I hired Phil when I was accused of an Article 120 offense for sexual assault. The details of my case aren't important, since it was just another in the long list of cases dealing with a member deciding after the fact that they were too drunk to consent, couldn't remember, etc etc.
Phil worked with my military lawyer and did a great job keeping me in the loop at all times. There are so many motions and procedures that do not involve the defendant that it is easy to lose track of what's happening as the various lawyers, judges and paralegals email each other and ignore you entirely. Phil made sure I was never left behind.
But where he really shines is his experience. 35 years is a long time to be practicing, but in the military you simply will not find anyone with even half that time. His knowledge of case law and evidentiary rules shines, and the prosecutor (and judge, often) will have to play catch up.
He also brings an element of familiarity and comfort to an experience that is often very rigid and formal. When you see him in court you get the sense he has been around the block a time or two... and he has.
His style is slow and meandering, and you may find yourself wondering where he is going with a line of questioning, but when he finishes you will have no doubt. Quality over quantity is what you get with Phil, and at the end of it all when I was found not guilty of all charges, there wasn't a moment where I debated if he was worth the cost.
In the Military, I was accused of falsely accused of rape and related charges. Mr. Cave represented me during the course of the investigation, and on through the Article 32 hearing. His arguments and questions during the 32 resulted in the accuser changing her story, and even refusing to answer questions. As a result, it was dismissed.
Security clearances, adverse military administrative actions, administrative board hearings.
43 years, 1,000 cases
MILITARY DEFENSE LAWYER: COURT-MARTIAL TRIAL AND COURT-MARTIAL APPEALS. 41 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WITH MILITARY INVESTIGATIONS, COURT-MARTIAL PROSECUTIONS, AND APPEAL OF CONVICTIONS.
RECENTLY BEGAN PARTNERING WITH NATHAN FREEBURG, WHO HAS MANY YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN MILITARY LAW.41 YRS MILITARY DEFENSE LAWYER IN COURT-MARTIAL TRIALS, APPEALS, AND ADVERSE ACTIONS.
I first came to the United States in 1972 from London, England, where I was born and had grown up.
I have been practicing military law for 43 years now doing courts-martial and court-martial appeals.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Knowledge and Experience
I hired Phil when I was accused of an Article 120 offense for sexual assault. The details of my case aren't important, since it was just another in the long list of cases dealing with a member deciding after the fact that they were too drunk to consent, couldn't remember, etc etc.
Phil worked with my military lawyer and did a great job keeping me in the loop at all times. There are so many motions and procedures that do not involve the defendant that it is easy to lose track of what's happening as the various lawyers, judges and paralegals email each other and ignore you entirely. Phil made sure I was never left behind.
But where he really shines is his experience. 35 years is a long time to be practicing, but in the military you simply will not find anyone with even half that time. His knowledge of case law and evidentiary rules shines, and the prosecutor (and judge, often) will have to play catch up.
He also brings an element of familiarity and comfort to an experience that is often very rigid and formal. When you see him in court you get the sense he has been around the block a time or two... and he has.
His style is slow and meandering, and you may find yourself wondering where he is going with a line of questioning, but when he finishes you will have no doubt. Quality over quantity is what you get with Phil, and at the end of it all when I was found not guilty of all charges, there wasn't a moment where I debated if he was worth the cost.
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Posted by anonymous | March 23, 2015
Good to go
In the Military, I was accused of falsely accused of rape and related charges. Mr. Cave represented me during the course of the investigation, and on through the Article 32 hearing. His arguments and questions during the 32 resulted in the accuser changing her story, and even refusing to answer questions. As a result, it was dismissed.
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Posted by anonymous | August 29, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Cannot Ask for a Better and More Experienced Attorney
Mr. Cave helped me with an IG complaint, which could have impacted my active duty career. He provided legal advice and assisted me with the interview questions. Mr. Cave was extremely patient (we worked on the questions for hours), flexible, responsive, meticulous and thorough. The outcome of the investigation was positive (not substantiated). I am thankful for his service.
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Posted by Donnie | August 19, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best military defense lawyer in the National Capital Region
Last year, I came under suspicion of a couple of changes that would end my career and end any of my chances of getting hired as a civil servant. That was something I never thought was going to happen during my military career. I was devastated and didn't know what to do; that's when I reach out to Mr. Cave. He was one of the best-recommended defense lawyers in the National Captial Region. Mr. Philip Cave had helped me get through with the investigation and complete drop of suspicion and charges. I can tell you that he possesses extensive experience on any charges involving security clearance, and he will always give you frank assessments based on his experience. In addition, he also worked with Mr. Nathen Greenburg, who has experience with Army litigations. His team continuously updated me on my expectations and provided sound legal advice on the subject matter. Thus, I was able to protect myself throughout the process. Mr. Cave and Mr. Nathen Greenburg reassured me that I always had a team of experts support me. If you are under suspicion or charged for any security-related matter, you must call Mr. Cave. Mr. Cave and his team will do their best to get you through your difficult time.
