Defend yourself

  • Published
  • By Airman Samuel Anderson
  • 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --   The MHAFB Area Defense Council's mission is to protect an individual's rights by ensuring the independent and aggressive representation of Air Force members who face military justice and adverse administrative actions.

The council represents active-duty Air Force members and provides complete attorney-client confidentiality, but does not work for the commander, legal office, Office of Special Investigations, or security forces.

Capt. Jared Hawkins, MHAFB Area Defense Council, said no matter the case, Airmen have the right to seek the advice from the ADC. The only instances where the ADC cannot fully assist are with Inspector General and Military Equal Opportunity complaints.

Airmen should seek the ADC's assistance when they are under an OSI investigation before they make a statement or whenever they receive any kind of paperwork.

"Usually Airmen don't think it's important to come see us," said Staff Sgt. Lindsey Riggs, MHAFB Area Defense Council legal assistant. "A piece of paperwork as small as a Letter of Counseling can have an impact on your career. You should always exercise your right to come see us. We will only help Airmen; we won't try to ruin their careers."

The ADC's main clients are Airmen who have received Letters of Reprimand, Article 15s or have been a case suspect. Last year, the ADC saw more than 600 clients and helped with more than 15 different cases.

"We offer a variety of different services to Airmen," said Captain Hawkins. "We try to make sure that we can serve the base the best possible way. Although we mainly deal with LORs and Article 15s, we also help Airmen who have been put on discharge boards or are being court martialed. So no matter what the case is, Airmen should come see us."

The Area Defense Council is located in building 2310 on the third floor and is open Monday through Friday during normal duty hours and can be reached at 828-2675.