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PRO
also known as Law Office of Court & Carpenter
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Background. Former veteran of U.S. Army JAG Corps, later appoointed Assistant Attorney General Prosecutor, and most recently awarded LL.M. in National Security Law from Georgetown Law in 2023, lectured as adjunct law professor (Univ. Washington Law School) in trial advocacy, and possess a TS/SCI clearance.
Timing. When a hard-earned military career is on the line, every hour matters. For servicemembers stationed in Germany who are facing an investigation, board, or court-martial, immediate action is critical—not delays caused by counsel located half a world away. This practice is led by the only full-time American military defense attorney living and practicing in Germany (EU passport holder), with a physical office in Kaiserslautern.
Nearby. From the first call, clients get experienced, local defense—counsel in the same time zone, available to meet in person, act immediately, and offer strong representation throughout Europe and beyond. Call or text: +49 1522 0490 1552.
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Practice Area
31 years | 400 cases
Free Consultation
$0 first 30 minutes
State: Washington
Acquired: 1996
No misconduct found
State: Oregon
Acquired: 1995
No misconduct found
Sauerwiesen 2, Court-Martial & Board Defense Lawyers, Kaiserslautern Germany, UM, 67661
militarylawfirm.com
224 Client Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 224 reviews
Posted by anonymous | March 18, 2026 | Hired Attorney | Military Law
Retained: Officer BOI
Retained at Officer board of inquiry. Mr. Carpenter also provided good follow up after the case to request removal of negative records from my file.
Beyond retention, it was noteworthy that my client was cleared of the "conduct unbecoming at officer" offense. I was gratified the 21st TSC recorder took, in the end, "no position" on the HRC initiated elimination. Finally, being in Ansbach in person was key, as one board member appeared remotely.
Posted by anonymous | January 29, 2026 | Hired Attorney | Military Law
Article 15
Mr. Carpenter went above and beyond in a way I will never forget. He took the time to truly understand my situation, saw things from my point of view, and defended me when it mattered most. During a very difficult time—especially around the holidays, when everything felt rushed and impersonal—he show...
I am thrilled we got the good result, which I was happy to orchestrate, in part, while on leave. It was well worth it!
Posted by anonymous | January 15, 2026 | Hired Attorney | Military Law
Case pending dismissal
For the last year, I’ve been battling for my career over a false failure to follow a direct order and fraternization allegation; all of which led to a recommendation for Seperation. After researching attorneys, I reached out and hired Mr. Carpenter. For many, going through my first ever legal case w...
In a nutshell, this was a fascinating case that pitted the differing customary expectations (and differences) of Marine and Navy leadership. I am also pleased that this fighter pilot was FULLY cleared by HQMC today, 18 March 2026. As such, we can now finally forward, seek promotion and perhaps backpay.
Posted by anonymous | November 03, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Military Law
Case dropped
I went under investigation. It happened out of no where when my career was going good. I was completely devastated. I felt helpless I was given no information and I was left with more questions than answers. I didn’t know where to turn the military lawyers that are supposedly provided to you didn’t g...
Posted by anonymous | August 10, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Military Law
WoFR Board Decision -ABCMR Vacated
Falsely accused of 2x sexual harassment allegations and underwent as many 15-6 investigations. However, even though cleared both times by two (2) different Investigating Officers (IOs), the CG sent me notification that he intended to separate me through a Withdrawal of Federal Recognition Board (WoF...
"I am deeply honored to provide an endorsement of Stephen Carpenter, Jr. He is unequivocally the most competent and outstanding U.S. military attorney I have ever worked with. His client communication, case preparation, legal writing, and courtroom advocacy is the best of any lawyer I know. I have worked on military cases with Stephen since 2010: Stephen is the trial attorney's - trial attorney. His courtroom capabilities are legendary: he is able to quickly adapt to trial changes, strategy changes, and his cross examining skill are extraordinary. He is not intimidated by the weight of evidence against his client: he has the rare ability to find even small openings in evidence and exploit them. He gives 100% of his effort to every client, and he makes the other lawyers on his team stronger. In the U.S. vs. McCorkle case at Ft. Knox, TN: against all odds we prevailed (prima facie evidence against us): not guilty! He's the best."
"I had the opportunity to work as co-counsel with Stephen Carpenter on an Army Administrative Separation board. Mr. Carpenter compiled a powerful list of character witnesses and argued effectively on behalf of our client. His legal knowledge and outstanding advocacy skills resulted in the retention of a very deserving soldier despite some significant challenges."
