Ernesto C. Gapasin Jr.

PRO

Ernesto C. Gapasin Jr.

4.9
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 26 years

Military law Lawyer at Springfield, MO
Practice Areas: Military Law

405 N. Jefferson Avenue, Springfield, MO

Free Consultation

About Ernesto

Biography

With 27 years of experience in military law, I have defended service members worldwide in courts-martial and separation boards, securing strong results. Clients trust my proven advocacy, deep system knowledge, and I obtained testimonials from service members whose careers and futures were protected.

When your military career, benefits, and freedom are at risk, you need experienced defense focused exclusively on military law. We defend service members in courts-martial and separation boards with strategic, aggressive advocacy designed to protect your record, your rights, and your future.

Practice Areas

1

Practice Area

Military Law 100%

E.C. Gapasin focuses 100% of his practice to courts-martial defense. He is committed to defending servicemembers from all branches around the world when they face prosecution under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. E.C. Gapasin values the lives and the sacrifice of every servicemember. E.C. Gapasin is passionate about protecting each of those members’ rights when they face prosecution under the UCMJ.

26 years | 1,000 cases

100%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2026 2022 2021
...
+ 2

Licenses

Licensed in Missouri for 22 years

State: Missouri

Acquired: 2004

Good Standing, Active

No misconduct found

Licensed in Nevada for 26 years

State: Nevada

Acquired: 1999

Active

No misconduct found

Location

GAPASIN LAW LLC - Military Law and Defense

405 N. Jefferson Avenue, Springfield, MO, 65806

gapasinlaw.com/

Ernesto C. Gapasin Jr.'s Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.9 /5.0

52 Client Reviews

Showing 6 - 10 of 11 reviews | Communication Style

Posted by Robert | October 10, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Thank you Mr. Gapasin

In May 2017 my son, an active duty E5, was served with charges, Violation of UCMJ Article 120. (RAPE). As his father, I knew he was going to need a very good attorney with experience in military courts and procedures. We conducted a diligent search, via the internet, and found Ernesto Gapasin and his... firm. My son and I were confident from our research Mr. Gapasin was well qualified to handle his case. I was fairly certain when I contacted his office, that it would take several days before we heard back from Mr. Gapasin. We were pleasantly surprised when he called us in less than 24 hours. During our initial conversation with Mr. Gapasin he was professional, compassionate, and down to earth. Mr. Gapasin was up front from the very beginning about what my son could expect as his case made it through the various procedures, motions, Article 32 hearing and unfortunately Court Martial, and final disposition. Mr. Gapasin also explained the services his office provides and his legal fees. It was a relief to know the financial burden was not going to break the bank. Even before Mr. Gapasin was retained, he began helping my son to prepare for the legal battle he was about to face. Mr. Gapasin traveled to my son's base to meet with him and stayed in touch with him throughout the legal process. During the court process, Mr. Gapasin was worth every dime we spent on his services. From the motions he filed, to the examination of witnesses at the Article 32 hearing and the Court Martial that followed, Mr. Gapasin was well prepared and effective. It took 7 months to go through all of the court processes. As a result of Mr. Gapasin's efforts on my son's behave, the Article 32 hearing officer recommended all charges be dropped. The military JAG office went forward to Court Martial, despite the recommendations of the hearing officer. At the Court Martial, Mr. Gapasin's trial experience was evident. As a father, I could not have asked for a better attorney to advocate for my son. Due greatly to Mr. Gapasin's efforts on his behave, my son was found NOT GUILTY. If you are facing the criminal process through the military, I highly recommend you contact Mr. Gapasin and his firm about representation. You will not find another attorney that will fight for you as well and as effectively as Mr. Gapasin.

Posted by anonymous | September 15, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Military Law

Saved my life

I was facing UCMJ article 128 assault consummated by battery with two specifications(choking and intent to cause grievous bodily harm). I was facing a special court martial in which the Air Force had given me four weeks to prepare. I called Mr. Gapasin desperate for someone to hear my side of the ca...se and understand. I called many lawyers prior to Ernesto and never got a feeling they had my best interest at heart. My consultation with Mr. Gapasin put my mind at ease. He diligently started working on my case and got me a continuation. Mr. Gapasin would give me as much information as I needed to know but did not over do it. I had faith in him from the beginning. He was understanding of my financial situations, and never once did pressure me for payment. Ernesto worked well with my military appointed lawyer and even flew directly to Japan for my case. He went into my case with confidence and was very aggressive. All in all, Mr. Ernesto reduced my case from a special court martial to a Summary Courts Martial. My charges for assault was dropped to a disorderly conduct and I did not lose my NCO status. If you're looking for a honest, reliable, trustworthy, aggressive lawyer. Mr, Gapasin is the attorney for you! Thank you again Mr. Gapasin for saving my life!

