Experienced Beale AFB Civilian Defense Lawyer
Just east of Marysville, California sits the home of the 9th Reconnaissance Wing: Beale Air Force Base. In use by the United States Air Force since 1948, the base was originally constructed using components from abandoned gold mines. If you are facing charges while serving at Beale Air Force Base, do not hesitate to contact attorney Patrick J. McLain immediately.
Contact Beale AFB Civilian Defense Counsel
If you are notified of an investigation against you at Beale AFB, you should act immediately.
Contact attorney and retired Marine Corps judge Patrick J. McLain and Attorney E. Allen Chandler of Counsel discuss your case.
Military Discipline at Beale Air Force Base
At Beale Air Force Base – or Beale AFB for short – there are two types of military justice that are frequently used. They include nonjudicial punishment and trial by court-martial.
Nonjudicial Punishment
A common administrative form of military justice is nonjudicial punishment (NJP). Also referred to as Article 15 in the Air Force, NJP carries the less severe penalties compared to a trial by court-martial. That does not mean the consequences cannot impact the rest of your life, however.
An NJP is initiated and overseen by your commanding officer. Unlike a criminal trial, the procedure of Article 15 is informal. While there is a right to appeal an NJP, it is heard up the chain of command instead of by a formal court of appeals.
You have the right to reject an NJP in favor of a trial by court-martial. While a court-martial carries the risk of steeper penalties, it also offers rules and procedures that can protect you during trial. Before you make a decision about accepting or rejecting an NJP, it is in your best interest to confer with skilled legal counsel.
Trial by Court-Martial
Unlike an NJP, a trial by court-martial is a criminal proceeding that can result in a conviction on your permanent record. This conviction would follow you long after your military service comes to an end. These trials share a lot in common with civilian criminal trials: they have formal rules regarding evidence and testimony, and the process is overseen by a military judge.
Upon conviction, you are entitled to appeal the decision. In many cases, the appeals courts will review your case automatically. Throughout the process – during trial or appeal – you are entitled to select a civilian defense counsel to defend you.
WHY CHOOSE THE LAW OFFICE OF PATRICK J. MCLAIN?
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Attorney Patrick J. McLain's years of experience across the aisle provide him with a unique perspective.
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Common Offenses at Beale AFB
Some common examples of charges for NJP or court-martial at Beale AFB are listed below.
Common NJP Offenses
- Unauthorized absence (AWOL)
- Drunk on duty
- Fraternization
- Violation of orders
- Destroying government property
Common Court-Martial Offenses
Possible Penalties
In many cases, the penalties resulting from an NJP are similar to those in a trial by court-martial. Common penalties include loss of rank, extra duties, restriction, and loss of pay.
However, a court-martial can result in more serious charges, including punitive discharge or confinement. Further, in any of these proceedings, if the process does not go in your favor, it could result in separation proceedings.
That said, a conviction is never guaranteed. With the right civilian defense counsel, you could prove your innocence, beat the charges, and avoid the consequences.
OUR CLIENTS SAY IT BEST
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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. -
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 -
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. -
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 -
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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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. -
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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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
STAY UP TO DATE
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Understanding the Different Types of Court-Martials: Summary, Special, and General
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Military Appeals: Process and Tips for a Successful Appeal
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Navigating a Court-Martial: What to Expect and How to Prepare