Will M. Helixon

Will M. Helixon is a dedicated advocate and communicator, with a lifelong commitment to litigating cases on behalf of individuals facing threats to their freedom, family, and financial security. With a deep understanding of the courtroom environment, Will leaves no stone unturned in his defense, tirelessly challenging the government’s case. His extensive trial experience, encompassing roles as both defense counsel and prosecutor, forms the foundation for his assertive presence in the courtroom. Notably, Will spearheaded the Army’s litigation training efforts as a leader within the Trial Defense Service, while also serving as a pivotal advocacy trainer for prosecutors during his tenure as a Special Victim Prosecutor. Recently retired from the U.S. Army Reserve as a judge advocate (Lieutenant Colonel), Will frequently trained active and reserve lawyers on various trial advocacy topics.

Table of Contents - Page Contents

Evaluation Comments

General Legal Skills

“Unquestionably in the top 1% of his JA [Judge Advocate] peers and a top 5% officer, MAJ Helixon is my professional confidant.” Infantry COL Sr. Rater, July 2008

“MAJ Will M. Helixon is the best judge advocate I have seen and is one of my top officers, regardless of branch. He is easily in the top 1% of his peer lawyers.” Infantry COL Sr. Rater, August 2007

Military Justice & Criminal Law

“He is one of the best criminal law practitioners in the Army, and is totally dedicated to the thorough, well-prepared, and ethical pursuit of justice.” JAG LTC Rater, August 2009

“A military justice treasure without equal in the JAGC Corps [Judge Advocate General’s Corps]. . .” JAG COL Sr. Rater, August 2009

“I know of no officer more dedicated to military justice and trial advocacy than MAJ Helixon.” JAG COL Sr. Rater, August 2009

“He is peerless in his military justice knowledge and advice.” Infantry LTC Rater, August 2007

Litigation Skills & Trial Advocacy

“LTC Helixon possesses a level of talent and dedication matched by few, if any, of the Army’s top litigators. Will is a premier criminal lawyer, with an abiding sense of fairness, who remains one of the best military justice practitioners I have served with in my 27-year career.” JAG COL Rater, June 2014

“Number 1 or 2 of 23 hand-picked special victims prosecutors in the Army – this makes Will Helixon the best we have. Will is a phenomenal litigator, teacher, mentor, and trainer.” JAG BG Sr. Rater, June 2013

“Will’s sharp wit, tireless work ethic, and zealous advocacy continue to impress subordinates, peers, and senior commanders. He is one of the few judge advocates in the military who has and could continue to try and win DoD’s most sensitive and complex criminal cases – and he taught an entire generation to do the same. Already assigned as a military

judge, LTC Helixon will continue to impact the JAG Corps and military justice for years to come.” JAG BG Sr. Rater, June 2013

“LTC Helixon is perhaps the finest litigator in the U.S. Army. . .” JAG LTC Rater, June 2013

“LTC Will Helixon is one of the top 3 finest prosecutors in the U.S. Army. Will’s knowledge of the UCMJ and his preparation for courts-martial is legendary, and his reputation as our Corps’ premier mentor and trainer is well-deserved.” JAG BG Sr. Rater, June 2012

“LTC Helixon is the finest military justice practitioner I have observed in my 18 years of service . . .” JAG LTC Rater, June 2012

“His reputation and skill as both a courtroom litigator and as a mentor to young trial counsel has led to his being hand-picked to prosecute multiple high-profile cases.” JAG LTC Rater, June 2012

“Expert criminal litigator.” JAG LTC Rater, June 2012

“A dynamic litigator! Recently promoted, Will shows daily why he was hand-selected for this strategically important position, and why I regard him in the top 10% among his peers. He sets the standard for all other Special Victim Prosecutors to emulate.” JAG BG Sr. Rater, June 2011

“Blessed with a unique legal intellect; a creative dynamic, and selfless personality; and a flawless diligence, MAJ Helixon is the best trial lawyer in TDS.” JAG COL Sr. Rater, June 2010

“I know of no officer more dedicated to military justice and trial advocacy than MAJ Helixon.” JAG COL Sr. Rater, August 2009

“CPT Will Helixon is the very best trial attorney within the entire Army Trial Defense Service. His courtroom examinations and riveting arguments are awe-inspiring.” JAG COL Sr. Rater, June 2005