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Posted by Eric | January 3, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
He saved my honor during an Aritcle 120
As a military male, we know that Article 120's are not infallible. That often in the military they are persuaded by political influence and sometimes are made up. I found myself in a similar situation. Phillip came in on the attack and immediately started attacking the prosecution's handling of the investigation, and applied for the proper appeals. I went to court and was given a not guilty verdict. I would like to say truth persevered. However, unfortunately, we live in a world where the truth is subjective, especially in the military. Even with the truth on your side, you will need a lawyer like Phillip to attack your case and give you the justice you deserve.
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Posted by Phil | July 8, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
AR 15-6 Investigation Assistance
Mr. Cave and his associate Mr. Kornacki were/are extremely helpful and knowledgable on UCMJ procedures. They bring an additional vantage point of legal to legal coordination/negotiation that military JAG TDS attorneys do not normally process. The legal team was very responsive despite a 4 hour time change and I would recommend them to anyone in a similar circumstance.
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Posted by Robert | July 8, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Lingering Complaint Case...Well-Handled by Mr. Cave.
Mr. Cave and his staff gave timely advice, rolled up their sleeves, and offered my case the professional attention that only an attorney of his experience and tenure, would have been able to provide. Mr. Cave et al, diligently investigated, revealed the truth, and helped me to the best possible solution (dismissal).
Posted by LR | May 20, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Law Firm - don't gamble your future!
5 years back Mr. Cave defended me in a process that should never had occurred. A blown out of proportion lie almost ruined my career and Mr. Cave discovered all the lies and wrong doings of my case against me and now I finished another unknown process - a Grade Determination Review Board - something I was NOT expecting - only after you are gearing up for retirement you find this out. But trust NOBODY - Mr. Cave's law firm is there to represent you well and defend you at all times. Mr. Cave and Mr. Kornacki WILL defend you to the fullest at all times. And they won both of my cases. They also restored my honor, my reputation and livelihood and I can now look to retire honorably and live my life with honor and I keep everything I have earned! I don't have to look over my shoulder because I have Mr. Cave's Law Firm to back me up! Don't gamble your future with ANY administrative process against your in the Army. Don't face the process without Mr. Cave's legal support - it could prove catastrophic! Mr. Cave may GOD bless you and Mr. Kornacki always - you two are superb attorneys!
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Posted by Bob | May 13, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
So glad I contacted Philip's legal services!
Many years after retiring from the USN, I suddenly found myself in a very unwelcome legal matter with the Navy. It was a total shock and I was very concerned as to the impact this would have on me and my family. Philip was so helpful, truly a calming force, and his legal help was invaluable to me, I am so thankful that I availed myself of his services!
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Posted by Bryan | April 19, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Attorney
Phil Cave has helped me through NJP and restoration of my security clearance. He even came to visit me in Spain. I never thought I would work again and he certainly through with advise and guidance that we're exactly spot on.
He is my hero and thanks to him I gave my life back....
Posted by Will | September 5, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Saved my life......
Let me begin by saying that if you find yourself being read a charge sheet for a 120 offense, you are in for a wild ride. The worst thing you can do is hold onto the hope that the process is fair and that the truth will prevail, because it's not and it won't. I can honestly say that hiring Mr. Cave saved my life. I firmly believe that the Army puts every resource they have into destroying your life, regardless of the merit of validity of your charges. If you have ever done anything wrong during your time in the military, they will come after you for it. You NEED an experienced CIVILIAN Attorney that knows how to navigate the system without fear of jeopardizing their own chances at promotion. In the courtroom, Mr. Cave has an incredibly calm demeanor that might lead you to think that he won't attack the prosecution when the time is right, i assure you that this is not the case. I sat and watched him dissect the governments whole case and cross examine witnesses like a surgeon. It was actually impressive to watch. All this being said, Mr Cave shoots straight, tells you exactly where he thinks you stand, and is brutally honest about the system and process. I am able to be with my family because i chose to hire Phil Cave. I assure you that if you find yourself in a legal battle with the Military, this is the man you want in your corner. I assure you that hiring Phil will be the best investment you ever make.
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Posted by Andy | January 30, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Overturned my article 120 conviction
In 2014 during a nasty divorce, my ex-wife accused me of molesting my step-children I was convicted at court-martial and sentenced to 36 months separating me from my new wife and child. Mr. Cave and his team got my conviction overturned in the Army Court of Criminal Appeals and got me over $100,000 in back pay I now have my nursing license back and I am about to start work. Thanks, Phill you saved more than just my life you saved us all!
