Richard V Stevens III

PRO

Richard V Stevens III

5.0
Rating: 9.7

Licensed for 30 years

Military law Lawyer at Washington, DC
Practice Areas: Military Law

Worldwide Military Representation, Washington, DC

About Richard

Biography

If you are in trouble in the military, you need help, guidance, and an experienced attorney practicing as a military defense lawyer to advocate for you!

Practice Areas

1

Practice Area

Military Law 100%

Former active duty JAG and military defense lawyer. Civilian court-martial defense lawyer and criminal defense attorney who exclusively handles military cases and clients stationed around the world. Defend and represent military clients against court-martial allegations, administrative discharge/separation, military discipline, adverse administrative actions, investigations. Free initial consultations and aggressive defense representation based on years of military law and trial experience.

30 years | 500 cases

100%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2025 2024 2016
...
+ 3

Licenses

Licensed in District of Columbia for 22 years

State: District of Columbia

Acquired: 2003

Good Standing

No misconduct found

Licensed in North Carolina for 30 years

State: North Carolina

Acquired: 1995

Inactive

No misconduct found

Location

Law Offices of Richard V. Stevens, PC

Worldwide Military Representation, Washington, DC, 20005

militaryadvocate.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find Richard online.

Richard V Stevens III's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

56 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (56) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 1 - 5 of 17 reviews | Character & Conduct

Posted by anonymous | December 16, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Military Law

Legal Representation Review

I am a senior military noncommissioned officer who was falsely accused of sexual assault by another service member. As a result, I faced a general court-martial. Had I been convicted, I would have faced years of confinement and mandatory registration as a sex offender. Mr. Stevens represented me thro...ughout this process. Mr. Stevens handled every major aspect of my case. He drafted and argued multiple complex motions grounded in current and evolving military law. He prepared evidence and personally questioned all witnesses during the motion hearings, including my accuser. As a direct result of his preparation and advocacy during those hearings, significant and critical evidence was uncovered that became essential to the defense at trial. During the court-martial, Mr. Stevens delivered the opening statement, conducted direct examination of defense witnesses, and cross-examined the accuser, government witnesses, and the government’s expert. His questioning was precise, disciplined, and strategic. In particular, his cross-examination of the government’s expert demonstrated a deep understanding of both the subject matter and the weaknesses in the government’s theory of the case. Mr. Stevens’ cross-examination of the accuser was especially effective. He methodically exposed inconsistencies, credibility issues, and motives to fabricate, doing so in a professional manner that maintained credibility with the panel while clearly undermining the government’s case. His closing argument was thorough, well-organized, and compelling. He tied together the evidence, testimony, and credibility issues in a way that clearly demonstrated reasonable doubt and highlighted the government’s failure to meet its burden of proof. Ultimately, I was found not guilty of the alleged sexual assault. Mr. Stevens’ advice, preparation, courtroom advocacy, and strategic decision-making were critical to this outcome. Throughout the case, he was consistently available to answer questions, provided clear and honest advice, and ensured I understood the process and potential outcomes at every stage. His preparation was meticulous, his strategy was sound, and his courtroom presence was confident and effective. I would, without hesitation, recommend Mr. Stevens to anyone facing allegations or adverse actions within the military justice system, particularly cases involving sexual assault allegations. The stakes in these cases are extraordinarily high, and Mr. Stevens demonstrated the experience, judgment, and dedication necessary to defend them effectively.

Posted by anonymous | November 16, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Military Law

Attorney Richard V. Stevens is why I will be promoted!!!

I hired Attorney Richard V. Stevens because he was straight with me during the consultation about our chances of success (not great) and how knowledgeable he was of my situation. I appreciated him giving it to me straight and not over promising like the other lawyers I interviewed. However, this did... not impact how hard he fought for me and tirelessly worked on my behalf. It is because of his understanding of the regulations and experience that I am being promoted! I am a field grade military officer who was accused of misconduct and I received an adverse action based on the allegation. That adverse action could have resulted in my not being promoted, and ending my career progression. This would then have impacted my retirement grade/pay. Attorney Stevens explained the adverse action process to me, and provided me with advice as we prepared the rebuttal package. He assisted me with all aspects of preparing and submitting my rebuttal package. He assisted in gathering the evidence we used, and putting it in proper form. He contacted and interviewed character witnesses, and gathered supporting statements from them for my submission. We went back and forth on drafts of his attorney memo, and my respondent memo until we were satisfied with the final drafts. This included discussing tone, strategy, and supporting military law/regulations. Ultimately, we submitted a comprehensive and compelling rebuttal package, and he assisted me with preparing to present myself to my commander to further argue my case. After my rebuttal package was reviewed and my personal presentation was considered, my commander determined that the adverse action should be dropped. This cleared my record and will allow me to promote and continue my career. If you face a disciplinary/adverse action in the military I would highly recommend hiring Attorney Stevens.