“Will possesses an amazing courtroom presence. His advocacy skills and legal acumen are unparalleled. I routinely detailed Will to try the most complex, difficult and challenging cases. . .” JAG LTC Rater, July 2005

“Expertly handling intense national and international media attention, Will presented the best defense case I have ever seen. He has every person in the courtroom, including me and every panel member, enraptured with his every word. Simply extraordinary.” JAG LTC Rater, July 2005

“Will Helixon is the very best defense counsel in my two Regions. His advocacy skills are head and shoulders above his peers and have earned him the respect of the Military Judges, his fellow defense counsel, and his adversaries.” JAG LTC Rater, December 2004

“CPT Will Helixon is a top 10% officer and he is the very best trial attorney assigned to the U.S. Army Trial Defense Service.” JAG COL Sr. Rater, December 2004

“Absolutely the best litigator I have ever seen in my 17 years as an attorney. CPT Helixon is a true student of the art of advocacy. Whether appearing in court, talking case strategy, or teaching litigation skills, Will is in his element.” JAG LTC Rater, May 2004

“Incredible trial attorney; clearly one of the best advocates in the JAGC [Judge Advocate General’s Corp]. CPT Helixon brings bulldog toughness, savvy street smarts, and eloquent oratory skills with him each time he enters the courtroom.” JAG COL Sr. Rater, May 2004

“Always the best-prepared attorney present, he overwhelms opposing counsel with his detailed case knowledge.” JAG COL Sr. Rater, May 2004

“CPT Helixon is one of the best military prosecutors and command advisors I have ever observed.” JAG MAJ Rater, June 2003

“As a litigator, CPT Helixon has not rival.” JAG MAJ Rater, June 2003

“CPT Helixon is in the top 1% of trial counsel that I have seen in 16 years.” JAG LTC Sr. Rater, June 2003

“CPT Helixon is the best trial counsel I have ever seen.” JAG MAJ Rater, June 2002

“His trial skills are simply immense.” JAG LTC Sr. Rater, June 2002

Colleges & Universities

  • Houston Baptist University, Communication Studies, transferred (August 1983 – May 1985)
  • University of North Texas, Communication & Public Address, BA (May 1988)
  • Graduate School
  • University of North Texas, Rhetoric, left to work for Gov. Mark White (August 1989 – May 1989)

Law Schools

  • South Texas College of Law, Trial Advocacy, JD (May 1993)
  • The Judge Advocate General’s School, Criminal Law Specialty, LLM (May 2006)

Military Education & Training

  • Basic Combat Training
  • Advanced Individual Training
  • 146th Judge Advocate Officer Basic Course
  • Airborne School
  • 54th Judge Advocate Officer Graduate Course
  • 56th Military Judges Course

Professional Licenses & Memberships

      Texas Bar Association

  • Criminal Justice Section
  • Military & Veterans Law Section

Professional Legal Experience

  • Civilian Defense Counsel, Military Lawyer (The Law Office of Will M. Helixon, Wiesbaden, Germany) February 2016 — Present 

Represented Soldiers, Airmen, and Marines in courts-martial throughout Germany and the United States on cases involving rape, sexual assault, sexual assault of a child under 16, domestic violence, aggravated assault, violating lawful orders, kidnapping, communicating threats, child pornography, BAH fraud, DTS fraud, larceny, forgery, false official statements, and general violations of good order and discipline. Represented Soldiers and Airmen at local and centralized boards, including separation boards (ADSEP), Boards of Inquiry (BOI), medical de-credential boards, and the Army Board of Correction for Military Records (ABCMR). Assisted Soldiers draft responses, rebuttals, and appeals to nonjudicial punishment (NJP) (Article 15s), General Officer Memorandum of Reprimands (GOMORs), security clearance revocations, Qualitative Management Program Boards (QMP Boards), performance evaluations (NCOERs/OERs), relief for cause, and other adverse administrative actions. Represented Soldiers and civilians who were under investigation, both criminally and administratively, for alleged misconduct, poor leadership, sexual harassment, and creating a toxic work environment. Represented civilian Germany-based government employees respond to notices of termination and suspension.  Provided legal counsel on a myriad of issues affecting Soldiers, spouses, children, family members, and the command. Served as a sounding board for other non-specific legal issues requiring legal counseling and advice.

