Resourceful NAS Lemoore Defense Attorney
First established in 1961, Naval Air Station Lemoore (NAS Lemoore) has become the U.S. Navy's largest Master Jet Base. NAS Lemoore is also home to Strike Fighter Wing Pacific and the squadrons associated with it. If you currently serve at NAS Lemoore, you have the right to civilian defense counsel during any form of disciplinary hearing you may face.
Contact NAS Lemoore Civilian Defense Counsel
If you are prepared to fight back against your charges, you have the opportunity to avoid a conviction and move on with your career.
Call today at (888) 606-3385 to learn how civilian defense counsel Patrick J. McLain can help.
Types of Military Justice at NAS Lemoore
If you have served in the Navy for any amount of time, you are familiar with the two most common forms of military discipline used on base: nonjudicial punishment and trial by court-martial.
Nonjudicial Punishment
One common form of military discipline is known as nonjudicial punishment (NJP). In the Navy, it is often referred to as Captain's Mast or Admiral's Mast. An NJP is not a formal criminal proceeding, and an adverse result will not lead to a criminal conviction on your permanent record. Instead of a judge or jury, an NJP will be administered by your commanding officer.
That doesn't mean an NJP will result in a slap on the wrist. In fact, you could face discharge from the Navy depending on the circumstances surrounding your NJP. That is why it is worth noting you have the right to reject an NJP in favor of a formal trial by court-martial. If you are concerned about your ability to get a fair shake from your commanding officer, it may be worth risking the potential of a criminal conviction and try your chances in a court-martial proceeding.
If an NJP doesn't go your way, you have the right to appeal. However, instead of an appellate court, all NJP appeals go up the chain of command. The decisions you make regarding an NJP are serious and should never be made without consulting experienced legal counsel. Contact retired Marine Corps military judge Patrick J. McLain to learn more.
Court-Martial
A trial by court-martial is a formal criminal proceeding. If convicted, your record will reflect a criminal conviction. The rules surrounding a court-martial are more formal than those in an NJP, and the proceedings are overseen by a military judge. It is possible to face a trial by court-martial for any violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).
If convicted, you are entitled to appeal. In fact, many charges automatically receive appellate review after a conviction. A court-martial differs from an NJP in that appeals are heard by two dedicated appellate courts:
- Navy-Marine Court of Criminal Appeals
- 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 NAS Lemoore
Examples of conduct that may lead to an NJP or trial by court-martial 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
All of the penalties available in a Captain's Mast or trial by court-martial can change your life forever. Penalties can include any combination of the following:
- Restriction
- Loss of pay
- Loss or rank
- Extra duties.
What's more, convictions in more serious cases may result in confinement 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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"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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"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. -
"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 -
"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. -
"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 -
"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
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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