Posted by Janelle | December 19, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Military Law

He's prepared and he's a fighter!

I am a senior military NCO who was falsely accused of sexual assault by another military member. I faced a general court-martial trial. If I had been convicted of sexual assault, I could have been confined for years and I would have had to register as a sex offender. Mr. Stevens represented me in thi...s case. Before the trial, Mr. Stevens drafted and argued multiple motions. This required updated understanding of the latest military law. He prepared the witnesses and evidence and questioned all of the witnesses in the motion hearings, including experts. The result of the motion hearings was that we discovered crucial evidence to use in trial. In trial, Mr. Stevens gave the opening statement, questioned the witnesses, cross-examined the complainant and government witnesses, questioned our witnesses and our expert, and he gave the closing argument. Mr. Stevens' performance in the trial was unlike anything I’d ever seen. His knowledge of the law was impressive, it rolled off his tongue as if he had tried those cases himself. His questioning of witnesses was on a strategic level that most could not fathom. His questioning of our expert was intriguing. His cross-examination of the complainant seemed effortless; his level of preparation was evident. He exposed all her credibility issues and motives to lie. The way he pieced everything together was mind-blowing. The angles he takes are carefully detailed and strategically calculated. His closing argument was extremely thorough. He made sure to address any and all angles that could have been presented by the prosecution. It was impressive! Ultimately, I was found not guilty of the alleged sexual assault. Mr. Stevens' advice, representation, advocacy in the trial, and his work on the case is what saved my career! His attention to detail and ability to think through every aspect of the case is extremely relieving. I absolutely would recommend Mr. Stevens to anyone facing adverse actions, especially sexual assault allegations. His representation is more than I could have imagined. I never doubted if he had my best interest in mind, even if it came to hearing hard truths. He was available when I needed him and even ensured my family understood the process along the way. He answered any questions I had. He is honest, he is thorough, he comes prepared, and he will fight for you!

Posted by anonymous | August 10, 2024 | Hired Attorney

Marine Officer

I couldn’t be happier with Mr Stevens support, patience, and performance leading up to and during the execution of the board. I would definitely recommend him to anyone for support in the future.

Posted by anonymous | August 10, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Military Law

Incredible lawyer

I am a military officer who was falsely accused of sexual assault by another military member. I faced a general court-martial trial and was fortunate enough to have Mr. Stevens represent me. Before the trial, Mr. Stevens drafted and argued motions, and prepared the witnesses and evidence. In trial..., Mr. Stevens gave the opening statement, questioned the witnesses, cross-examined the complainant and government witnesses, and gave the closing argument. Mr. Stevens' performance in the trial was incredible. He went after the accusers like a shark and picked apart their many inconsistencies. He did an excellent job painting a picture of what actually happened that day and made sure to highlight the many motives the accusers had to lie in this case. His presence in the court room was nothing but professional the entire time and he treated the witnesses with patience and respect while still highlighting their inconsistencies. His work ethic outside of the courtroom during the prep days was unparalleled. I got to talk to a guy who have sat in on over 600 court cases in his lifetime and he said Mr. Stevens is the best there is. I would absolutely recommend him to a friend in need. Ultimately, I was found not guilty of the alleged sexual assault as well as all other charges I pled not guilty to!

See All Client Reviews

Richard V Stevens III's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Richard
Michael John Coco headshot
Michael Coco

Military law lawyer | Jul 15

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer without reservation. He is absolutely at the top-tier of his profession. I have known Mr. Stevens for over 15 years, and he has clearly established himself as head and shoulders above his peers. His knowledge, skill, and care for his clients shine through in everything he does. If I were a military member in trouble, he would receive my first phone call."