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Posted by anonymous | March 16, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I owe this man my life.
Mr. Cave is an expert at his craft and took the time to defend me in a situation that had all of the cards stacked against me. My ex wife became angry that I left the home and accused me of rape and assault. Mr. Cave exposed her lies and fortunately I was acquitted.
The one thing I appreciate the most about Mr. Cave is that he was honest and did not sell me any dreams about my situation. I was fully prepared for the worst case scenario because he was honest about how these kinds of cases work out.
I am also a single parent, which made this even more of a heart breaking situation. My daughter and I owe are lives to Mr. Cave.
P.S.- If you are on Ft. Bragg and need representation, find Mr. Cave and also find CPT Vivek Shah. They literally saved my life.
Thank you Sir!
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Posted by anonymous | February 13, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Military Law Attorney
Mr Cave was very professional. He kept me updated on all aspects of the case during preparation and during the hearing.
He prepared me for the hearing and giving testimony so that I was not nervous. I found his fees to be reasonable.
Posted by Douglas | April 6, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Acquitted!!!
Mr. Cave knows what he is doing. I am in the USAF, was charged with an Article 132 offense (fraud), and was found not guilty in a special court martial this afternoon. He was the only lawyer outside of the local area I contacted because of his biography; he’s “seen it all.” From the beginning, he was straightforward and insightful. Our initial consultation was brief. I contacted a few other local UCMJ lawyers, but they wanted to charge me just for a consultation. Mr. Cave’s was free. I am stationed a few hours away from his office and he took the time to come and meet with me (after he was retained) a few weeks before the trial. In the interim, we were hashing out the finer points of my defense. His knowledge of military law was impressive to say the least. I would also like to speak a bit about his personality. Mr. Cave is personable (in my opinion; he was to me) to his clients, but his presence demands respect, especially from the prosecution and judge. My ADC was amazing, absolutely amazing, but I decided to hire Mr. Cave because I wanted to keep the prosecution on their toes and I’m glad I did. Watching him work in the courtroom was an amazing sight. Of course the judge was running the court, but Mr. Cave was commanding it when he was on the floor. Needless to say, he worked flawlessly with my ADC throughout the entire process, made very strong arguments in my defense, and successfully defended me. I would highly recommend Mr. Cave to anyone that is facing a court martial!
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Posted by LR | February 15, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Affordable High Power Attorney You Can Count On…
When you face a serious case like the one I had to endure you must look for an experienced attorney. Someone you can rely on. Someone who has the legal expertise and skills to manage the government machine, someone who can defend YOU! A co-worker of mine made an allegation against me despite the fact that we had a good working relationship but destiny took a wrongful turn and an exaggerated lie put me against a rock and a hard place.
I was unintentionally involved in an unfortunate human emotions mishap that almost brought my career to an end. After researching the internet looking for a SOLID expert in the Sexual Assault/Misconduct Allegation field I had to act quickly because the odds were against me despite my strong will to defend myself.
When I first contacted Mr. Cave’s office and got the call back within 24hrs, I was certain that I made the correct decision. Mr. Cave gave me peace of mind – despite the fact that – nothing in military legal matters can be guaranteed. However, Mr. Cave was eager to hear me, to know the facts and to get to know me personally and professionally and to get to work right away. He will visit you personally to establish the initial and crucial dialog…the connection.
Mr. Cave, can be intriguing, unorthodox, and at times mysterious…you may think, is this attorney going to help my case? And the answer is YES! He is an extraordinary and very knowledgeable attorney. His military justice acumen is bar none. He was very accommodating in working with my military attorney and with my needs. He claimed overall control from the get go. He knew what to ask, how to properly prepare me for my defense and knew how to question the “evidence” against me – which was an exaggerated case made out of a lie.
Feel confident that Mr. Cave is worth e-v-e-r-y penny you invest in your defense, especially if you are facing a Board of Inquiry. Your life, reputation and lifetime work CANNOT be bargained at ANY cost. Mr. Cave can work your case and can construct a viable and comforting defense to help you in your needs.
Having gone thru an experience like the one I had to endure for 9 months was no easy task. But Mr. Cave was there for me, my military legal team and family. He truly defended me well and my reputation and career was saved. Rely on an experienced attorney like Mr. Cave. Its high power that you can afford!
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Posted by anonymous | February 2, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend, so happy we found him
Atty Cave was very professional and was able to provide positive results against all odds. He was very responsive and kept us informed throughout the entire process. I ask a lot of questions and he never got frustrated with me, if he did, he never let on. I would absolutely recommend him or use him again in the future.