  • Reserve Judge Advocate, Lieutenant Colonel, United States Army Reserve (7th Legal Operations Detachment, Independence, Missouri) August 2014 – August 2022

Before retiring from the Army in August 2022, LTC Helixon served as a judge advocate providing a litany of legal services to Soldiers within the 7th LOD’s area of operations, including Kansas, Missouri, and Iowa. These services including representing Soldiers who were the subjects of investigations, facing adverse administrative actions, and were seeking general legal assistance. Provided deploying Soldier with readiness programs updating wills, powers of attorney, and advanced medical directives. Served as an Investigating Officer in administrative and quasi-judicial investigations for Soldiers pending court-martial. Maintained readiness to backfill CONUS OSJA offices in the event active duty units were activated for deployment.

  • Corporate Counsel, Retail Securities (VSR Financial Services, Inc., Overland Park, Kansas) August 2014 – February 2016

Defended VSR Financial Services, Inc., in all aspects of FINRA Arbitrations related to investments including all pre-arbitration matters, answers, complaints, motions, discovery, production, arbitrator selection, case preparation and ultimate hearing on the merits; represented VSR in all mediations, and resolved customer complaints in the most efficient manner possible; developed arbitration prevention strategies, and shared them with the approximately 275 Registered Representatives associated with VSR Financial Services; provided legal advice to the Chairman, CEO, CFO, and Co-Presidents.

September 2015 Evaluation

  • Special Victim Prosecutor (7th Joint Multination Training Center, Grafenwoehr, Germany & I Corps, Joint Base Lewis McChord, Washington) July 2010 – July 2014

Prosecuted cases of sexual assault, rape and domestic violence throughout Germany, Italy and selected cases in the United States; trained prosecutors on sexual assault prosecution strategies and tactics. Then-LTC Helixon tried over 30 contested felony jury trials as the SVP in Europe.

Jul 2011 OER   June 2012 OER   Aug 2013 OER   Jun 2014 OER

  • Chief of Advocacy & Litigation Training (Chief of DCAP, U.S. Army Trial Defense Services) September 2008 – June 2010

Trained and assisted defense counsel world-wide responsible for defending Soldiers in courts-martial; trained defense counsel on best practices in litigating courts-martial, especially cases involving sexual assaults; prepared and developed training programs on specific litigation topics and taught scores of courses at various training conferences.

May 2009 OER  Jan 2010 OER  June 2010 OER

  • Brigade Judge Advocate (173d Airborne Brigade Combat Team, Vicenza, Italy) June 2006 – August 2008

Advised the brigade commander on all legal matters, including operational law and military justice; trained and assisted trial counsel with courts-martial on an as needed basis; assisted trial counsel try 5 cases as the brigade judge advocate; supervised two attorneys and seven paralegals when deployed to Afghanistan from May 2007 to August 2008. Served as legal advisor to high-profile administrative investigation involving U.S. casualties during war. 

May 2007 OER  May 2008 OER

  • Senior Defense Counsel (U.S. Army Trial Defense Service, Hanau, Germany) July 2003 – July 2005

Defended Soldiers accused of UCMJ violations at courts-martial; supervised three defense lawyers in the Hanau, Germany, office responsible for defending Soldiers; Defended 27 courts-martial, ten (10) of which contested trials.

May 2004 OER  Dec 2004 OER  Jun 2005 OER

  • Trial Counsel & Administrative Law Attorney (First Infantry Division, Bamberg, Germany) October 2000 – June 2003

Prosecuted Soldiers accused of violations of the UCMJ. Prosecuted 58 courts-martial, nine (9) of which were contested trials.

Aug 2001 OER  June 2002 OER  June 2003 OER

  • Administrative Law, Legal Assistance & Claims Attorney (Joint Readiness Training Center & Fort Polk, Louisiana) October 1998 – January 2000 August 2000 – October 2000

Advised Soldiers pending adverse administrative actions including separation, reduction, referred performance evaluations and letters of reprimand; represented the government at labor and EO hearings; represented the government on Federal Torts Claims Act claims.

