USAG Vilseck, Germany | Military Defense Lawyers & Court-Martial Attorneys
Gonzalez & Waddington, Attorneys at Law are internationally recognized military defense lawyers and UCMJ law experts defending Soldiers, Airmen, and NATO personnel stationed at U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Vilseck, Germany. Located in Bavaria near Grafenwöhr, Vilseck is home to the 2nd Cavalry Regiment and multiple rotational and forward-deployed units under EUCOM. Service members here face some of the toughest scrutiny under UCMJ, where court-martials, Article 15/NJP, and administrative separations can destroy a career. We defend U.S. and joint-service personnel across Germany and Europe in criminal and administrative military cases.
Our firm has handled hundreds of courts-martial and administrative cases worldwide, including across Germany, Italy, Korea, and the Middle East. Michael Waddington and Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington have represented Soldiers and officers in Vilseck, Grafenwöhr, and Hohenfels for over two decades. Known for dismantling weak command cases, exposing investigative errors, and challenging unlawful command influence, they deliver aggressive, independent defense for every client.
Why Soldiers in Germany trust Gonzalez & Waddington
- ✅ Over two decades of courtroom experience—hundreds of trials and separation boards defended globally.
- ✅ Deep knowledge of SOFA, NATO, and host-nation legal coordination across EUCOM and U.S. Army Europe (USAREUR).
- ✅ Proven record in defending sexual assault, drug, violence, and command misconduct allegations.
- ✅ Skilled at cross-examining CID, OSI, and NCIS agents; exposing flaws in investigative forensics and procedure.
- ✅ Independent civilian counsel with full freedom from command pressure or military influence.
We defend Soldiers and personnel at USAG Vilseck in:
- General & Special Courts-Martial (UCMJ offenses and forward-deployed trials)
- Article 15/NJP proceedings, GOMOR rebuttals, and adverse counseling actions
- Administrative Separation Boards & Officer Boards of Inquiry (BOI)
- Command Investigations, AR 15-6 and IG complaints
- Security clearance suspension/revocation, SCI/PRP/SAP reviews
Key UCMJ charges we defend
- Article 120 / 120b / 120c – Sexual assault, child misconduct, indecent acts
- Article 128b / 128 – Assault, domestic violence, aggravated battery
- Article 112a – Drug use, possession, and distribution
- Article 92 – Failure to obey orders, dereliction of duty
- Article 107 – False official statements, fraud, and deception
- Articles 133 & 134 – Conduct unbecoming, fraternization, general misconduct
If you are stationed in Vilseck, Grafenwöhr, or elsewhere in Germany and facing UCMJ or administrative action, contact Gonzalez & Waddington immediately. Early legal involvement can protect your career, rank, and reputation.
USAG Vilseck Military Defense – Frequently Asked Questions
Which military communities in Germany do you serve?
We represent clients at Vilseck, Grafenwöhr, Hohenfels, Landstuhl, Ramstein, and throughout U.S. Army Europe (USAREUR). We also serve personnel at NATO and EUCOM joint installations across Germany.
Do you represent both enlisted and officers in Vilseck?
Yes. We defend enlisted Soldiers, NCOs, warrant officers, and commissioned officers. We routinely handle separation boards, elimination boards, and BOIs for senior officers, as well as courts-martial for enlisted personnel.
How do SOFA and host-nation laws impact my UCMJ case?
The Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) governs how U.S. service members are tried for crimes committed overseas. Most UCMJ cases remain under U.S. jurisdiction, but host-nation coordination can affect evidence and witness procedures. We navigate SOFA procedures to safeguard your rights and keep your case within U.S. military jurisdiction.
Will you travel to Germany for my case?
Yes. Gonzalez & Waddington regularly travel to Germany and other EUCOM locations to represent clients in person for courts-martial, separation boards, and command investigations. We also provide confidential remote consultations for early strategy and case preparation.
When should I contact a lawyer if I’m under investigation in Vilseck?
