Seattle Military Defense Attorney
(253) 518-3643If you are a member of the military and have been charged with a crime in Seattle or any of its surrounding areas, call (253) 733-2093 today to speak with a dedicated criminal defense attorney about your situation and how we can help.
If you are a member of the military facing criminal charges in Seattle or its surrounding areas, we urge you to call (253) 518-3643 and speak with a committed criminal defense attorney about your situation and how we can assist you.
Serving in the U.S. Military entails duties and responsibilities that are unique to the armed forces. With several military bases situated in Washington, such as Fort Lewis and McChord Air Force Base, it is crucial to understand that military personnel facing criminal charges, whether on or off base, may face harsher consequences than civilians. At The Law Offices of Morgan Fletcher Benfield, PLLC, we recognize the value of your service and the ramifications that a criminal conviction could have on your career, reputation, and freedom. Our legal team is dedicated to providing effective and skilled representation to safeguard your interests. We also offer discounted rates for active service members and veterans. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today for a free consultation.
Why are Military Members Treated Differently?
The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) governs military law, which operates differently than the criminal justice system that applies to civilians. One of the advantages of the UCMJ is that it provides service members with more protection than normal citizens. For example, if a service member is being investigated for a crime by the military, they have the opportunity to present witnesses or offer evidence before charges are filed. This is not an opportunity afforded under state or federal law, where sometimes civilians don’t realize they are the targets of an investigation until they are arrested and formally charged. However, there are also offenses and behaviors that are not illegal for civilians, such as adultery and fraternization, but are prohibited and punished under the UCMJ.
Military cases are considerably different than civilian proceedings, so when a member of the military is charged in civilian court, the potential impact and how it is handled by the military will depend on the specific circumstances and other factors. If convicted, military members face not only civilian penalties such as incarceration and fines, but also serious repercussions such as a demotion in rank and pay scale, official reprimands attached to their military personnel file, the loss of their gun rights for certain offenses, which is usually a military requirement, and possible discharge or termination from their branch of service.
Common Charges for Members of the Military
The Law Offices of Morgan Fletcher Benfield, PLLC has a proven track record of achieving the best possible outcomes for military members who face a variety of criminal charges, which include but are not limited to:
DUI Charges for Military Members
Driving under the influence (DUI) is illegal across the country, but for members of the military, the consequences can be even more severe. A DUI conviction can result in losing security clearances and the inability to operate vehicles, which may hinder your deployment.
Drug Crimes for Military Members
Drug laws in Washington State can be complicated for civilians, let alone for service members. The military may prohibit substances that are legal for civilians. If you face drug charges, consult with a criminal defense attorney to understand your options.
Violent Crimes for Military Members
Service members are held to a higher standard of conduct than civilians. A conviction for assault or other violent crimes may have serious consequences, such as rank demotion, depending on the status of the victim, the circumstances surrounding the incident, and your rank.
Weapons Crimes for Military Members
Service members are issued firearms and other weapons as part of their job responsibilities. If these weapons are misused or used to threaten someone, the potential penalties can be severe. Contact a criminal defense attorney to learn more about your rights and options.
How a Seattle Military Defense Lawyer Can Help
As a member of the armed services, facing criminal charges can have significant consequences both at the civilian and military levels. It’s crucial to have a skilled defense lawyer who understands how your military career could be impacted and how to achieve the best possible outcome.
The Law Offices of Morgan Fletcher Benfield, PLLC is dedicated to providing a comprehensive defense strategy for military members facing criminal charges in or around Seattle, Washington. We will explore every available option and work tirelessly to defend your case. This could involve conducting a thorough investigation to uncover any mistakes, violations of your rights, or jurisdictional issues that may arise when military members are investigated by civilian authorities.
Our team will leverage any available military programs that civilian courts may honor to address specific charges and requirements. Moreover, Morgan Fletcher Benfield, a Seattle military defense attorney, will negotiate on your behalf to reduce or eliminate the charges against you and will create the strongest possible defense strategy if your case proceeds to trial.
If you or a loved one is a military member facing criminal charges in the Seattle area, call (253) 518-3643 now to schedule a free and confidential consultation. Be sure to ask about our military discounts!