Military Sexual Assault lawyer

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Military Sex Assault Defense Attorneys

In recent years, the United States government has taken major steps to ‘crackdown’ on sexual assault in the military. Indeed, this issue made major headlines in December of 2013, when President Barack Obama ordered a one year review of sexual assault in the military. However, the transformation of the military’s sexual assault policies really dates back to 2007. That was the year when Article 120 was substantially expanded. While there is no doubt that the alleviation of sexual assault is a laudable goal, the legal rights of the accused must always be respected and protected.

Unfortunately, there are serious questions about how the military is now prosecuting sexual assault allegations. Now, more than ever, military service members are at risk of not only being accused of sexual misconduct, but also subsequently facing a very aggressive prosecution. This may occur even if the facts do not support the allegations. If you are a service member who is facing sexual misconduct allegations, you need to contact an experienced military sexual assault defense attorney immediately. Your military career and freedom are quite literally at stake. Our team represents clients charged with Article 120 offenses at military bases around the world, particularly locally, in Bremerton, Washington.

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Civilian Military Defense Lawyer for Sexual Assault Charges

Hiring a civilian lawyer specializing in military law when accused of sexual assault in the military can offer several significant advantages:

  1. Specialized Expertise: Civilian military defense lawyers often have specialized expertise in military law and the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). They are well-versed in the nuances of military proceedings, which can differ considerably from civilian court systems. Their deep understanding of military law can provide a strategic advantage in navigating the complexities of your case.
  2. Experience with Similar Cases: Civilian lawyers specializing in military cases typically handle many similar cases and thus have a breadth of experience with sexual assault defenses. This experience can be invaluable in crafting a robust defense strategy, foreseeing potential challenges, and managing them effectively.
  3. Objective Perspective: A civilian lawyer provides an outside perspective free from potential biases and pressures that might affect a military-appointed defense attorney. This objectivity can help ensure a more vigorous defense as civilian lawyers are not part of the military hierarchy and are thus more likely to challenge military prosecutors and command decisions aggressively.
  4. Resource Availability: Civilian attorneys often have access to resources such as expert witnesses, investigators, and specialists who can strengthen your defense. They may be more able to invest time and resources into your case, providing a thorough and meticulously prepared defense.
  5. Client-Lawyer Relationship: Hiring your own lawyer helps ensure a relationship based on trust and confidence. Civilian lawyers are chosen by you and thus are more likely to be committed to your interests, offering personalized legal counsel and dedicating more time to your case compared to an appointed military defender who might have a heavier caseload.
  6. Protection of Rights: Civilian military defense lawyers are adept at navigating both the military justice system and protecting your constitutional rights. They can play a crucial role in ensuring that your rights are not overlooked or compromised in the military justice process.

In summary, while military-appointed defense attorneys are competent, hiring a civilian lawyer with specific expertise in military cases can provide a more robust defense tailored to the unique aspects of military law and the specifics of your case.

Offenses Under Article 120

The majority of military sexual misconduct charges are filed under Article 120 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Though, certain cases may be filed under different provisions, such as Article 125. The code outlines both the nature of the charges, as well as potential penalties that a service member might face if they are convicted of an offense. There are many different charges that could be brought under Article 120, including:

  • Indecent exposure;
  • Wrongful sexual contact;
  • Aggravated sexual contact;
  • Sexual assault;
  • Sexual abuse of a child; and
  • Rape.

As these offenses vary widely in severity, the corresponding penalties also vary considerably. That being said, any Article 120 charge must be taken extremely seriously. Beyond the intense stigma that comes with a charge, any type of conviction could get you thrown out of the military with a dishonorable discharge. Additionally, a conviction for the most serious offense, rape, could result in imprisonment for the rest of your life.

What ls Article 120b of UCMJ?

Article 120b of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) specifically addresses the crime of sexual assault involving minors under the age of 16. This article makes it illegal to engage in sexual acts with someone who has not yet reached the age of 16, reflecting the military’s strict regulations against sexual offenses involving children. The provisions under Article 120b include various forms of sexual assault such as abusive sexual contact, inducement, coercion, or aggravation of a child under 16 to engage in sexual activities.

Violations under Article 120b are taken very seriously, with penalties that can include lengthy periods of confinement, dishonorable discharge, and forfeiture of pay and allowances. The seriousness of the charge reflects the commitment of the military justice system to protect minors from sexual exploitation and abuse within the military community.

