Military Criminal
Defense Lawyers
Aggressive & Experienced Military Defense Throughout the United States & Worldwide
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Former Prosecutor
Facing Military Criminal
Charges?
Don't face the military
justice system alone.
Facing a military criminal investigation or charge can put your career, reputation, security clearance, benefits, and freedom at risk. Whether you are stationed in the United States or serving overseas, you need an experienced military defense lawyer who understands the Uniform Code of Military Justice and the unique consequences of military criminal proceedings.
McCormack & McCormack provides experienced military criminal defense representation for active-duty service members and reservists nationwide and worldwide.
Based in Hampton Roads, Virginia, our attorneys have extensive experience defending service members facing serious military legal matters wherever their service takes them.
From investigations and Article 15 proceedings to Article 32 hearings and courts-martial, our attorneys understand the importance of early, strategic representation. We investigate the allegations, examine the evidence, challenge the government's case, protect your rights, and develop a defense strategy designed around your circumstances.
What Do Military Defense Lawyers Do?
Military defense lawyers represent service members facing criminal charges, investigations, and adverse actions under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Military cases can involve procedures, rules, and consequences that differ significantly from civilian criminal proceedings, making experienced military legal representation essential.
At McCormack & McCormack, our military criminal defense attorneys have extensive experience navigating the military justice system. Our attorneys include former military Judge Advocates who have served as both defense counsel and prosecutors, giving our firm valuable insight into how military cases are investigated, prosecuted, and defended.
Legal Counsel and Advice:
A military defense lawyer explains the allegations against you, your rights under the UCMJ, and the potential consequences of the proceedings. We help service members understand their options and make informed decisions throughout their case.
Case Evaluation:
Our attorneys carefully evaluate the allegations, investigative materials, witness statements, digital evidence, and other information relevant to your case. We identify weaknesses in the government's position and potential defenses that may strengthen your case.
Investigation:
A thorough investigation can be critical to an effective military defense. Our attorneys examine the circumstances surrounding the allegations, interview witnesses, review available evidence, and pursue information that may support your defense.
Legal Representation:
We represent service members throughout military legal proceedings, including investigations, Article 15 matters, Article 32 preliminary hearings, courts-martial, administrative actions, and other military proceedings. Our attorneys advocate for your rights at every stage.
Negotiation and Resolution:
Not every military case proceeds to trial. When appropriate, our attorneys work to negotiate favorable resolutions and evaluate alternatives to more serious disciplinary action. We consider the potential impact on your military career, record, and future when determining the best strategy.
Trial Preparation and Defense:
When a case proceeds to court-martial, preparation matters. Our military defense lawyers examine the evidence, research applicable military law, develop a trial strategy, prepare witnesses, challenge the government's case, and provide aggressive courtroom representation.
Post-Trial and Appeals:
A conviction does not necessarily end your legal options. When appropriate, our attorneys can evaluate post-trial matters and potential appeals, working to identify legal errors or other issues that may provide grounds for further relief.
Protecting your rights & Career:
Military proceedings can affect your rank, pay, benefits, security clearance, discharge status, and future career. Throughout the process, our attorneys work to protect your legal rights while pursuing the best possible outcome for your circumstances.
Why Experience as a
Military JAG Matters
When facing a military criminal investigation or charge, it is important to work with an attorney who understands both civilian criminal law and the military justice system. Military cases involve procedures, rules, and potential consequences that can differ significantly from civilian criminal proceedings.
At McCormack & McCormack, our attorneys have firsthand experience within the military justice system. Our attorneys include former military Judge Advocates who have served as both defense counsel and prosecutors. This experience provides valuable insight into how military cases are investigated, prosecuted, and defended.
WHY PRIOR JAG EXPERIENCE MATTERS:
Although service members are entitled to an appointed military defense counsel once formally charged by their command, appointed counsel may have limited criminal litigation experience. A civilian military defense attorney with substantial JAG and courtroom experience can provide an additional level of experience and perspective when the stakes are high.
Attorney Robert W. Canoy Jr. served 11 years as an active-duty military Judge Advocate, including experience as both a trial defense counsel and prosecutor. He handled more than 500 criminal cases and has extensive experience defending military members both during active duty and as a civilian attorney.
