Clearwater Military Defense Lawyers
Serious Defense for Service Members Facing UCMJ or Federal Action
At the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, we provide the kind of military defense representation that service members in Clearwater, Florida, can rely on when everything is on the line. When you are accused of violating the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) or federal law, you need a legal team that understands the military justice system from the inside out and fights with precision. That is the standard we uphold.
Attorney Patrick J. McLain is a former USMC defense attorney, court-martial trial judge, and JAG lawyer who has spent decades defending service members worldwide as a civilian lawyer. His firsthand experience in military courtrooms, administrative hearings, and appellate proceedings gives us tactical insight that few other defense firms or attorneys can match. We know the stakes you are facing, and we do not back down when your freedom, rank, benefits, or reputation are at risk.
Why service members choose us for military defense:
- Former Marine Corps military judge leading the way
- Decades of military and federal defense experience
- Direct, honest communication
- Aggressive defense backed by real courtroom skill
- Representation for all branches and virtually all case types
Call (888) 606-3385 now to speak with our military defense team. We offer free consultations to potential clients in Clearwater.
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
Administrative Action Cases
Administrative actions can derail a career, damage your record, and impact civilian opportunities, often without the protection of a full trial. We are prepared to intervene early, stop damage before it spreads, and keep your service record intact whenever possible.
We regularly represent military personnel in:
- Administrative Separation Boards
- Nonjudicial Punishment
- Boards for Correction of Military Records (BCMR)
- Discharge Review Boards (DRB)
- Officer Misconduct Allegations
Administrative action is often the military’s first strike. You deserve someone who knows how to strike back with reliable defense strategies.
Court-Martial Defense in Clearwater, FL
A court-martial is one of the most serious legal challenges any service member can face. The government has vast resources and a built-in command structure that works against you during this process. We are equipped to defend you with the force your case demands.
We represent service members accused of the following and more:
- AWOL / Desertion
- Drug Use or Drug Distribution
- False Statements or Conduct Unbecoming
- Fraud, Property Crimes, or Violent Offenses
- Insubordination and Failure to Obey Orders
- Sexual Assault or Other Sex Offenses
- War Crimes and ROE Violations
Attorney McLain’s background as a military judge allows us to evaluate your case from every angle. We can predict what the prosecution is thinking, how the panel may interpret evidence, and where the government’s weaknesses truly lie. When we walk into a courtroom, we walk in prepared for a fight.
Appellate & Review Board Representation
A negative finding, conviction, or administrative determination is not necessarily the end of your case. Many service members still have options through the appellate system after a case goes the wrong way. Appeals and review board matters demand attention to detail, technical knowledge, and experience that only come from years of working within the military justice system, as we have.
We can represent clients in Clearwater who need help with:
- Court-Martial Appeals
- Medical and Disability Evaluation Boards
- Security Clearance Appeals
- Administrative Review and Appeal Processes
Should You Ever Accept a Military Plea Deal?
Prosecutors frequently push plea bargains early in any criminal case, including cases related to military crimes and the military criminal defense process. But a plea deal is not automatically in your best interest. In fact, you should assume any plea deal you are offered is not.
Before you sign anything, you need to understand exactly what the government gains from the agreement and what you stand to lose. At the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, we have evaluated countless military plea deals from both prosecution and defense perspectives. We know how they are crafted, what leverage each side holds, and how to negotiate from a position of strength to try to get a plea deal that actually benefits you. Of course, if no plea deal will work, we will be ready to stand up for you in court and before a judge or panel.
Your Next Step Matters – Call Our Firm Now
Military legal matters move fast. While your command or the federal government is preparing its case against you, work with someone who can prepare yours with equal force and discipline. If you are stationed bear Clearwater or have just been temporarily assigned there, we are ready to defend you.
Call the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC at (888) 606-3385 today to get the military defense representation you deserve.