Henderson Hall, Arlington, Virginia Military Criminal Lawyers

Henderson Hall, Arlington, Virginia Military Criminal Lawyers

If you are a servicemember stationed at Henderson Hall in Arlington, Virginia and facing criminal charges under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), it is critical that you understand your rights and get help from an experienced military defense attorney. Military criminal law can be complex and unforgiving, with serious penalties like jail time, dishonorable discharge, or reduction in rank on the line. Don’t go it alone–consult with a military lawyer who knows how to build the strongest defense for your unique situation.

In this article, we’ll walk through key things to know about the military justice system at Henderson Hall, potential criminal charges, and how an aggressive defense lawyer can fight for you. We’ll also share tips on finding the best military criminal defense attorney in Arlington, VA to protect your future.

Military Justice System at Henderson Hall

Henderson Hall is part of the Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall (JBM-HH) military installation located in Arlington, Virginia. JBM-HH falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Garrison, and houses units from all branches of service including the 3rd US Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and the Marine Corps Security Forces Regiment.

This means if you are stationed here and accused of a crime, you fall under the military justice system governed by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). The UCMJ is federal law that applies to all branches and outlines various criminal offenses like AWOL, drug use, assault, and more that servicemembers can be charged with.

How a military criminal case proceeds at Henderson Hall depends on your specific branch:

• Army cases are handled by the Trial Defense Service (TDS) located at Building 229 on Fort Myer. TDS are military attorneys assigned to represent soldiers.
• Marine Corps cases go through the Region Legal Service Office Mid-Atlantic (RLSO), located in Quantico, VA. They will assign a military defense counsel.
• For other branches like Navy, Air Force, or Coast Guard – you can request a military lawyer be appointed from your command, or hire a civilian attorney.

Regardless of your branch, it’s important to act fast if you are under investigation or charged. Consulting with a military lawyer early is key, as they can intervene even before charges are filed. Never talk to investigators without legal representation present.

Common Criminal Charges at Henderson Hall

Some of the most common criminal offenses we see servicemembers at Henderson Hall charged with include:

• Drug Offenses – This includes use, possession, distribution, etc. of illegal drugs like marijuana, cocaine, prescription meds, and more. With the Army’s “zero tolerance” drug policy, any drug related charges can mean severe consequences.
• Sexual Assault – Unfortunately military sexual trauma and assault is prevalent across all branches. False accusations can also occur. If you are wrongfully accused, an attorney can stand up for your rights.
• Domestic Violence – Physical violence or threats against a spouse, child or partner. DV charges can mean loss of gun rights, sex offender status, and other collateral consequences.
• DUI/DWI – Drinking and driving is taken very seriously in the military. Even first time offenses can lead to federal conviction, fines, rank reduction or jail time.
• AWOL / UA – When you are absent from your unit without permission. The longer you are away, the harsher potential penalties become.

Other common charges include larceny/theft, assault, adultery, fraternization, disrespecting an officer, and failure to obey orders. If convicted at court-martial, any federal crime under the UCMJ goes on your permanent military record and follows you for life.

How a Military Lawyer Can Defend You

A military defense attorney has the experience and knowledge to protect your rights and future. They will thoroughly examine the evidence against you, identify any illegal searches or interrogations, hold prosecutors accountable, and build the strongest defense to achieve the best outcome possible. A skilled lawyer can get charges dismissed entirely in many cases.

Specific ways a military defense attorney can fight for you include:

• Negotiating with the prosecutor for lesser charges or sentencing
• Seeking to get evidence thrown out that was obtained illegally
• Using expert witnesses to rebut forensic evidence or testify to your character
• Advocating for your mental health treatment needs
• Helping you accept responsibility and make amends if you wish to plead guilty
• Aggressively cross-examining witnesses at trial and exposing credibility issues
• Presenting mitigating circumstances to minimize sentencing if convicted

Because the consequences of a military conviction are so severe, the right defense lawyer can make all the difference in preserving your career and future. Don’t leave it to chance with an inexperienced JAG attorney – hire a proven civilian military lawyer to fight for your freedom.

Finding the Best Military Criminal Defense Attorney in Arlington, VA

When researching military criminal defense lawyers to represent you at Henderson Hall, here are key tips to find the best:

• Look for an attorney nearby in Arlington or Alexandria, VA for convenience
• Find someone who specializes exclusively in military law – it’s a complex niche area
• Choose a lawyer with years of experience defending similar cases
• Select someone aggressive yet compassionate – you need a fighter in your corner
• Find someone who offers free case evaluations – avoid attorneys who charge fees just to talk to you
• Look for positive client reviews and testimonials to validate quality
• Go with someone who makes you feel comfortable and understood – this is your future, so take your time choosing

One attorney I highly recommend looking into is Michael Waddington of Waddington Military Law. He is a former JAG with over 16 years of military law experience. His firm helps servicemembers nationwide and has an office in Alexandria, VA. Check out his YouTube channel to see his passion for defending troops. Call him today for caring and aggressive representation.

Don’t leave your military career up to chance. The right lawyer’s experience can make all the difference. Use this guide to understand your rights and find the best defense attorney for your unique situation. Henderson Hall servicemembers never have to go it alone – skilled help is out there! Stay strong and keep fighting.