Military Criminal Defense Lawyers in Norfolk, VA

UCMJ Defense Attorneys Providing Justice & Legal Services for Clients Across the World

Our Norfolk military criminal defense lawyers at The Griffin Law Firm are former military officers with extensive experience handling UCMJ criminal violations. The United States military justice system exists to maintain discipline within the military, requiring its own justice system separate from the civilian courts. This structure allows the military to regulate laws beyond the country's borders, reflecting the global presence of our armed forces. 

More practically, service members must adhere to additional rules and regulations that do not apply to civilians and often fall outside the jurisdiction of civilian courts. These standards are detailed in the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), a federal legal framework that applies to all branches of service. Our firm is dedicated to guiding military personnel through this complex legal environment by providing legal representation as a military criminal defense attorney in Norfolk. 

Service members remain subject to civilian law and can face trial in civilian courts, especially for crimes involving civilians. More commonly, however, minor UCMJ violations are addressed through Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP) proceedings, while serious offenses lead to military trials known as court-martials. If you are facing such proceedings, consulting with a knowledgeable court martial attorney in Norfolk can make a substantial difference in your case outcome and future.

 Call (888) 707-4282 today or message our lawyers to schedule a free phone consultation with our Norfolk UCMJ defense attorneys.

What to Expect in a Norfolk, VA Court-Martial

Facing a court-martial in Norfolk, VA, can be intimidating, especially with major military installations like Naval Station Norfolk nearby and cases sometimes influenced by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. The process usually begins with a military investigation, during which charges may be preferred if evidence justifies further action. Local command protocols and base-level procedures can play a crucial role in how court-martial cases are handled in this region. Pretrial hearings, particularly Article 32 hearings, are frequently held at local bases such as Naval Station Norfolk or Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, making local legal representation instrumental for achieving a successful result.

During your court-martial proceedings, you may interact with the Staff Judge Advocate’s office, command officials, and possibly even civilian authorities. The opportunity to work with an experienced court martial lawyer in Norfolk provides an advantage as your attorney will have existing relationships with local officials and a strong understanding of Norfolk's military legal community. At The Griffin Law Firm, we pride ourselves on providing personalized legal guidance based on years of experience with military courts in Norfolk, making us a trusted choice for Navy, Marine Corps, Army, and Air Force personnel throughout the region. Our commitment to flat-rate pricing and transparent communication allows you to navigate this process with confidence.

Defense Strategies for Military Crimes in Norfolk

Building a strong defense against UCMJ violations in Norfolk requires a comprehensive understanding of military law as well as local military base dynamics. At The Griffin Law Firm, our military criminal defense attorneys conduct early case assessments, analyze evidence, and leverage procedural protections provided under the UCMJ. We work collaboratively with clients to obtain positive evidence, prepare witnesses, and counter prosecutorial strategies that frequently arise in the courts-martial held at Norfolk area military installations.

Our tailored approach takes into account both the broad implications of the alleged offense and the unique military culture that influences decisions at bases including Naval Station Norfolk and Joint Base Langley-Eustis. Here’s how our process stands out for service members:

• Thorough Case Review: We evaluate the command environment, scrutinize every piece of evidence, and ensure strict procedural fairness.
• Legal Motion Practice: Our attorneys utilize their knowledge of Norfolk and Virginia courtrooms to challenge evidence obtained improperly or instances of unlawful command influence.
• Clear Client Communication: We prioritize client involvement at every phase, ensuring that you are always informed and prepared.

By integrating nuanced military law understanding with practical Norfolk-area experience, our court martial attorneys work diligently to provide you with an effective defense while upholding your rights and career interests. Contact our Norfolk military criminal defense lawyer team at any stage of your case for effective strategies and guidance.

Courts Martial & UCMJ Criminal Defense

What Are Court-Martials?

A court-martial is a formal legal proceeding conducted by the military to try accused service members for violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). It is similar to a civilian criminal trial in structure, but operates with its own unique rules and procedures aligned to the needs of the military. 

Court-martials may be convened for any alleged violation of the UCMJ. Military court-martial proceedings in Norfolk frequently include cases ranging from lesser offenses such as insubordination or unauthorized absence to more severe crimes such as assault, larceny, or desertion. Partnering with an experienced court martial lawyer in Norfolk ensures you understand your rights and receive diligent representation throughout the process. 

Depending on the severity of the offense and the evidence, potential punishments resulting from court-martial proceedings include:

• Confinement
• Fines
• Reduction in rank
• Forfeiture of pay
• Dismissal from military service. 

When a court-martial is convened, it is presided over by a military judge with the assistance of officers who may serve as jurors. The accused service member can be represented by a court martial attorney, a designated defense counsel, or both. Court-martial proceedings follow the UCMJ and guarantee due process protections to ensure fairness for the accused.  

The military justice system distinguishes between three main types of court-martials, based on the scope and severity of alleged violations. Each process offers different procedural safeguards and potential consequences. These include summary courts-martial, special courts-martial, and general courts-martial. 

Summary Courts-Martial

A summary court-martial typically involves one commissioned officer who serves as judge and fact-finder. Summary courts-martial are reserved for UCMJ infractions that are more serious than NJP offenses but not grave enough to warrant a permanent criminal record. Typical punishments involve hardship labor, limited confinement, and rank reduction. 

