Experienced Barksdale AFB Defense Attorney
Barksdale Air Force Base, also known as Barksdale AFB, is the largest military installation in Bossier County, Louisiana. Home to the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale AFB has been in use since 1933.
If you are facing a disciplinary proceeding at Barksdale AFB, contact retired military judge and attorney Patrick J. McLain today.
You Have a Right to Civilian Defense Counsel
No matter the type of discipline you face, you are entitled to representation from an attorney. The Air Force will appoint an attorney to represent you, but a dedicated civilian defense attorney may be able to provide resources appointed counsel cannot match.
To discuss your options, contact former Marine Corps military judge Patrick J. McLain.
Types of Military Justice at Barksdale AFB
There are two commonly used forms of military justice in the Air Force: nonjudicial punishment and trial by court-martial. While each process is different, both carry steep penalties.
Nonjudicial Punishment
The most common form of discipline in the Air Force is nonjudicial punishment (NJP). Also known as Article 15, an NJP is an administrative procedure as opposed to a formal criminal proceeding. While an NJP will not end up on your criminal record, it can still derail your career.
An NJP is initiated and overseen by your commanding officer. The process is somewhat informal, and the outcome is ultimately decided by your commanding officer. You have the right to appeal an unfavorable result in your NJP, but appeals go up the chain of command instead of through a dedicated appellate court.
You have the right to reject an NJP in favor of a formal trial by court-martial. While a court-martial carries tougher penalties, you may benefit from the formal evidence rules used in a court-martial setting. In some cases, rejecting an NJP may be wise if you are concerned about your ability to get a fair hearing from your commanding officer.
The decision to reject an NJP is serious and should be made with the advice of a seasoned military defense attorney.
Court-Martial
Unlike an NJP, a trial by court-martial is a formal criminal hearing. A conviction at your court-martial could wind up on your criminal record and even follow you into civilian life. Any violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice may lead to a court-martial, but the process is typically used for more serious offenses.
If your court-martial results in a conviction, you have the right to appeal. Many cases require mandatory appellate review. Appeals from an Air Force court-martial are heard by either the Air Force Court of Criminal Appeals or the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces.
A court-martial will not automatically result in a conviction. You have the right to fight back at trial, and an experienced civilian defense counsel may be able to help you emerge victorious.
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 Barksdale AFB
Common offenses that may result in an Article 15 or court-martial are listed below.
Common NJP Offenses:
- Unauthorized absence (AWOL)
- Drunk on duty
- Fraternization
- Violation of orders
- Destroying government property
Common Court-Martial Offenses:
Potential Penalties
There are a variety of potential penalties available in an NJP or trial by court-martial. These penalties may include:
- Restriction
- Loss of pay
- Extra duties
- Loss of rank.
In more serious cases, you could also face confinement. Any type of conviction during a disciplinary hearing can also lead to separation proceedings.
OUR CLIENTS SAY IT BEST
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"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 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. -
"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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"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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"Thanks to him I am now able to get on with my life."
It took some time to make it happen, but it did just like Patrick said, he is a hard charging guy that can help you get what you deserve, Thanks to him I am now able to get on with my life.
- Chip -
"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 -
"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. -
"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.
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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