Goodfellow AFB Defense Attorney
Located in San Angelo, Texas, Goodfellow Air Force Base has been in operation since 1940. A non-flying base operated by the United States Air Force, Goodfellow Air Force Base is the training ground for cryptologic and intelligence training for all branches of the military. If you have been charged with wrongdoing while serving at Goodfellow AFB, contact attorney Patrick J. McLain right away.
Civilian Defense Counsel at Goodfellow AFB
It is important to take any disciplinary action seriously. In addition to the penalties that come with a conviction, you could also face separation proceedings. However, you could avoid these consequences entirely by beating the charges against you.
Contact attorney and retired military judge Patrick J. McLain and attorney E. Allen Chandler immediately to discuss your options.
Military Discipline at Goodfellow AFB
There are two types of military discipline commonly used at Goodfellow AFB: nonjudicial punishment and trial by court-martial.
Nonjudicial Punishment
Better known as Article 15 in the Air Force, nonjudicial punishment is not a formal criminal proceeding. While it will not lead to a criminal record, a conviction at an NJP could have a significant impact on your life.
An NJP is overseen by your commanding officer, who will make the decision in your case. If you disagree with the outcome, you have the right to appeal. However, that appeal will go up your chain of command instead of through a designated appellate court.
You have the right to reject the NJP process entirely. Instead, you would face trial by court-martial for the alleged offense. This is a risky option as court-martials typically carry tougher penalties than an NJP. However, the formal structure of a trial by court-martial has some advantages. No matter what, consult with an experienced defense attorney before you decide to reject nonjudicial punishment.
Court-Martial
Unlike an NJP, a trial by court-martial could lead to a permanent mark on your criminal record. As a formal criminal proceeding, the outcome could follow you after your military career comes to an end.
Trials by court-martial are more formal than an Article 15. The rules of evidence are strict, and they are enforced by a military judge. You are entitled to appeal a conviction to an appellate court, and in some cases that appeal is automatic. At your trial or during your appeal, you have the right to fight back with the help of civilian defense counsel.
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 Goodfellow Air Force Base
A violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice could lead to either a trial by court-martial or Article 15 proceedings. Common charges 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
Penalties in either NJP or a trial by court-martial are similar in some cases. In both proceedings, it is not uncommon for a conviction to lead to loss of pay, loss of rank, restriction, or extra duties. There are additional consequences in a trial by court-martial, however. These proceedings could lead to punitive discharge or confinement.
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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"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. -
"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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"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. -
"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 -
"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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