Military Criminal Defense Lawyers in Washington, D.C.
Relentless Defense for Service Members Across All Branches
When military service members in Washington, D.C. are accused of violating the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) or federal law, the consequences can be immediate, severe, and career-ending. You do not get the luxury of time in these situations. You need a legal team that knows the military justice system and that understands the structure, the pressures, the command dynamics, and how fast a case can spiral if it is not handled decisively. That is why service members across the nation turn to the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, including in Washington, D.C.
Attorney Patrick J. McLain is a former JAG lawyer, USMC defense attorney, and court-martial trial judge with decades of active-duty and civilian practice experience. He has lived and worked inside the military justice system in a way that very few defense attorneys have. When you come to us, you get his insight on your side, as well as a team that refuses to leave a service member alone when so much is on the line.
Call (888) 606-3385 today to speak with our military defense team. Initial consultations are FREE for military service members and military families.
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 Military Actions We Handle
Not every military legal threat begins with a court-martial. Many careers are derailed long before criminal charges are even filed. Administrative actions can impact your rank, benefits, service status, and long-term civilian opportunities. We understand the administrative process from top to bottom, and we defend service members in Washington, D.C., at every stage.
We can help you in matters involving:
- Administrative Separation Boards: Protecting your service record, years of effort, and ability to remain in uniform.
- Nonjudicial Punishment: Challenging the allegations and preventing command-level discipline from sticking.
- Boards for Correction of Military Records (BCMR): Pursuing corrections to unjust records that impact your future.
- Discharge Review Boards (DRB): Fighting to upgrade your discharge status.
- Officer Misconduct Allegations: Safeguarding your commission, rank, and professional standing.
Court-Martial Defense for the Most Serious Allegations
If you are facing a court-martial in Washington, D.C., your freedom, your career, and your reputation are on the line. We are prepared to defend you in every type of military criminal case, from minor offenses to the most aggressive federal-level prosecutions.
We represent service members accused of the following and more:
- AWOL or desertion
- Drug use, possession, or distribution
- Sexual assault and other sex crimes
- War crimes or violations of the rules of engagement
- Insubordination and disobedience of orders
- False official statements and fraud-related offenses
- Violent crimes or weapons crimes
Attorney McLain’s background as a military judge gives us tactical insight into each case. He understands how prosecutors build cases and how the system responds to high-profile allegations. When we enter a courtroom or hearing, we are fully prepared for a fight.
Representation Before Military Appellate Review Boards
A conviction or an adverse determination is not always the end of a case. Many service members still have options through the military appellate system, but those options require strategic preparation and attention to detail. We represent clients in Washington, D.C., in a range of appellate matters.
We can help you with appeals related to:
- Court-Martial Appeals: Challenging improper rulings, unlawful command influence, or insufficient evidence.
- Disability Evaluation System and Medical Evaluation Boards: Protecting the benefits you rightfully earned.
- Security Clearance Appeals: Addressing revocations, suspensions, and allegations that threaten your ability to continue serving.
- Administrative Appeal Processes: Pursuing fair treatment after unjust or unsupported findings.
Should You Accept a Military Plea Deal?
Commands and prosecutors often push plea deals quickly, especially when they believe you are unsure of your options. Plea agreements can sometimes limit exposure, but they can also end a military career outright. With everything considered, the government negotiates plea deals to benefit the government, not you.
Before you accept any plea offer, you need to know precisely what you are giving up to sign it. You should always allow a lawyer from our firm to evaluate the strength of the case against you, identify weaknesses, and negotiate from a position of power. Before you agree to any plea deal offered by the government or a military body, talk to the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC.
Do Not Delay Another Day – Call Now
Military cases move fast, and the federal government may already be taking steps to work against you. You need someone who will protect your rights and best interests as a military service member. Whether you are stationed in Washington, D.C., temporarily assigned here, or facing proceedings initiated within the region, we are ready to stand between you and the full force of the government when it matters the most.
Call Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC now to get a no-cost consultation with our Washington D.C. military defense attorneys.
