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Beth profile picture
Beth
6 June 2022
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The Truth Uncovered Mr. Waddington‘s attention to detail and thoroughness overly exceeded our initial expectations. From the very beginning, Mr. Waddington displayed the highest level of integrity and genuinely cared about his client; our son. His experience and expertise in defending these type of sexual assault cases became very apparent and comforting as he gathered, compiled, and studied the facts of the case. Mr. Waddington‘s defense was so compelling that the prosecution in our son’s case did not even present evidence in the General Court Martial. His knowledge preparation and genius are second to none. We trusted him with the most precious thing in our lives; our son. The stakes were extremely high and Mr. Waddington came through in the most impressive way. We give thanks to God for his mighty deeds done in and through Mr. Waddington and his entire defense team. He turned our mourning into dancing. We highly recommend Mr. Waddington as a defense attorney.
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Nathan
17 June 2016
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Dream team defense In early 2015 after 8 years of marriage, I found myself in the middle of a contentious divorce and custody battle, facing three counts of sexual assault and one count of physical assault. I thought cooperating with CGIS as well as turning over my phone (since I had nothing to hide) would absolve me of these accusations. It did NOT. Everything I said, CGIS twisted or used out of context to incriminate me. They even quoted biblical versus and insinuated that if my wife was having an affair it was my fault in some way. After my Article 32 hearing I asked my sister if she thought I should utilize Mr. Waddington. It was clear at that point the Coast Guard was determined to prosecute me and was in fact not on my side. However, I was already under a crushing amount of legal fees and the gamble of spending so much money on a person I had never seen work or even met in person was a bit daunting. My sister reminded me how displeased the prosecution was to hear I had retained him. She asked the all-important question: "How much is your freedom worth?" From that point on, there was no question, I was moving forward as planned. This decision was further validated when someone overheard the prosecutor speaking with the local legal assistance openly about my case and stated how surprised they were that I hired a very powerful and well known attorney who liked to, “go all the way”. I spent a lot of time gathering as much evidence as I could to prove my innocence as well as give my attorneys enough material to build a case. Due to shield laws that protect alleged victims, it can make entering relevant information nearly impossible. On more than one occasion I wasn't even sure if we could utilize the fact she was having an affair as evidence. This was a corner stone of our defense, but Mr. Waddington and as well as my JAG made sure we were able too. After fourteen months of uncertainty and with 90.5 years of prison time hanging over my head as well as sex offender status, my court martial began. Mr. Waddington and my JAG worked together seamlessly as if they had been working together for years. They planned for every contingency and were able to completely discredit my wife. Mr. Waddington got her to admit at one point that she had planned out some or all of these lies and that she was even abusive towards me. Every lie she told allowed us to utilize text messages, notes, threats and voicemails I had amassed over the last year. When she denied something we had in writing, he pointed at my JAG who had his iPad connected to the TV in the room. Mr. Waddington then read her own text message to the contrary of what she was saying. At one point the tally of lies we could prove she was telling was roughly 37. Together they destroyed her credibility, character, and through a well laid out timeline of events, were able to raise some serious questions about her motives behind these allegations. The prosecution could barely obtain an objection to our lines of questioning. Mr. Waddington and my JAG had planned one, if not three other arguments as to why this questioning or evidence was admissible. On the last day, a large audience had gathered to hear closing statements and the verdict. After only 40 minutes of deliberation, the jury had come to a decision… Innocent of all charges! After fourteen months of hell I had my life and future back. I couldn’t have asked for a better team to help protect me. If you are considering Mr. Waddington as a perspective defense attorney and wondering if all of his accolades are self-promotion and promises he can’t follow through on, I assure you they are NOT. He and his wife are an amazing team. They will fight for you, and genuinely care about their clients. I will never be able to thank them enough. Thank you for protecting my freedom and getting my life back!
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Austin
13 March 2016
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Despite your situation or innocence you need the best by your side to prove your case, Michael is your man for the Job! With a case pending over 13 months I had Michael there ever step of the way, maybe not physically but he gave much needed consultation through out and stayed updated on the facts of the case. When it came time to go to in for my trial, he worked along side with my appointed defense attorney and talk about utilizing your resources, as I am in the military and they worked very well together, like they have be working together their whole lives. Within 3 days he was able to pick apart the prosecutions case and without officially going to trial, had the case dismissed. He gave me peace of mind through out and delivered when it came time. He was very professional, proficient and I wouldnt have anyone else to defend me in my case. In a world we live in you cant gamble the odds, you need the best. Worth every penny to prove my case and to clear my name.
