Military Defense & Court-Martial Lawyers

Gonzalez & Waddington are court-martial defense attorneys: civilian military defense lawyers who represent U.S. service members facing criminal charges, investigations, and adverse administrative action under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). The firm represents Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Guardians, and Coast Guardsmen worldwide in court-martial trials, Article 120 sexual assault cases, CID, NCIS, OSI, and CGIS investigations, command and AR 15-6 investigations, GOMOR and letter of reprimand rebuttals, Article 15 nonjudicial punishment, Boards of Inquiry, and administrative separation boards.

Gonzalez & Waddington at a glance

Firm	Gonzalez & Waddington, LLC, a civilian military defense law firm
Founding partners	Michael Waddington, former U.S. Army JAG officer, and Alexandra González-Waddington
Trial experience	47 combined years
Cases	Courts-martial and Article 120 sexual assault defense; CID, NCIS, OSI and CGIS investigations; command investigations and AR 15-6 investigation rebuttals; GOMOR and letter of reprimand rebuttals; Article 15 / NJP; administrative separation boards and Boards of Inquiry; sexual harassment, violent crime, financial crime and other UCMJ offenses
Who we defend	Active duty, Reserve and National Guard members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force and Coast Guard, worldwide
Books	Together, Michael Waddington and Alexandra González-Waddington have written 14 books on criminal defense, cross-examination, trial advocacy and military justice
Teaching	Michael Waddington is an adjunct professor at Florida International University College of Law, where he teaches UCMJ military law and the Law of Armed Conflict, and he teaches at national CLE conferences, including NACDL. Alexandra González-Waddington also teaches at national CLE conferences, including NACDL.
Media	CNN, 60 Minutes, Fox News, ABC News, Rolling Stone
Contact	Call 1-800-921-8607 · Text 954-799-4019 · 1792 Bell Tower Ln, #218, Weston, FL 33326

The firm was founded by Michael Waddington, a former U.S. Army JAG officer, and Alexandra González-Waddington. Together they have 47 combined years of trial experience, have defended service members at U.S. military installations around the world, and have written 14 books on criminal defense, cross-examination, and military justice. Their work has been featured by CNN, 60 Minutes, Fox News, and ABC News.

The firm defends active duty, Reserve, and National Guard members across every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces — Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force — in cases involving sexual assault under Articles 120, 120b, and 120c, domestic violence under Article 128b, CSAM and online sting operations, homicide, and other serious felony-level offenses.

To speak directly with a military defense lawyer, call 1-800-921-8607 or text 954-799-4019.

Gonzalez & Waddington is a civilian military defense firm, founded by Michael Waddington and Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington, that has defended service members at courts-martial and in UCMJ matters worldwide for more than two decades.

Talk to a military defense lawyer today

If you are under investigation, facing charges, or dealing with a GOMOR, Article 15, or separation board, get advice before you talk to anyone. Tell us what is going on and a civilian military defense lawyer will contact you. What you share with us is confidential.

Call 1-800-921-8607 or text 954-799-4019, 24/7
Advice before you talk to CID, NCIS, OSI, CGIS, or your command
Service members in every branch, stationed anywhere in the world

Need legal help?

Fill out this form, call 1-800-921-8607 or text 954-799-4019 to request a consultation.

Client Reviews

More than 200 client reviews: rated Excellent on Google (61 reviews), and on Avvo, Michael Waddington is rated 4.9 out of 5 (104 reviews) and Alexandra González-Waddington 4.8 out of 5 (44 reviews), both with an Avvo Rating of 10.0 “Superb.” Read client testimonials.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 61 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
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   Gage Rickenbach 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Exceptional defense attorney. Highly recommend his service with any military matters.
  
 
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   Kortne Randolph 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Michael Waddington handled my case with an exceptional level of professionalism from start to finish. He was knowledgeable, prepared, responsive, and extremely thorough. He took the time to understand the facts and never treated the case like just another file.

What I appreciated most was the way he approached the defense. He challenged the facts, paid attention to the smallest details, and was not afraid to push back when something didn't add up. At the same time, he remained professional and composed throughout the process.

You can tell that Michael takes his clients and his work seriously. He is the type of attorney who gives you confidence that your case is in capable hands. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a dedicated and professional military defense attorney.
  
