I will say that Mr. Carpenter took the time to fully understand my concerns and told my story in a powerful way to let my command know that there is not enough ground for what I have been accused for by his pertinent information that he sent. He regularly communicate with me to let me know what the n...ext step will be, this built our relationship based on trust and I feel has shown me empathy and compassion. Even though my people tried to keep him away Mr. Carpenter showed perseverance to put more time in getting the job done by his knowledgeable skills about the law. On many occasions Mr. Carpenter has shown them that they do not possess the knowledge. Mr. Carpenter is a warrior who has shown the spirit that is fed by cleverly getting to the desired outcome even though my people continued to use their title and position. I will say that Mr. Carpenter is a “great lawyer”.

Before going on terminal leave I was issued my original DD-214, and I noticed that I received a General Discharge. (Under Honorable Conditions) To make a long story short, I did not agree with the discharge and made my arguments to my command and I was able to get the discharge upgraded to Honorable.... So my command issued me a DD-215, which a corrected version of the DD-214. Moreover, I noticed several awards and ribbons were not included in my DD-214/15. However, I chose to ignore that for the time being and told myself I would correct the issue at another time. Fast forward nine years!! I finally decided to update my DD-214/15, so it would reflect all my awards and ribbons that I rated. I completed the necessary form and sent it in. Well a few months later, I received my request back and they updated my DD-214/15 to reflect the awards and ribbons. However, they also changed my discharge to a General (Under Honorable Conditions) I researched military Attorney’s and came across Stephen Hayes Carpenter JR. After conducting research on Mr. Carpenter, I learned that he was an experienced military attorney, with an outstanding resume. Mr. Carpenter was the type of attorney that I needed, because I knew I had a huge battle to with review board. I contacted Mr. Carpenter and we discussed my case. He was upfront with me and made no promises, but assured me that he would fight hard for my discharge upgrade. I was satisfied with our conversation and retained his services. In the end, Mr. Carpenter was able to get my discharge upgraded to HONORABLE!!. The best part was that I never had to travel to Washington DC, to present my case in person!! Yes, I would recommend Mr. Carpenter. Do yourself a favor and retain the best legal representation that you can. Your future depends on it!

I was recently faced with a potential career ending legal battle. Congressional pressure ensured that there would be no way that a favorable outcome was possible. In short, I was faced with an abrupt end to an otherwise illustrious career. I contacted Stephen and explained the situation. He immedi...ately sprang into action and contacted the servicing SJA to mitigate how this case had been mis-managed and allowed to snowball out of control. Stephen stepped up to the plate, skillfully and systematically countering each and every allegation that was raised. Stephen went the extra mile to re-interview witnesses to get the truth, not a fabricated synopsis as criminal investigators are inclined to present. When the cards were on the table and the smoke had cleared, Stephen had made a presentation that left command channels absolutely no choice but to allow me to salvage my career and retire honorably. When a person is faced with career impacting circumstances such as this, it is very easy to drive yourself crazy with questions and concerns. Stephens communication during the entire situation was outstanding. He kept me very well informed of what to expect from the military and no matter where in the world he was a the time, he responded to my questions and concerns in a very timely manner, Stephen is an expert in military law, his experience is a MUST when you are ever faced with any career altering legal situation.

When I came under investigation for sexual assault I knew that I was going to need above satisfactory representation in the event I was charged and Court-Martialed. After days of researching, Mr. Carpenter was the attorney at the top of the list to hire. No more than one hour after I sent him an emai...l explaining my situation, he called and discussed it with me. The shocking thing to me was that it was at 11pm PST. He immediately called the CID office and informed that he was representing me and that they were not to contact me in any way, shape or form. Once my Brigade Commander preferred charges, Steve never stopped. He kept me informed of everything that was going on and was always available for questions or concerns that I had. I never thought that I would feel comfortable in a court room, but with how well Mr. Carpenter prepared the case, I was at ease. Watching him in argue the case on my behalf was the most moving and impressive thing I have ever seen. He is truly passionate and believed in my case. Because of Mr. Carpenter I was able to proceed with my life free of any legal issues. I was found not guilty of all charges because of Mr. Carpenter's dedication and knowledge of military law. I recommend Steve Carpenter to anyone with Military UCMJ issues. It was the best decision I have ever made concerning my well being.