Melvin Arthur Vaughn II headshot
Melvin Vaughn

Military law lawyer | Nov 28

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"During the summer of 2013, I worked opposite of Mr. Stevens on a hotly contested Sexual Assault Court-Martial. Throughout the entire process, Mr. Stevens was extremely professional and diligently represented his client in a case that involved 5+ expert witnesses and multiple pieces of physical and forensic evidence. At the conclusion of the trial, he secured a full acquittal for his client. I endorse this lawyer."

Leah B. Trowbridge headshot
Leah Trowbridge

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 01

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Rich Stevens for over twenty years and have collaborated with him on several matters during that time. He deeply cares about zealously representing his clients, the law and the process. If it was my family member seeking criminal advice or representation, I would not hesitate to trust Mr. Stevens with their care."

David Francis Brash III headshot
David Brash

Military law lawyer | May 12

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Mr. Stevens for nearly twenty years. He practiced before me when I was a military judge and I practiced with him upon my retirement. In over thirty years of military justice practice, I have never encountered an advocate with his skill, drive, and concern for those he represents."

Jonathan Del Wasden headshot
Jonathan Del Wasden

Military law lawyer | Apr 16

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Richard Stevens for many years, and have always been impressed with the energy and diligence that he brings to every case. He possesses that rare mix in an attorney: he is incredibly talented and he cares deeply about his clients. If I were in a jam, he would be my first call."

Jay Beebe Simonson headshot
Jay Simonson

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 11

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Rich Stevens is one of the most talented attorneys I have known in my twenty-three years of practice. He is an outstanding trial attorney with a superior intellect as well as work ethic. I have worked with and against a large number of criminal defense attorneys and Rich Stevens is who I would recommend to anyone seeking criminal advice or representation."

Christopher D Cazares headshot
Christopher Cazares

Military law lawyer | Jan 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Stevens is a relentless advocate for his client. Mr. Stevens’ obligation to his client in the role of advocate is a model for any attorney who strives to provide zealous advocacy. I not only admire the tremendous amount of courtroom victories he has accumulated but the tireless passion that accompanies his representation."

Andre L. Pennington headshot
Andre Pennington

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 19

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I worked with Rich while I was a military defense counsel, before leaving the military and becoming a civilian defense attorney. He is absolutely phenomenal. From his research and preparation to his knowledge of defense and the military to his actual presence in the courtroom; he is outstanding. He is an easy pick for any military case. His reputation is warranted in every capacity. If I needed a military attorney, Rich is the one I would call."

View All Endorsements
Michael John Coco headshot
Michael Coco

Military law lawyer

Anthony A Swan headshot
Anthony Swan

Unknown lawyer

David Troy Cox headshot
David Cox

Immigration lawyer

Jonathan Del Wasden headshot
Jonathan Del Wasden

Military law lawyer

Christopher D Cazares headshot
Christopher Cazares

Military law lawyer

Gary Michael Miller headshot
Gary Miller

Business lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.7 (Superb)

Honors

2016

Client's Choice, Avvo

2015

Client's Choice, Avvo

2014

Client's Choice, Avvo

2013

Client's Choice, Avvo

2001

Defense Meritorous Service Medal, United States Air Force

2000

Company Grade Kuhfeld Award Nominee, AFLSA, Attorney of the Year, United States Air Force

1999

Air Force Commendation Medal, 1st OLC, United States Air Force

1997

Air Force Commendation Medal, United States Air Force

1996

Company Grade Officer of the Quarter, United States Air Force, Base Level

1995

Judge Heriot Clarkson Prize, Ethics of the Legal Profession, University of North Carolina School of Law

1995

National Defense Service Medal, United States Air Force

1994

American Jurisprudence Award, Conflict of Law, University of North Carolina School of Law

1994

American Jurisprudence Award, Ethics in Criminal Practice, University of North Carolina School of Law

1992

Phi Beta Kappa, National Academic Honor Society, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

1992

Pi Sigma Apha, National Political Science Honor Society, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

Work Experience

2003 - Present

Founder and Trial Defense Attorney, Military Defense Law Offices of Richard V. Stevens, P.C.

