Dedicated To Defending Those Who Defend Us
When you face a military investigation, UCMJ criminal charges or other military legal concerns, your future, job, retirement and very freedom may be at risk. Working with an experienced military defense attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Attorney Noel Tipon represents service members in every branch, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard from his office in Hawaii. He also represents service members around the globe.
Mr. Tipon has a unique understanding of the concerns service members face. He served on active duty in the Marine Corps and spent 10 years as a Marine Judge Advocate before founding the Tipon Law Firm, LLLC. Noel provides aggressive advocacy designed to suit your individual needs and circumstances. He will help empower you to fight back against your charges.
Experienced Defense Representation For Service Members
The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) governs the military justice system and applies to all branches. The UCMJ applies to current service members on active duty, students enrolled in a service academy and National Guard and Reserve members. If a military service member commits a crime while off-duty, even if it does not involve the military, the UCMJ still applies.
The Tipon Law Firm, LLLC, can represent you in cases relating to:
- Adverse administrative actions
- Court-Martial defense
- Sex crimes
- Drug crimes
- Violent crimes
- Larceny and financial fraud
- Basic Allowance For Housing (BAH) Fraud
While the UCMJ is similar to civilian law, it is much stricter in some areas. However, service members remain subject to civilian laws as well. That is why it is vital to work with an attorney with a strong understanding of military and civilian criminal defense law. Aside from the criminal penalties, like a conviction and jail time, the UCMJ can impose loss of rank, forfeiture of pay, confinement and a dishonorable discharge.
What Happens When You Are Under Military Investigation?
The military investigation process begins when someone reports a UCMJ offense. Investigators, who are federal law enforcement agents, will interview victims and witnesses and collect evidence. They will also call you in for an interrogation. Commanders can also direct their own investigations.
Depending on the results of the investigation, you may face non-judicial punishment under Article 15 of the UCMJ, a Letter of Reprimand, Administrative Separation Proceedings, or a court-martial, which is similar to a criminal trial. Courts-Martial come in one of three types: (1) a summary court-martial for minor offenses, which involves a single commissioned officer reviewing the facts and making a determination on your guilt and a sentence if you are convicted; (2) a special court-martial for more severe offenses presided over by a military judge with a jury determining your guilt or innocence; or (3) a general court-martial for the most serious offenses.
Don’t Fight Criminal Charges Alone
You do not have to face a military investigation on your own. Contact the Tipon Law Firm, LLLC, to schedule a consultation and learn more about how Mr. Tipon can protect your rights. Call 808-727-1289 or complete his online contact form to get in touch.