THE BEST NAVY DEFENSE ATTORNEYS
Capovilla & Williams is a unique military defense firm boasting over 300 years of combined experience in military law. Our dedicated team stands out across the nation, passionately committed to our mission and goals. We wholeheartedly strive to support and advocate for Sailors worldwide, ensuring they receive the exceptional representation they deserve. Together, we can make a difference!
Capovilla & Williams has a very deep and long history with the U.S. Navy. The very first Court-Martial we won as a law firm came in the U.S. Navy at JAX Naval Base. Our client was a Sailor who was falsely accused of sexual assault. The fight lasted for more than a week and, during the trial, our team attacked the credibility of the lead NCIS Agent. Through a series of systematic questions, we were able to slowly break him down on the stand until he finally admitted that his goal was to attain a false confession from our client.
Since that victory, we have helped hundreds of Sailors combat false allegations, unfounded accusations, and overzealous commands. We have helped junior Sailors, petty officers, recruiters, nuclear engineers, special warfare operators, senior officers, aviation officers, Seabees, medical and healthcare officers, underwater divers, and Masters-at-Arms.
SOME OF OUR BIGGEST VICTORIES CAME AGAINST THE NAVY
Over the years, we have developed a reputation for winning legal actions across the U.S. Navy. We have worked actions at nearly every major Naval Installation in the world including Norfolk Naval Station, which is the largest naval base in the world, serving as the headquarters for the U.S. Atlantic Fleet and covering roughly 3,400 acres with 14 piers. It hosts over 75 ships, 134 aircraft, and supports approximately 149,000 personnel, including families and civilian staff.
A few years ago, at Norfolk, we had the incredible opportunity to represent a highly esteemed Navy Underwater Construction Petty Officer who faced serious allegations of sexual assault from a co-worker. Our client was wrongfully accused of an attack in the office after hours, leading to a week-long trial. The turning point came when the alleged victim claimed that the office had been in complete disarray following the incident. To challenge this narrative, we brought in each member of the cleaning crew responsible for that office that night. Their testimonies revealed that no mess had been made, solidifying our argument that the accuser’s claims were fabricated to safeguard her own disability ratings. This experience underscored the importance of truth and justice, and we are proud to have played a role in setting the record straight for our client.
We have assisted numerous Sailors stationed at Naval Air Station Jacksonville and Naval Station Mayport. We served as lead counsel in one of the largest Navy court-martials in the country at that time. Our client was accused of negligent homicide after allegedly hitting a Djibouti national while deployed at Camp Lemonnier.
Over the course of 18 months, we worked tirelessly to demonstrate that our client was not responsible for the accident. Through our persistent efforts, we uncovered evidence showing that the Djibouti national had actually swerved into our client’s lane, which caused the collision. As a result, we successfully had the negligent homicide and manslaughter allegations dropped.
We have successfully managed legal actions for the Navy worldwide. We have served as lead counsel in various regions, including Europe and Africa (EURAFCENT), the Western Pacific, Mid-Atlantic (MIDLANT), the Midwest, the Naval District of Washington (NDW), the Northwest, the Southeast, the Southwest, and everywhere in between.
If you’re facing a court-martial, NCIS investigation, administrative separation board, or Captain’s Mast, we’re here to support you every step of the way! With over 300 years of combined military law expertise and a dedicated team of nearly 40 professionals, we proudly assist veterans and service members nationwide. You can trust that we prioritize your needs and are committed to standing up for you, independent of your chain of command. Let’s fight for your rights together!
WHO ARE THE BEST NAVY DEFENSE ATTORNEYS IN AMERICA?
When it comes to addressing injustice, bullying, and unfairness in the Naval Justice System, the answer starts with a law firm that stands firmly by its mission-driven approach and core values. At Capovilla & Williams, we don’t just make promises—our authenticity is the backbone of our practice, and we demonstrate it every single day. As experienced Navy Defense Attorneys, we have a proven track record of successfully supporting hundreds of Sailors through their toughest challenges. Meet our dedicated team, and you’ll quickly see why we are the obvious choice for your legal needs.
