When a family member in the military is accused of a crime, it can feel like the world has flipped upside down. You may be overwhelmed, confused, or unsure of how to help. This is especially true in military communities, such as Colorado Springs, where service members live under a different legal system than civilians.
Whether your loved one is stationed nearby or deployed overseas, your support matters. Here’s how you can be there for them in a meaningful and practical way.
Understanding What They’re Facing
The military justice system is complex. It operates under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), which includes offenses and procedures that don’t apply in the civilian world. If your loved one is accused of a crime, they could be facing anything from a court-martial to administrative separation or a nonjudicial punishment (Article 15).
These situations move quickly. Investigations can begin without much notice, and legal decisions often happen behind closed doors on base. Whether the case involves a unit at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs or a naval station abroad, the stakes are serious.
This is why early legal representation is so important. It’s one of the most effective ways to protect a service member’s career, benefits, and reputation.
Providing Steady Emotional Support
One of the best things you can do is show up. That doesn’t always mean physically—mainly if your family is spread across the country—but it does mean being present.
Try to avoid judgment or speculation. Your loved one is likely feeling a mix of fear, shame, and confusion. Offer your presence, not pressure. Let them know they’re not alone and that you’re here, no matter what.
Sometimes, emotional support is as simple as checking in regularly, being a safe person to talk to, or helping them process what they’re hearing from their command or legal counsel.
If appropriate, you can also:
- Offer to join phone calls with their attorney (as permitted)
- Help explain what’s happening to other family members
- Remind them of their value beyond the accusations
Helping in Practical Ways
Emotional support is key, but so is action. Many military service members are reluctant to ask for help, even when they’re under intense pressure. That’s where family can step in quietly but effectively.
Here are a few practical ways to help:
- Keep a calendar of important deadlines, meetings, and hearings
- Organize legal paperwork and correspondence
- Offer to help with childcare, household tasks, or transportation
- Collect letters of support or character references if requested
- Monitor mail and email for legal updates or command notices
If you’re in Colorado Springs or near the base, you may also be able to attend public proceedings or speak with local resources on their behalf. Just be sure to check with their attorney before taking any steps that involve command or official channels.
And remember—discretion matters. Avoid discussing the case publicly or posting on social media.
Choosing the Right Legal Representation
Military defense counsel are often capable and hardworking, but their time and resources may be limited. For serious charges, many families choose to hire civilian military defense attorneys who specialize in this area of law.
These attorneys often have a military background themselves and understand how to build strong defenses within the UCMJ system. A civilian attorney can work alongside appointed counsel or take over entirely, depending on the needs of the case.
Although our office is based in Colorado Springs, we represent service members nationwide and worldwide. We frequently travel to military installations and remote duty stations to provide support. No matter where your loved one is located, experienced legal guidance is within reach.
Staying Strong Together
Being accused of a military crime can take a toll on everyone. The process may take months to complete. There may be setbacks, delays, and uncertainty. Through it all, your loved one needs steady support—not just at the beginning, but throughout the entire process.
This is a time to lean on one another. Open communication can help your family weather this storm. It’s also okay to ask for help. You may want to reach out to a counselor, chaplain, or military family resource center for additional support.
And always remember—this accusation does not define your family member. With the right approach and the right legal team, a path forward is possible.
We’re Here to Help—Wherever You Are
If your loved one has been accused of a military offense, don’t wait to take the next step. The decisions made early in the case can have a lasting impact on their future.
At Court Martial Law, we defend service members stationed in Colorado Springs, across the United States, and around the globe. Whether you’re facing a court-martial, separation, or appeal, we’re ready to help.
Reach out today for a free consultation and let us help your family move forward with strength and support.