Posted by Mia | January 5, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional
Retained Mr. Cave after speaking with other lawyers. He asked questions that no other attorney asked.He is genuine, honest ,reliable and true, qualities you want in a lawyer, in a situation where his services are needed. In the end the situation resolved itself and he sent a refund from retainer.Would highly recommend Mr Cave.
Posted by anonymous | September 19, 2014
Outstanding Wise and Experienced Attorney
A few months back I was falsely charged with coercive sexual assault. The accuser claimed that although the past relations were consensual, she was coerced due to the difference in rank and waited 4 months to claim this only after she was written up. During the investigation process, I proceeded through normal channels by utilizing military trial defense attorneys. I soon realized that the majority of information that I read regarding trial defense attorneys was true, in that although my military attorney was a very intelligent attorney, he had never been to a single contested trial. I immediately contacted Mr. Cave and presented my case. He immediately took my case and began litigating with the prosecutor on my behalf. When the trial date arrived, that is when Mr. Cave’s knowledge of the military legal system shined. Through objections and petitions, Mr. Cave consistently sighted case law by memory whereas the military prosecutor and even the judge had to continuously refer to their military manuals for clarification.
Although it is my opinion that Mr. Cave is one of the best attorneys regarding military law, he is also the type of lawyer that is truly invested in his client’s legal dilemmas. I will say that it is crucial for the client to be just as involved in the case as the attorney though. You will get out of a case what you put into it. The end results within the legal system may not always be what you expect, but Mr. Cave will definitely help you fight the fight and re-balance the unjust scales that the government tilts to its favor.
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Posted by Chris | September 14, 2014
Outstanding International Military Defense Attorney - My Experience with Article 120 Charges
Mr. Cave proved to be an outstanding defense attorney and with decades of experience he is certainly one of the best and most experienced international military defense attorneys out there. He worked tirelessly on my case and was available at nearly any time of day despite me living in Korea. He was able to get 3 of 6 specifications of abusive sexual contact dismissed prior to trial. During the trial, two more were found not guilty and the third was dismissed. He is an expert in military law and well known in his field. He was always extremely professional, caring and dedicated to the outcome of my case. Even though he had other clients he always made me feel like I was his only one and never a burden. His fees are very reasonable and you could easily spend more and get less. With all of the work he did, including dozens of motions, hundreds of e-mails, phone calls, research, etc., I feel he could have easily charged more. If you are undergoing a potential court martial, particularly an Art 120 offense, you want a civilian attorney, and there is nobody I could recommend more than Mr. Cave. It was truly a pleasure working with him and I appreciate everything he did with my case.
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Military law Attorney | Aug 31
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Phil is quite simply the dean of military justice practice. He has seen every iteration of the system and seen how it has changed to the detriment of the service member. He knows the case law better than any judge, knows how to practice at trial and knows how to win on appeal. He’s where I go when I can’t find the answer anywhere."
Military law Attorney | Mar 08
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Phil Cave is a professional attorney of the highest caliber. He is an incredibly brilliant and aggressive courtroom tactician who never forgets that the client's needs come before all other concerns. Phil is a true treasure for those fortunate enough to work with him."
Administrative law Attorney | Aug 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse Mr. Cave. Very knowledgeable and caring attorney who achieves great results in representing clients! I want all people to contact him for help."
Military law Attorney | Jul 15
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Almost nobody is more enthusiastic about a court fight than Phil Cave. He makes prosecutors cringe because he has all day to take their case apart. I've seen him in action and it works. I endorse this lawyer!"
Administrative law Attorney | Apr 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Cave consistently gives analytical answers in this forum. His responses are cogent, concise and practical. He wisely observes, when applicable, if pertinent facts are missing from a question and he notes how such might or might not impact a fuller legal analysis. All in all his responses are helpful, legally accurate, and well-articulated. I endorse this lawyer."
Military law Attorney | Mar 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Cave went out of his way to assist me in navigating a divorce issue involving a deployed soldier. Mr. Cave is knowledgeable, astute, professional, and also kind."
Military law Attorney | Dec 04
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I worked with Phil on a Dubay hearing when I was active duty. Of all the civilian attorneys I worked with, Phil Cave was definitely the best. His strategy and preparedness were exemplary and I would work with him again any time."
Military law Attorney | Sep 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Phil is well-respected as a knowledgeable and effective lawyer in our community. He is consistently at the cutting edge of developing law and how to use it in your case. He is a lawyer that other lawyers go to for advice on emerging military law. I fully endorse Phil."
Military law Attorney | Jul 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"This will be your attorney. Knowledge of the UCMJ coupled with a personal navy background are important but client satisfaction and results are his hallmark. Just read his reviews! Schedule a consultation and than hire him. KUDOS"
Administrative law Attorney | Jun 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community, I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of his clients and getting them the most favorable result possible."