Hawaii Military Defense Lawyer For Uniform Code Of Military Justice Offenses
Last updated on October 21, 2026
The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) is the guideline that controls procedures and punishments for servicemembers charged with and convicted of crimes. The UCMJ has so many technicalities involved – from what venues are used to what actions constitute crimes – that some attorneys are reluctant to handle these cases.
Attorney Noel Tipon has the experience and confidence you need behind your defense. A lawyer for more than 25 years, he spent 10 years as a Marine Judge Advocate and more than 15 years in private practice, representing members of every branch of the armed forces from his Hawaii office. His professional career has been focused on defending those who defend the country.
Your Rights Under The UCMJ
Article 31(b) requires anyone subject to the UCMJ who suspects you of an offense to advise you of your rights before questioning. The questioner must tell you what you are suspected of, that you may remain silent and that prosecutors can use your statements against you. If questioned in custody, you can also ask for a lawyer.
Before deciding on nonjudicial punishment (NJP) under Article 15, you can generally consult a lawyer. Service members can refuse NJP and demand a court-martial. At a court-martial, you receive military defense counsel at no cost and may hire a civilian military defense attorney.
These rights vary by forum and facts, and deadlines can be short. Speak with a UCMJ defense lawyer before the government’s timeline decides for you.
What Are The Potential Punishments Under The UCMJ?
The Uniform Code of Military Justice authorizes a variety of punishments for various offenses. Exactly what a service member can expect upon conviction will vary according to the nature of the charges, but consequences can include:
- Reprimands
- Forfeitures of pay
- Fines
- Restrictions
- Hard labor without confinement
- Confinement
- Reduction in grade
- Bad-conduct discharge
- Dishonorable discharge
- The death penalty
Whether you serve in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force or Coast Guard, a Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) investigation can threaten your rank, pay and career before anyone files charges.
Commonly Charged UCMJ Articles
Prosecutors and commanders rely on some UCMJ articles far more than others. If you are accused of violating the UCMJ, you may face a variety of charges and proceedings, including:
- Article 92: Failure to obey order or regulation: It covers disobeying lawful orders and dereliction of duty.
- Article 86: Absence without leave (AWOL): Missing formation or staying away without authority can bring this charge.
- Article 120: Sexual offenses: A rape or sexual assault conviction can bring confinement and sex offender registration.
- Article 15: Nonjudicial punishment: Commanders impose NJP for minor misconduct, but it can derail a career.
- Article 134: General article violations: This catch-all covers conduct that undermines discipline or discredits the armed forces.
It is important to remember that even criminal cases that were begun in the local civilian community can end up being turned over to the military for prosecution under the UCMJ.
Get An Experienced Lawyer For Your UCMJ Case
There is no substitute for experience when it comes to selecting your UCMJ lawyer. Attorney Tipon represents members of the armed services, including the Coast Guard, around the globe. Call Tipon Law Firm, LLLC, at 808-727-1289 or use the online contact form to schedule your initial consultation with a UCMJ attorney.