May 1999 OER  Nov 1999 OER  Feb 2000 OER

  • Brigade Paralegal (U.S. Army Armor Center & Fort Knox, Kentucky) 

January 1997 – July 1997  February 1998 – June 1998

  • Civilian Criminal Defense Counsel (Helixon & Woods, LLC, later Helixon & Helm, LLC, Houston, Texas) 

November 1993 – August 1996

Defended 126 cases on a variety of charges including capital murder, murder, aggravated assault, rape, sexual assault, distribution of narcotics, possession of cocaine, DWI, arson, burglary, theft, credit card fraud, welfare fraud, organized crime, injury to a child, kidnapping and forgery. Fifteen (15) cases were contested trials.

Deployments & Contingency Operations

  • Joint Task Force-Bravo, Soto Cano Air Base, Honduras

(Secretary for the Joint Staff) (6-months) August 1997 – January 1998

  • Operation Joint Forge, U.S. National Support Element, Taszar Air Base, Hungary

(Command Judge Advocate) (6-months) February 2000 – July 2000

      Aug 2000 OER

  • Operation Iraqi Freedom, Baghdad International Airport, Iraq

(Senior Defense Counsel) (Temporary Duty) June 2004

    Mar 2005 OER

  • Operation Enduring Freedom, Jalalabad, Afghanistan – 2007/2008

(Brigade Judge Advocate) (15-months) May 2007 – August 2008

      Aug 2007 OER      Jul 2008 OER

  • Operation Enduring Freedom, Kandahar, Afghanistan – 2012

(Special Victim Prosecutor)  (Temporary Duty) February, April 2012

LTC Helixon was deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan, to advise the staff judge advocate (SJA) and commander of the 82nd Airborne Division on the initial stages of several high-profile cases covered widely in the media.  After conducting an initial review of the then-existing evidence and interviewing the then-known available witnesses, LTC Helixon advised the commander and SJA of the strengths, weaknesses and recommended courses of action in the cases of the United States v. 1LT Schwartz, United States v. SGT Holcomb, United States v. SPC Offutt, United States v. SSG Van Bockel, United States v. SGT Hurst, United States v. Curtis, United States v. Carden, United States v. SSG Dugas (collectively known as the PVT Danny Chen hazing/suicide cases) and the case of the United States v. BG Sinclair.  The accuseds in the PVT Chen cases were charged with offense ranging from involuntary manslaughter to dereliction of duty stemming from widespread hazing causing PVT Chen to take his own life.  BG Sinclair was ultimately charged with multiple offenses stemming from inappropriate relationships with several subordinates, including maltreatment and forcible sodomy.  The forcible sodomy charges were subsequently dismissed by the government.

Aug 2013 OER

Professional Advocacy, Teaching & Communication Experience

Advocacy & Legal Issues Trainer

(Chief of Training, 8th Legal Operations Detachment, USAR) August 2014 – August 2022

LTC Helixon’s responsibilities as Chief of Training includes supporting training requests from area reserve units for legal training on multiple legal topics including the law of war (international humanitarian law), escalation of force, and sexual assault prevention.  Additional responsibilities include advocacy training for judge advocates at Fort Leonard Wood and Fort Leavenworth.  Specific courses taught include Cross-Examination of the Criminally Accused, Effective Opening Statements, and How to Conduct Meaningful Voir Dire.

Conference Developer & Sexual Assault Prosecution Trainer

(Special Victim Prosecutor, USAREUR) July 2010 – July 2014

In addition to trying nearly 40 cases to a jury, Lieutenant Colonel Helixon was responsible for training military prosecutors on how to investigate and prosecute sexual assault cases.  Courses were taught at several Continuing Legal Education Seminars, including the Sexual Assault Trial Advocacy Course (SATAC), New Prosecutor’s Course, Military Institute for the Prosecution of Cases of Sexual Violence, and other TCAP sponsored courses.  Specific classes LTC Helixon researched, planned, and taught include Investigating Sexual Assault Cases, Direct & Cross-Examination of Experts, Use of Experts, Prosecuting Article 120 Cases, Discovery, Interview of Non-Adversarial Witnesses, Conducting Direct Examination, Pre-Trial Motions in a Sexual Assault Case, Effective Closing Arguments, Presenting the Government’s Case in Sexual Assault Cases, MRE 412, Pre-Trial Preparation and Conducting Voir Dire.

