Misawa Air Base Defense Attorney
Misawa Air Base is a United States Air Force installation on the Japanese Island of Honshu. It is the only joint service installation in the western Pacific Ocean. It houses units from the Air Force, Army, and Navy. Additionally, it is also home to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. If you are facing military discipline at Misawa Air Base, contact attorney and retired military judge Patrick J. McLain right away.
Your Right to Civilian Defense Counsel
No matter the charges you are facing at Misawa Air Base, you are entitled to work with the civilian defense counsel of your choice.
To discuss your case with an attorney and retired military judge, contact Patrick J. McLain and attorney E Allen Chandler today at (888) 606-3385.
Types of Military Discipline at Misawa Air Base
While serving at Misawa Air Base, there are two forms of military discipline that you could encounter. They are known as nonjudicial punishment and trial by court-martial.
Nonjudicial Punishment
Commonly referred to as Article 15 in the Air Force, nonjudicial punishment (NJP) is an administrative proceeding that could carry steep consequences. While not a criminal proceeding, an adverse decision at an NJP could have a major impact on your career and your life.
Article 15 is both initiated and overseen by your commanding officer. If convicted, you can appeal the decision up your chain of command. While a conviction will not show up on your permanent criminal record, it can lead to separation proceedings from the Air Force.
You do not have to accept an Article 15. You have the right to reject an NJP in favor of a trial by court-martial, but this decision should not be taken lightly. A court-martial carries steeper penalties, but it also offers formal protections that can work in your favor. This option makes sense if you are unsure of receiving a fair hearing from your commanding officer as well. Speak with an experienced attorney before making a final decision to reject an NJP.
Court-Martial
A trial by court-martial is a criminal proceeding. It carries serious penalties, and a conviction will remain on your permanent record even after you return to civilian life. A military judge will oversee your trial by court-martial and ensure the rules related to the introduction of evidence are followed by both sides.
If convicted, you have the right to file an appeal. In fact, many of the most severe cases receive an automatic appellate review. From trial to appeal, you are entitled to hire the civilian defense counsel of your choice.
WHY CHOOSE THE LAW OFFICE OF PATRICK J. MCLAIN?
-
Attorney Patrick J. McLain's years of experience across the aisle provide him with a unique perspective.
-
Common Offenses at Misawa Air Base
Any violation of the UCMJ could result in either a trial by court-martial or NJP 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
The penalties in both types of proceedings are similar. In either case, a conviction could net you loss of rank, loss of pay, extra duties, and restriction. For more serious court-martial cases, you could face confinement or a punitive discharge.
OUR CLIENTS SAY IT BEST
-
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
-
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 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
-
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
-
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 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. -
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
-
Understanding the Different Types of Court-Martials: Summary, Special, and General
-
Military Appeals: Process and Tips for a Successful Appeal
-
Navigating a Court-Martial: What to Expect and How to Prepare