Trusted NAS North Island Defense Attorney
Since 1917, Naval Air Station North Island has been located on the Coronado peninsula on San Diego Bay. Better known as NAS North Island, the air station is the home to multiple U.S. Navy aircraft carriers. With a naval station of this size, it should come as no surprise that disciplinary hearings are common. If you are facing charges while stationed at NAS North Island, you have the right to hire the civilian defense counsel of your choice to defend you in the face of these charges.
Contact NAS North Island Civilian Defense Counsel
If you have been notified of a pending NJP or court-martial, you need to start building your defense right away and protect your future.
To discuss your options with a former military judge that has dedicated his career to fighting for active Navy members accused of wrongdoing, call civilian defense counsel Patrick J. McLain today at (888) 606-3385.
Types of Military Justice at NAS North Island
There are two forms of military justice at NAS North Island: nonjudicial punishment and trial by court-martial.
Nonjudicial Punishment
A form of discipline used at NAS North Island that is not considered a formal criminal proceeding is nonjudicial punishment (NJP). An NJP is known by different names in each branch of the military; in the Navy, it is better known as Captain's Mast or Admiral's Mast.
An NJP is heard by your commanding officer as opposed to a military judge. If you lose, it will not show up as a criminal conviction on your permanent record. However, the consequences of an NJP are still steep. In addition to the penalties associated with an NJP, an adverse result could also lead to your discharge from the Navy. While you have the right to appeal, the appeal will go up the chain of command instead of to a formal appellate court.
You have the right to refuse an NJP, however. If you prefer, you can reject the proceeding and demand a more formal trial by court-martial. While the potential penalties are tougher, some prefer having a neutral military judge deciding their case as opposed to their commanding officer. Whether or not to reject an NJP is a big decision, and should not be made without first consulting with legal counsel.
Court-Martial
A conviction at trial by court-martial can result in a criminal conviction on your permanent record. A court-martial proceeding is conducted with formal rules and is overseen by a military judge. Any violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) may lead to a trial by court-martial.
If you are convicted at trial, you have the right to an appeal. There are many instances, in fact, when an appellate review of a conviction at a court-martial is triggered automatically. Appeals from Navy court-martial proceedings are heard by the Navy-Marine Court of Criminal Appeals or the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces.
WHY CHOOSE THE LAW OFFICE OF PATRICK J. MCLAIN?
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Attorney Patrick J. McLain's years of experience across the aisle provide him with a unique perspective.
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Common Offenses at NAS North Island
Any violation of the UCMJ can lead to an NJP or court-martial. Some of the common offenses at NAS North Island are provided below.
Common NJP Offenses
- Unauthorized absence (AWOL)
- Drunk on duty
- Fraternization
- Violation of orders
- Destroying government property
Common Court-Martial Offenses
Potential Penalties
All of the potential penalties in a Captain's Mast or at trial by court-martial can affect your life and your career. Penalties can include any combination of the following:
- restriction,
- loss of pay,
- extra duties, or
- loss of rank.
What's more, convictions in serious cases may result in confinement or even punitive discharge.
OUR CLIENTS SAY IT BEST
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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. -
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
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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. -
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 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. -
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
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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 -
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
STAY UP TO DATE
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Understanding the Different Types of Court-Martials: Summary, Special, and General
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Military Appeals: Process and Tips for a Successful Appeal
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Navigating a Court-Martial: What to Expect and How to Prepare