Jul 2011 OER         Sep 2012 OER       Aug 2013 OER

Communication and Key Leader Engagement Advisor

(Brigade Judge Advocate, 173d Airborne Brigade Combat Team) June 2006 – August 2008

 Aug 2007 OER      Jul 2008 OER

Chief of Advocacy & Litigation Training

(Chief of DCAP, U.S. Army Trial Defense Services) September 2008 – June 2010

Then-Major Helixon was responsible for developing and delivering the training program for the approximately 300 active and reserve component TDS defense counsel worldwide.  In conjunction with TCAP, he personally created and developed the Program of Instruction for the Sexual Assault Trial Advocacy Course (SATAC).  Then-Major Helixon designed and implemented the “Defense Counsel 101” 3-day seminar.  Courses taught include the SATAC, multiple Regional Defense Training Conferences, Defense Counsel 101 and other DCAP sponsored training seminars.  Classes researched, planned, and taught include Article 32 as a Discovery Tool, Defense of Child Sexual Abuse Cases, Discovery and Requesting Expert Assistance, Investigation and Pre-trial Preparation of Witnesses, Motions Practice, Developing a Persuasive Sentencing Case, Defense Voir Dire, Cross-Examination of Government Witnesses, Themes – Strategies and Tactics, Defense Counsel Ethics, False Confessions, Defense of Article 112a Cases, Witness Impeachment and Attacking the Government Case.

Aug 2009 OER      Mar 2010 OER      Jul 2010 OER

Advocacy Conference Developer & Instructor

(Senior Defense Counsel, U.S. Army Trial Defense Services) July 2003 – July 2005

In addition to trying cases, then-Captain Helixon was responsible for planning, developing and presenting three European Defense Counsel Conferences, each with five days of instruction.  The design of these conferences included developing the classes offered and the Program of Instruction for most of the classes taught at each 5-day conference.  Then Captain-Helixon taught multiple classes at each conference including Closing Arguments, Cross-Examination, Use of Experts, Defending Child Sexual Assault Cases, Defending Drug Cases, Developing Effective Impeachment, Understanding Forensic Evidence, Utilizing the Article 32 as Discovery, and Maximizing the Sentencing Case.

Jun 2004 OER       Mar 2005 OER      Jun 2005 OER

Adjunct Professor

(University of Phoenix, Germany) January 2001 – May 2003

Then-Captain Helixon taught graduate business law classes as his schedule permitted.  Twice he taught Law 531, Business Law, which prepared students to evaluate the legal risks associated with business activity.  Students were required to create proposals to manage an organization’s legal exposure.  Other topics taught in the course included the legal system, alternative dispute resolution, enterprise liability, product liability, international law, business risks, intellectual property, legal forms of business, and corporate governance.

Adjunct Speech & Communication Professor

(University of Maryland University College, Germany) January 2001 – May 2003

In addition to his military duties, then-Captain Helixon taught 1-2 classes each term, schedule permitting.  The communication classes then-Captain Helixon taught included Speech 100, Foundations of Speech Communication, an overview of the principles of communication, Speech 101, Introduction to Public Speaking, a study of the basic principles of communication as applied to public speaking, and Speech 200, Advanced Public Speaking, a study of the rhetorical principles and models of speech composition.

Litigation & Trial Consultant

(Legal Communication Concepts, Houston, Texas) June 1991 – October 1993

Mr. Helixon utilized his vast communication background to advise trial attorneys on pending litigation matters.  The case analysis would identify case specific strengths and weaknesses, identify favorable and unfavorable juror characteristics, improve witness performance, develop demonstrative exhibits, and evaluate attorney’s presentation skills.  Mr. Helixon’s case analysis employed qualitative and quantitative research to ascertain how jurors would interpret competing stories, issues, and themes presented by the litigants.  Types of cases consulted included aviation mishaps, admiralty, fraud, lender liability, and deceptive trade practices.

