Tag: Court Martial Attorney

Joseph L. Jordan is a highly experienced Court Martial Attorney and former Army JAG officer who provides aggressive legal defense for U.S. service members accused of military crimes under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. He has represented clients in every branch of the military and at major installations worldwide, including Fort Hood, Ramstein, Okinawa, and Yokosuka. Jordan defends serious charges such as Article 120 sexual assault, Article 112a drug offenses, AWOL, BAH fraud, and possession of child pornography. Each case is personally handled by him from the initial consultation through trial, ensuring no detail is overlooked and no defense is delayed. As a Court Martial Attorney, he advises service members through every level of court-martial including Summary, Special, and General, and uses the Article 32 hearing to challenge evidence and influence case outcomes early. Jordan’s courtroom strategy includes cross-examinations, suppression motions, and credibility challenges aimed at protecting his clients’ careers, freedom, and reputations. His work is rooted in military experience and legal precision, offering service members the strong defense they need when facing the full weight of the military justice system.

Crisp and Associates Military Law is a veteran-owned legal firm dedicated to defending U.S. service members facing criminal charges under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, with a particular focus on court-martial cases. Led by a team of skilled attorneys with backgrounds in military service and law enforcement, the firm provides global representation and is ready to travel wherever defense is needed. As experienced Court Martial Lawyer professionals, they understand the unique procedures and pressures of military trials, from Article 32 hearings to sentencing and appeals. Their team handles Summary, Special, and General Court-Martial cases involving offenses such as sexual assault, violent crimes, drug charges, and misconduct. Crisp and Associates uses their deep understanding of military law, including Army Regulations, Air Force Instructions, and Navy/Marine Corps rules, to protect the careers, freedom, and future of their clients. They guide service members through pre-trial strategy, trial representation, and post-trial appeals before military appellate courts. With an aggressive approach and unwavering commitment, Crisp and Associates Military Law ensures that each service member is represented by a Court Martial Lawyer who knows how to fight effectively within the military justice system.

A court martial attorney is a licensed military or civilian lawyer who defends or prosecutes service members in formal military criminal trials governed by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Their main role is to ensure that the accused receives a fair trial and that all legal procedures are properly followed. Court martial attorneys handle all aspects of a case, including pretrial investigations, plea negotiations, trial strategy, evidence challenges, and sentencing advocacy. They represent clients facing a wide range of charges, from minor misconduct to serious felonies like assault or desertion. These attorneys are deeply knowledgeable about military law, courtroom procedure, and the rights afforded to service members under UCMJ.

While all court martial attorneys are military attorneys, not all military attorneys serve as court martial attorneys. The term “court martial attorney” refers specifically to those who specialize in representing service members in courts-martial, either as defense counsel or prosecutors. These attorneys undergo specialized training in trial advocacy, military criminal procedure, and evidence law. Other military attorneys may focus on legal assistance, contracts, or operational law and may not be involved in criminal trials. Court martial attorneys are typically assigned to Trial Defense Services (TDS) or serve as government trial counsel. Their work is distinct due to the adversarial nature of court-martial litigation and the serious consequences at stake for the accused.

Yes, a court martial attorney can negotiate a pretrial agreement, often referred to as a plea deal, which may help the accused avoid a harsher sentence or reduce charges. This involves working with the government prosecutor to reach a mutually acceptable resolution, often in exchange for a guilty plea to lesser charges or a capped sentence. The attorney evaluates the strength of the prosecution’s case, the risks of trial, and the client’s goals before advising on whether to accept such a deal. While plea deals must still be approved by the convening authority and military judge, court martial attorneys play a vital role in crafting and negotiating these outcomes to minimize long-term consequences.

A court martial attorney prepares for trial by conducting a thorough review of the government’s evidence, interviewing witnesses, visiting the scene of alleged events if necessary, and formulating legal defenses. They file pretrial motions to suppress inadmissible evidence, request discovery, and challenge any violations of rights under the UCMJ. The attorney also develops opening and closing statements, prepares direct and cross-examinations, and identifies expert witnesses if needed. Coordination with investigators, mental health professionals, and character witnesses is often part of the preparation process. Every phase is strategically planned to present reasonable doubt and protect the client’s interests. Preparation is continuous and requires legal knowledge, advocacy skills, and attention to detail.

A court martial attorney may introduce character evidence to show that the accused has a history of honesty, discipline, or respect for military authority, which contradicts the allegations. This is often done through witness testimony, performance evaluations, awards, and letters from supervisors. The attorney may present this evidence during the merits phase or, more commonly, during sentencing to mitigate punishment. In sexual assault or fraud cases, good military character can be particularly persuasive. However, offering character evidence opens the door for the prosecution to challenge that reputation. Court martial attorneys carefully weigh this risk before using it and prepare the client and witnesses accordingly for effective presentation.

Any service member under investigation for a serious offense or facing court-martial charges should consult a court martial attorney as early as possible. Even before charges are formally filed, an attorney can protect the service member’s rights, advise on interactions with command or investigators, and begin building a defense. Delaying legal representation can lead to missed opportunities to suppress evidence or secure witness testimony. A court martial attorney is necessary when allegations involve offenses such as sexual assault, drug use, fraud, AWOL, or insubordination. Whether appointed by the military or hired privately, an experienced attorney ensures that the accused receives due process and a fair opportunity to challenge the charges.

Not having a court martial attorney exposes a service member to significant legal and procedural disadvantages. Military law is complex, and unrepresented individuals may unknowingly waive rights, mishandle evidence, or fail to challenge unlawful actions. Without legal counsel, the accused cannot effectively cross-examine witnesses, present admissible evidence, or navigate court-martial rules. This can result in harsher sentences, wrongful convictions, or missed opportunities for dismissal. Judges strongly discourage self-representation due to these risks. Having a court martial attorney ensures that the accused receives expert guidance, tactical defense, and protection against unfair procedures. Even if a civilian attorney is retained, a court martial attorney should always be involved for military-specific strategy.