Attorney Greg D. McCormack is also a former U.S. Army Judge Advocate with decades of experience representing military and civilian clients in complex criminal, administrative, and federal matters.
UNDERSTANDING THE MILITARY JUSTICE SYSTEM:
Our attorneys understand the military justice process from multiple perspectives and use that experience to develop a defense strategy based on the specific circumstances of each case.
When Should I Contact a Military Defense Lawyer?
If possible, you should retain legal representation while you are still under investigation and before civilian charges, court-martial charges, or adverse administrative actions have been initiated against you. The value of retaining counsel early during the investigative stage cannot be overstated.
In many cases, an attorney may be able to intervene early and help resolve the situation before charges are filed. Waiting until formal charges have been brought can limit your options and make it more difficult to address problems that could have been handled earlier in the process.
DO NOT SPEAK TO INVESTIGATORS WITHOUT LEGAL ADVICE:
One of the most important things to remember is that agreeing to be interviewed by investigators without first consulting an attorney can be a serious mistake. An investigation may involve military criminal investigators such as NCIS, CID, OSI, or CGIS, as well as civilian law enforcement agencies.
Statements made during an investigation can have a significant impact on the outcome of a case, even when you believe you have done nothing wrong.
If you become aware that you are the subject of an investigation, have been contacted by investigators, or believe you may face military criminal charges, it is best to speak with an experienced military defense lawyer as soon as possible.
Proven Military Defense Lawyers
with Decades of Experience
McCormack & McCormack has provided experienced legal representation since 1982. Our attorneys have extensive experience defending military and civilian clients in complex criminal, administrative, and federal matters.
Attorney Greg D. McCormack is a former U.S. Army Judge Advocate with decades of experience representing military members in serious legal matters. Attorney Robert W. Canoy Jr. served 11 years as an active-duty military Judge Advocate and has experience as both a trial defense counsel and prosecutor, handling more than 500 criminal cases.
Attorney Jarrett L. McCormack also focuses on criminal defense and has extensive experience representing current and former military members in matters involving security clearances, military disciplinary actions, and serious criminal allegations.
Our attorneys combine military legal experience, courtroom advocacy, and strategic defense to represent service members facing serious legal challenges throughout the United States and around the world.
Meet The Attorneys Behind Your Defense
Results Driven and
Client Focused Since 1982
Greg D. McCormack
OF COUNSEL
Greg D. McCormack is a former U.S. Army Judge Advocate with decades of experience representing military and civilian clients in complex criminal, administrative, and federal matters. Known for his aggressive courtroom advocacy, sharp cross-examination skills, and straightforward approach, Greg has successfully represented thousands of clients throughout his career and is committed to providing honest, relentless defense for every client he serves.
Jarrett L. McCormack
President
Jarrett L. McCormack focuses on criminal defense in state and federal courts, with extensive experience representing current and former military members, including cases involving security clearances and military disciplinary actions. Known for his analytical approach and aggressive courtroom advocacy, Jarrett is committed to developing the strategy that best positions each client for success.
Robert W. Canoy Jr.
Senior Attorney
Robert Canoy brings more than a decade of criminal litigation experience, including 11 years as an active-duty military Judge Advocate. He has served as both a trial defense counsel and prosecutor, handling more than 500 criminal cases ranging from minor offenses to serious charges including sexual assault and homicide. Now with McCormack & McCormack, he continues to serve as a JAG officer in the military reserves, bringing extensive courtroom and military legal experience to every case.
Drew T. Lail
ASSOCIATE Attorney
Drew T. Lail is an associate at McCormack & McCormack, representing clients in family law, criminal defense, and traffic matters. A former U.S. Navy aircraft structural mechanic and federal police officer, Drew brings firsthand military and law enforcement experience to his legal practice. He earned his J.D. from Regent University School of Law and is admitted to practice in all Virginia courts. Known for his dedicated and practical approach, Drew works to provide strong advocacy tailored to each client’s unique circumstances.
What Are the Penalties for a Court-Martial Conviction?
A court-martial conviction can have consequences that extend far beyond the immediate criminal case. A service member convicted of a military offense may face a federal conviction as well as significant penalties that can affect their military career, finances, benefits, and future.
