Puget Sound NSY, Washington State | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Puget Sound NSY, Washington, you’re likely to encounter unique military legal challenges. Understanding military law, court-martial processes, and your rights under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) is crucial. Our comprehensive UCMJ Survival Guide offers invaluable insights and is available for free download, or you can find it on Amazon.
Overview of Puget Sound NSY, Washington and Surrounding Area
Puget Sound Naval Shipyard (NSY), located in Bremerton, Washington, primarily serves as a repair and maintenance facility for U.S. Navy vessels. The shipyard is an essential part of the Navy’s Pacific Fleet operations. Bremerton, a small city with a friendly community, offers a mix of rich history and scenic beauty. The area also embodies a unique legal culture, often interwoven with maritime legal issues due to its proximity to water.
Brief History of Puget Sound NSY, Washington
Established in 1891, Puget Sound NSY has played significant roles in numerous conflicts, from World War II to post-9/11 operations. Its strategic location made it a vital support base during WWII Pacific campaigns. The shipyard has evolved to incorporate advanced repairs catering to modern nuclear vessels, establishing its current role as a leader in naval maintenance.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Puget Sound NSY, Washington
a. Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common charges include Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), and 133/134 (misconduct).
- The court-martial process begins with an investigation and may lead to a trial, where your right to civilian counsel is paramount.
b. Article 15 / Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP)
- Service members can accept or refuse, considering the long-term career impacts of NJP.
c. GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
- Understanding local vs. permanent filing and effective rebuttal strategies can help mitigate career damage.
d. Administrative Separation (Chapters)
- Processes differ for enlisted personnel and officers, involving Boards of Inquiry and separation boards aimed at preserving an Honorable discharge.
e. Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
- Such investigations can be misused. Waiving rights or providing statements without counsel poses risks.
Legal Services Available at Puget Sound NSY, Washington
a. Base Legal (JAG)
- Provides essential services like powers of attorney and wills but not criminal defense or representation at boards.
b. Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
- Hiring a civilian attorney ensures independence, confidentiality, and veteran trial experience that is often pivotal in military 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.
Puget Sound NSY, Washington Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Puget Sound NSY, Washington?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Puget Sound NSY, Washington?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is Puget Sound NSY, Washington 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.