Roosevelt Roads Army Reserve Base, Puerto Rico | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at Roosevelt Roads Army Reserve Base, Puerto Rico, you understand the pride and
responsibility of serving your country. Along with this honor, however, are unique military legal challenges
that you or your family may face during your tenure here. Understanding these potential issues ahead of time
can help you navigate them more effectively. The UCMJ Survival Guide is your trusted
companion in understanding military law. Download your free copy or purchase it on
Amazon today.
Overview of Roosevelt Roads Army Reserve Base, Puerto Rico, and Surrounding Area
Situated on the east coast of Puerto Rico, Roosevelt Roads Army Reserve Base serves a critical role in
military operations within the Caribbean. The base is home to many specialized Army Reserve units, providing
logistical support and readiness for operations in the region. The nearby town of Ceiba complements the base
with a vibrant local community known for its hospitality and strong cultural heritage.
Brief History of Roosevelt Roads Army Reserve Base, Puerto Rico
Established during World War II, Roosevelt Roads Army Reserve Base was initially developed to serve as a
strategic point in the defense of the Caribbean. The base has seen various transformations through major
historical events, including the Korean and Vietnam Wars, as it shifted its mission focus. Post-9/11, it
continues to play a vital role in regional security operations, serving both training and logistical
support roles.
Military Law & Legal Issues at Roosevelt Roads Army Reserve Base, Puerto Rico
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Common charges at Roosevelt Roads typically involve Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic
violence), and misconduct charges under Article 133/134. Heart of the court-martial process includes pretrial
investigations, trial, and post-trial review, where the right to civilian counsel can significantly impact
outcomes.
Article 15 / NJP
Service members may either accept or refuse Article 15 proceedings, also known as Non-Judicial Punishment
(NJP). It’s crucial to understand its potential long-term career implications and seek appropriate legal
counsel when faced with this option.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
A General Officer Memorandum of Reprimand (GOMOR) can be filed locally or permanently. Knowing how to
effectively present a rebuttal can significantly alter outcomes.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Whether an enlisted service member or officer, understanding the processes—such as the Board of Inquiry or
separation boards—and knowing how to preserve an Honorable discharge is paramount.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
Avoid common misuses and understand the risks involved with waiving rights or providing statements without
adequate legal advice during CDIs and Inspector General complaints.
Legal Services Available at Roosevelt Roads Army Reserve Base, Puerto Rico
Base Legal (JAG)
The JAG office at Roosevelt Roads provides various essential services such as powers of attorney and will
drafting, but they do not handle criminal defense or representation at boards.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Engaging a civilian military lawyer ensures independence, seasoned trial experience, and confidentiality.
Civilian lawyers can offer pivotal help when facing serious charges.
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.
Roosevelt Roads Army Reserve Base, Puerto Rico Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at Roosevelt Roads Army Reserve Base, Puerto Rico?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at Roosevelt Roads Army Reserve Base, Puerto Rico?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is Roosevelt Roads Army Reserve Base, Puerto Rico 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.