 
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   Matthew Juntz 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Michael Waddington and Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington provided exceptional representation during one of the most serious and stressful professional challenges of my military career. They were highly knowledgeable, thoroughly prepared, responsive, and aggressive when necessary, while always remaining professional and focused on the evidence.

Michael’s courtroom advocacy, strategic judgment, and ability to expose inconsistencies in the allegations were outstanding. Alexandra was equally impressive in preparing the case, organizing the evidence, coordinating witnesses and logistics, and ensuring that every important issue was addressed. They worked extremely well as a team and made sure I understood the process and was prepared at every stage.

Their preparation and advocacy made a meaningful difference in the outcome of my case. I am extremely grateful for their professionalism, dedication, and commitment, and I would strongly recommend them to any service member facing a serious military legal matter.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Soeb M 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Being falsely accused of sexual assault and domestic violence was the most difficult experience of my life. Overnight, my freedom, military career, reputation, and future were all on the line. I knew I needed an attorney with exceptional experience in military justice, and choosing Michael Waddington was one of the most important decisions I have ever made.

If you're looking for the best military defense lawyers, my advice is simple: call Michael Waddington.

Throughout the entire process, Michael was honest, direct, and exceptionally prepared. But what impressed me most was watching him in the courtroom. His command of the facts, attention to detail, strategic thinking, and ability to expose weaknesses in the government's case gave me confidence when I needed it most. He was calm under pressure, persuasive, and never lost sight of what mattered most—making sure the facts were heard.

After one of the hardest battles of my life, I walked out of the courtroom fully acquitted. I will never forget that moment or everything Michael did to help me get there.

No one ever wants to find themselves in a situation like mine, but if you do, you need someone who will fight for you with everything they have. Michael Waddington stood by me through the most difficult chapter of my life, and I will always be grateful for everything he did.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   L Aguillard 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As a retired military officer, I know how serious the military justice system is and how much is at stake when a service member faces false allegations. When my brother-in-law found himself in that position, our family knew we needed an attorney with extensive experience in military law.

If you're searching for the best military defense lawyer, I wholeheartedly recommend Michael Waddington.

Throughout this process, Michael demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and an exceptional understanding of military justice. He was always straightforward with our family, thoroughly prepared, and focused on ensuring that the facts—not assumptions—were presented in court.

Seeing my brother-in-law walk out of the courtroom fully acquitted was an unforgettable moment for our family. We will always be grateful for Michael's dedication, hard work, and commitment to achieving justice.

He has earned my trust, my respect, and my sincere gratitude. I hope no service member or family ever finds themselves in this position, but if they do, I would want Michael Waddington standing beside them.
  
 
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   Rezvin Kern 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. When my brother was facing false allegations of sexual assault and domestic violence, our family found ourselves in one of the most frightening and overwhelming situations we have ever experienced. Watching someone you love fight for their freedom, reputation, military career, and future is something I would never wish on anyone.

If you're looking for the best military defense lawyer, I recommend Michael Waddington without hesitation.

From the very beginning, Michael was professional, compassionate, and exceptionally prepared. It was clear that he knew the case inside and out and was committed to making sure the facts—not assumptions—were what mattered in the courtroom. Throughout the process, he kept our family informed, answered our questions honestly, and gave us confidence during an incredibly difficult time.

False allegations can turn a person's entire life upside down. Michael understood exactly what was at stake and fought tirelessly for my brother.

Because of Michael's dedication and advocacy, my brother walked out of the courtroom fully acquitted, with his freedom, his honor, and the opportunity to move forward with his life. Our family will always be grateful for everything he did.

Choosing Michael Waddington was one of the best decisions our family has ever made. He has earned our family's complete trust, deepest gratitude, and highest respect!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sheila Frahm 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I highly recommend the law firm of Gonzalez and Waddington if you are ever faced with the need for strong representation. Michael handled my son’s case efficiently and thoroughly. Alexandra was prompt to reply to my concerns and I truly felt as though they cared about my son. They will always be held in high regard by me and I cannot fully express my sincere appreciation and gratitude to them!
  
