Board of Inquiry (WoFR BOI)
Sexual Harassment
National Guard MAJ
New York
August 10, 2025 | Hired Attorney
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 (WoFR); but was going to ensure that he succeeded by not only, in addition to adding 2 GOMORs to my AMHRR, having both my Rater and Senior Rater submit a substandard RFC OER “Capable/Qualified” rating. This after an 18+ year Enlisted and Commissioned career, with the majority of the OERs at “Outstanding Performance/Best Qualified” and “Excels/Most Qualified” – “promote ahead of peers” ratings. I contacted Mr. Carpenter and he represented me at the WoFR Board hearing. The board, handpicked by the CG, was comprised of 4 COLs, one of which, the President of the Board, held 2 votes. All the cards stacked against me, as the Board proceeded through a very long day, Mr. Carpenter submitted several objections, noting outdated regulations as well as a multitude of additional discrepancies, to include violations of due process; pointing out to the Board that, while attempting to contact government witnesses, all witnesses/accusers refused to speak/communicate with him; to include the government’s “expert witness,” a fulltime SM. In March 2020 I was notified that the WoFR Board Majority decided for my Separation. The CG submitted my WoFR through NGB and had me Involuntarily Separated. I proceeded to appeal the WoFR Board’s decision to the Army Board of Corrections Military Records (ABCMR). Considering the conditions, Mr. Carpenter represented me to the best of his abilities; and his objections, while ignored by both the President of the Board and the Legal Counsel for the Board -a LTC, also handpicked by the CG, were “noted” by the ABCMR and in June 2025, determined the evidence presented was sufficient to warrant a recommendation of partial relief. As a result, the Board recommended, unanimously, that all Department of the Army records be corrected vacating the WoFR Board findings and decision. I recommend Mr. Carpenter to anyone facing adverse actions potentially affecting their career.”
Board of Inquiry (BOI)
Drunk Driving / Alcohol Incidents
Marine Corps Maj
Okinawa, Japan
April 3, 2023 | Hired Attorney
Retained at a BOI
“I retained Stephen as my attorney for a BOI due to three minor alcohol related incidents in my past. He worked with me even before I was officially notified to help me in the process leading up. Once officially notified, he aggressively worked my case, worked with my character witnesses and worked a strategy we would take. Additionally, he worked with my assigned defense counsel setting me up for success. During the BOI, he presented my case in a very positive way and would quickly counter the government’s witness and evidence against me. He was able to adjust our strategy throughout the afternoon to continue convincing the board of my progress and my time in the military and concluded with a very strong and direct closing statement that ultimately resulted in me being retained with a 3-0 vote. I can’t thank Stephen enough for his work and would highly recommend him and his firm for any type of support.”
Board of Inquiry (BOI)
Drug Use
Navy Officer
Bremerton, WA
July 7, 2016 | Hired Attorney
O-3 USN
“Mr. Carpenter successfully defended me at my Board of Inquiry (BOI) and I was retained for future service. I can’t explain in words what that meant for my Family and I. I was up against the wall for what was considered a semi fraternization case of adultery. I decided to call Mr. Carpenter when my assigned Military Attorney’s told me I basically had no shot at retention after 19 years of service. After 19 years of service I was about to be told to go home with nothing. When I called him he gave me hope from the very first phone call. He didn’t guarantee me a successful outcome but to finally talk to a competent attorney was relief enough. The hard work and dedication he gave me from day one was second to none and to see him in action at my BOI was eye watering! Stephen is a brilliant communicator not just in court but also with my family from the start. If I could recommend him to every single person seeking an attorney I would do just that. He is worth every penny and looking back I would’ve paid double his asking price… He’s that good! My Family and I would have had nothing without Mr. Carpenter’s defense and now we get to move forward with our lives and my Military career thanks to him. Thank you Steve! Friends for Life!”
Board of Inquiry (BOI)
Adultery
Army MAJ
S. Korea
February 4, 2025 | Hired Attorney
Would not want any other lawyer with my career on the line!
