Lackland AFB Civilian Defense Attorney
Since 1941, Bexar County, Texas has served as the home of Lackland Air Force Base. Under the jurisdiction of the 802d Mission Support Group of the United States Air Force, the installation has been an important training facility since the beginning of World War II. If you are facing military discipline while serving at Lackland Air Force Base, contact attorney Patrick J. McLain immediately.
Contact a Lackland AFB Civilian Defense Attorney
With any case, you always have the possibility of beating the charges.
Contact attorney and retired military judge Patrick J. McLain to discuss your potential defense options.
Military Discipline at Lackland Air Force Base
If you are serving at Lackland Air Force Base, there are two forms of military discipline you could encounter:
- nonjudicial punishment; and
- trial by court-martial.
Nonjudicial Punishment
In the Air Force, nonjudicial punishment (NJP) is frequently referred to as Article 15. Article 15 is a form of administrative hearing that could result in significant consequences for you and your career. While an NJP conviction is not reflected on your permanent criminal record, it could result in the end of your military career.
Nonjudicial punishment is unlike a civilian criminal trial. Instead of a judge, your commanding officer will oversee the process. If you are convicted, your appeal will be heard up the chain of command instead of in an appellate court.
It should be noted that you are entitled to reject an NJP. If you do, you will instead face a trial by court-martial. This choice has its benefits and drawbacks. While a court-martial could result in a stiffer sentence, it also offers formal rules that could work in your favor. Discuss your options with an experienced defense lawyer before you make your decision.
Trial by Court-Martial
A formal criminal proceeding, trial by court-martial could lead to a mark on your permanent record if you are convicted. The process of a court-martial is similar to a civilian trial. These trials are overseen by a military judge that enforces strict rules of evidence.
If convicted, you have the right to file an appeal. In many types of cases, appellate review of a case is automatic. These appeals are heard by designated appellate courts. Whether you are facing a trial or an appeal, you have the right to your choice of civilian defense counsel.
WHY CHOOSE THE LAW OFFICE OF PATRICK J. MCLAIN?
-
Former Federal Prosecutor & Military JudgeAttorney Patrick J. McLain's years of experience across the aisle provide him with a unique perspective.
-
Over Two Decades in the U.S. Marine Corps
-
Our Firm is Top-Rated & Award-Winning
-
Over 3,500 Cases Successfully Handled
Common Offenses at Lackland Air Force Base
If you are alleged to have violated the Uniform Code of Military Justice, you could face either an Article 15 or trial by court-martial. Examples of common charges are listed below.
Common NJP Offenses
- Unauthorized absence (AWOL)
- Drunk on duty
- Fraternization
- Violation of orders
- Destroying government property
Common Court-Martial Offenses
Prospective Penalties
Following a conviction, many of the penalties in a court-martial or NJP are similar. They could include:
- Restriction
- Loss of pay
- Loss or rank
- Extra duties.
In addition to these common penalties, a trial by court-martial could result in additional punishment. This includes confinement or even punitive discharge.
OUR CLIENTS SAY IT BEST
-
"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 -
"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
-
"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 -
"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
-
"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. -
"Made me feel like the most important client."They completely cared, took my case personally, always made me feel like the most important client, and were knowledgeable on all subjects. I give the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC the highest rating possible and totally recommend them.- Mike
-
"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.
STAY UP TO DATE
-
Understanding the Different Types of Court-Martials: Summary, Special, and General -
Military Appeals: Process and Tips for a Successful Appeal
-
Navigating a Court-Martial: What to Expect and How to Prepare
.2409270742160.jpg)
.2409270735437.jpg)
