MCAGCC Twentynine Palms Military Defense Lawyer
Located in the southern part of San Bernardino County, California, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms is home to the 7th Marine Regiment. Originally an Air Force field during World War II, MCAGCC Twentynine Palms has been a Marine Corps training base since 1952. If you are facing military discipline while stationed at Twentynine Palms, you have the right to a civilian defense attorney to represent you.
Contact private defense attorney and retired Marine Corps military judge Patrick McLain today.
Types of Military Justice at MCAGCC Twentynine Palms
When it comes to disciplinary action at Twentynine Palms, there are two common types of proceedings pursuant to the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). These proceedings are known as nonjudicial punishment (NJP) and court-martial proceedings.
Nonjudicial Punishment
Referred to informally as “Office Hours” in the Marine Corps, nonjudicial punishment is a form of discipline that is not a formal criminal proceeding. Better known as an NJP, these proceedings are one type of administrative action that can be initiated against you by your commanding officer.
While NJP is typically used in less serious matters, the consequences can be life-changing. In some cases, an adverse finding in your NJP could lead to the end of your military career. It is important to note that while your commanding officer has the authority to bring you up on an NJP, you have the right to demand your case be tried by a court-martial. While the penalties for a court-martial conviction can be steeper than an NJP, the hearings are also more formal, provide you with more rights, especially the right to an attorney fighting for you. The decision to reject an NJP should always be discussed with an attorney.
If you accept NJP, you can appeal any adverse decision directly up the chain of command. The only grounds for appeal are that the outcome was unjust or the punishment was disproportionate.
Court-Martial
A court-martial is a formal criminal proceeding; if you are convicted, it will be reflected on your permanent criminal record. You can be brought before a court-martial for any violation of the UCMJ. If convicted, there are two appellate courts that hear appeals by Marines:
- The Navy-Marine Court of Criminal Appeals; and
- The Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces
A court-martial proceeding is serious and could result in your incarceration or removal from the Marine Corps. It is important you hire an experienced civilian military justice lawyer to defend your rights.
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 MCAGCC Twentynine Palms
Conduct that commonly leads to disciplinary proceedings at Twentynine Palms include:
Common NJP Offenses
- Unauthorized absence (AWOL)
- Drunk on duty
- Fraternization
- Failure to obey orders
- Destroying government property
Common Court-Martial Offenses
Potential Penalties
If you receive an adverse decision in an NJP, some of the common penalties you may face include:
- Restriction
- Loss of pay
- Loss or rank
- Extra duties.
However, it should be noted that a conviction in either a court-martial or NJP could lead to administrative separation proceedings against you. What's more, if you are found guilty at court-martial, you could face incarceration or a 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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"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 -
"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 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. -
"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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"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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"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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