Even though summary courts-martial are Article 15 proceedings and not formally considered criminal, you are still entitled to seek legal counsel and representation—though, under the law, this is done at your own expense. 

Special Courts-Martial

A special court-martial is comparable to a misdemeanor criminal trial in the civilian system and typically involves a military judge and a panel of three service members. The accused may request a judge-alone trial. Unlike summary courts-martial, a conviction at this level does result in a criminal record for the service member and can impact future opportunities in both military and civilian life. 

Penalties in special courts-martial can include loss of pay (up to six months), reduction in pay grade, hard labor for up to three months, confinement for up to a year, or even a Bad Conduct Discharge (BCD). The accused may receive representation from an appointed attorney or choose to retain a UCMJ defense lawyer for more personalized service.

General Courts-Martial

General courts-martial address the most serious UCMJ violations, closely resembling felony trials in civilian courts. A general court-martial typically consists of a minimum of five panel members and a military judge, but the accused may request a bench trial with judge alone. These proceedings are reserved for felony-level charges and require skilled representation from a military criminal defense attorney due to the risks involved. 

Punishments from general courts-martial can include extended confinement, greater forfeitures of pay, dishonorable discharge, and—in rare cases—the possibility of the death penalty. Service members have the right to free legal counsel or to hire a private UCMJ defense attorney to advise and represent them throughout the trial process. 

Common Mistakes Made When Facing Court-Martials

Being confronted with a court-martial can be an overwhelming challenge for any service member. By understanding and avoiding common mistakes, you can dramatically improve your prospects for a fair outcome and safeguard your career. 

Common mistakes to avoid when dealing with a court-martial include:

• Not Seeking Legal Representation Immediately: Failing to promptly contact a qualified military criminal defense lawyer can negatively affect your legal options and defense strategy.
• Making Statements Without an Attorney: Attempting to explain yourself to investigators or command authorities without representation can lead to self-incrimination and provide evidence for the prosecution.
• Ignoring the Importance of Preparation: Poorly prepared defense evidence and witnesses can impact the outcome of your trial. Working closely with a court martial lawyer ensures comprehensive case review and readiness for trial.
• Misunderstanding Non-Judicial Punishment vs. Court-Martial: Confusing NJP with court-martial proceedings can lead to underestimating the long-term consequences of a court-martial conviction.
• Not Understanding Their Rights: Every accused military member has vital legal rights—including the right to remain silent and the right to legal representation. Ignoring these rights can undermine your defense.
• Accepting Plea Bargains Prematurely: Sometimes accepting a deal without understanding all ramifications can be a costly error. Consult a military criminal defense attorney before making decisions.
• Underestimating the Consequences of a Conviction: A court-martial conviction impacts not only immediate standing but also long-term benefits, career, and reputation—military and civilian alike.
• Failing to Follow Legal Advice: Trusting, understanding, and executing the guidance of your court martial attorney is crucial for an effective defense strategy.

Avoiding these common pitfalls equips you to make informed decisions, assert your rights, and increase your chances of a favorable result when facing court-martial proceedings in Norfolk.

Protecting the Rights of Our Service Members

Because the military enforces its own unique justice system, it’s vital for service members accused of crimes to reach out to an attorney with a successful background in defending UCMJ violations and military criminal cases. With The Griffin Law Firm, you receive comprehensive legal guidance from former military officers who have handled hundreds of cases in military courts. 

Our UCMJ defense counsel consists of former Judge Advocate General (JAG) attorneys who have worked on a wide range of cases, from drug violations and cybercrimes to high-visibility matters. Our firm prioritizes clear and timely client communication, ensuring you are never left in the dark about your case. 

Located in the heart of Norfolk, The Griffin Law Firm is uniquely positioned as a leading military criminal defense attorney in Norfolk, serving the large community of service members stationed at Naval Station Norfolk, Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, and other key installations. Our direct familiarity with both the armed forces justice system and the local military and civilian court procedures allows us to guide our clients effectively. We are committed to vigorously protecting your career, benefits, and reputation in the Hampton Roads military community and throughout Virginia.

Our UCMJ/Military Criminal Defense Law Firm Services

• Complex Litigation: Our attorneys provide thorough pre-litigation investigation, evidence examination, legal counsel, and aggressive representation for military service members facing legal action at all stages of the process.
• Executive Litigation Representation and Resources: We deliver comprehensive counsel and powerful resources, tailoring our approach for senior officers and enlisted personnel, including PR support and managing post-service employment considerations.
• Criminal (UCMJ) Appeals: Our military criminal defense lawyers conduct a complete review of court-martial records and develop robust appeals strategies to address unjust verdicts or procedural shortcomings.
• Military Parole & Clemency Hearings: We assist in the preparation of documentation and provide strategic representation before Clemency and Parole Boards, working to secure the best outcome for your future.

Our legal services extend beyond primary representation to cover related issues such as administrative separations, security clearance actions, and VA benefits appeals. Service members stationed in Norfolk and the surrounding area often confront challenges spanning both military and civilian courts, and our holistic approach ensures all aspects of your case are handled with care. By coordinating strategies to address collateral consequences and leveraging insights unique to Norfolk’s military community, The Griffin Law Firm offers informed, trustworthy advice that supports your immediate and future interests.

If you have been accused of a crime that will be tried under Article 15 or in a military court-martial, get in touch with our Norfolk UCMJ criminal defense attorneys by calling (888) 707-4282 or completing our contact form.