Depending on the offense and circumstances of the case, a court-martial sentence may include:
- Substantial confinement
- Reduction in pay grade for enlisted service members
- Forfeiture of all pay and allowances
- Punitive discharge, including a Bad Conduct Discharge or Dishonorable Discharge for enlisted service members
- Dismissal for officers
- Sex offender registration when required by law following a qualifying sex offense conviction
LONG-TERM CONSEQUENCES OF A CONVICTION:
The consequences of a conviction can continue long after the court-martial has ended. A military criminal conviction can affect a service member's career, reputation, security clearance, benefits, and future employment opportunities.
Because the potential penalties can be severe, experienced legal representation is critical from the earliest stage of a military criminal case.
Our attorneys carefully evaluate the evidence, investigate the allegations, challenge weaknesses in the government's case, and develop a defense strategy designed around the circumstances of each case.
The Impact of a Civilian Criminal Conviction on Your Military Career
Military personnel can face criminal proceedings in state court, federal court, or military courts. These jurisdictions are separate, but they can have overlapping jurisdiction in certain circumstances. A case that begins with civilian law enforcement may have consequences for your military career even if the matter is ultimately handled in civilian court.
A civilian criminal conviction can have a detrimental impact on a service member's career. Even before a conviction, being charged with a crime can place career progression on hold and may cause a service member to miss valuable opportunities for advancement.
Administrative Separation and Other Consequences:
If you are convicted, you may also face administrative action from the military, including possible administrative separation. Depending on the circumstances, this can result in an adverse discharge characterization and have lasting consequences for your military career and future.
Why Civilian Criminal Lawyers May Miss Military Consequences:
One of the most important reasons to work with an attorney who understands both civilian and military criminal law is the potential for collateral military consequences. Many civilian criminal defense attorneys do not regularly handle military matters and may not fully understand how a civilian criminal case can affect a service member's military status.
Protecting Your Military Future
At McCormack & McCormack, we understand that defending the criminal case is only part of protecting a service member's future. Our attorneys consider both the immediate criminal consequences and the potential impact on your military career, record, security clearance, benefits, and continued service.
Can a Military Member Be Prosecuted in Both Military and Civilian Court?
Military criminal cases can involve state courts, federal courts, and military courts, and these jurisdictions may have overlapping authority in certain circumstances. An investigation that begins with military law enforcement may sometimes be prosecuted in civilian court, while a case originating with civilian law enforcement may, in certain circumstances, be addressed through the military justice system.
Civilian Cases Can Still Have Military Consequences:
A service member may also face military disciplinary or administrative consequences even when a criminal matter is handled in civilian court. This is one reason why military members facing civilian criminal charges should consider the military consequences of their case from the beginning.
Experience in State, Federal, and Military Defense:
McCormack & McCormack handles state, federal, and military criminal cases and understands the relationship between these proceedings. Our attorneys can evaluate the criminal allegations while also considering how the matter may affect your military status and career.
A Strategic Defense Built Around Your Case
When we take on a military criminal case, our attorneys fully evaluate the facts, evidence, and circumstances surrounding the allegations and provide our clients with an honest assessment of the situation. We believe clients deserve to understand what they are facing and what to expect throughout the legal process.
We do not believe in a cookie-cutter approach to military defense. Each case, its facts, and the available evidence are different. Our attorneys develop a strategy based on the circumstances of the individual case, whether that means pursuing an early resolution, seeking a reduction or dismissal of the charges, negotiating when appropriate, or taking the case to trial.
Our attorneys are prepared to do what is necessary to provide a strong defense. When a case proceeds to court-martial, we thoroughly examine the evidence, research applicable military law, prepare witnesses, challenge the government's case, and provide aggressive courtroom representation.
Military defense requires both preparation and flexibility. The approach that is appropriate in one case may be completely inappropriate in another. Our attorneys use their experience as litigators, former military Judge Advocates, prosecutors, and defense counsel to determine the strategy that best serves each client.
Experienced Support Behind Your Defense
A strong military defense requires more than an attorney appearing in court. It requires thorough preparation, investigation, organization, and support throughout the case.
McCormack & McCormack has experienced administrative staff and military paralegals who support our attorneys and clients throughout the legal process.
Our support staff allows our attorneys to focus their time and attention on the important legal and investigative work required to build an effective defense.
When your career and future are at stake, having an experienced legal team behind you matters.
Book Mentions
Read about Greg McCormack’s representation of two wrongfully accused service members.