Immediately. If CID, OSI, or command contacts you, or you receive a notification of investigation or adverse action, speak with a lawyer before making any statements. Early legal advice can prevent charges, preserve evidence, and protect your rights from the beginning.
Why hire Gonzalez & Waddington instead of relying only on JAG counsel?
Military JAG counsel are capable but limited by time, caseload, and command structure. Gonzalez & Waddington have defended hundreds of military cases worldwide, bringing independent, aggressive advocacy that focuses solely on protecting your freedom and career—free from command interference.
USAG Vilseck, Germany | Military Legal Guide
Introduction
If you’re stationed at USAG Vilseck, Germany, understanding military legal challenges is crucial for protecting your rights and career. Service members often encounter issues from UCMJ violations to administrative separations. Equip yourself with knowledge by downloading the UCMJ Survival Guide today, available for free.
Overview of USAG Vilseck, Germany and Surrounding Area
USAG Vilseck plays a pivotal role in the U.S. Army’s European presence, hosting key military units and operations. Nestled in Bavaria, Germany, Vilseck is surrounded by a supportive community known for its rich history and culture. The legal framework here is robust, involving both U.S. military regulations and German laws.
Brief History of USAG Vilseck, Germany
Established in 1937, USAG Vilseck has evolved from a WWII training ground to a modern military hub. Throughout conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, it has been a strategic location for forward operations. Today, it supports NATO missions, emphasizing joint military readiness.
Military Law & Legal Issues at USAG Vilseck, Germany
Court-Martial Under the UCMJ
Common charges include Article 120 (sexual assault), 128b (domestic violence), among others under Articles 133 and 134. The process is rigorous, demanding legal acumen and the option to retain civilian counsel for robust defense.
Article 15 / NJP
Deciding to accept or refuse Article 15 can impact your career significantly. Weigh the long-term consequences carefully, with potential impacts on promotions and military records.
GOMORs & Letters of Reprimand
Understanding the difference between local and permanent filing is critical. Effective rebuttal strategies involve detailed documentation and legal guidance.
Administrative Separation (Chapters)
Both enlisted members and officers may face separation proceedings. Navigating through Boards of Inquiry requires strategic planning to preserve an Honorable discharge.
Command-Directed Investigations (CDIs) & IG Complaints
These tools can be misused. It’s vital to recognize the risks of waiving rights or making unprotected statements. Legal assistance can prevent errors that could jeopardize your career.
Legal Services Available at USAG Vilseck, Germany
Base Legal (JAG)
The JAG office provides essential legal documents such as powers of attorney and wills. They do not cover criminal defenses or representation in administrative hearings.
Civilian Military Defense Lawyers
Retaining a civilian lawyer often means benefiting from their independence, extensive trial experience, and commitment to preserving client confidentiality. This can be a critical asset in serious legal matters.
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.
USAG Vilseck, Germany Local Military/Government Legal Resources
FAQs
Does the UCMJ apply off base at USAG Vilseck, Germany?
Yes, the UCMJ applies both on and off base, reflecting adherence to military standards at all times.
Can I request a civilian lawyer while stationed at USAG Vilseck, Germany?
Absolutely. Exercising your right to civilian representation can enhance your defense strategy significantly.
What happens if I refuse an Article 15?
Refusing Article 15 generally leads to a court-martial, where formal proceedings and trial occur.
Is USAG Vilseck, Germany considered a high-risk legal environment?
While not inherently high-risk, unfamiliar military laws necessitate awareness and preparedness for any legal challenges.
Take Control of Your Case Now
Whether you’re facing a toxic command, a false allegation, or a self-inflicted misstep, you still have rights. Don’t hesitate—Download a copy of the UCMJ Survival Guide, arm yourself with knowledge, and contact a skilled civilian military defense lawyer who truly understands the battlefield in which you’re engaged. This is your career, your freedom, and your future. Stand up, and prevail.