Strong Fort Johnson Civilian Defense
Located in Vernon Parish, Louisiana, Fort Johnson has served as an Army installation continuously since 1941. With more than 10,000 troops stationed at Fort Johnson at any given time, there is a steady stream of disciplinary proceedings initiated on base.
Your Right to Civilian Defense Counsel
If you are expecting to face military discipline at Fort Johnson, do not wait until you have been notified of the charges to obtain an attorney.
To discuss your case with a retired Marine Corps military judge, contact Attorney Patrick J. McLain today.
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Types of Military Justice at Fort Johnson
There are two common types of military justice you may face while serving at Fort Johnson: nonjudicial punishment (NJP) and court-martial proceedings.
Nonjudicial Punishment at Fort Johnson
Nonjudicial punishment, commonly referred to as Article 15 in the U.S. Army, is a form of disciplinary hearing that is not a formal criminal proceeding. While an unfavorable result will not result in a conviction on your criminal record, it is crucial to understand that the potential consequences are still severe. In many cases, an Article 15 can ultimately lead to an involuntary discharge.
Before an NJP is commenced, you will have the opportunity to reject an Article 15 and instead demand a trial by court-martial. While a court-martial may carry a potential criminal conviction and stiffer penalties, there are also some advantages to rejecting an NJP. The choice is an important one, and you should only make it after receiving advice from experienced civilian defense counsel. Attorney Patrick J. McLain has extensive experience with Army Article 15 proceedings; call today to learn how we can help.
Even if the Article 15 proceeding doesn't go your way, you will have an opportunity to appeal the decision up the chain of command. However, the only two grounds available for an appeal are:
- an unjust outcome; or
- disproportionate punishment.
Court-Martial at Fort Johnson
Unlike an NJP, a court-martial is a formal criminal proceeding meaning it will result in a conviction on your criminal record. Any violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice can result in a trial by court-martial. As with an Article 15, you have the right to appeal a court-martial conviction.
There are two appellate courts that hear all Army court-martial appeals:
- the Army Court of Criminal Appeals; and
- the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces.
You have the same right to an attorney at the appellate level as you do at trial. Discuss your case with an experienced military defense lawyer to learn about your options.
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 Fort Johnson
While you can be brought up on an NJP or trial by court-martial for any violation of the UCMJ, some of the most common violations 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
The penalties for an adverse ruling for either an NJP or a court-martial are severe. For an Article 15, common penalties include:
- Restriction
- Loss of pay
- Extra duties
- Loss of rank.
In addition to these penalties, a conviction at trial by court-martial can also lead to incarceration or a punitive discharge. And depending on the specifics of the case, either type of conviction could lead to an administrative separation proceeding.
OUR CLIENTS SAY IT BEST
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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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"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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"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. -
"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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"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. -
"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
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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