vibrant legal culture, the area ensures ample legal resources and support for military personnel.
Brief History of NAS Corpus Christi, Texas
Established during World War II, NAS Corpus Christi has played a pivotal role in training naval aviators for various military operations. From its involvement in WWII to post-9/11 missions, the base has continuously evolved its mission to meet contemporary defense needs.
Today, NAS Corpus Christi remains a key player in the U.S. Navy’s training and operational strategies, contributing significantly to military readiness and capability enhancement.
Military Law & Legal Issues at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common charges include Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and 133/134 (misconduct).
- Understanding the process from investigation to verdict is crucial.
- Service members have the right to seek civilian counsel for defense.
Article 15 / NJP
- Deciding whether to accept or refuse an NJP can affect your military career long-term.
- Consult legal advice to comprehend the implications fully.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
- Difference between local and permanent filing.
- Effective rebuttal strategies to contest and mitigate long-term effects.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
- Process distinctions for enlisted personnel versus officers (Board of Inquiry, separation boards).
- Strategies to maintain an Honorable discharge status despite proceedings.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
- Common misuse of CDIs and IG complaints.
- Risks associated with waiving rights or providing statements without legal representation.
Legal Services Available at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas
Base Legal (JAG)
- JAG provides various legal services like drafting powers of attorney and wills.
- However, it does not provide criminal defense or represent in boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
- Independent and experienced civilian lawyers offer confidential counsel beyond the constraints of military practice.
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.
Local Military/Government Legal Resources near NAS Corpus Christi, Texas
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas?
Yes, military law applies to service members both on and off the base. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas?
Yes, you can seek civilian legal counsel in addition to any military legal assistance provided. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusing can lead to a court-martial; consulting legal advice is crucial. - Is NAS Corpus Christi, Texas considered a high-risk legal environment?
While not unusually high-risk, understanding legal rights and resources available is always beneficial.
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.