Coast Guard Lawyer
Civilian Criminal Defense Law Firm Based in Jacksonville, NC
Military Counsel
Experienced Criminal Defense for U.S. Coast Guard Members
At The Wilkie Law Group, we understand the unique challenges faced by Coast Guard members during their service. For those facing criminal charges or administrative actions within this branch, our team of attorneys is here to provide dedicated legal assistance and a strong defense to counter any allegations raised against you.
As a trusted Coast Guard lawyer based in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Aden Wilkie offers representation tailored to the many nuances of military justice, leveraging extensive experience in military law to defend service members across several locations, both nationwide and worldwide. For skilled legal representation, contact us at (910) 333-9626 or complete our online intake form to set up your initial consultation today.
Facing Criminal Charges as a Coast Guard Member?
The U.S. Coast Guard occupies a unique role as both a military service and a federal law enforcement agency, making it one of the most versatile branches of government. With its dual responsibilities, the Coast Guard exercises some of the broadest criminal and regulatory authorities of any federal entity, handling everything from national security to maritime safety and environmental enforcement. But what happens when Coast Guard personnel face criminal charges themselves?
Like all other military service branches, the Coast Guard operates under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), which governs the conduct of its personnel. The articles of the UCMJ cover a wide range of offenses under military law, including those specifically related to military life and general law violations.
When facing a court-martial trial or administrative penalties, Coast Guard officers and personnel should seek experienced legal representation to protect their rights, careers, futures, and reputations.
Common Cases We Defend Against
At The Wilkie Law Group, our services cover a vast range of legal practice areas, from military discharge upgrades to security clearance to court-martial defense and beyond. Coast Guard personnel can face a variety of criminal charges under the UCMJ that require skilled legal counsel. Some of the more common cases we see include:
- Rape and sexual assault (UCMJ Article 120)
- Failure to report, AWOL, or desertion (UMCJ Article 85 and UCMJ Article 86)
- Disrespect of a superior commissioned officer (UMCJ Article 89)
- Failure to obey an order (UCMJ Article 92)
- Larceny and wrongful appropriation (UCMJ Article 121)
- Drunkenness and incapacitation offenses (UCMJ Article 112)
These cases often arise during Coast Guard missions or within the service’s unique maritime and security contexts. Whatever charges you or your loved one face, an experienced Coast Guard lawyer like Aden Wilkie can help.
Captain’s Mast and NJP Proceedings in the Coast Guard
Non-judicial punishment (NJP), also called Captain’s Mast, is a type of adverse administrative action faced by Coast Guard officers and active duty personnel under Article 15 of the UCMJ. A Coast Guard member might face Captain’s Mast for minor offenses under the UCMJ, such as insubordination, unauthorized absence, or failure to follow orders. These proceedings allow commanding officers to address misconduct without escalating the case to a court-martial, imposing penalties like pay forfeiture, extra duties, or rank reduction.
A Coast Guard defense attorney from our team can help during NJP proceedings by reviewing documents, preparing your case, and representing you during the board or review process. If an issue arises from maritime operations or other service-related matters, having a knowledgeable military defense lawyer can significantly mitigate the cost to your career.
Court-Martial Defense for Coast Guard Service Members
Aden Wilkie is dedicated to providing aggressive and strategic representation for Coast Guard service members facing court-martial proceedings. He and his team understand the unique challenges and high stakes involved in these cases and work tirelessly to investigate the facts, challenge evidence, and present a strong defense tailored to the specific circumstances of each case.
Whether you’re facing a summary, special, or general court-martial, our attorneys ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process, helping protect your career, reputation, and future within the Coast Guard. With Aden Wilkie on your side, you can trust that you have a dedicated advocate fighting for the best possible outcome.
Coast Guard Record Corrections
As an experienced military records correction lawyer, Aden Wilkie is also committed to helping clients in the Coast Guard correct errors or injustices in their military records. Whether addressing inaccurate discharge characterizations, missing awards, or other discrepancies, The Wilkie Law Group provides personalized support to ensure your records accurately reflect your service and contributions.
How a Criminal Conviction Can Impact Your Military Career
A criminal conviction can have far-reaching consequences for your military career, potentially resulting in discharge, loss of rank, and forfeiture of the benefits you’re entitled to as a service member. Beyond these immediate impacts, a conviction can tarnish your personal reputation, disrupt your ability to continue serving, and jeopardize the retirement benefits you’ve worked hard to secure.
The effects may even extend to your civilian life, limiting future career opportunities and creating long-term financial instability. Defending against such charges with the support of a skilled defense attorney is critical when it comes to safeguarding your service record, maintaining your benefits, and preserving the honors and respect you’ve earned through your dedication and service.
Why You Need an Experienced Coast Guard Defense Lawyer
When facing military investigation or adverse administrative actions, it’s essential to have a defense attorney who thoroughly understands the Uniform Code of Military Justice and Coast Guard-specific regulations. While a military-appointed judge advocate general provides valuable legal services, they often face limitations in terms of time and resources due to their responsibilities to the chain of command and other cases. A private civilian defense attorney like Aden Wilkie offers a distinct advantage by focusing solely on your defense and dedicating personalized attention to your case.
Unlike Coast Guard Judge Advocates, Aden has the flexibility to thoroughly investigate, strategize, and advocate for your rights without constraints. He and his experienced defense counsel work independently to build a strong case tailored to your unique situation, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. This individualized approach can make all the difference in achieving the best possible outcome for Coast Guard service members facing legal challenges.
Why Trust the Civilian-Military Defense Lawyers at The Wilkie Law Group?
Coast Guard members facing criminal charges deserve experienced and dedicated legal services tailored to their unique needs. At The Wilkie Law Group, our civilian attorneys bring a deep understanding of both military and civilian legal systems, providing the focused representation needed to protect your rights and your career. With extensive experience defending members of all branches of the armed forces, Aden Wilkie and his team are committed to delivering aggressive and strategic defense for Coast Guard personnel.
Though based in Jacksonville, NC, we proudly represent Coast Guard soldiers stationed in the U.S. and globally, delivering experienced and dedicated support wherever you serve. Trust the experienced North Carolina military defense lawyers at The Wilkie Law Group to advocate for you and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Talk To a Coast Guard Defense Attorney Today
If you’re facing criminal charges in the U.S.C.G., don’t wait. Contact The Wilkie Law Group today to receive personalized advice from an experienced Coast Guard defense attorney.
Our office is ready to help Coast Guard officers and personnel navigate complex legal matters with dedication and care. Call us at (910) 333-9626 or reach out online to schedule a confidential consultation to discuss your case today.