 
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   John Murphy 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Michael was amazing and his communication and interaction with his clients was flawless. The detail in which he handled the case was thorough and effective awesome job thanks again
  
 
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   Chad Elwood 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was wrongly accused under articles 120, 128b, and 130, and the legal battle was an incredibly draining experience. Throughout the two-and-a-half-year ordeal, Michael and Alexandra displayed unmatched professionalism, deep legal expertise, and genuine care for my case. Michael's collaboration with my ADC was seamless, and he ensured I fully understood every step. His closing argument during the trial was masterful, exposing flaws in the prosecution’s case and solidifying my trust in their exceptional abilities. Thanks to their unwavering dedication, justice prevailed, and my family and I can finally feel at peace. If you need a powerhouse defense team, they are the ones to trust.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Madison Murphy 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My husband was falsely accused, and it was an incredibly long and difficult process for our family. Throughout everything, Michael was supportive, compassionate, and always available to answer any questions or concerns we had.
He truly cares about his clients and their families, and he fights hard for them every step of the way. Thanks to his dedication and hard work, my husband received a fully acquitted verdict, and we are beyond grateful.
There are honestly no words that can fully express how thankful we are for everything this firm has done for our family. We can finally focus on bigger and better things, and that peace means everything to us. We highly recommend Michael and his firm to anyone in need of a UCMJ defense lawyer.
  
 
  
  
 
 Showing only 5 star reviews
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Recent Court-Martial Case Results

Gonzalez & Waddington has obtained acquittals, charge dismissals, and favorable resolutions in court-martial cases at military installations including Fort Bragg, Fort Benning, Fort Hood, Eglin AFB, Kaiserslaughtern, Germany, Norfolk Naval Base, Camp Lejeune, and Hurlburt Field, Florida.

The cases summarized below involve Article 120 sexual assault, conspiracy, aggravated assault, multi-accuser allegations, and cases compromised by unlawful command influence. Each result reflects strategic motion practice, aggressive cross-examination, and early intervention during the investigation phase.

Air Force Court-Martial Acquittal | Hurlburt Field

An Airman was accused of rape, strangulation, domestic violence, and other serious offenses following a contentious breakup. Despite an extensive OSI investigation, Gonzalez & Waddington exposed credibility issues and weaknesses in the evidence. After a contested court-martial, the military jury returned Not Guilty findings on all charges and specifications.

Army Sexual Assault Court-Martial | Germany

A retirement-eligible NCO was accused of sexual assault in a case involving forensic evidence, DNA, and expert testimony. Gonzalez & Waddington challenged the government’s forensic evidence and witness testimony while presenting a comprehensive defense. The client was found Not Guilty of all charges and specifications and was able to retire with benefits.

Naval Aviator Administrative Separation Board

A student naval aviator was accused of sexually assaulting multiple classmates. The government sought separation from military service. Gonzalez & Waddington presented an aggressive defense, cross-examined witnesses, and presented character evidence. The Board found the allegations unsubstantiated and retained the officer candidate.

Army Ranger Officer | GOMOR Rescinded

An Army officer at Fort Benning was accused of cheating during Ranger School and received a General Officer Memorandum of Reprimand (GOMOR). Gonzalez & Waddington conducted an independent investigation and submitted a detailed GOMOR rebuttal challenging the land navigation cheating allegations. The General rescinded the reprimand, withdrew the adverse action, and the Ranger continued his Army career.

Coast Guard Administrative Separation Board | Mobile

A Coast Guard E-5 was accused of sexual harassment and toxic leadership after disciplining a subordinate. Determined to clear his name, he extended his enlistment twice to fight the allegations. Gonzalez & Waddington defended him at a contested Administrative Separation Board. The Board found all misconduct unsubstantiated and retained him on active duty.

Air Force Article 120 Case | Hurlburt Field

A retirement-eligible E-7 was accused of sexual assault, stalking, and abuse following the end of a romantic relationship. During pretrial litigation, Gonzalez & Waddington uncovered significant credibility issues and evidence favorable to the defense. The government ultimately dismissed the charges, allowing the client to retire.

Army Article 15 Victory | Poland

An NCO stationed in Poland faced allegations of sexual misconduct and was recommended for Article 15 punishment. Gonzalez & Waddington prepared a detailed response package highlighting weaknesses in the evidence and credibility concerns. After reviewing the case, the imposing commander dismissed the Article 15 action.

Fort Gordon Contractor Defense Case

A retired Army Colonel working as a Department of Defense contractor was accused of misconduct by a former romantic partner. The allegations resulted in a bar from post that threatened his employment and reputation. Gonzalez & Waddington investigated the allegations, challenged the findings, and secured reinstatement, allowing the client to continue working on the installation.