Posted by MAJ | March 14, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Administrative Law

Administrative Separation Board

Ernesto Gapasin worked diligently for two (2) years, until my board and ultimate retention. He was sometimes hard to get ahold of and vague with his answers to my many questions...but ultimately proved his worth at the hearing! You will get discouraged and frustrated along the way, but Mr. Gapasin ...is your man!! He is well worth his fee and I highly recommend him.

Posted by anonymous | June 30, 2014 | Military Law

General Court Martial facing over 40 years of confinement and sex offender registration. Full acquittal!

I was charged with multiple offenses under the UCMJ based on a 15-6 Investigation from my chain of command that led to a general court martial with me facing over 40 years of confinement and sex offender registration. From the moment of consulting Mr. Gapasin to hire him for my defense until the end... of the court martial he informed me of every course of action that he was going to take throughout the whole process including me in the decision making. During the court martial Mr. Gapasin proved that not only the accuser but the witnesses were incredible and dishonest. In the end I was found NOT GUILTY of all charges and specifications! Words or actions cannot show the gratitude I have towards Mr. Gapasin, I truly feel that without his experience and dedication as a defense attorney I would not be able to be with my family today. I highly recommend Mr. Gapasin to represent you!

Posted by John w | October 06, 2011 | Criminal Defense

As good as they come

I had a very difficult case that required a lot of research and required lots of dedication. Mr. Gapasin would talk to me day or night regardless of time. He would listen to my concerns and when it came to making decisions he listened to me, advised me and together we came up with my defense. I was a...cquitted of all charges. I'm positive that my case in any other hands would not have had the results I received. If Mr. Gapasin is available to you, don't look any further.

See All Client Reviews

Ernesto C. Gapasin Jr.'s Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Ernesto
Timothy James Bilecki headshot
Timothy Bilecki

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 20

Relationship: Supervised lawyer

"Truly phenomenal trial attorney. I have known and tried cases with Ernesto for nearly five years and can say without hesitation that he is one of the finest criminal defense attorneys I have ever seen. He thoroughly investigates his cases, uses advanced strategy and litigates to win. Gapasin's trial record speaks for itself. If you are facing serious court martial charges, Gapasin can level the playing field."

Ryan Stuart Coward headshot
Ryan Coward

Military law lawyer | Jan 22

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Ernesto is a fantastic courtroom savvy litigator. I was opposing counsel on a case against Ernesto in Korea and he proved to be a superb advocate for his client. With years of experience representing service members, Ernesto is certainly one of the best. I give him my highest endorsement."

Anthony Joseph Kuhn headshot
Anthony Kuhn

Military law lawyer | Dec 20

Relationship: Co-worker

"Ernesto is an enthusiastic and proactive attorney who aggressively represents his clients in all military matters. I endorse this lawyer."

Nathan Paul Freeburg headshot
Nathan Freeburg

Military law lawyer | Aug 31

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Ernesto is a superb military justice practitioner. Few lawyers have his wealth of military justice experience and his knowledge of the ins and outs of the system and where to go to get results. I wouldn’t hesitate to have him represent me."

Joseph Wayne Flees II headshot
Joseph Flees

Military law lawyer | May 29

Relationship: Co-worker

"Ernesto is the hardest working military defense counsel I know. I have had the privilege of seeing first hand his zealous approach to defending his clients. If you are facing a court-martial, you should call Ernesto."

Judd S Nemiro headshot
Judd Nemiro

Unknown lawyer | May 22

Relationship: Other

"Top-notch attorney. I endorse this lawyer."

Jill L Rogers headshot
Jill Rogers

Unknown lawyer | May 14

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer for his dedication to the community."

David King Back headshot
David Back

Military law lawyer | Apr 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Russell J Hebets headshot
Russell Hebets

Military law lawyer | Aug 18

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Peter Todd Stevenson headshot
Peter Stevenson

Unknown lawyer | Jun 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Excellent lawyer who is highly respected in the community!"

Emmanuel Valerio Tipon headshot
Emmanuel Tipon

Military law lawyer | Oct 19

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Mr. Gapasin is one of the brightest lawyers I know practicing military criminal defense. He has a nationwide reputation as a hard hitting defense lawyer who is relentless in his representation of his clients."

Joseph L. Jordan headshot
Joseph Jordan

Military law lawyer | Apr 24

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Ernesto is ever the tactician. More importantly, Ernesto is not afraid to push the limits in order to get the best results for his clients. He is a great attorney who always relates well to his juries."