Attorney and CEO Robert Capovilla is recognized as one of the nation’s leading Civilian Navy Defense Attorneys. As a founding partner of Capovilla & Williams, he has taken the helm as lead counsel in numerous Navy cases worldwide, from Naples, Italy, to Norfolk, Virginia, and from JAX Naval Air Station in Jacksonville to Naval Base San Diego. Robert fiercely advocates for Sailors facing biased NCIS investigations, unjust court-martial charges, and unwarranted separation actions. Additionally, he is the Co-Host of the esteemed podcast “Military Justice Today” and the Co-Author of the highly regarded book “Court Martial Cases: Defense Strategies and Best Practices.”
Robert was retained as lead counsel in a high-profile case involving the accusation of negligent homicide. This case garnered significant media attention, including coverage from the Navy Times. His client was wrongfully accused of causing the death of a Djoubouti National while driving near Camp Lemonnier, Africa. Despite NCIS establishing probable cause against our client, Robert and his team dedicated months to rigorously investigating the matter. They uncovered compelling forensic evidence that unequivocally demonstrated our client was in his lane during the incident, while the foreign national was driving erratically and encroached into our client’s path. As a result of this thorough and effective defense, all negligent homicide and manslaughter charges were dropped and dismissed.
Attorney and Managing Partner Mickey Williams is widely regarded as one of the top Civilian Navy Defense Attorneys in America. He has defended Sailors accused of wrongdoing at nearly every major Navy installation across the country. As a co-host of the Military Justice Today Podcast and co-author of the acclaimed book “Court Martial Cases: Defense Strategies and Best Practices,” Mickey is recognized as a tough, seasoned, and experienced Navy Defense Attorney. Having worked on dozens and dozens of Navy cases, he is well-versed in the culture, language, and dynamics of Navy life.
One of Mickey’s most significant victories occurred when he skillfully defended a seasoned E-7 at Naval Air Station Pensacola. His client faced serious allegations of sexually assaulting a female classmate, with Navy Prosecutors and NCIS expressing strong confidence in securing a conviction. However, Mickey and his investigator, Mr. Denny Richter, a former CID Special Agent, swiftly uncovered crucial evidence: the alleged victim only reported the incident after learning that Mickey’s client had ended their relationship to pursue dating another woman. After a rigorous week-long trial, the panel delivered a resounding verdict of not guilty on all charges and specifications. Today, Mickey’s client continues to serve honorably, with retirement just around the corner.
Attorney Daniel Higgins is a highly respected Senior Litigator and Partner, recognized as one of the leading Civilian Navy Defense Attorneys in the country. A proud infantryman, he is a distinguished graduate of several elite military programs, including the US Army Sniper School, Ranger School, Airborne School, and the Special Forces Assessment and Selection Course. As a combat veteran with three tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, Daniel has successfully defended numerous Sailors facing allegations of misconduct and wrongdoing. He provides steadfast support in Court-Martials, Separation Boards, and Boards of Inquiry nationwide.
One of Dan’s most significant victories came when he represented a decorated Sailor who dedicated 17 years of service as a medic with Marine Corps Infantry units. This combat veteran had deployed multiple times and was looking forward to a well-deserved retirement. However, after testing positive for THC during a urinalysis, the Navy sought an Other Than Honorable (OTH) Separation Board, despite his otherwise exemplary record. As a fellow combat veteran, Dan passionately fought for his client, presenting expert testimony that highlighted the challenges associated with PTSD. After two days of intense litigation, the board made the right decision and retained his client. Today, that Sailor is fully retired, all benefits intact, and relishing life with his family.
Attorney Dominic Giordano is a highly regarded former Marine Corps officer and Judge Advocate, recognized as a leading civilian defense attorney for Sailors worldwide. With an impressive track record, he has successfully served as lead counsel in over 40 contested separation boards for the Department of the Navy and has handled more than 500 cases involving Marines and Sailors across the nation. In the past three years alone, Dominic has served as lead counsel in seven contested court-martials in the Navy, where he vigorously defended his clients against serious allegations. He is dedicated to defending his clients and is a formidable advocate for Sailors facing false allegations of serious crimes, including sexual assault, hazing, maltreatment, domestic violence, and larceny. Dominic addresses nearly every charge under the Uniform Code of Military Justice with determination and expertise.
