NOLF Imperial Beach Civilian Defense Attorney
Naval Outlying Landing Field Imperial Beach, better known as NOLF Imperial Beach, is a helicopter facility operated by the United States Navy. The base is located near Imperial Beach, California and has been in operation since 1944. If you are on notice of pending disciplinary hearings while serving at NOLF Imperial Beach, contact attorney Patrick J. McLain today.
Contact NOLF Imperial Beach Defense Counsel
If you are facing an impending Captain's Mast or court-martial at NOLF Imperial Beach, you will benefit from discussing your case with former military judge and civilian defense counsel Patrick J. McLain right away at (888) 606-3385.
Types of Military Justice at NOLF Imperial Beach
Two of the most common forms of military discipline used in NOLF Imperial Beach include:
- Nonjudicial punishment, and
- Trial by court-martial
Nonjudicial Punishment
Nonjudicial punishment, also known as NJP, is an administrative form of military discipline. In the United States Navy, NJP is informally known as Captain's Mast or Admiral's Mast. An informal proceeding, an NJP is overseen as by your commanding officer as opposed to a military judge. You have the right to appeal a conviction up the chain of command should the NJP not go your way.
A Captain's Mast does not have the formal rules of a criminal trial. The rules regarding evidence and witness testimony are far less strict than in a court-martial. The potential punishments are typically lighter than a court-martial, however.
It is important to understand that you have the right to reject an NJP and demand a trial by court-martial. While this would open you up to the stiffer penalties of a court-martial, there are also potential advantages. In many cases, a service member will reject an NJP because they feel they can't get a fair hearing from their commanding officer. You should never make a decision on rejecting an NJP without first speaking with experienced defense counsel.
Court-Martial
A trial by court-martial is a formal criminal proceeding. If you are found guilty, your permanent criminal record will reflect the conviction. The rules of a trial by court-martial are significantly stricter than an NJP, and the proceedings are overseen by a military judge.
If you are found guilty, you still have other options to fight your case. You have the right to appeal any conviction in a trial by court-martial. Judicial review is triggered automatically in certain types of cases. Whether at trial or on appeal, you have the right to hire experienced civilian defense counsel.
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 Offenses at NOLF Imperial Beach
Any violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) could result in an NJP or trial by court-martial. Some of the offenses that commonly lead to these disciplinary hearings include:
Common NJP Offenses
- Unauthorized absence (AWOL)
- Drunk on duty
- Fraternization
- Violation of orders
- Destroying government property
Common Court-Martial Offenses
Potential Penalties
If convicted, the penalties you could face following an NJP or Captain's Mast can be costly. The penalties include
- restriction,
- loss of pay,
- extra duties, or
- loss of rank.
In serious cases, penalties can also include confinement or even dishonorable discharge. These penalties are not guaranteed, however. If you are successful at trial, you will avoid these punishments.
OUR CLIENTS SAY IT BEST
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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. -
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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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. -
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 -
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. -
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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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
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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