Are there civilian lawyers specializing in military law?

Civilian lawyers specializing in military law typically have more time, passion, and liberty than appointed military lawyers. This gives you a much better chance of preserving your reputation and your future. Before you hire anyone, however, you should understand your rights and the benefits of civilian representation.

Can a non-military lawyer represent you in a military case?

If you are in need of more help than the military legal assistance lawyer can provide you, he or she may be able to connect you to a non-military lawyer who can represent you pro bono (free) or for a fee.

Do you have to pay for a military attorney?

If you’re getting a free attorney, you don’t necessarily have to give up your cars or guitars or HD TV – or call your parents – to pay for an attorney. However, it is highly unlikely that you will get an appointed attorney with as much skill and experience as a good civilian military attorney.

Who is eligible for military legal assistance and civil matters?

Military legal assistance may also be available to survivors of eligible service members and retirees, certain overseas civilian employees and their family members, and allied forces service members serving with U.S. Armed Forces in CONUS and their family members.

Can a civilian lawyer be appointed to a military case?

However, it is highly unlikely that you will get an appointed attorney with as much skill and experience as a good civilian military attorney. We know of cases in which appointed military attorneys with zero trial experience were assigned to be lead counsel in extremely serious felony-type cases such as murder and child pornography.

How much does it cost to hire a civilian attorney?

You may want to hire a civilian attorney but, as you probably understand, it costs money to do that. Most good firms require between $4,000 and $10,000 as an initial fee. A serious trial can cost more than $25,000 in legal services. Even a special court-martial or administrative hearing can cost more than $10,000.

Who are the military lawyers for JAG defense?

JAG Defense is a civilian law firm specializing exclusively in Military Defense Law and Security Clearance Law. Our practice is based out of Hampton Roads, Virginia and Cape Cod, Massachusetts, but our military attorneys travel Worldwide to provide highly experienced, attentive representation for our clients.

Can a civilian attorney invoke Article 31?

If a question can lead to self-incrimination, your civilian attorney will instruct you to invoke your Article 31 rights. If charges are preferred against you, your civilian attorney will work with you and your assigned JAG defense attorney – should you choose to have one – to create the best possible defense.

When to hire a civilian defense attorney during an investigation?

This is why hiring a knowledgeable and experienced civilian defense attorney with military law experience during the investigation phase is critical. You can consult the civilian attorney while you are under investigation and potentially being asked to be questioned by law enforcement rather than after the fact.

Can a military lawyer help with civil matters?

Yes. There are also legal areas in which a military legal assistance attorney may NOT be able to help you, including: military Administrative issues such as fitness report rebuttals or Article 138 Complaints (This varies somewhat by branch.); legal matters concerning your privately owned business.

Who is the military attorney for the prosecution?

The prosecution has an entire staff of investigators and military police, but the defense has none.

Are there free military attorneys in the military?

The military has unlimited financial resources, but when it comes to funding, appointed (free) military attorneys are a very low priority. The prosecution has an entire staff of investigators and military police, but the defense has none.