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Chris
26 August 2022
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Best Defense Lawyer. Period! Best Defense Lawyers. Period. I first contacted Mr. Michael Waddington and Mrs. Alexandria Waddington in September of 2021 right after my Command started an investigation into the CMEO report that was filed by a junior of mine. I first spoke with Mrs. Waddington and she advised me to make no statement and to retain them once charges were formally made. My Command however, conducted three investigations over the span of 5 months. During this time I was promoted, and then after the last and final investigation it nearly sealed the deal on my career, resulting in my Commanding Officer removing my hard earned promotion administratively and giving me two adverse evaluations. All of this was based on the investigation and the CO’s subsequent “Loss of Confidence.” The Command sent me TAD to the next higher Command while I waited to receive punishment. That day I called and retained the Waddington’s. Through multiple attempts my Command failed to return any correspondence to my counsel as to why for 3 whole months this had happened. I waited and desperately wanted to know what I was officially accused of since everything had been so quiet. I finally received notice of the investigation findings. They were heavily biased opinions stated as fact, fabricated stories and statements, significant questions as to why individuals were not questioned by the Investigating Officer. These all later proved to aid Mr. Michael Waddington into dismantling their whole case one character witness at a time. I refused NJP and then elected to do Courts-Martial and was subsequently given an Administrative Separation Board. I was completely unsure how this whole case would play out. My JAG assured me I was in good hands. Mr. Waddington was clearly in his element while arguing my case to the board. During that opening statement I knew right then and there that I definitely made the right choice to retain them. You can compare him to the side of the prosecution, but it wouldn’t be fair. The prosecution was clearly out matched. Their case was feeble, and if logic prevailed we would be victorious. The prosecution called no witnesses, submitted no further evidence, and Michael called them out on it. Even after multiple attempts to contact witnesses who made statements against me the Command and that witness made no attempt to communicate with the Waddington’s or show up to my board as requested. This didn’t look good for the prosecution. We submitted multiple character statements and called forth witnesses in person and via phone. Each witness questioned by Mr. Waddington showed more of my side of the story, and dismantled their case before I had even taken the stand. At Michael’s request I took the stand. I was confident, and ready to explain and answer any question. I did so and through my testimony the story was set straight. I finished testifying and the prosecution's closing statement was so outshined by Mr. Waddington’s closing statement you completely forgot what the prosecution had said.. He is THE CLOSER. We left the room and the board deliberated for less than 30 minutes with a finding of NO MISCONDUCT. That was a great feeling. I am extremely glad and thankful I chose the Waddington’s to defend me, my career, and my future. If you need representation look no further. I would definitely seek their counsel in the future, and would refer them to anyone who would need their counsel. If you know you're innocent, the Military will punish you first and ask questions later. Hit them hard, and keep what is yours!
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CAHJ
12 July 2016
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Do not talk to CID! Hire Michael now. My ordeal started in August 2014 with a false allegation of sexual assault. I called numerous law firms and was told many times that it was best for me to take a plea deal, this was even before they heard my side of the story. Once I contacted Mr. Waddington, he immediately eased my fears and told me to explain everything to him. Once I did this he comforted me and said that he would do everything in his power for a great outcome. Once I retained him, CID and my chain of command stopped bothering me. 12 months after the initial investigation the CID investigation came back "unfounded" and proved that my accuser was a liar. At this point I thought that everything was over but knowing the Army it was far from over. In September 2015 they notified me that I would be facing an elimination board due to the evidence that refuted that I was a rapist. I was not worried and retained Michael once again. The Army was trying to kick me out with no benefits and an other than honorable discharge. At the conclusion of the board I got to keep my benefits and also a nice $3,403 tax free check ($40,826 annually) for the rest of my life. I could not be happier. Michael is an EXCELLENT attorney and he is well respected in the legal community. Be weary of hiring known lawyers, just because they are known does not mean that they are respected. If you are facing any sort of legal issues please do not hesitate to contact him.