2001 - 2003

Litigation Attorney, Yates, McLamb & Weyher, LLP

1995 - 2001

Prosecutor, Base Defense Attorney, Regional Defense Attorney, USAF JAG Corps

Associations

2003 - Present

District of Columbia Bar

2001 - Present

North Carolina Association of Defense Attorneys

2001 - Present

Defense Research Institute

2001 - Present

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit

2001 - Present

North Carolina Federal District District Court, Eastern District

2001 - Present

North Carolina Federal District Court, Western Circuit

2001 - Present

Wake County Bar Association

1997 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

1995 - Present

United States Supreme Court Bar

1995 - Present

North Carolina State Bar

1995 - Present

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces

1995 - Present

Air Force Court of Criminal Appeals

1995 - Present

North Carolina Bar Association

Sample of Legal Cases

The Following Representative Cases...

Various

U.S. v. XXXXXXX - Rape, (Sexual) Assault, Conduct Unbecoming an Officer and Gentleman

Acquitted of rape and claims of non-consensual touching.

U.S. v. XXXXXXX - Sexual Assault

Full Acquittal - Not Guilty of All Charges.

U.S. v. XXXXXXX - Rape, Sodomy, Sexual Assault

Full Acquittal - Not Guilty of All Charges.

U.S. v. XXXXXXX - Rape, Sexual Assault

Full Acquittal - Not Guilty of All Charges

U.S. v. Cadet XXXXXXX - Rape, Sexual Assault

Case dropped after litigated pretrial hearing.

U.S. v. XXXXXXX - Larceny, Fraud, Wire Fraud

Court-martial case dropped in favor of administrative action.

U.S. v. XXXXXXX - Rape, Sexual Assault

Case dropped after litigated pretrial hearing.

U.S. v. XXXXXXX - Drug Use, Possession, Weapons Charges

Full Acquittal - Not Guilty of All Charges.

U.S. v. XXXXXXX - Travel Voucher Fraud, Larceny

Case dropped.

U.S. v. XXXXXXX - Breach of Nuclear Security, Larceny

Court-martial case dropped in favor of administrative action.

U.S. v. XXXXXXX - Premeditated Murder, Attempted Murder, Solicitation of Murder

Full Acquittal - Not Guilty of All Charges.

U.S. v. XXXXXXX - Solicitation of Murder and Conspiracy

Case dropped.

U.S. v. XXXXXXX - Rape, Sexual Assault

Client acquitted and ancillary charge, and case, dropped.

U.S. v. XXXXXXX - Attempted Predmeditated Murder, Rape

Case dropped.

See More Legal Cases

Education

1995

University of North Carolina School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1992

University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2015

Air Mobility Command SJA Conference

Competing Ideas in Military Justice

2012

USAF Senior Defense Counsel Leadership Course

Defending High Profile Cases in Media and Working with Civilian Defense Counsel

2010

NCADRC, Allegations of Child Abuse, International Conference

Defense Case Preparation in Alleged Child Abuse Cases, for Military Attendees

2009

USAF Senior Defense Counsel Leadership Course

Defending High Profile Cases, Defense Case Preparation and Challending Police Interrogations and Confessions

2006

USAF Senior Defense Counsel Leadership Course

Defending High Profile Cases, Defense Case Preparation, Challenging Police Interrogations and Confessions

2004

USAF European Defense Counsel Conference

Defending High Profile Cases in Media, Challenging Police Interrogations and Confessions, and Working with Civilian Defense Counsel

2004

USAF Central Judicial Circuit, Defense Counsel Conference

Defending High Profile Cases and Challenging Police Interrogations and Confessions

2002

USAF Pacific Circuit Defense Counsel Conference

Defending High Profile Cases, Challenging Police Interrogations and Confessions, Working with Civilian Defense Counsel

2001

USAF Central Judicial Circuit Defense Counsel Conference

Defense Case Preparation and Challenging Police Interrogations and Confessions

Publications

2013

McClatchy National News Judge's Remarks Tainting Courts-Martial

2013

Business Insider Military Rape Culture

2012

2012

Colorado Springs Gazette Academy Rape Case Dropped

2011

2010

2009

Stars and Stripes Military Murder Trial

2009

Middle East Times Defending Military War Crimes

2008

San Antonio Express News Murder Case, Iraq War

2004

Languages

English

Activity

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