Camp Zama Civil Defense Lawyer
Built on the site of the former Imperial Japanese Army Academy in Kanagawa, Japan, Camp Zama has operated as a United States Army post since the end of World War II. This military installation is home to the 78th Signal Battalion and the 311th Military Intelligence Battalion, among others. If you have been notified of impending disciplinary charges while serving at Camp Zama, reach out to retired military judge and attorney Patrick J. McLain right away.
Potential Penalties
The penalties for a conviction at trial by court-martial or NJP are similar in some cases. They can include restrictions, extra duties, loss of rank, and loss of pay. However, a trial by court-martial could also result in punitive discharge or incarceration. A conviction in either type of setting could also lead to separation proceedings from the Army.
Contact a Camp Zama Civilian Defense Counsel
If you are ready to move forward with your defense against charges at Camp Zama, consider your legal options carefully.
To discuss your case in detail, contact attorney and retired military judge Patrick J. McLain and Attorney E. Allen Chandler of Counsel right away.
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Types of Military Justice at Camp Zama
There are two common forms of military justice used at Camp Zama: nonjudicial punishment and trial by court-martial.
Nonjudicial Punishment
Common in every branch of the military, nonjudicial punishment (NJP) is a form of administrative military discipline. These proceedings, also known informally as Article 15 in the Army, will not be reflected in your permanent criminal record. However, a conviction can still have serious consequences that could lead to the end of your military career.
NJPs are informal. They are initiated and overseen by your commanding officer, and the rules regarding witnesses and evidence are less formal than a civilian trial. You have the right to appeal a decision, but it will be heard up the chain of command instead of in a formal appeals court.
An important aspect of Article 15 is your ability to reject the proceedings in favor of a trial by court-martial. This decision is risky, as a court-martial carries steep penalties. However, there are advantages as well. Trials have more formal rules of evidence that could work in your favor, and you could have a better chance of prevailing in front of a neutral judge as opposed to your commanding officer.
Trial by Court-Martial
A court-martial is a formal criminal hearing, and your conviction will result in a permanent criminal record. These trials are overseen by a military judge and have formal rules similar to a civilian trial.
Like with an NJP, you have the right to appeal the decision at your court-martial. In these cases, your appeal will be heard by a dedicated military appeals court. In fact, some cases result in an automatic appeal depending on the nature of the charge. You have the right to your choice of civilian defense counsel throughout the trial and any appeals.
WHY CHOOSE THE LAW OFFICE OF PATRICK J. MCLAIN?
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Former Federal Prosecutor & Military JudgeAttorney Patrick J. McLain's years of experience across the aisle provide him with a unique perspective.
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Over Two Decades in the U.S. Marine Corps
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Our Firm is Top-Rated & Award-Winning
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Over 3,500 Cases Successfully Handled
Common Offenses at Camp Zama
You could face an NJP or trial by court-martial for any violation of the UCMJ. However, some charges are more likely to result in an Article 15 than others.
Common Article 15 Offenses
- Unauthorized absence (AWOL)
- Drunk on duty
- Fraternization
- Violation of orders
- Destroying government property
Common Court-Martial Offenses
OUR CLIENTS SAY IT BEST
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"I highly recommend Brad Sauer and the entire team"I had an outstanding experience working with Brad Sauer. From start to finish, Brad was professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly dedicated to my case. He took the time to thoroughly explain my options, kept me informed throughout the process, and always made sure I felt supported. His expertise and attention to detail made a significant difference, and I couldn’t have asked for better representation. I highly recommend Brad Sauer and the entire team at the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain to anyone in need of top-tier legal assistance.- Anne
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"The best lawyer to defend military personnel."The Law Office of Patrick J. McLain helped me through the most difficult experience in my life. As a Marine Officer facing an upcoming board of inquiry for conduct issues, I was afraid of losing my career. Attorney McLain gave great legal advice through the process and reached out many times to see how I was doing. A great lawyer and better person, Mr. McLain helped me become successful in my board of inquiry and keep moving forward in my career. His military experience and personal qualities make him the best lawyer to defend military personnel.- Jonathan
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"I won my military case due to his diligence, knowledge and experience in military law."
I cannot recommend Patrick highly enough. I won my military case due to his diligence, knowledge and experience in military law. Had I proceeded on my own, I would have lost, for the process was simply too complex. When working with Patrick, there was never a time when I felt left in the dark on my case, nor a time when his assessments and instructions were unclear. Should you be in any difficult circumstance, Patrick will work his tail off for you and keep you clearly informed on the status of your case. Again, I highly recommend the services of Patrick McLain.
- Dan C. -
"He is a hard worker and will fight for you the moment you choose him to be on your team!"
My husband hired Patrick for his summary court martial and Patrick and his team were there every step of the way. They communicated everything they needed and were even there when either me or my husband had any questions. He is a hard worker and will fight for you the moment you choose him to be on your team!
- Angela -
"I was entirely impressed with mclain’s work on my case."
I called McLain when the military charged me with some B.S., McLain immediately jumped into action and made things happen in my favor. Don't do it alone … your military chain of command will try to make you think that your cooperation will help you, it will NOT. I was entirely impressed with McLain's work on my
- Chris C. -
"Thanks to him I am now able to get on with my life."
It took some time to make it happen, but it did just like Patrick said, he is a hard charging guy that can help you get what you deserve, Thanks to him I am now able to get on with my life.
- Chip -
"Amazing strength and integrity with the combination of experience, insight, and knowledge of military law."
I have found my lawyer Patrick McLain, to be honest, right to the point, consistently giving me realistic outcomes through the whole process of my case. He's definitely no nonsense, cut to the chase. As a client…I've never been left hanging; he makes sure all my correspondence is returned. He's got amazing strength and integrity with the combination of experience, insight, and knowledge of military law. He stands behind his words and expects the same in return. I say my blessings every day for him taking my case. With him as my attorney, I've achieved best possible outcomes.
- Gina F. -
"Amazing lawyer who fights for you!"A tremendous lawyer in a time of need. After being accused of conduct unbecoming an officer for personal conduct while off duty, I hired Mr. McLain to help me through the process. He diligently worked behind the scenes to make sure my voice was being heard. Despite my inability to listen to his direction early on, Mr. Mclain was patient and continued to fight on my behalf. Mr. McLain helped me win at a board of inquiry with no other disciplinary action. A sincere man, who is dedicated to his clients. Would strongly recommend and is a great asset to military clients everywhere.- Former Client
STAY UP TO DATE
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Understanding the Different Types of Court-Martials: Summary, Special, and General -
Military Appeals: Process and Tips for a Successful Appeal
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Navigating a Court-Martial: What to Expect and How to Prepare
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