One of Dominic’s most significant victories came while defending a distinguished Naval officer facing serious allegations including domestic violence, child abuse, fraternization, and adultery. NCIS was aggressively pursuing a court-martial, convinced that enough evidence existed to establish probable cause for all charges. However, Dominic successfully secured the dismissal of all criminal allegations against his client. The challenge did not end there, as the command quickly initiated a Board of Inquiry with the intention of issuing an Other Than Honorable (OTH) characterization of service. Dominic stood firm at the board, presenting compelling evidence that the accusations from his client’s ex-girlfriend were fabricated as a vendetta following a tumultuous breakup. Ultimately, the board found all allegations unsubstantiated, allowing Dominic’s client to remain in the Navy.
Attorney Brad Simon is a distinguished partner at Capovilla & Williams and stands as a leading authority among civilian Navy defense attorneys in America. He launched his career as a United States Air Force Judge Advocate, where he made history as the first Area Defense Counsel to secure the title of Best Defense Attorney in consecutive years. As a prominent civilian attorney, Brad has expertly managed over 75 Navy cases nationwide. His impressive track record includes representing sailors in court-martials, separation boards, non-judicial punishments (NJP), and various administrative actions, such as letters of reprimand. With a reputation for unparalleled skill and effectiveness, Brad Simon is recognized as one of the foremost civilian Navy defense attorneys in the country, and his extensive experience underscores his exceptional expertise.
Two of Brad’s most significant victories showcased his unwavering commitment to defending Sailors. The first success involved an LTJG in Norfolk, Virginia, who faced allegations of failing to report mandatory issues to higher HQ. Brad conducted a meticulous investigation, revealing that the member had been wrongfully targeted. During the BOI, he skillfully cross-examined high-ranking officials and ultimately exonerated the member, allowing him to retain his position and continue his service in the Navy.
The second case took place in Yokosuka, Japan, where Brad represented a LCDR accused of shoplifting, with video evidence seemingly sealing the case. However, Brad and his team went above and beyond to demonstrate that the member lacked any criminal intent—he was experiencing a mental lapse due to personal challenges and had no intention of theft. In a country known for a staggering 99.98% conviction rate, Brad successfully had the allegations dismissed before the Navy Board. He highlighted the disparities between the Japanese and American legal systems, presenting the member’s health records, family issues, and persistent work-related stress. Brad’s strategic approach humanized the member and reframed the narrative without denying the allegation. His efforts saved a 17-year career and upheld a valuable service member’s dignity.
Attorney Joshua Conklin began his impressive journey in the legal field as a paralegal in the Army JAGC, where he quickly excelled and achieved the rank of E-6. His time at Fort Gordon, GA, sparked his passion for Army justice, motivating him to pursue a law degree. Upon graduating, Josh joined Capovilla & Williams, driven by a heartfelt mission to support Soldiers throughout his career. As a Civilian Navy Defense Attorney, Josh has handled dozens and dozens of Navy cases across the country. Josh specializes primarily in Navy administrative actions such as notifications of separation and NJP. Josh is widely considered one of the most experienced military administrative attorneys in the nation and he’s a dedicated Civilian Navy Defense Attorney.
Josh has achieved remarkable victories, including representing a Senior Petty Officer in a pivotal NCIS expungement case. His client, a SMSgt who had been court-martialed in the past, faced unjust titling from NCIS, despite the dismissal of the charges. Undeterred, Josh, alongside his investigator Mr. Denny Richter—a former CID Special Agent—conducted thorough witness interviews, uncovered new evidence, and submitted a compelling expungement request to NCIS. After months of relentless advocacy, the titling action was completely removed.
In another notable case, Josh served as lead counsel for a Junior Enlisted Sailor accused of Abusive Sexual Contact under Article 120 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. With meticulous attention to detail, Josh reviewed all evidence, directed Mr. Richter to carry out a fresh investigation, and crafted a comprehensive response to the NJP notification. The result? The Sailor was found not guilty of all charges at the NJP hearing and successfully avoided a separation board.
Investigator John Snedden is a valued and esteemed member of the Capovilla & Williams team. He brings a wealth of experience from his tenure as a Special Agent in the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), where he handled complex felony criminal investigations and conducted foreign counterintelligence operations across the globe. John’s impressive case portfolio includes high-stakes homicides, assaults (inclusive of sexual assaults and child sex abuse), computer crimes, money laundering, financial crimes, fraud, bid-rigging, larceny, forgery, and drug offenses/suppression operations. Currently, John leverages his extensive investigative expertise at Capovilla & Williams, where he diligently supports our Marine Corps clients worldwide.
