Allegations of wrongdoing against U.S. military servicemen and women can result in courts-martial. This includes criminal charges such as drug offenses and improper sexual conduct as well as military-specific violations such as disrespect and unauthorized absence (UA).
The military defense attorneys of The Cody Law Firm defend U.S. armed service members who are charged at courts-martial with offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). From its office in Hammonton, New Jersey, the firm represents individuals from all branches of the U.S. military, including service members from the U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, the New Jersey National Guard Base and the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. The Cody Law Firm understands the seriousness of the situation — you could lose your lifetime service benefits, your pay and your personal freedoms if you are found guilty. As soon as you believe you are under investigation or could potentially face a court-martial, it is important to speak to an attorney about your rights.
To discuss your court-martial and how our firm can protect your rights and career, please call 609-561-1015. Our U.S. military courts-martial lawyers travel anywhere to meet with clients.
Early Involvement Of An Attorney Is Key
As experienced military law attorneys, our first goal is to help clients avoid courts-martial entirely. The military can spend years investigating a matter before filing charges. If you retain our services early, we can represent you during Article 32 investigations and other preliminary proceedings in an effort to prevent a court-martial from being initiated.
Types Of Courts-Martial
There are three types of courts-martial. The type you face is determined by the seriousness of the offense you are alleged to have committed.
- General courts-martial: This is the most serious form of military judicial proceeding. Facing a general court-martial is much like facing a felony charge in civilian court. The UCMJ requires hearings and presentation of evidence following an investigation. The Cody Law Firm is experienced in defending clients against grave charges, including sexual assault and violent crimes, in general courts-martial.
- Special courts-martial: These courts are convened to handle the equivalent of civilian misdemeanor offenses such as certain drug crimes. While not as serious as general courts-martial, a special court-martial can hand down significant punishments, including confinement for up to one year, forfeitures, reduction in rank and a bad-conduct discharge. It is critical to ensure that your defense is handled properly as the outcome can have significant lifelong ramifications
- Summary courts-martial: Minor charges and accusations are often resolved through summary courts-martial. While legal representation is not required at summary courts-martial, it is still beneficial to make sure you have discussed your rights with legal counsel and are comfortable with the process that awaits you.
Led by former Judge Advocate General's Corps (JAG) officer Douglas Cody, The Cody Law Firm is prepared to represent you in any type of court-martial proceeding anywhere in the United States, no matter what branch of the military you serve. If you have already been convicted by a court-martial, our team is ready to evaluate the situation and pursue a court-martial appeal on your behalf if appropriate.
Contact A United States Military Justice Lawyer At Our Hammonton Office
If you are facing prosecution in a military case, reach out to the courts-martial lawyers at The Cody Law Firm for advice. Call 609-561-1015. You can also contact the firm online. We are based in Hammonton, New Jersey, and handle courts-martial worldwide.