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Adam
27 August 2023
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Saved my life The Waddington’s saved my life! If I would have used a military appointed “TDS” attorney I would have been in jail. The military lawyer told me without even reviewing the case to take a plea deal. As soon as Michael got on board he handled everything professionally and timely! The quality of work this family puts into a case is unparalleled! Michael ensured I got the fairest possible trial with all the proper legal defense I was entitled to. He advised me every step of the way. Michael exposed all the corruption and lies from CID the prosecutors and my command team as well as the person who made the allegations against me. No stone was left unturned! Don’t chance it with the military they will lie and lie and lie and get you thrown in jail. Call Michael immediately and sleep easy at night knowing that the Waddington’s are on it! Outstanding professional no nonsense down to earth people and even better attorneys! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
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Jared
15 November 2022
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A defense attorney that will even the odds I'm an active duty Army 1LT and I was wrongfully charged with two counts of Sexual Assault on a fellow Officer. I knew the odds were seriously stacked against me and the situation seemed truly hopeless. At first, I was hesitant to retain the Waddingtons given the cost of their representation but I ultimately decided on hiring Michael and his wife Alexandra for their legal services. This decision proved to be the best I have ever made. I was found not guilty of both charges and was fully acquitted. It is clear that both Michael and his wife truly care about their clients and will take the time to ensure you are prepared for your court-marshal. I believe their experience and professionalism made the difference in my case and I am confident I wouldn't be writing this review had I solely went with TDS alone. They truly gave me a second chance at life and I would recommend them to anyone facing felony charges in the military. Don't gamble with your future. You don't want to look back on this decision wondering if things would have been different had you hired this team.
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Adam
20 February 2017
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Thankful Army Retiree Mr. Waddington is by far the best military lawyer anyone could ask for. I retained his services two years ago regarding a BAH fraud case that was causing me insurmountable despair and grief. After 19 years in the Army, I was about to lose everything I worked so hard for, personally and professionally. From the moment I retained his firm, they immediately got on board and took charge of my case. Mr. Waddington kept my spirits high and reassured me that he was going to do everything in his power to make sure my case would have the best possible outcome. When he was in court, Alexandria would answer any questions I had. In the beginning he set out realistic goals of avoiding a conviction, avoiding prison, and saving my Army retirement. This thing drug on for a long time but Mr. Waddington told me that the longer it takes in this type of case, the less likely that I would get charged. At times, I must admit, I wanted this over with more than anything else and my anxiety was sky high. He told me to stand fast so I could get over 20 years. One time, I called to complain about my situation and he reminded me that I was still a free man, I had my family, and was getting paid. He told me things could be much worse and to have patience. He was right and I appreciated the reality check. Through his tireless work, no charges were filed and I received administrative paperwork and was allowed to retire . I am positive that without his help, I would have ended up being charged and forced into a plea deal, going to jail and losing my retirement. I am thankful for the privilege of having him represent me. Not only did he save my career, I have my life back and my peace of mind. Thank you Mr Waddington. I would recommend him to anyone without reservation.
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Marvin
28 September 2022
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Second Chance Let me start by saying that I was falsely accused of sexual assault by this crazy lady. My old CSM gave me the best advice at the moment; he told me to seek a civilian attorney and not talk to CID. The whole process was completed in 17 months. Charges were preferred at around 12 months. I immediately called Mr. and Mrs. Waddington. Once they decided to take on my case, I was happy because I believed I had a fighting chance against the US government. I saved all my messages between me and this crazy lazy and sent Mr. and Mrs. Waddington everything to show her erratic behavior. I hired one attorney, but I gained two exceptional attorneys. The Army issued me a TDS attorney a week before my Article 32 hearing which we waived. TDS attorney PCS two months before the trial date, I was assigned another TDS lawyer, and she was terrific. Now my legal was set, and I know it will be a battle. The Government dropped evidence on our lap 30 days out. Mr. Waddington called me. I explain my side of the story. The whole time Mr. and Mrs. Waddington treated me with dignity and respect and believed in my truth, always finding a way to make me feel at ease. Once again, my case went on for 17 months; it was a long, painful journey. You need someone like Mr. and Mrs. Waddington to represent you in this biased military justice system (UCMJ). The Government had every intention of trying to convict me of something I did not do, especially in this War against sexual assault. Mr. and Mrs. Waddington flew to Germany a week before the Trial, and we prepared to fight. The night before the Trial, this liar changes her story in version five. From the open statement, witness cross-examination to the closing statement, Mr. Waddington is FANTASTIC. The Army had their most senior and best on the case; however, Mr. Waddington was outclassed and outmatched; it was not even close. Mr. Waddington caught this lady on every lie while on the stand. He asked the right questions and argued only relevant things. The Government did not present a CID agent, Amberg police, DNA evidence, or any experts; let's not forget a video that was missing the first five minutes. The prosecutor says members of the Jury, all these things are irrelevant. We don't want to waste your guy's time presenting this nonsense. The truth came out in the courtroom, and after four hours of waiting on deliberation, NOT GUILTY!!!!!!!! I stood in the position of attention and cried so hard for 17 months, and it was over on the day of my 17th year in the Army; Mr. and Mrs. Waddington gave me a second chance at life. To end this, the military could care less if you get accused of anything. Their goal is to get a conviction. Don't hesitate to call The Waddington's. It will be money well spent; I promise you will make that money.
