Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, navigating military legal challenges can be daunting. Understanding the reality of military law and your rights is essential to protect your career and personal life.
Our UCMJ Survival Guide offers a comprehensive resource to help you comprehend your legal environment. Download it for free and arm yourself with knowledge.
Overview of Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska and Surrounding Area
Offutt Air Force Base is a vital military installation focused on strategic deterrence and global strike operations. Key units stationed here include the U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) and the 55th Wing.
The base is located near Bellevue, Nebraska, a community that supports military families with various services. Known for a supportive legal culture, it offers multiple resources to service members.
Brief History of Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska
Offutt AFB was established during World War II, playing a significant role in air defense and post-war strategic plans. It has been pivotal in key conflicts such as Vietnam and post-9/11 operations.
Today, Offutt AFB remains crucial for commanding strategic missions and supporting national defense efforts.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common charges include Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and Articles 133/134 (misconduct).
- The process involves investigation, pre-trial proceedings, trial, and appeal.
- Service members have the right to civilian counsel for defense.
Article 15 / NJP
Service members can choose to accept an NJP or demand a court-martial. Consider long-term career impacts before refusing.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
These may be locally or permanently filed. Effective rebuttal strategies are essential for your defense.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
- The process differs for enlisted personnel and officers involving Boards of Inquiry or separation boards.
- Strategies exist to preserve an Honorable discharge.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
- Misuse is common; be wary of waiving rights or giving statements.
Legal Services Available at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska
Base Legal (JAG)
The JAG office provides services like powers of attorney and wills but does not cover criminal defense or boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Civilian lawyers offer independence, trial experience, and confidentiality, different from JAG services.
Download the UCMJ Survival Guide
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 Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska
FAQ
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska?
Yes, the UCMJ applies to service members both on and off base. - Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska?
Yes, you have the right to seek civilian legal counsel. - What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
You may choose to face a court-martial, which could lead to more serious consequences. - Is Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska considered a high-risk legal environment?
The risk varies; understanding specific legal policies and counsel availability is crucial.
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.