NAS Pensacola Civilian Defense Attorney
Known as “The Cradle of Naval Aviation,” the Naval Air Station Pensacola is one of the primary training bases for naval flight officers and aviators. Operated by the United States Navy, this facility is located just outside of Pensacola, Florida. If you have been notified of impending disciplinary hearings against you while serving at NAS Pensacola, contact attorney Patrick J. McLain right away.
Reach Out to a NAS Pensacola Civilian Defense Counsel
You have the right to fight back against these charges. If successful, you will avoid the consequences discussed above.
Contact our attorneys Patrick J. McLain and of counsel E. Allen Chandler to discuss your options.
Military Discipline at NAS Pensacola
If you are accused of violating the Uniform Code of Military Justice, there are two types of proceedings you might face at NAS Pensacola. The first is known as nonjudicial punishment. The second is trial by court-martial.
Nonjudicial Punishment
A common type of military discipline at NAS Pensacola is known as nonjudicial punishment (NJP). Informally known as Captain's Mast or Admiral's Mast in the Navy, this administrative punishment is not a formal criminal proceeding.
When you face an NJP, the process is overseen by your commanding officer. While there are rules, they are far more lax than a typical civilian trial. A conviction will not show up on your permanent criminal record, but it could carry steep consequences.
You are entitled to reject an NJP in favor of a trial by court-martial. There are risks that come with this decision, as a court-martial could lead to steeper penalties and a permanent criminal conviction. There are also some benefits, especially if you are concerned about getting a fair hearing from your commanding officer. This decision should not be taken lightly and should only be made after a discussion with a defense attorney.
Trial by Court-Martial
A trial by court-martial is a criminal hearing. It is similar in some ways to a civilian criminal trial. A military judge presides over the trial and is tasked with enforcing rules regarding testimony and evidence.
If you are convicted at your trial, you are entitled to appeal the decision. In some cases involving serious charges, an appeal will trigger automatically. There are two courts that hear appeals from Navy court-martial proceedings: the Navy-Marine Court of Criminal Appeals or the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces.
Just like with a trial, you are entitled to your choice of civilian defense counsel at the appellate level.
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 PAS Pensacola
If you are accused of violating the UCMJ, you could face either an NJP or a trial by court-martial. Some charges are more likely to result in a court-martial than others.
Common NJP Offenses
- Unauthorized absence (AWOL)
- Drunk on duty
- Fraternization
- Violation of orders
- Destroying government property
Common Court-Martial Offenses
Possible Penalties
The penalties are similar in many cases regardless if you face a Captain's Mast or trial by court-martial. These penalties include:
- restriction,
- loss of pay,
- extra duties, or
- loss of rank.
There are steeper penalties that only apply to a court-martial, however. These include punitive discharge or confinement.
OUR CLIENTS SAY IT BEST
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"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
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"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
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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.
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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