Strong Naval Base Coronado Attorney

Naval Base Coronado is one of the newer bases operated by the U.S. Navy. In use since 1997, the base incorporates eight individual Naval installations under the command of a single commanding officer. If you have served at Naval Base Coronado for long, you may know there are two common forms of military justice: nonjudicial punishment (NJP) and trial by court-martial.

Nonjudicial Punishment at Naval Base Coronado

Known as Captain's Mast or Admiral's Mast in the U.S. Navy, nonjudicial punishment is a form of administrative discipline. While it carries the weight of serious consequences, an NJP will not show up on your criminal record. In some cases, however, an NJP can result in your discharge from the Navy.

If a decision from an NJP isn't favorable, you have the right to appeal. However, that appeal goes up the chain of command as opposed to a formal appellate court. The only available grounds for appeal are an unjust outcome or disproportionate punishment.

It is your right to reject a Captain's Mast in favor of a trial by court-martial. While an NJP often carries a lesser sentence than a court-martial, there are some advantages to rejecting one. At a court-martial, your case will be heard by an independent military judge. You may also benefit from the more formal rules regarding the admission of evidence against you.

Always consult with an experienced civilian defense counsel before you make such a critical decision. Attorney Patrick J. McLain is a former military judge with extensive experience defending the accused at Captain's Mast; call today for a free phone consultation.

Court-Martial at Naval Base Coronado

When you face trial by court-martial, you are at risk of having a conviction on your criminal record. A court-martial is a formal criminal proceeding, and the outcome is regularly treated as a civilian criminal conviction. Court-martial proceedings are more formal than an NJP, and they take place before a military judge. You can face a court-martial for any violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).

If convicted, you are entitled to appeal. In fact, in many cases, appellate review is automatic following a trial by court-martial. The two appellate courts that serve the Navy are: 

1. the Navy-Marine Court of Criminal Appeals; and
2. the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces.

You have the same right to an attorney at the appellate level that you do during a trial by court-martial. Often, an appeal is your last chance to fight for your career and your freedom. For aggressive appellate representation, contact attorney Patrick J. McLain right away.

Common Offenses at Naval Base Coronado

Any violation of the UCMJ can lead to an NJP or trial by court-martial. Some common offenses are listed below.

Common NJP Offenses

• Unauthorized absence (AWOL)
• Drunk on duty
• Fraternization
• Violation of orders
• Destroying government property

Common Court-Martial Offenses

• Drug abuse
• Rape
• Sexual harassment
• Sexual assault
• Fraud

Potential Penalties

Whether you are facing an NJP or trial by court-martial, any violation of the UCMJ can lead to severe penalties. Some common punishments include:

• Restriction
• Loss of pay
• Extra duties
• Loss of rank.

A court-martial can result in these same penalties, in addition to more severe consequences like confinement or a punitive discharge. In some cases, a conviction at either NJP or trial by court-martial could lead to an administrative separation proceeding.

Your Right to Civilian Defense Counsel at Naval Base Coronado

If you anticipate an impending disciplinary proceeding at Naval Base Coronado, your best defense is to act immediately. Let retired Marine Corps military judge and attorney Patrick J. McLain help you fight back.