See Article

Speech & Debate Coach

(Houston Baptist University) August 1990 – May 1991

Mr. Helixon taught, directed and mentored the 12-15 members of the HBU debate team, prepared his students for intercollegiate debate tournaments, and traveled to 8-10 tournaments a year.  He assisted students with preparing cases, responding to opponent’s arguments, developing areas of cross-examination, anticipating opponent’s cross-examination questions, structuring case arguments and conducting research on topical policy issues.  Mr. Helixon also advised and coached students competing in individual speaking events such as extemporaneous speaking, original oratory, and impromptu speaking.

Undergraduate Communication Studies Teaching Assistant

(University of North Texas, Denton, Texas) May 1988 – May 1989

While enrolled in graduate school, Mr. Helixon assisted the communication faculty teaching COMM 1010, Introduction to Communication Studies.  The course examined how communication principles and skills influence our understanding of current social problems.  The course covered the basics of communication and community engagement, focusing on communication skills and collaborative group building skills.

Publications

Will M. Helixon, Mercy Killings In Combat: Ending The Suffering Of Gravely Wounded Combatants — A Brief History, Applicable Law, Recent Prosecutions, And Proposals For Much Needed Change. LLM. The Judge Advocate General’s School, 2006

See Article

Will M Helixon and Robert A. Broadbent, Building the Rule of Law in Afghanistan, In Re, Spring 2010 at 10-13

See Article

Invited Lectures & Speaking Engagements

  • Invited to Lecture, Fort Leonard Wood Military Justice Conference, Office of the Staff Judge Advocate, Fort Leonard Wood, MO, Topics: Planning, Preparing and Executing Effective Voir Dire of Military Panels and Opening Statements: The 5-Part Opening (February 2016)
  • Invited Lecturer, Fort Leonard Wood Military Justice Outreach Conference, Trial Counsel Assistance Program, Fort Leonard Wood, MO, Topic: Cross-Examination of the Accused: The Holy Grail of Criminal Prosecutions (January 2015)
  • Invited Lecturer, Fort Leavenworth Military Justice Outreach Conference, Trial Counsel Assistance Program, Fort Leavenworth, KS, Topic: Cross-Examination of the Accused: The Holy Grail of Criminal Prosecutions (January 2015)
  • Instructor, Defense Counsel 101 Conference, Defense Counsel Assistance Program, U.S. Army Trial Defense Service, Southwest & Southeast Regions, Corpus Christi, TX, Topics: Cross Examination of Expert Witnesses in Sexual Assault Cases and Ethical Issues Faced by Defense Counsel in Sexual Assault Cases (April 2010)
  • Instructor, Defense Counsel 101 Conference, Defense Counsel Assistance Program, U.S. Army Trial Defense Service, West Region, Fort Lewis, WA, Topics: Cross Examination of Expert Witnesses in Sexual Assault Cases, Defense Discovery: Beyond Government Disclosures and Ethical Issues Often Faced by Defense Counsel (August 2009)
  • Instructor, U.S. Army Trial Defense Service, TDS Leadership Conference, Arlington, VA, Topic: Utilizing DCAP Resources to Enhance your Defense Counsel’s Trial Preparation (August 2009)
  • Invited Lecturer, Litigating Sexual Assault Cases, National Institute of Trial Advocacy and Defense Counsel Assistance Program, Louisville, CO, Topics: Effective Communication Based Opening and Closing Statements and Direct Examinations: The Building Blocks of the Case (August 2009)
  • Instructor, Defending Sexual Assault Cases in the Army, Defense Counsel Assistance Program and the Center for American and International Law, Plano, TX, Topics: Discovery and the Article 32 Investigation in Sexual Assault Cases, Ethical Issues Faced by Defense Counsel in Sexual Assault Cases and The Use of Experts in Sexual Assault Cases (July 2009)
  • Invited Facilitator, Advanced Sexual Assault Advocacy Course, Josh Karton in conjunction with the Trial Counsel Assistance Program and the Defense Counsel Assistance Program, Fort Stewart, GA, Topics: Evidentiary Issues in Sexual Assault Cases: MRE 412, MRE 413 & MRE 414 and  (July 2009)