Daniel Dean Brogdon headshot
Daniel Brogdon

Military law lawyer | Mar 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Ron S Bamieh headshot
Ron Bamieh

Military law lawyer | Feb 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Patrick D Angel headshot
Patrick Angel

Military law lawyer | Nov 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Matthew Alexander Holland headshot
Matthew Holland

Unknown lawyer | Jul 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Okiemute C Whiteru headshot
Okiemute Whiteru

Military law lawyer | Apr 24

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

William Oris Worsham headshot
William Worsham

Military law lawyer | Apr 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Seth Alkon Gladstein headshot
Seth Gladstein

Military law lawyer | Mar 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Ernesto is a dedicated attorney, who aggressively advocates for his clients. He is detailed-oriented, and has a wide breadth of knowledge and experience in various military law matters. I highly recommend him."

John Dimitrios Andreopoulos headshot
John Andreopoulos

Military law lawyer | Mar 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Ernesto. He is a renowned lawyer and advocate."

View All Endorsements
Joseph Wayne Flees II headshot
Joseph Flees

Criminal defense lawyer

David King Back headshot
David Back

Criminal defense lawyer

Nicholas Petersen Ching headshot
Nicholas Ching

Family lawyer

Ryan Stuart Coward headshot
Ryan Coward

Military law lawyer

Emmanuel Valerio Tipon headshot
Emmanuel Tipon

Military law lawyer

Joseph L. Jordan headshot
Joseph Jordan

Military law lawyer

William Oris Worsham headshot
William Worsham

Criminal defense lawyer

Timothy James Bilecki headshot
Timothy Bilecki

Military law lawyer

Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Military law lawyer

Philip Douglas Cave headshot
Philip Cave

Military law lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2015

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association

2014

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association

2013

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association

2012

Meritorious Service Medal, U.S. Army

2010

Army Commendation Medal w/ 2 Oak Leaf Clusters, U.S. Army

2007

Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, U.S. Army

2003

Tower of Strength Award, State Bar of Nevada

Work Experience

2023 - Present

Senior Counsel, Tully Rinckey, PLLC

2012 - 2023

Managing Partner, Gapasin Law Group, LLC

2005 - 2012

Judge Advocate General, United States Army, J.A.G. Corps

2002 - 2004

Associate, Lewis & Shreve

1999 - 2001

Associate, Rawlings, Olson, Cannon, Gormley & Desruisseaux

1998 - 1998

Summer Associate, Rawlings, Olson, Cannon, Gormley & Desruisseaux

1997 - 1997

Clerk Intern, Eighth Circuit Federal District Court

Associations

2012 - Present

National Trial Lawyers Association

Member

2010 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

2010 - Present

Missouri State Bar, Military Law Committee

Member

2004 - Present

Missouri State Bar

Member

2003 - Present

United States Supreme Court Bar

Member

2001 - Present

United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit

Member

1999 - Present

Nevada State Bar

Member

1999 - Present

United States District Court for the District of Nevada

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

U.S. v. E-7

Not Guilty to all charges and their specifications.

U.S. vs. O-2

Not guilty to rape.

U.S. v. E-3

Dismissed without prejudice.

U.S. v. E-5

Not guilty to all charges and specifications.

U.S. v. E-4

Dismissed without prejudice.

U.S. v. E-6

Virtual acquittal, only received a letter of reprimand.

U.S. v. E-5

Partial acquittal, resulting in no discharge and no sex offender registration.

U.S. v. E-7

Negotiated result, allowing client to retire after 22 year career at just 1 rank reduction.

U.S. v. E-6

Virtual acquittal resulting in a sentence of no punishment.

U.S. v. O-3

Not guilty to all charges and specifications.

U.S. v. E-4

Negotiated plea resulting in lesser confinement.

U.S. v. E-6

Not guilty to all charges and specifications.

See More Legal Cases

Education

2005

Judge Advocate General's School, U.S. Army

Commission

1999

University of Missouri - Columbia School of Law

Juris Doctor

1996

University of Notre Dame

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2012

Offsite Training, Springfield, Missouri

Ethics for the Military Law Office

2011

Annual CONUS Trial Defense Service Conference, Tampa, Florida

Cross-Examination in Sexual Assault Cases

2010

USATDS Pacific Rim Regional Conference, Seoul, South Korea

Innocence Lost: Cross-Examining Child Victims

2009

USATDS, Pacific Rim Regional Conference, Dongducheon, South Korea

The Art of Taking Depositions

Publications

2002

Communique (Clark County Bar) The Changing Supreme Court

Languages

English

Activity

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