Stephen proved to be the right choice from the first phone call. He listened and asked the right questions, forming a plan immediately. Many alcohol-related offenses are seen as open and shut; however, he refused that narrative. My specific case had some very delicate aspects, and he was able to ad...vise me the whole way. I was thoroughly impressed with the final submission that he presented, and I believe that it was his fight and level of detail that resulted in my case being filed locally and allowing me to continue to serve in the military.

I cannot express how helpful Stephen was. A consummate professional, he combines extensive experience with the drive to achieve a favorable outcome. Why hire a civilian lawyer when you're entitled to TDS/ADC? Most trial defense lawyers are O3s with less than four years of experience. Ambition alon...e can't substitute for experience. Think about how much more you know about your job now compared to your first four years. As a mid-range FGO with an impeccable 15-year career, I faced a potential investigation. I consulted several lawyers and even paid to retain one before speaking with Stephen. After educating myself on the subject, it became clear that Mr. Carpenter had the deepest understanding of this area of military law. What sets Stephen apart from other civilian military lawyers? He is honest, collaborative, and genuinely cares about his clients. I was distressed at the thought of losing everything I'd worked for, and he called me a few hours later just to check on me. When I suggested potential courses of action, he thoughtfully considered them, making me feel like we were working together toward a common goal. When I first contacted him, I offered to pay for his time, but he refused and spoke with me for nearly an hour. Why take a chance with someone less caring, experienced, or driven? His pricing is transparent, and you'll never second-guess whether you could have had a better defense. You want Stephen in your corner, no matter what legal issue you're facing.

I was caught up in whirlwind of false allegations that I bribed a LS custodian for hazmat. I thought my career was over because everybody in my chain of command recommended demotion, 45 days restrictions and 45 days extra duty. After my XOI, I immediately contacted Stephen Carpenter. He assured me t...hat we were going to have a good outcome. When he looked at all the evidence, Stephen noticed that there were many discrepancies with my case. First, the MA violated my 5th amendment rights. Next, some members of my command lied about my personal background that I have bribed a hazmat custodian in the past. During my NJP, Stephen wrote a very powerful Memo detailing all the facts. At NJP the Captain did find me guilty but I was able to keep my rank and the punishment was just 30 days restrictions and 30 days extra duty. I do take responsibility that I did not return my hazmat on the same day and I did see unattended hazmat in the past that could have caused a fire hazard. My mistake! 9 days after I was on restrictions, my senior enlisted leadership tried to hit me with a pre-dated NJP. Stephen immediately took action and wrote a memo to my Captain that this is nothing more than chiefs retaliating and reeking revenge because I was not reduced in rank at mast. The captain, being a fair and honest man, did the right thing and deferred the prior NJP. He stated that since all charges were not made at the same time, he would not be following procedures if he held a 2nd NJP for the pre-dated charge. In the end, Stephen saved my career and I was very fortunate to have a fair Captain that followed all guidelines and procedures. As of today, I still stand as 1st Class Petty Officer because of Stephen. Had things gone south, I could have very well been a 3rd Class Petty Officer since I am still a frocked 1st Class Petty Officer.

Mr. Carpenter was a very dedicated professional who was able to navigate the various command entities within the Madigan Army Medical Center system. He was willing to understand my wishes and comfort level within my case. There is no doubt in my mind that his presence and attentiveness allowed for a ...smooth resolution in my favor.