We urge you to compare our experience, results, and resources with any Navy Defense firm in America. You’ll quickly realize why Capovilla & Williams is recognized as one of the foremost military justice firms in the nation. Our unparalleled skills, extensive experience, and unwavering commitment ensure that we get the job done effectively.
FIGHT BACK AGAINST BIAS AND INCOMPLETE NCIS INVESTIGATIONS
We hold deep respect for law enforcement officials across our amazing country. However, it’s important to note that the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) operates quite differently from what you might see on TV. Mark Harmon is not a real NCIS agent; the organization differs significantly from its portrayal on TV. From our experience working with numerous NCIS agents and representing countless Sailors, we’ve seen a focus on jumping to conclusions rather than uncovering the truth. We once represented a Sailor who was lied to during an interrogation with the sole purpose of falsely incriminating him. During our closing argument, we took great pride in pointing out that NCIS agent to the panel and holding him accountable for such a disgraceful act.
If you find yourself under investigation by NCIS, it’s essential to take action swiftly and wisely. These investigations focus on serious crimes, and NCIS is committed to thoroughly examining every detail. At Capovilla & Williams, we view NCIS investigations as just the beginning of your journey, not the end. Our dedicated team, which includes experienced former federal agents, will work diligently to advocate for you. We believe in highlighting your perspective and will actively engage with the Office of the Special Trial Counsel (OSTC) to present your case effectively. Our commitment is entirely focused on your success, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can navigate this challenge with confidence and determination, aiming for the best possible outcome. Let’s take this journey together and strive for a brighter future!
TOP-SHELF NAVY DEFENSE ATTORNEYS, INVESTIGATORS, AND PARALEGALS
At Capovilla & Williams, we’re proud to say that we’ve served as lead counsel in over 3,000 military-related investigations, administrative actions, and court-martials. As published authors and enthusiastic podcasters, we’re regularly invited by news outlets for our insights on military law. But what truly drives us is you—our valued client. Say goodbye to the frustrating wait times for responses from Regional Legal Service Offices or other civilian lawyers. Our top priority is ensuring you receive the attention and support you deserve.
This commitment to our clients is reflected in the 400+ five-star reviews we’ve received from veterans and service members around the globe. We’re confident there’s no other military law firm that can match our dedication and accolades. We’re excited to embark on this journey with you because at Capovilla & Williams, it’s all about taking exceptional care of your needs. Let’s make this process as smooth and successful as possible together.
WE ARE ATTORNEYS, VETERANS, LEADERS, AUTHORS, AND ADVOCATES
We invite you to compare our team with any other military law firm in America. You will quickly discover that our expertise, client testimonials, and exceptional case results surpass the competition. You’ll see why thousands of Service Members have placed their trust in us for their careers, reputations, retirements, and futures. We’re fully equipped to meet your needs, and we proudly stand as the leading name in military law. Your success is our mission, and we can’t wait to assist you.
We’re excited to share that we are the proud authors of the book “Court Martial Cases: Defense Strategies and Best Practices,” now available at Barnes and Noble! Check it out here: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/court-martial-cases-robert-capovilla/1146631982.
Additionally, we’re thrilled to host “Military Justice Today!” This engaging national podcast explores a variety of military law topics. Now in our fifth season, it’s the perfect opportunity to dive deeper into the military justice process. Tune in anytime and catch our latest episodes here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/military-justice-today/id1583652299. We can’t wait for you to join us on this journey!
THE CAPOVILLA & WILLIAMS WINNING PHILSOPHY
The Navy will aggressively pursue allegations of misconduct, and NCIS is known for their belief that nearly every Sailor is guilty before a single witness is interviewed. That’s where we come in! At Capovilla & Williams, we ensure our Soldiers are supported by a dedicated team tailored to combat any allegations. You’ll benefit from the expertise of a seasoned lead attorney, a knowledgeable paralegal, and a skilled military investigator.
Our mission is to equip you with everything you need to effectively navigate the complexities of your case and stand strong against the challenges ahead. We’ve got your back!
We are ready, willing, and fully equipped to stand by your side. Keep your fire alive—call us today at 855-442-6271!