Show 8 more case results

Navy Article 120b Case | Norfolk, Virginia

A Chief Petty Officer was accused of serious Article 120b offenses. After realizing he would vigorously fight a court-martial, the government pursued administrative separation instead. Gonzalez & Waddington defended him at a contested board, challenged the allegations, and exposed weaknesses in the government’s case. The Board found no misconduct and retained the sailor on active duty.

Air Force Officer Defense | Luke Air Force Base

An Air Force First Lieutenant became the target of serious Article 128b UCMJ allegations during a contentious divorce and child custody dispute. Despite aggressive prosecution efforts, Gonzalez & Waddington exposed weaknesses in the allegations and assisted throughout the litigation process. The court-martial was abandoned, the Article 15 was rejected, and the officer continued his military career.

Army Administrative Separation Board | Hohenfels, Germany

A Soldier stationed in Germany was accused of sexually assaulting the girlfriend of several military police personnel. He denied the allegations and refused to accept a negotiated resolution. Gonzalez & Waddington represented him before a contested separation board. The Board found all misconduct unsubstantiated and retained him on active duty.

Army Court-Martial | Fort Bragg, North Carolina

A Soldier assigned to Fort Bragg was accused of sexually assaulting a local woman he met through a dating app while stationed in Germany. He denied the allegations and refused to plead guilty. Gonzalez & Waddington represented him before a contested general court-martial and fought the case before an enlisted panel. The defense exposed major inconsistencies in the accuser’s statements and cross-examined the government DNA expert on misleading testimony that overstated the forensic evidence. After deliberation, the panel returned verdicts of Not Guilty on all charges and specifications.

Navy CSAM Case | Norfolk

A Navy officer faced allegations involving the possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The government sought years of confinement. Gonzalez & Waddington aggressively investigated the case, challenged the evidence, and negotiated extensively. The client received a substantially reduced sentence (6 months) compared to the punishment typically sought in similar military cases.

Army Court-Martial | Fort Hood, Texas

A Soldier stationed at Fort Hood was accused of violating Article 120, UCMJ. He denied the allegations and elected to fight the charges at trial. Gonzalez & Waddington represented him before a contested court-martial where the government relied heavily on text messages, DNA evidence, and expert testimony. Through cross-examination of the government’s digital forensic and DNA experts, the defense exposed weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and challenged the government’s interpretation of the facts. After deliberation, the panel returned verdicts of Not Guilty on all charges and specifications.

Chief Warrant Officer 4 | Retirement Preserved | Washington DC

A senior Army warrant officer became the subject of misconduct allegations arising from an internal workplace dispute. Gonzalez & Waddington challenged the allegations, engaged with command leadership, and fought the investigation. The matter was resolved without career-ending action, allowing the officer to retire with full benefits.

Fort Drum Acquittal | Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault

An Army Major at Fort Drum was charged with domestic violence and sexual assault after his ex-wife made multiple false allegations and vowed to ruin his career. Gonzalez & Waddington fought the case at a contested court-martial before an officer panel, exposed serious credibility problems in the allegations, and won a full acquittal. The officer jury found him not guilty, saving his career, reputation, and future.

Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is different. See more court-martial results.

What Gonzalez & Waddington Defends

Gonzalez & Waddington provides defense representation in eight core categories of military legal exposure. Each category carries career-ending or freedom-ending consequences, and each requires specific trial experience to defend properly.

Court-Martial Defense in General, Special, and Summary courts-martial across all branches.
Article 120, 120b, and 120c defense, including military sexual assault, child-related allegations, and indecent conduct or exposure cases.
Article 128b domestic violence and Article 128 assault prosecutions.
CID, NCIS, OSI, and CGIS military investigation defense, including digital device seizures and interrogation representation.
Article 15 / Non-Judicial Punishment strategy, including whether to accept NJP or demand trial by court-martial.
CSAM and online sting operation defense involving computer forensics, cell phone data, and expert cross-examination.
Boards of Inquiry & Administrative Separation defense for officer elimination and enlisted separation proceedings.
Letters of Reprimand, GOMOR rebuttals, adverse evaluations, and other career-impact mitigation.

The firm has handled cases in Germany, Poland, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, Guam, and deployed locations in the Middle East.

Why Service Members Choose Gonzalez & Waddington

Worldwide Court-Martial Experience

Gonzalez & Waddington have defended service members in more than a dozen countries and on hundreds of U.S. military installations, including Germany, Poland, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, Guam, and locations across the Middle East. Military justice extends far beyond any single base or jurisdiction, and the firm’s practice reflects that reality.

