Court-Martial Defense
We work closely with service members to build a compelling, effective defense for charges filed against them by the military or law enforcement.
25+
years of experience
1000+
cases handled
Why Hire a Military Investigation Lawyer?
Severe Criminal Charges
Charges including assault, theft, drug use, fraud, sexual misconduct, or other violations of the UCMJ can result in a court-martial. Hiring a experienced defense lawyer for court-martial is crucial to avoiding dishonorable discharge, imprisonment, and loss of benefits.
Dishonorable Discharge
Dishonorable discharge is among the most severe military punishments – and can lead to lifelong consequences in civilian life. A court-martial defense attorney will fight for a favorable outcome to avoid harsh penalties.
Allegations of War Crimes
Unlawful killings, torture, inhumane treatment of EPWs and targeting of civilians can lead to prosecution. A skilled defense attorney will help you navigate this complex legal process to protect your rights and reputation.
What We Do in Military Investigations
Client Representation
Our firm works closely with service members throughout all phases of the court-martial proceedings. This involves providing legal advice, explaining the process, and explaining all legal options to get to a fair resolution.
Case Investigation & Evidence Collection
We conduct detailed investigations – in conjunction with the military’s investigation – to analyze all charges, organize evidence, and build a defense plan to preserve your rights.
Strategic Planning
Phil Stackhouse will formulate an aggressive legal strategy based on the specifics of your case, exhausting all resources in your fight for justice.
Negotiation with Military Officials
We prepare and submit all legal briefs and present arguments that counter the prosecution’s claims to protect your rights.
Cross-Examination & Witness Preparation
Our strategy involves both preparing witnesses to testify on your behalf, as well as a skilled cross-examination of the prosecution’s witnesses to challenge the validity of their testimony.
Representation During Hearings & Trial
Should your case go to a hearing or trial, we’ll do everything to prepare you and lead/manage all proceedings. We take a highly aggressive approach in trial to ensure your rights are protected – every step of the way.
Appeals Post Trial
If we don’t get the resolution we hoped for, our firm will work diligently to file and argue appeals to higher military courts, and challenge any injustices throughout the court-martial process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when someone is court-martialed?
When a service member is court-martialed, they will face a formal military trial for violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). This process includes pre-trial investigations, legal proceedings, and a trial where evidence is presented. You have the right to a court-martial defense lawyer to fight for the acquittal or mitigated punishments, which may include fines, imprisonment, or discharge from the military.
How severe is a court-martial?
A court-martial is a very serious legal proceeding that may lead to severe consequences for a service member. For all intents and purposes, it is a federal criminal court. Penalties can range from reprimands and rank reduction to prison time, forfeiture of pay, and potentially dishonorable discharge. The results of the court-martial can have a severely negative impact on the service member’s military career and civilian life. If you face a court-martial, it’s imperative you work with an experienced court-martial defense attorney to fight for a favorable resolution.
What are the grounds for court-martial?
Grounds for court-martial generally involve violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and federal crimes, including drugs, sexual assault, theft, aggravated assault, desertion, hazing/maltreatment, and other criminal or misconduct behaviors. These charges can be brought by commanders or military prosecutors based on evidence and severity.
What types of cases do courts-martial deal with?
Courts-martial deal with a wide range of cases, including criminal offenses like sexual assault, theft, assault, drug use, and sexual misconduct, in addition to military-specific offenses such as desertion, insubordination, and conduct unbecoming of an officer.
How long do court martials take?
The timeline of court-martials can vary widely based on the complexity and severity of the case. Some court-martials may be resolved within a few weeks, while more complex cases involving serious charges and extensive evidence can take several months or longer to conclude. Your court-martial defense attorney will explain the estimated timeline once they build your defense strategy.
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