Annapolis Military Criminal Defense Attorneys

Lawyers Helping Members of the Military Defend Against Criminal Charges in Annapolis, MD

Military service members dedicate their lives to upholding the security of the United States and defending the freedom of its citizens. When a member of the military is accused of committing a criminal offense, their career, freedom, and future may be at risk. Military criminal proceedings follow different rules and procedures than civilian courts, and legal representation can be crucial in these situations.

At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, we provide legal help to servicemembers who have been accused of crimes. Attorney Dennis Murphy previously served as a member of the Navy Judge Advocate General (JAG) Corps, and he has a strong understanding of the procedures followed in these cases. We fight to protect our clients' rights and ensure that they can resolve these matters successfully.

Legal Help From a Civilian Military Criminal Defense Attorney

Our experienced civilian military criminal defense lawyers can provide vital support to servicemembers in criminal cases. While JAG officers assigned to defend military personnel are trained in military law, they are part of the military hierarchy, and they may be constrained by internal policies. In contrast, our civilian defense lawyers operate independently, advocating solely for the interests of the accused.

Representation from a civilian attorney can provide a fresh perspective and the ability to question military investigative procedures. Our civilian attorneys can collaborate with military counsel, challenge procedural violations, and prepare a comprehensive defense in pretrial negotiations or during court-martial proceedings. Our goal is to reduce the impact of charges, seek a dismissal when possible, or minimize the penalties our clients may face.

Types of Military Criminal Cases

Military personnel may be accused of offenses that will not only threaten their military careers but can also carry serious criminal consequences. Our knowledgeable defense attorneys can assist with cases involving a wide range of allegations, including:

Sexual Assault and Misconduct

Sexual assault accusations are among the most aggressively prosecuted offenses in the military justice system. A conviction for a military sex offense can result in a dishonorable discharge, confinement, and mandatory sex offender registration. However, these cases often involve complex interpersonal dynamics, conflicting accounts, and disagreements regarding consent. Our civilian defense lawyers can review evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and challenge assumptions made during military investigations.

Drug Offenses

Whether they involve allegations of possession or distribution of controlled substances, military drug offenses can lead to courts-martial, administrative separation, or confinement. Service members may face drug testing procedures that are flawed or that were conducted in violation of protocol. Our civilian lawyers can analyze the handling of evidence and question the validity of the testing process, as well as any possible constitutional violations.

Child Pornography Charges

Possession or distribution of child pornography is a serious allegation under both civilian and military law. In cases involving military child pornography offenses, a strong defense will involve detailed digital forensic analysis and challenges to whether a person knowingly possessed or distributed the materials in question. Our civilian defense attorneys can review the government's claims and make sure the proper procedures are followed during an investigation and prosecution.

Additional Legal Concerns in Military Criminal Cases

Our attorneys can assist military personnel with a variety of issues related to criminal accusations. These issues can have long-lasting consequences on a servicemember's record, benefits, and civilian life.

Military Investigations

Investigations conducted by military authorities such as the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID), or Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) often begin long before formal charges are filed. During a military investigation, a servicemember may be subjected to interviews, searches, and surveillance. Our civilian attorneys can provide legal counsel during this early stage, helping the accused avoid self-incrimination, respond appropriately to questioning, and prepare for legal proceedings.

Administrative Separation Proceedings

In many cases, the military may attempt to discharge a service member for misconduct through administrative channels rather than formal criminal prosecution. While administrative separation proceedings may appear to be less severe than court-martial, they can result in Other Than Honorable (OTH) discharges that can affect a servicemember's benefits and employment prospects. Our lawyers can advocate against a separation or fight for a more favorable type of discharge.

Discharge Upgrades

Service members who have already been discharged may seek a discharge upgrade if they believe their separation was unjust or was improperly characterized. This can be crucial for regaining access to VA benefits or clearing a person's service record for future employment. Our attorneys can guide former service members through the process of filing petitions with the Discharge Review Board or the Board for Correction of Military Records, and we will build a compelling case for reclassification.

Contact Our Annapolis, Maryland Military Criminal Defense Lawyers

If you are facing criminal accusations as a member of the U.S. military, you may feel overwhelmed and isolated. Whether you are under investigation, preparing for a court-martial, or seeking to correct a past injustice, the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP can help protect your rights, your reputation, and your future. Schedule a free, confidential consultation today by calling 410-280-2500 or contacting us online to learn how dedicated civilian representation can make a critical difference in your case.