Proven Results in High-Stakes UCMJ Cases

The firm has obtained acquittals in contested court-martial trials, dismissal of felony-level UCMJ charges, and strategic wins in Article 120 sexual assault cases, multi-accuser investigations, and matters involving alleged war crimes. Recent case results from Fort Bragg, Fort Benning, Fort Hood, Eglin AFB, Kaiserslaughtern, Germany, Norfolk Naval Base, Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base, and Hurlburt Field, Florida, are documented below.

Recognized Authority in Military Law

Michael Waddington is the author of 14 books on military criminal defense, cross-examination, trial strategy, and the UCMJ, and serves as an adjunct professor of law at Florida International University College of Law. Alexandra González-Waddington is the author of 7 books on trial advocacy, UCMJ law, sexual assault defense, digital forensics, and DNA cross-examination. Both attorneys cases have been featured by CNN, 60 Minutes, ABC News, Fox News, and Rolling Stone.

Exclusive Focus on Military Criminal Defense

Unlike general criminal defense firms, Gonzalez & Waddington concentrates exclusively on court-martial litigation and serious UCMJ matters. The firm intentionally limits its caseload so that senior trial attorneys remain directly involved in every case from investigation through trial.

Decades of Military Justice Experience

The firm is led by nationally recognized military defense lawyers Michael Waddington and Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington, who bring decades of combined experience in military law, including prior service as a U.S. Army JAG officer, prosecutor, and trial defense counsel. Their practice is built on extensive courtroom litigation, not administrative or advisory work.

Michael Waddington has 25+ years of military defense experience
Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington has 20+ years of court-martial defense experience

As featured in

CNN
CBS 60 Minutes
ABC News
NBC
Fox News
Rolling Stone

Contact Gonzalez & Waddington

Gonzalez & Waddington defends service members facing court-martial, UCMJ investigations, Article 120 sexual assault charges, CID and NCIS investigations, Boards of Inquiry, and administrative separation actions worldwide. The firm represents Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force members — active duty, Reserve, and National Guard — in cases that threaten freedom, retirement, rank, and reputation.

Every hour matters in a military investigation. The earlier a civilian defense lawyer is involved, the more options exist for shaping the outcome before charges are referred.

Call 1-800-921-8607 to speak directly with a military defense lawyer. Text 954-799-4019 to request a consultation. Confidential consultations available 24/7.

Michael Waddington – Military Defense Lawyer

Michael Waddington is a civilian military defense lawyer with more than 25 years of experience defending United States service members in court-martial and UCMJ cases worldwide. A former U.S. Army JAG officer, he has served as Army Trial Defense Counsel, Senior Defense Counsel, Army prosecutor, and Special Assistant United States Attorney.

Mr. Waddington is a lifetime member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, serves on its Military Law Committee, and has been selected as a Super Lawyers honoree, a Top 100 Trial Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers organization, and a member of the American Board of Criminal Lawyers — an invitation-only organization limited to the top criminal defense attorneys in the United States.

He is the best-selling author of 14 books on criminal defense, cross-examination, trial strategy, sexual assault defense, and the UCMJ. He serves as an adjunct professor of law at Florida International University College of Law and has been featured by CNN, 60 Minutes, and ABC News.

Attorney Profile

Alexandra González-Waddington – Military Defense Lawyer

Alexandra González-Waddington is a civilian military defense lawyer with 23 years of experience defending service members in high-stakes court-martial and UCMJ cases worldwide. As a founding partner of Gonzalez & Waddington, she has led major military sexual assault and war-crimes defenses arising from the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts and has represented hundreds of clients accused of violent crimes, sexual assault, and white-collar offenses in military and state courts.

Ms. González-Waddington began her career as a Public Defender in Georgia’s Augusta Judicial Circuit and holds a Juris Doctor from Temple University Beasley School of Law, where she completed the nationally ranked Integrated Trial Advocacy Program. She is bilingual in English and Spanish.

She is the author of 7 books on trial advocacy, UCMJ law, sexual assault defense, digital forensics, and DNA cross-examination, and her work has been featured by Fox News, 60 Minutes, CNN, and Rolling Stone.