"I endorse this lawyer. Steve and I have worked together on cases. He is a great trial lawyer and a true professional. If you are suspected of a military crime, contact Steve."
"Steve Carpenter is not only an outstanding lawyer, he is also an outstanding contributor to the legal community. I was privileged to serve with Steve on the Board and as a member of the Legal Assistance to Military Personnel (LAMP) Section of the Washington State Bar Association. Steve was, and is, an outstanding member, demonstrated by his election as President of LAMP. You could not find a better attorney. There simply is no finer attorney practicing than Steve Carpenter. I endorse him enthusiastically."
Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. I dealt with Stephen when I was a prosecutor and, more recently, have conferred with him on cases. Stephen is always very professional and very prepared. The more I deal with Stephen the more impressed I've become with him as a person and as an attorney."
"Stephen is a brilliant trial attorney with experience in criminal defense in military and white collar contexts. He is as thoughtful as he is skillful, and he understands how to present a case at trial."
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2026
Client's Choice Award / Military Law, Avvo
2025
Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer in Nation, The National Trial Lawyers
2008 - Present
Managing Attorney, Court & Carpenter
2006 - 2008
Assistant Attorney General Prosecutor, Washington State Attorney General's Office
2024 - 2026
Washington State Bar Association Legal Assistance to Military Personnel Section (LAMP)Chair
2007 - 2009
University of Washington School of Law, Seattle, WAAdjunct Professor of Trial Advocacy
BOI Retains Officer
Government initially offered 27 years confinement on attempted murder plea deal. Defense showed case weaknesses and Government revised offer. Result: 10 years confinement, and dishonorable discharge
Fully acquitted of all charges
No Punishment
Retained
Retained
Client found not guilty of all but one charge, which is up on appeal.
Retained
No Punishment
Fully Acquitted by Military Panel
Court-Martial Guilty Plea to Single Charge. Retained. Not reduced, kept E-7 rank. Served over 2 months confinement,.
Board Finds "No Bases" and Retains Sailor.
Fully Acquitted by Military Panel
Retained at BOI
Fully Acquitted by Military Panel
Retained at BOI
Separation with Honorable Discharge.
Received General UNDER Honorable Discharge
Client Awarded Full O-6 Retirement
No Misconduct Found on 3-0 Vote.
Client turns down NJP. Case dismissed. Flag lifted.
No Misconduct Found on 3-0 Vote.
Not Guilty of All Charges.
Sex Assault Court-martial Dismissed.
No Misconduct Found on 3-0 Vote.
Military judge awards 30 day jail sentence, and no dismissal. Client signs board waiver.
Separation Board Finds "No Bases" on 3-0 Vote. Full exoneration for SGM!
Board of Inquiry Retains Client
Not Guilty of All Charges.
Retained at BOI.
Retained at BOI.
Officer Retained. Exonerated in 4 out of the 5 factual allegations.
Retained in the service. Military judge found client guilty of assault. Prosecutors demanded a bad conduct discharge and 6 months in confinement. Client merely received 45 days.
Military Judge finds 3-Star Admiral committed unlawful command influence. Client sentenced to serve 4 years confinement, completely rebuking USCG Prosecutor demand for 7 years.
Guilty, 18 month. But on account of prior time in confinement, immediately eligible for parole. Case under appeal.
Board of Inquiry Recommends General Under Honorable Conditions Discharge
Guilty Plea: 3 years confinement and dismissal.
Panel Verdict. "Not Guilty of all Sexual Assault Charges." Guilty of Adultery. Retained in service. No Reduction. 30 days hard labor without confinement about $1000 in forfeitures.
Panel verdict: "Not Guilty of BAH Fraud" more than $50,000. Guilty of remaining relatively minor offenses at Special Court-martial. Panel Sentence: Reduction to E-4 (no jail, reprimand or punitive discharge).
Panel Verdict: "Not Guilty of All Charges" at General Court-martial.
Panel Verdict: "Not Guilty of all Sexual Assault Charges." Guilty of Patronization and Nonconsensual Recording. Panel Verdict: Reduction E-4, reprimand, 30 days in local jail. Clemency pending.
Summary Court Officer Verdict: "Not Guilty of All Charges" at Summary Court-Martial.
Panel Verdict: "Not Guilty of All Charges" at General Court-martial.
Client retired at E-8 rank, and awarded Honorable discharge.
Panel Verdict: "Not Guilty of All Charges" at General Court-martial.
Panel Verdict: "Not Guilty of All Charges" at General Court-martial.
Sentence: Reduction to E-6 & 1 month confinement. No Punitive Discharge.
