Experienced MCAS Yuma Civilian Defense Attorney
Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, better known as MCAS Yuma, is a Marine Corps air station home to Marine Aircraft Group 13 (as well as other occupants). Originally opened as a mixed-use military and civilian airfield in 1928, the facility has been exclusive to the Marine Corps since 1959. If you are facing disciplinary action at MCAS Yuma, you deserve aggressive representation from a skilled civilian defense counsel.
Your Right to Civilian Counsel
If you are facing military discipline at MCAS Yuma, you deserve a vigorous defense.
Contact attorney and retired Marine Corps judge Patrick J. McLain right away to discuss your options.
Types of Military Discipline at MCAS Yuma
There are two types of military discipline. These forms of discipline include nonjudicial punishment and trials by court-martial.
Nonjudicial Punishment
Commonly referred to as “Office Hours” in the Marine Corps, nonjudicial punishment (NJP) is an administrative form of military discipline. These proceedings are initiated and overseen by your commanding officer. Because they are not formal criminal proceedings, the rules related to witnesses and evidence are relaxed compared to a trial.
You have the right to reject Office Hours in favor of a trial by court-martial. While a court-martial carries steeper penalties, there are situations where it may be better for you than an NJP. For example, if you are concerned about fair treatment from your commanding officer, a court-martial might be in your best interest. The decision to reject a court-martial is important, and you should always consult a lawyer before making it.
You have the right to appeal an adverse decision in an NJP. However, appeals are heard up the chain of command as opposed to in a formal appellate court.
Court-Martial
A trial by court-martial differs from an NJP in that it is a formal criminal proceeding. If convicted, your permanent record will reflect the conviction long after your military career is over. There are procedural protections in place that do not exist with Office Hours. For example, a trial by court-martial is overseen by a military judge. The rules regarding evidence are also much stricter.
If you are convicted, you are entitled to appeal the decision. In fact, many types of convictions will result in automatic appellate review. 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.
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 MCAS Yuma
Conduct that commonly leads to disciplinary proceedings at MCAS Yuma 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 after an NJP, some of the common penalties you may face include:
- Restriction
- Loss of pay
- Loss or rank
- Extra duties.
The penalties for a conviction at a trial by court-martial can also include incarceration or a punitive discharge. Additionally, any form of conviction can lead to separation proceedings.
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. -
"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. -
"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 -
"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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