Court-Martial and Admin Boards at Camp Lejeune
Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune is a Marine Corps training facility near Jacksonville, North Carolina. Operating continuously since 1941, Camp Lejeune is frequently used for amphibious assault training thanks to its 14 miles of beach on the Atlantic Ocean. The base is also favored due to its proximity to deep-water ports like Wilmington and Morehead City that allow for quick deployments.
Experienced Civilian Legal Help for Service Members at Camp Lejeune
No matter the type of proceeding you are faced with, it is critical that you contact an experienced military lawyer immediately. You have the right to private defense counsel at any disciplinary proceeding, and it is a right you should seriously consider. While you are entitled to an attorney provided by the military, a civilian attorney will be able to dedicate the time and resources necessary to obtain the best outcome in your unique situation.
Attorney Patrick McLain has dedicated his legal practice to the defense of service members facing disciplinary measures in proceedings around the world.
To discuss your case with a retired Marine Corps military judge, contact Camp Lejeune military attorney Patrick McLain today.
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Forms of Military Justice at Camp Lejeune
Under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), there are multiple ways Marines serving at Camp Lejeune may face disciplinary action. There are administrative proceedings known as nonjudicial punishment and formal criminal proceedings known as court-martial. Regardless of the type of proceeding, you have the right to hire a civilian defense attorney to represent you if you choose to do so.
Nonjudicial Punishment
Nonjudicial punishment, also known as an NJP or “Office Hours,” is an administrative action that can be initiated by a commanding officer. An NJP is not a criminal proceeding, the potential punishment can still be serious.
While commanding officers can initiate an NJP against you at their discretion, you have the right to refuse and demand a trial by court-martial. The only exception to this rule is for Marines that are attached to or embarked on a vessel. The decision of rejecting or accepting an NJP is a critical one that can have lasting consequences. Before you make a decision or sign any paperwork, consult with a military defense attorney to discuss your options.
Court-Martial
A court-martial is a criminal proceeding convened under the UCMJ. A court-martial is far more formal than an NJP and operates under strict procedures and rules of evidence. Because it is a criminal proceeding, a conviction will be reflected in your permanent criminal record. Any violation of the UCMJ can lead to charges before a court-martial.
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 Military Offenses at Camp Lejeune
Offenses Marines at Camp Lejeune are commonly suspected of and subsequently charged with include a mixture of criminal offenses common in civilian courts as well as offenses that only apply to service members.
Common Military Offenses
- Unauthorized absence (AWOL)
- Drunk on duty
- Fraternization
- Violation of orders
- Destroying government property
Common Court-Martial Offenses
Potential Penalties
Although an NJP is not a criminal proceeding, the outcome can greatly affect your life and career. In fact, an NJP could lead to an administrative separation (enlisted) or show cause hearing (officers) that ends your military career. Other consequences of an NJP include:
- restriction;
- loss of pay;
- extra duties; and
- loss of rank.
If you are convicted at a court-martial, you could face the same consequences as you would at an NJP. However, a court-martial can also lead to more severe punishment, including confinement or punitive discharge.
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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"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 -
"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. -
"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. -
"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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"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. -
"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 -
"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
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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