Command lifts bar to enlistment.
Officer exonerated. Second Army Regulation (AR) 15-6 investigating officer "substantiates" the sexual assault allegation and finds evidence of "command reprisal."
Panel finds MSgt "Not Guilty" of all drug disto charges and of cocaine use. He is convicted of misusing his own prescribed medication and for solicitiation. Receives 43 days jail and reduced to E-6. "Drug Waiver" was approved. Client will retire.
Client pled guilty pursuant to a extremely favorable Pre-trial Agreement. Confined for 60 days. $25,000 fine. Retires with "full benefits" at reduced rate and under honorable conditions.
Board makes a few findings of misconduct but retains the Soldier in the service. Soldier cleared of abusive sexual contact because recorder failed to prove it occurred by a preponderence of the evidence.
Panel Verdict: "Not Guilty of All Charges" at General Court-martial.
Military Judge Verdict: "Not Guilty of All Sexual Assault Charges." Guilty of fraternization. Sentence: Reduction to E-7.
Military Judge: Retained Client in service by military judge. 30 days confinement. No other punishment.
Retained in service by military panel, and no jail time. Reduced one rank, and forfeiture of $1200.
Retained in service. Sentenced to 30 days restriction.
"Not Guilty" of all rape and sexual assault charges, and one aggravated battery charge. No sex registration. Guilty of two charges of simple assault, 2 days in jail, reduced to E-4. Case pending review of GCMCA ref disapproval of these two convictions.
Panel sentenced him to serve 14-days in confinment and awarded a BCD. Prosecutors' had recomemnded panel mete out a 12 month sentence, Case referred to a special court-martial.
Prior to the referral of charges, Defense reviews evidence, interviews witnesses and holds several discussions with the prosecutor. Chapter 10 approved by Commanding General. Soldier avoids federal conviction, 7 years in confinement and sex registration.
Retained by Board. Officer effectively found "Not Guilty" of "misconduct" but Board finds he engaged in "conduct unbecoming an officer." Officer "did" essentially concede to as much prior to the board convening.
No jail time. No federal conviction. Chapter 10 approved.
Charges related to this complaining witness were dismissed.
"Not Guilty" of the most serious sexual assault charge. Retained in the service. 4 months confinement. Reduction to E-1
General Discharge under honorable conditions. Case being Appealed to Army Review Board.
Retained in the service. No jail time. Reduction to E-3, 45 days hard labor without confinement
No jail time. No federal drug conviction. Chapter 4 approved.
No jail time. No federal conviction. Chapter 10 approved.
Retained by BOI. Retired with 30-years in service. Promoted and retired.
"Not Guilty" of Attempted Murder and Aggravated Assault. Guilty of Battery.
"Not Guilty" of All Charges. Sexual assault and contact.
"Not Guilty" of All Charges. Rape and Forcible Sodomy at General Court-martial.
"Not Guilty" of All charges at Article 15, UCMJ proceeding.
Client's prison sentence reduced by 33-months based upon pretrial manuvering by defense team.
Soldier Retained in Service.
Based upon negotiated "Guilty Plea" client sentenced to serve 9-months in confinement and awarded bad conduct discharge. Pretrial agreement essentially cut client's jail time in half. Five criminal charges were likewise dismissed.
"Not Guilty" of Rape and Sexual Assault at General Court-martial. Guilty of adultery. Reduced to E-3 with 45 days extra duty.
Prosecutors agree to dismiss sexual assault charges. No federal sex registration required. Pleads to simple assault, unalwful entry into a female berthing and being drunk. Retained in service, reduction to E3, and 2-months confinement.
Officer released from jail. Commmanding General GRANTS clemency, reducing officer's confinement period by nearly 18-months. Underlying case is pending appellate review.
Retained in service by military judge. Reduced to PV2. 7-months confinement, with good time reduction client should be released in about 5-months.
Article 15, UCMJ torn-up by Battalion Commander, with no further adverse actions taken. Case dismissed.
Retained. Board of Inquiry finds CW2 "did not engage" in alleged misconduct. BOI requests CG reconsider prior GOMOR OMPF filing.
Sailor receives Honorable Discharge. Remains eligible for total GI Bill payments and Disability Benefits.
Officer retained and provided rehabilitative transfer. Defense was able to discredit drug test result, and persuasively persuade Government that irrational behaviors warranted a second chance. Officer also avoids criminal conviction in state court.
