Sexual Assault Acquittals
They may be just two simple words, but for our clients, the words are life changing – NOT GUILTY. Over the past few months we have had the pleasure of representing Soldiers who were falsely charged with rape and sexual assault under Article 120. In each of these cases, we obtained a result that enabled our client to walk out of the courtroom with their family. Below are some of their testimonials:
CW2 B. – Charged with Article 120 (Rape), Article 120 (Abusive Sexual Contact), Article 81 (Conspiracy), and Article 134 (Obstructing Justice) – Full Acquittal.
Let me start by saying thanks for everything (my freedom!). I really appreciate Mr. Coombs going the extra mile to ensure that we received a favorable outcome. I can see why his passion is in defense, and why there are so many positive testimonials about him. Mr. Coombs is an awesome attorney and I highly recommend him. He provided me with his detailed plan to not only win my case, but to show that I was innocent. Mr. Coombs kept me informed of everything that was going on with my case. I was able to see and understand the entire court-martial process and my rights. His dedication to win and whole hearted efforts were exceptional. Without him by my side I may not be here writing this testimonial.
MAJ G. – Charged with Article 120 (Abusive Sexual Contact) and Article 133 (Conduct Unbecoming an Officer) – Full Acquittal.
With the current political climate in the military on sexual assault and biases facing anyone accused, I feared the worse. I researched online for an attorney but eventually went with a recommendation from a JAG friend I trusted to reach out to Mr. David Coombs. I quickly learned David’s reputation was well established in the military legal community. My court appointed military attorney and her colleagues knew of his work given he had taught many of them as their professor (See David’s credentials). Even the other civilian attorney I had considered retaining at the time spoke very highly of him.
David answered his own phone – he took the time at first contact to hear my case. I never had a problem reaching him each and every time after that call in spite of his location on the east coast and mine on the west. After I explained my situation and even before taking my case, David made international phone calls attempting to obtain hotel security recordings to aid my defense. Before trial, David worked at length to keep me abreast of his progress. He kept insanely organized records and shared all documents filed from both sides with me. Needless to say, I was never blindsided by anything throughout the whole process.
Throughout the UCMJ process and especially during the trial, I quickly discovered how biased the system had become. The judge and the commanding authority over my case granted many concessions to the alleged victim. I had the misfortune of having a fairly new judge – one that already had a laundry list of complaints against him. It was apparent he had less than a firm understanding of the relevant UCMJ articles and case laws. Remarkably, the judge restricted us from presenting to the jury that the alleged victim had a boyfriend or that she interacted with him the night of the alleged incident – a fact that lent support to DNA findings and one that was critical to my defense. In spite of all the restrictions the judge placed on us, David pressed on masterfully. His courtroom presence was impressive. David exudes confidence and clearly articulated legal jargon to a level of understanding for any laymen. The government closed with a lengthy power point brief while David took less than half the time speaking without the benefit of notes. The jury deliberated for less than thirty minutes and concluded with a not-guilty verdict. I owe my full acquittal to David. It was a complex case, but David made it simple. Retaining David was the best thing I could’ve done.
SSG C. – Charged with two specifications of Article 120 (Sexual Assault), Article 107 (False Official Statement), and Article 134 (Fraternization) – Case Dismissed with Prejudice.
David Coombs is someone you want on your side. He worked hard for me, and was meticulous when looking over my case. He was also always there for me to answer my questions that would pop up day or night. With David as my defense council he made me feel confident and comfortable, and I felt more at ease despite my stressful situation. He picked apart the evidence and analyzed every aspect of my case. After noticing several discrepancies in the alleged victim’s account, David was able to have me avoid going to a court-martial, and my charges were dismissed leaving me with a positive outcome. I am glad that I decided to hire David. It was one of the most important decisions I’ve had to make in my life. I am very thankful that he was there for me.
Our law firm is committed to the Soldiers we represent. We strive to provide our clients with prompt, knowledgeable and unparalleled legal service. If you have been falsely accused of sexual assault, please call us today.