  • Invited Lecturer, Introduction to Forensic Evidence, U.S Army Criminal Investigation Lab and Defense Counsel Assistance Program, Fort Gilliam, GA, Topic: Evidentiary Foundations for Forensic Experts (May 2009)
  • Instructor, U.S. Army Trial Defense Service, Combined Southwest, Mississippi Valley & Atlantic Regional Conference, Staten Island, NY, Topic: Interviewing Non-Accusatory Interviews Utilizing the Cognitive Interviewing Technique: Enhancing Recollection (April 2009)
  • Invited Lecturer, Wisconsin National Guard On-Site Legal Training Conference, WNG Bureau, and Defense Counsel Assistance Program, Fort McCoy, WI, Topics: Litigating Article 120 UCMJ Cases: An Update on Current Cases, Ethics Issues in Military Justice, Discovery Issues in Military Justice and Closing Arguments from a Communication Perspective (March 2009)
  • Instructor, U.S. Army Trial Defense Service, Combined West & Pacific Rim Regional Conference, Fort Lewis, WA, Topics: Ethical Issues Faced by Defense Counsel in Sexual Assault Cases and The Use of Experts in Sexual Assault Cases (March 2009)
  • Instructor, U.S. Army Trial Defense Service, Great Plains Regional Conference, Kansas City, MO, Topics: Ethical Issues Faced by Defense Counsel in Sexual Assault Cases, The Use of Experts in Sexual Assault Cases and Attacking Credibility and Impeaching Witnesses (February 2009)
  • Instructor, U.S. Army Trial Defense Service & U.S. Marine Corps, Joint Service Southeast Regional Conference, Camp Lejeune, NC, Topics: Ethical Issues Faced by Defense Counsel in Sexual Assault Cases and Discovery Issues in Military Justice (January 2009)
  • Instructor, U.S. Army Trial Defense Service, and Defense Counsel Assistance Program, USATDS Leadership Conference, Arlington, VA, Topics: Utilizing DCAP Resources to Enhance your Defense Counsel’s Trial Preparation (September 2008)
  • Instructor, U.S. Army Trial Defense Service, and Defense Counsel Assistance Program, West Regional Conference, San Diego, CA, Topic: Utilizing DCAP Resources to Enhance your Defense Counsel’s Trial Preparation (September 2008)
  • Instructor, U.S. Army Trial Defense Service, European Regional Spring Conference, Wuerzburg, Germany, Topics: Strategies for Defending Sexual Assault Cases, Defense Discovery: Beyond Government Disclosures and Defending Hot Urinalysis Cases, (Spring 2008)
  • Instructor, U.S. Army Trial Defense Service, Bi-European Regional Conference, Sonthofen, Germany, Topics: Strategies for Defending Child Sexual Abuse Cases, and The Article 32 Investigation: Defense Counsel’s Best Opportunity for Meaningful Discovery (Spring 2005)
  • Instructor, U.S. Army Trial Defense Service, Bi-European Regional Conference, Germany, Topics: Defending Hot Urinalysis Cases, and The Art of Trial Advocacy (Fall 2005)
  • Instructor, U.S. Army Trial Defense Service, Bi-European Regional Conference, Germany, Topics: The Importance of Pre-Trial Preparation to Defending Your Case, and Advanced Sentencing Strategies: Maximizing the Mitigation and Extenuation Case (Spring 2005)

Awards, Decorations and Skill Identifiers

Military Awards

  • Bronze Star Medal
  • Meritorious Service Medal (3rd Award)
  • Joint Service Commendation Medal
  • Army Commendation Medal (2nd Award)
  • Joint Service Achievement Medal
  • Army Achievement Medal (4th Award)
  • Joint Meritorious Unit Award
  • Army Good Conduct Medal
  • Afghanistan Campaign Medal w/ Campaign Star
  • National Defense Service Medal
  • Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
  • Armed Forces Services Medal
  • Army Service Medal
  • Overseas Service Ribbon (4th Award)
  • NATO Medal (2nd Award)
  • Parachutist Badge

U.S. Army Skill Identifiers

  • 3T – Master Military Justice Practitioner
  • 5P – Parachutist

Other Awards

  • Award for Professional Merit – Distinguished Honor Graduate OBC, The Judge Advocate General’s School (1998)
  • Award for Distinguished Accomplishment – Contract & Fiscal Law OBC, The Judge Advocate General’s School (1998)
  • Award for Academic Excellence – Top Communication Scholar, College of Arts & Science, University of North Texas (1988)
  • Award for Communication Service – Department of Communication, College of Arts & Science, University of North Texas (1988)

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