Court-martial charges dismissed
Sentenced to serve 12 months, and 2 weeks after good time deduction and pre-trial punishment reduction. Bad conduct discharge, reduction to E-1, and $2500 fine.
Court-martial charges dismissed
Board members find Airman did "not" engage in maintenance malpractice alleged by Article 15s, and retains him in service. Board specifically finds "no misconduct" related to 2/3 allegations. Client will retire with full benefits.
Retained in service. Found "Not Guilty" by military judge of 3 of 4 fraud related charges. Reduced one rate and 24 days confinement. Sailor required to pay back $14,000, and not, as requested by military prosecutors, $53,000.
Separation action dismissed. Retained in AGR Status. Reprimand "locally" filed. Reduced 1-stripe by TAG at Article 15. Negotiate "rehabilitation transfer" to another unit for fresh start.
Reprimand "locally" filed, separation action avoided.
Court-martial charges dismissed
Article 15 dismissed, separation action rescinded. Retained in service.
Officer Separation Board dismissed
Retained in service. No Article 15. Rehab transfer to different Battery in Schweinfurt Germany.
Retained in service. No show cause BOI. Remains eligible for Honorable Discharge and full GI Bill.
Article 32, UCMJ, investigating officer (former military judge) recommends case not proceed to court-martial.
Eligible for parole in 3 1/2 years. Punitive discharge.
"Not Guilty" of all charges. Full acquittal by military jury.
No federal conviction. No jail time. No punitive discharge. Honorable conditions discharge.
No jail time. "Not Guilty" on all charges related to three out of five women. Punitive discharge. Clemency/Appeal pending.
Found "Not Guilty" of sex registration offense involving minor, but guilty of vouyerism. Prosecutor demands eight years, six months jail sentence. Client sentenced to four months (to serve 3 with good time). Punitive discharge.
NJP overturned. After several months of lobbying and written submissions, Major General reconsiders UIF filing and removes adverse NJP from AF Major's otherwise pristine military record.
Investigation dropped. Case dismissed.
Court-martial case dismissed. No confinement. No federal convictions. No punitive discharge. CH 4 approved with OTH.
Court-martial case dismissed.
"Not Guilty" of all charges. Administrative context. Retained in service and deploys to Fleet. Update: Promoted to LCPL.
Court-martial case not filed. Retained in service. Soldier receives "no punishment" after Article 15 hearing. Local file. Government also agrees to forego discharge and Soldier reenlists.
Reenlistment code upgraded. U.S. Coast Guard Board unanimously votes to grant all requested relief, including Reenlistment code upgrade allowing for his reenty into the service. Sailor previously awarded Honorable Discharge.
Retained in service. Reduced to E-3. Client will serve approximately 2 months in confinement after reductions for pretrial confinement (50 days) and typical good time. PCS to Ft Sill.
Adverse Administrative hold dismissed. Officer retires.
Retained in service. No confinement. Reduced to E-6. Transferred to new CG station in New Jersey.
Guilty Plea. BCD. 6 months confinement.
Commanding Officer reconsiders a highly prejudicial FITREP and signs a significantly improved version.
Command dismisses adverse action.
No dismissal from service. No confinement. No loss of pay. Reprimand and fine paid.
Command dismisses separation action.
No discharge from service. No loss of rank. No loss of pay. 45 days confinement.
Resolved favorably for client. Volkswagen of America case.
Command dismisses separation action.
Resolved at Summary Court-martial. Soldier retained by unit. Update: Received Honorable Discharge and GI Bill!
Sailor retained in Service
Retained in Service, Administrative Letter of Censure (Not Filed in Permanent Record)
Retained in Service, 9 months, reduction to E-1
Retained in Service
Case abandoned by Government
Retained in Service
Retained in Service
Retained in service. Reduced to E-2
Not Guilty, Full acquittal
Not Guilty, Full acquittal
"No Punishment" sentencing verdict.
No charges filed.
No charges filed.
Pending Trial
2023
LL.M. Masters of Law in National Security Law
1995
J.D. as Doctor in Jurisprudence
1990
B.A. as Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Affairs
2025
2023
Artificial Intelligence Friend or Foe?
2023
Defending Transgender Military Members
2019
2017
German
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
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22 Jan 2021
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15 Jan 2020
Does a Special Court Martial, and the General Court Martial show in the DD-214?
22 Sep 2018
How Do I Confront Sexual Harassment Claims during Military Investigations, Boards & Courts-martial?
15 Mar 2023
What Decisions Need to be Made by the Defendant Facing a Court-Martial?
01 May 2020
Military Defense 101: The AWOL Case
06 Oct 2010