Attorney Profile

Defending service members worldwide

From our office in Weston, Florida, Gonzalez & Waddington defends service members wherever they are stationed. Most military investigations are handled remotely by phone and video, and we travel to you for trials, boards, and other hearings where we need to be in the room to fight for you.

World map showing where Gonzalez & Waddington has defended service members, from its Florida office to installations in the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia — Selected places where we have defended service members, including Fort Bragg, Camp Lejeune, Norfolk, Fort Benning, Fort Gordon, Hurlburt Field, Eglin AFB, Mobile, Fort Hood, Luke AFB, Germany, Italy, Poland, Iraq, Afghanistan, South Korea, and Japan.

How it works when your lawyer isn’t local · Installations we serve

Defense Across the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, and Coast Guard

UCMJ Military Criminal Defense Lawyer - United States Army

UCMJ Military Criminal Defense Lawyer - United States Navy

UCMJ Military Criminal Defense Lawyer - United States Marine Corps

UCMJ Military Criminal Defense Lawyer - United States Air Force

UCMJ Military Criminal Defense Lawyer - United States Coast Guard

Gonzalez & Waddington represent service members across every branch of the United States Armed Forces. Our civilian military defense lawyers handle courts-martial, UCMJ investigations, Article 15 proceedings, Boards of Inquiry, administrative separations, and serious felony prosecutions worldwide.

Explore branch-specific defense resources below:

Each branch operates under the Uniform Code of Military Justice but follows distinct investigative practices, disciplinary procedures, and administrative processes. Our defense strategy accounts for those differences while protecting your rights, career, retirement, and future.

Military Defense Lawyers | Civilian UCMJ Court-Martial Attorneys 86

Military Defense Lawyers | Civilian UCMJ Court-Martial Attorneys 88

Military Defense Lawyers | Civilian UCMJ Court-Martial Attorneys 89

Military Defense Lawyers | Civilian UCMJ Court-Martial Attorneys 90

Military Defense Lawyers | Civilian UCMJ Court-Martial Attorneys 93

UCMJ Survival Guide: The Complete Military Justice Manual

Check Out Our Newest Book

UCMJ Survival Guide is a comprehensive military justice manual written by Michael Waddington and Alexandra González-Waddington for service members and their families facing investigations, courts-martial, Article 15 proceedings, or administrative separation. The book covers investigation rights, command-action defenses, Article 120 and 128b allegations, and strategies for protecting careers, retirement, and reputation under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

The authors have successfully defended service members in high-profile Article 120 UCMJ sexual assault cases, complex courts-martial, and administrative separation proceedings across all branches of the U.S. military. Available on Amazon.

Buy now on Amazon button for UCMJ legal book

UCMJ criminal defense book authored by Michael Waddington

How to Choose a Civilian Military Defense Lawyer: Eight Criteria That Matter Most

Choosing a civilian military defense lawyer is one of the most consequential decisions a service member will make. The criteria below reflect how experienced defense lawyers evaluate each other and how clients can distinguish real expertise from marketing.

The Eight Criteria That Matter Most:

1. How many years has the lawyer focused on military law?

A qualified civilian military defense lawyer should have spent the majority of their career on military law — not general criminal defense with occasional UCMJ cases. Look for at least ten years of focused court-martial, administrative separation board, and UCMJ litigation experience. Michael Waddington has 25+ years and Alexandra González-Waddington has 23 years of exclusive military-law focus.

2. What is the lawyer’s reputation among other defense lawyers?

Other criminal defense attorneys are the most reliable judges of trial skill. Membership in invitation-only organizations such as the American Board of Criminal Lawyers, leadership positions in the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and frequent invitations to lecture at continuing legal education programs are stronger signals than paid awards or marketing-driven recognitions.

3. Has the lawyer tried serious felony-level cases to verdict?

Court-martial outcomes are decided at trial, not in settlement. A qualified military defense lawyer should have tried multiple General Courts-Martial involving felony-level charges — Article 120, Article 128b, homicide, or comparable offenses — to a verdict. Ask specifically about contested trials, not negotiated pleas.

4. Does the lawyer have published authority in the field?

Lawyers who write the books, articles, and treatises that other attorneys read are recognized as authorities in their field. Michael Waddington and Alexandra González-Waddington have written 14 books on military criminal defense, cross-examination, sexual assault defense, UCMJ law, digital forensics, and DNA cross-examination, used by defense attorneys and law students nationwide.