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Randy
9 September 2015
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Michael Waddington: Your only option at freedom. My nightmare began in July of 2014 whenever I was told by NCIS that I was under investigation for sexual assault. If found in this situation, do not feel that telling NCIS the truth of your innocence will remedy the situation -- they are out to ultimately convict you in a general court martial. By my second interview with NCIS, they stacked even more charges to my charge sheet and I panicked. I scoured the internet and notified my family that I needed to hire a civilian attorney to fight these Article 120 (UCMJ) charges immediately. After talking to one particular civilian attorney who was completely unprofessional in his consultation with myself, is when I found Michael. My first phone conversation with Michael was reassuring and comforting. The man knows military justice law in and out. He believed in my innocence from day one and his calm, professional, and collective demeanor led myself to retain his representation. I couldn't have made a better choice. Sure, some could say his fees are a bit "high" but when it came to a felony conviction, 67 years in brig confinement, sexual offender registry; this decision was an easy one to make. Money can always be repairable but the aforementioned cocktail of legal repercussions, can not be. He even worked with myself every step of the way financially because he knew I did not make a lot of money. Michael flew out here to join my military JAG in an attempt to drop these ridiculous charges at the Article 32 hearing. Both of my "victims" refused to testify or even, show up to the hearing (March 2015). They basically accused myself of terrible crimes and we did not see them from the date of accusations (July 2014) until my general court martial (September 2015). Seriously. Given the political agenda behind sexual assault convictions in the military that I saw from many of Michael's "Military Law Network" videos posted on his website, the preliminary hearing officer's (PHO) recommendation for referral of my charges to general court martial frustratingly came to no surprise. Even though we presented an excellent case, it was now time to prepare for the general court martial (GCM). Months later, Michael again flew out to Italy to take on the government in my ridiculous case at my GCM. From the very first witness who testified on the stand (the main accuser in the case), Michael tore apart the credibility by forcing her to make continual contradictory statements that made absolutely no sense to the jury. At one point, his co-counsel wrote a note, stating his cross-examination of her was "a bloodbath". I couldn't agree more. He continued this expert level of questioning witnesses, tearing apart their credibility, and presenting favorable evidence at little pin-point accurate moments throughout the trial. His dismantling of credibility didn't just stop at the witnesses, he additionally called out the prosecution for a multitude of factors. The prosecution, knowing that they had a very weak case, tried shady tactics in order to somehow win a conviction: overly objecting, "cherry picking" evidence that would only support their case, berating witnesses, etc.. Michael would have none of it. I wasn't sure where Michael was going with his closing argument but as he continued on, it was literally a masterpiece in the making. Even the people who attended the GCM asked "who is the guy in that suit that is destroying everybody in this case?". I always felt the proud sensation and urge to yell at them, "that's my attorney!". He made me that proud in the courtroom at all times. After presenting closing arguments, the verdict finally came out after a 4.5 hour deliberation: "we find Sailor XX...NOT GUILTY on all charges and specifications.". Please hire Michael if you are in a similar situation -- your freedom is too important to not because I can say with complete confidence, he will be your best fighting chance. My family and I owe you everything Michael. Thank you so much.