San Juan Army National Guard Support Station, Puerto Rico | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at San Juan Army National Guard Support Station, Puerto Rico, understanding the military legal landscape is crucial. The legal challenges faced by active-duty service members can be complex, from the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) procedures to court-martial and administrative risks.
Our UCMJ Survival Guide is designed to empower you with the knowledge to navigate potential legal hurdles. Download the guide here for free or find it on Amazon.
Overview of San Juan Army National Guard Support Station, Puerto Rico and Surrounding Area
The San Juan Army National Guard Support Station serves as a pivotal location for military operations in Puerto Rico. The base hosts several key units and plays a significant role in national defense and local community support missions.
San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, surrounds the base, offering a rich cultural and historical backdrop. The demographics here are diverse, with a vibrant community that appreciates its deep-rooted legal culture.
Brief History of San Juan Army National Guard Support Station, Puerto Rico
Established to fortify Puerto Rico’s defense capabilities, the San Juan Army National Guard Support Station has a storied past. The base played roles during significant conflicts like WWII and the post-9/11 era, evolving to meet national security needs and adapt to modern military operations.
Military Law & Legal Issues at San Juan Army National Guard Support Station, Puerto Rico
a. Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Service members may face charges under the UCMJ, including Article 120 (sexual assault), Article 128b (domestic violence), and Articles 133/134 (misconduct). Understanding the court-martial process and your right to civilian counsel is essential for defense.
b. Article 15 / NJP
Deciding whether to accept or refuse Article 15, or non-judicial punishment (NJP), requires careful consideration of the long-term impact on your military career.
c. GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
Address and strategize for rebuttals regarding General Officer Memorandums of Reprimand (GOMORs) or letters of reprimand. Understand the distinctions between local and permanent filing.
d. Administrative Separation (Chapters)
The administrative separation process can affect both enlisted members and officers. Learn how to preserve an honorable discharge through Board of Inquiry and separation boards.
e. Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
Recognize common misuse of CDIs and the importance of protecting your rights during investigations. Understand the repercussions of waiving rights or giving statements.
Legal Services Available at San Juan Army National Guard Support Station, Puerto Rico
Base Legal (JAG)
The Base Legal Office provides essential services such as powers of attorney and wills but does not offer criminal defense or support for boards. Legal assistance ensures fairness in dealing with military-related issues.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Independent and experienced, civilian military lawyers offer confidentiality and trial experience that JAGs may not. Their outsider perspective can be invaluable in complex cases.
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. Get the guide here.
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.
San Juan Army National Guard Support Station, Puerto Rico Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQ Section
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at San Juan Army National Guard Support Station, Puerto Rico?
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at San Juan Army National Guard Support Station, Puerto Rico?
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Is San Juan Army National Guard Support Station, Puerto Rico 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 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.