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War Crimes

War Crimes Defense Attorney

Skilled Counsel for Service Members Facing Serious Allegations

We represent American service members, our sons and daughters, who have been accused of war crimes during operations such as Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, as well as in any other military actions or engagements in the Middle East and around the world. These brave individuals often face serious allegations that can devastate their careers, reputations, and personal lives. Our commitment is to provide them with the dedicated legal defense they deserve, ensuring their rights are protected and they receive a fair trial in the face of challenging circumstances.

Call the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC today at (888) 606-3385 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our war crimes military defense lawyer!

What is a War Crime?

Understanding what constitutes a war crime is crucial for service members facing allegations. War crimes are serious violations of international humanitarian law that occur during armed conflicts. These offenses include:

  • Murder: The intentional killing of civilians or prisoners of war.
  • Rape: Any form of sexual violence against individuals in conflict zones.
  • Violation of the Geneva Convention: Breaches concerning the humane treatment of prisoners of war, including torture or inhumane treatment.
  • Violation of the Rules of Engagement (ROE): Failing to adhere to the established military conduct guidelines during operations can lead to unlawful actions against combatants or civilians.

These definitions emphasize the severity of war crimes and highlight the critical need for legal representation for those accused. Understanding these parameters can clarify service members' legal challenges in military operations.

Understanding the Legal Process for War Crimes Defense

Navigating the legal process for war crimes charges can be daunting and complex. It is essential to understand the stages involved, from the initial investigation to the trial. Typically, a case begins with an investigation led by military authorities, which may involve gathering evidence, witness testimonies, and expert opinions. If charges are brought, the accused will face a court-martial or civilian trial, where the prosecution must prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. Throughout this process, having a knowledgeable and experienced defense attorney is crucial. An attorney specializing in military law can ensure that the service member's rights are protected, and they can mount a robust defense against the charges.

Served a Notice of General, Summary, or Special Court Martial? WERE YOU CHARGED
WITH A CRIME?
We defend people deployed nationally or stationed overseas globally.
You Need a Civilian Military Lawyer

WHY CHOOSE THE LAW OFFICE OF PATRICK J. MCLAIN?

  • Former Federal Prosecutor & Military Judge
  • Over 3,500 Cases Successfully Handled
  • Our Firm is Top-Rated & Award-Winning
  • Over Two Decades in the U.S. Marine Corps

Contact Our War Crimes Defense Lawyer Today

Getting a fair trial may seem next to impossible in war crimes cases. The media pressure to convict can be extremely high. Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines charged with a violation of the rules of engagement or mistreatment of prisoners of war can feel isolated and shunned by the system they have dedicated themselves to serving.

You can trust the loyalty, dedication, and independent advocacy of civilian defense lawyer and former Marine Patrick J. McLain. With over 30 years of military law experience as a battalion adjutant, court-martial trial judge, and supervising defense attorney in the Marine Corps, his record of accomplishment speaks for itself.

Contact the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, today to schedule a meeting with our war crimes military defense attorney!

OUR CLIENTS SAY IT BEST

    "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
    "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 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.
    "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.
    "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
    "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
    "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
    "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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