Punishment for Article 120 UCMJ Violation

The punishment for a conviction under Article 120 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), which covers rape and sexual assault, can be severe and varies based on the specifics of the offense and the circumstances surrounding it. Typical punishments for these serious offenses include:

  1. Confinement: Lengthy periods of imprisonment are common, which can range from several years to life imprisonment, depending on the severity and circumstances of the assault. For the most severe offenses, such as rape, a life sentence is possible.
  2. Dishonorable Discharge: This is a common outcome for those convicted under Article 120, which results in the loss of military benefits and privileges and a significant stigma in civilian life.
  3. Forfeiture of Pay and Allowances: Convicted individuals often face the forfeiture of all pay and allowances, which can have long-lasting financial implications.
  4. Reduction in Rank: Service members may also be reduced to the lowest enlisted rank, impacting their pay grade and future career progression.
  5. Registration as a Sex Offender: Depending on the nature of the offense and the jurisdiction, individuals may also be required to register as sex offenders after their release from confinement.

These punishments reflect the military’s strict stance on sexual offenses, aiming to maintain discipline and uphold ethical standards within the ranks. Each case is judged on its own merits, and the final sentencing can be influenced by factors such as the defendant’s previous record, the circumstances of the crime, and the impact on the victim.

2013 NDAA: Mandatory Minimum Punishments

In 2013, President Obama signed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the fiscal year of 2014 into law. The NDAA is legislation that outlines the yearly budget and spending priorities for the Department of Defense (DOD). Typically, the legislation also contains other many provisions as well. Included in the fiscal year 2014 NDAA were major changes to military sexual assault policies. More specifically, these included changes in how accusations should be:

  • Investigated;
  • Prosecuted; and
  • Sentenced.

Under current law, a conviction for an Article 120 offense will, at the very least, lead to a dishonorable discharge.

The Proverbial “He-Said/She-Said” Scenario

There is no such thing as a true he-said/she-said sexual assault case. At least there should not be. Prosecutors, in the military, as well as in the civilian world, have an affirmative duty to find corroboration for any charges that they bring. By blindly accepting the statements of an alleged victim, not only are military prosecutors potentially undermining their own case, but they are putting service members at risk of unfair prosecution, stigmatization and potential conviction. Unfortunately, this has become a serious concern as the military seeks to aggressively combat sexual assault. Currently, a servicemember may find that they are facing misconduct charges based solely, or largely, off of the victim’s accusation.

Prosecutors bringing harsh criminal charges with weak supporting evidence can also be alarming. Though, it is especially concerning in military sexual assault cases. By nature, many sexual assault cases are complex. Not all cases necessarily involve a dichotomy between either 1) A clear sex crime or 2) A devious lie. There are many cases that involve confusion and conflicting views of consent and intoxication. This is why a comprehensive, piece-by-piece investigation is so important. Without a proper investigation, the truth may become lost. Unfortunately, military members who have been accused of a sexual offense cannot rely on the prosecution to conduct a fair and complete investigation of their case. This is why it is imperative that those facing charges reach out to a Bremerton UCMJ defense attorney as soon as possible.

Find Military Sexual Assault Defense Attorneys

If you have been accused of sexual assault while serving in the armed forces, you need to take immediate action to protect your rights. Waiting to hire an attorney is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Your defense lawyer will be able to take many proactive steps to help protect your rights and freedom, including:

  • Comprehensively investigating the claim;
  • Searching for exonerating evidence;
  • Providing general legal advice;
  • Assembling your defense in a compelling manner;
  • Preparing you for any hearings that you will face;
  • Representing you before a court-martial; and
  • Assessing your best defense options based on the individual circumstances of your case.

The simple fact is that with every day that passes, the risk of losing exonerating evidence forever increases. You can be sure that the prosecution will already be building its case against you. Indeed, the prosecution may already be working against you before you even learn of the allegations. You need to take action. With so much on the line, please seek professional assistance to protect your freedom, career and reputation. A sexual assault accusation will not go away on its own.

Contact Our Team Today

At the Law Office of Jocelyn C. Stewart, our team has the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively defend military sexual assault allegations. Ms. Stewart is both a  former service member and a former military special victims prosecutor. She possesses a truly exceptional knowledge of military sexual assault law. To request a free review of your case, please call 253-317-8494 today or contact us directly online. From our office in Tacoma, Washington, we serve client at bases throughout the Pacific Northwest, including at Naval Base Kitsap in Bremerton.