The military justice system places a heavy emphasis on prosecuting allegations of sexual assault. A skilled and experienced private military defense lawyer can review statements, evidence, and forensics at the early stages of the case to convince investigators and commanding officers to drop or reconsider their case against you.
Access to Experts
Expert witnesses often accompany assault allegations, so it is important to hire a firm with access to military-trained civilian defense lawyers who can review these experts and challenge their findings when necessary. A skilled military defense attorney may be able to turn the tables on the government by examining forensic evidence, challenging the accuracy of an accuser’s statements, or finding witnesses who are willing to stand up for the accused service member.
Even a false allegation of sexual assault can lead to serious legal consequences for a service member and impact their career. An accused service member should never be detailed to a junior, inexperienced military lawyer for such a serious matter. An MST law firm can offer a free case evaluation or full representation from investigation through trial. They can also assist with pursuing VA disability benefits, providing tax-free monthly payments at certain ratings, and helping cover medical expenses.
Experience
In many cases, the defense of a military sexual assault allegation is more about overcoming political pressure than proving innocence. The chain of command does not hamper civilian attorneys and can call out even high-ranking officials when necessary.
When a service member is facing allegations of sexual assault in the military, it is essential to hire an experienced attorney as soon as possible to begin building the case. We will examine the investigative process and look for missteps that may allow us to get evidence thrown out or charges dismissed.
The consequences of a sexual assault conviction in the military can be severe. Convictions lead to years in prison, a dishonorable discharge, and sex offender registration that strips you of basic rights and limits your future employment opportunities. Having a zealous military lawyer on your side is vital early in the process.
Expertise in Military Law
Military sexual assault cases are complex and involve sensitive information. They require the skill of a lawyer who understands military law, including its constant updates and changes. A civilian attorney not hampered by the chain of command can call out even high-ranking military personnel when they misrepresent facts.
Often, a sex assault case comes down to credibility. The government wants a panel of peers to believe an alleged victim who typically has less than four years of military service and little courtroom experience.
Independence
Our military sexual assault lawyers have won awards for bringing understanding and reason to military courtrooms that are overrun with hysterical pleas to imprison military members who are accused of rape or other serious sexual crimes. Even though military pre-trial hearing officers and prosecutors often recommend against pursuing a case because of problems with either the evidence or the alleged victim’s credibility, command and the White House are pressuring military leaders to prosecute as many of these cases as possible, even if there is no credible proof.
Having an experienced civilian military lawyer fight for you can make all the difference. Convictions for rape or sexual assault in the military carry severe consequences, including decades in prison, dishonorable discharge, and sex offender registration, which permanently destroys an individual’s ability to work and live like a normal citizen.
