USAG Japan – Camp Zama | Military Legal Guide
Overview of USAG Japan – Camp Zama and Surrounding Area
USAG Japan – Camp Zama serves as an integral installation supporting key missions and units. Located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, it is home to USARJ Headquarters and the I Corps (Forward) Command. The surrounding area is a vibrant city with a rich legal culture and demographic diversity, contributing to a unique environment for service members.
Brief History of USAG Japan – Camp Zama
Established in post-World War II Japan, Camp Zama has played pivotal roles in conflicts like Korea and Vietnam, as well as post-9/11 operations. Originally a training and logistics hub, its mission has evolved to include strategic command functions, aligning with the broader defense strategy in the Asia-Pacific region.
Military Law & Legal Issues at USAG Japan – Camp Zama
a. Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
- Common charges: Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), 133/134 (misconduct)
- Process overview: Preliminary investigation, Article 32 hearing, court-martial trial
- Right to civilian counsel: Ensure independent representation with trial experience
b. Article 15 / NJP
- Accept or refuse: Consider evidence and potential outcomes before accepting NJP
- Long-term career impact: Potential impacts on promotions and security clearances
c. GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
- Local vs. permanent filing: Understand the implications of each
- Rebuttal strategies: Present a strong, factual rebuttal with supporting evidence
d. Administrative Separation (Chapters)
- For enlisted and officers: Process varies, includes Board of Inquiry or separation boards
- Preserving an Honorable discharge: Gather evidence and witness testimonies
e. Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
- Common misuse: Sometimes used as a pretext for adverse actions
- Risks of waiving rights or giving statements: Consult a lawyer before proceeding
Legal Services Available at USAG Japan – Camp Zama
a. Base Legal (JAG)
- Provided services: Powers of attorney, wills, basic legal advice
- Not provided: Criminal defense, representation in military boards
b. Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
- Importance of civilian lawyers: Independence, expertise, and confidentiality in representation
Download the UCMJ Survival Guide
Download a 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 USAG Japan – Camp Zama
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the UCMJ apply off base at USAG Japan – Camp Zama?
- Yes, the UCMJ applies to military members on and off base, even when stationed overseas.
- Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at USAG Japan – Camp Zama?
- Yes, you can and should consider hiring a civilian lawyer for independent legal representation.
- What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
- Refusing an Article 15 can lead to a court-martial, with potential for greater punishment but also more procedural rights.
- Is USAG Japan – Camp Zama considered a high-risk legal environment?
- The legal environment at Camp Zama is manageable with proper awareness of military laws and rights.
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 a 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.