5. Does the lawyer teach trial advocacy or military law?

Teaching credentials are a strong indicator of mastery. Michael Waddington serves as an adjunct professor of law at Florida International University College of Law. Both attorneys lecture nationally on cross-examination, UCMJ litigation, and military trial strategy.

6. Has the lawyer been recognized by national media?

Media coverage by national outlets reflects independent recognition of a lawyer’s expertise. Gonzalez & Waddington has been featured by CNN, 60 Minutes, BBC, ABC News, Fox News, and Rolling Stone, primarily in connection with major military sexual assault, war-crimes, and high-profile court-martial cases.

7. Does the lawyer practice exclusively in military law?

Lawyers who divide their attention across personal injury, divorce, DUI, and military cases cannot maintain the depth required for serious UCMJ defense. A qualified civilian military defense firm should focus exclusively on court-martial defense, UCMJ investigations, and administrative military actions.

8. Is the lawyer directly accessible, or does work get passed to associates?

In a high-stakes military case, the senior attorney whose name is on the firm should be directly involved in your defense. Gonzalez & Waddington intentionally limits its caseload so that Michael Waddington and Alexandra González-Waddington remain personally involved from investigation through trial.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a civilian military defense lawyer if I already have a military defense counsel?

Hiring an experienced civilian military defense lawyer in serious cases can bring additional experience and skill to your defense team. Military defense counsel are detailed to your case, and some carry heavy caseloads. In high-stakes cases involving Article 120, Article 120b, domestic violence, or complex digital evidence, many service members hire a civilian military defense lawyer for added trial experience, independent strategy, and aggressive motion practice.

Who is the best military defense lawyer?

There is no single “best” military defense lawyer for every case. The right lawyer depends on the type of charge, trial experience, familiarity with Article 120 and serious felony litigation, and the ability to aggressively challenge CID, NCIS, OSI, or CGIS investigations. Service members facing high-stakes court-martial cases often seek civilian military defense lawyers with extensive trial backgrounds and nationwide experience.

When should I hire a military defense lawyer during a CID, NCIS, OSI, or CGIS investigation?

Immediately. Before giving statements, consenting to searches, or turning over electronic devices. Early intervention by a civilian military defense lawyer can influence how evidence is collected, how interviews are conducted, and whether charges are ultimately preferred.

What should I do if CID or NCIS asks to search my phone or computer?

Do not consent without speaking to a lawyer. Digital evidence in Article 120, computer crime, or online sting cases is often misinterpreted. Once a device is seized and forensically imaged, the government controls the evidence timeline.

What is the difference between Article 120, Article 120b, and Article 120c under the UCMJ?

Article 120 generally covers adult sexual assault allegations.
Article 120b addresses alleged offenses involving a child.
Article 120c includes certain sexual misconduct offenses such as indecent recording or non-consensual image distribution.
Each carries different elements, defenses, and sentencing exposure.

If both parties were drinking, can the government still prove Article 120 sexual assault?

Yes, but intoxication does not automatically prove guilt. Alcohol often creates conflicting memory accounts, credibility disputes, and evidentiary gaps. The government must still prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt.

What is the difference between Article 15 (NJP) and a court-martial?

Article 15, also known as Non-Judicial Punishment, is a command-level disciplinary process. A court-martial is a criminal trial under the Uniform Code of Military Justice with formal rules of evidence and greater punishment exposure. The decision to accept NJP or demand trial requires careful legal analysis.

Can I be administratively separated without a court-martial conviction?

Yes. Administrative Separation Boards (ADSEP) and Boards of Inquiry (BOI) can end a military career even without a criminal conviction. These proceedings focus on retention standards, not criminal guilt.

Do you represent service members stationed overseas?

Yes. Gonzalez & Waddington regularly defend service members worldwide in UCMJ investigations, court-martial cases, and administrative separation boards.
The firm frequently handles military justice cases in Germany, Japan, South Korea, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom, along with other overseas duty stations.
If you are stationed abroad and facing UCMJ action, distance does not prevent you from hiring experienced civilian military defense counsel to protect your career and reputation.

How long does a military criminal investigation or court-martial take?

There is no fixed timeline. Some investigations resolve in weeks; others last months before charges are preferred. The defense strategy should assume delays and prioritize early evidence preservation and witness development.

Is a consultation with a military defense lawyer confidential?

Yes. Consultations are confidential. However, communications with friends, coworkers, or on social media are not protected and may later be used as evidence.