Formidable MCAS Iwakuni Defense Lawyer
Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni was first built in 1938 by the Japanese government. It was used by its air force during World War II before ultimately becoming an important springboard for aircraft in the Korean War. After a brief period of control under the Royal Australian Air Force, the United States Marine Corps took over the facility in 1952.
Today, it houses a number of commands, including Marine Aircraft Group 12. If you have been notified of pending disciplinary charges while serving at MCAS Iwakuni, contact attorney and retired Marine Corps judge Patrick J. McLain today.
Call Experienced MCAS Iwakuni Civilian Defense Counsel Today
You have the right to defend yourself at either an NJP or trial by court-martial.
To put your strongest defense forward, contact retired Marine Corps judge and attorney Patrick J. McLain right away.
Military Discipline at MCAS Iwakuni
There are two forms of military discipline at MCAS Iwakuni: nonjudicial punishment and trial by court-martial.
Nonjudicial Punishment
Nonjudicial punishment (NJP) is a type of administrative proceeding initiated by your commanding officer. Known informally as “office hours” in the Marine Corps, a conviction in an NJP will not be reflected on your permanent criminal record. However, the consequences can impact your career and life significantly. Even convictions for minor offenses could lead to separation proceedings in some cases.
Unlike a criminal trial, a judge does not oversee an NJP. Instead, your commanding officer presides. While you have the right to appeal, the case will be heard up the chain of command as opposed to a dedicated appellate court.
The most important decision you will make regarding office is hours is whether to agree to the proceedings or reject them in favor of a formal court-martial. A trial by a court-martial may bring stiffer penalties, but it also offers strict rules of evidence that can work in your favor. This decision could have a major impact on your career, and you should only make it after consulting with an experienced attorney.
Trial by Court-Martial
A trial by court-martial differs from office hours in that it is a formal criminal hearing. A conviction at trial by court-martial is reflected on your permanent criminal record and will follow you after your military career comes to an end.
These trials are similar in many ways to civilian criminal proceedings with a judge overseeing the case. There are strict rules regarding the introduction of evidence and witness testimony as well. If convicted, you are entitled to file an appeal. In some cases, an appeal is triggered automatically. Throughout the process – from trial to appeal – you have the right to hire the civilian defense counsel of your choice.
WHY CHOOSE THE LAW OFFICE OF PATRICK J. MCLAIN?
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Attorney Patrick J. McLain's years of experience across the aisle provide him with a unique perspective.
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Common Military Offenses at MCAS Iwakuni
Any violation of the UCMJ could result in nonjudicial punishment or a trial by court-martial. However, some charges are more likely to come up in one type of proceeding or another. Examples are listed below.
Common Military Offenses
- Unauthorized absence (AWOL)
- Drunk on duty
- Fraternization
- Insubordination
- Destroying government property
Common Court-Martial Offenses
Potential Penalties
Some common penalties that could result from either office hours or a trial by court-martial include restriction, loss of pay, extra duties, and loss of rank. For more serious cases in a trial by court-martial, you could also face punitive discharge and/or confinement.
OUR CLIENTS SAY IT BEST
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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 -
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 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 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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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 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 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. -
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
STAY UP TO DATE
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Understanding the Different Types of Court-Martials: Summary, Special, and General
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Military Appeals: Process and Tips for a Successful Appeal
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Navigating a Court-Martial: What to Expect and How to Prepare