NB Guam | Military Legal Guide
Overview of NB Guam and Surrounding Area
Naval Base Guam serves as a strategic stronghold in the Pacific, hosting critical missions related to defense and power projection. The base is home to various units contributing to its vital role in regional security. Surrounding the base, the island of Guam offers a unique blend of cultural diversity, featuring a welcoming community with a significant military presence.
Brief History of NB Guam
Established during World War II, NB Guam became a pivotal base during conflicts such as the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Post 9/11, its mission has expanded to include enhanced security operations in the Asia-Pacific region. Today, NB Guam stands as a testament to enduring military excellence and strategic significance.
Military Law & Legal Issues at NB Guam
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common charges include Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence), and Articles 133/134 (misconduct).
- The court-martial process involves a thorough investigation, potential charges, and a formal trial.
- Service members have the right to choose civilian counsel for representation.
Article 15 / NJP
Non-judicial punishment under Article 15 allows commanders to enforce discipline without a formal court-martial. Service members can refuse Article 15, leading to a trial, but repercussions and career impacts should be considered carefully.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand (GOMORs) can be locally or permanently filed. Drafting a compelling rebuttal is essential to contest these reprimands effectively.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Administrative separation processes vary for enlisted personnel and officers. Retaining an Honorable discharge requires understanding separation boards and the Board of Inquiry processes.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
CDIs and IG complaints are crucial tools to report misconduct; however, they can often be misused. Waiving rights or providing statements without counsel can pose severe risks.
Legal Services Available at NB Guam
NB Guam Base Legal (JAG)
Base Legal provides essential services, including drafting powers of attorney and wills. They do not provide criminal defense or representation in boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian lawyers offer independent advice, rigorous trial experience, and guaranteed confidentiality, worth considering for substantive legal matters.
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.
NB Guam Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at NB Guam?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at NB Guam?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is NB Guam considered a high-risk legal environment?
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 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.