“What a rollercoaster my journey has been. I contacted Stephen during my 15-6/GOMAR rebuttal and the outcome was permanent which led to a board of inquiry hearing. This is where Stephen shined. He knew the pulse of the board members and predicted how the members would react and knew when to be sympathetic and when to be a bulldog! The board members retained me and it only took them 10 minutes. He saved my 18-year career. He always checked in on me during the process and kept my best interest first. Please don’t hesitate to have Stephen represent you. You won’t be disappointed and now I feel like I’ve gained someone I can trust for the rest of my life. Thank you, Stephen!!”
Board of Inquiry (BOI)
Toxic Leadership, Bullying
Army MAJ
Germany
February 14, 2024 | Hired Attorney
U.S. Army GOMAR and ADMIN separation Board
“This review is for anyone who is facing an ADMIN Separation board and is unsure of the next steps. I have 19 years of exemplary service in the U.S. Army and went through one of the most challenging situations possible. My leader, my Supervisor, my Boss a commissioned officer was creating a toxic work environment, and in retaliation of me going to my command and speaking on this, she filed a week later a harassment case against me. Despite the evidence submitted and my claims of innocence, I was given a GOMAR permanently filed, processed to the QMP board, and referred to an ADMIN Board for separation. No one spoke up for me all the way from my command to the General, everyone just saw harassment and signed off and pushed the packet. I was at a point of depression and anger. It wasn’t until I was told about someone who would fight and speak for me. Stephen Carpenter. This process waiting for the board took 2 years and I have been flagged, removed from the promotion list, security clearance in question, rated NFQ on this current board, denied future assignments and listed on the QMP board. This is not something I ever would have imagined after 19 years of doing everything I could to be a good leader. In the end with the evidence presented to the board and witness testimonies, the board convened and lasted almost 14 hours. In the end the board saw the truth and noted that there was “contradiction of evidence presented”, the person lied under oath and sworn statements, and this truly was not investigated properly by the I.O. I was retained by the board and given continued service in the U.S. Army. I am still contemplating ways to hold this commissioned officer accountable for her actions which affected my career and family. During the board Mr. Carpenter was amazing, it was almost like being in a movie, I never seen someone who took every detail personally and was truly fighting for me and my family. Despite Mr. Carpenter receiving calls from potential clients, he still made the time to treat my case with the care it needed. I don’t believe anyone else would have spent the time in detail to make this outcome the way it did. Mr. Carpenter made sure to stay in a hotel locally in the area to make sure he met with my witness and myself the days prior. Truly he all about making sure I had representation that would fight for me and my family rights. If you are facing an ADMIN Separation board or GOMOR or any injustice and you need someone to represent you, I promise you take the time to at least contact Mr. Carpenter he will not disappoint.”
Board of Inquiry (BOI)
Sexual Harassment
Navy LT
Everett, WA
March 22, 2018 | Hired Attorney
Steve in court is like watching Muhammad Ali in the ring
Once accused I became the outcasted village leper and the Navy wanted nothing to do with me. Steve was there for me as I waited 22 months for adjudication, and offered sage advice that ultimately helped me win my case. At my board of inquiry they threatened administratively separating me with an OTH discharge 100+ days before retirement … that would have meant: NO GI Bill, NO retirement, and possibly NO VA Disability Benefits. Thanks to Steve, I received a FULL Honorable Retirement with my GI Bill and all other VA Benefits. I cannot thank Steve enough for all the amazing work he did to find justice in a military judicial system that is heavily influenced by rank and not by objective evidence. When Steve gets in the zone, he’s able to connect all the dots and make sense out of the madness. I’d highly recommend that you hire his services ASAP, before you sign ANY legal paperwork. Seriously, save yourself the trouble and give him a call. Stephen Carpenter is a superhero that uses his powers for good in a military system gone insane with leaders who are all focused on self-preservation at the cost of their own people. If you’re in physical danger, feel free to turn on the Bat signal … but if you need legal help, you better turn on the SC singal. Thank you, Steve, for saving my career, saving my hard earned reputation, and for protecting my family from legal destruction.”
Board of Inquiry (BOI)
Sexual Assault
Army CW2
JBLM, WA
March 1, 2023 | Hired Attorney
BOI – HON / 120 Claim Unfounded
“Firstly, Stephen Carpenter did an amazing job on what we both initially thought was a straightforward case. However, shortly after notification of my BOI, an Art 120 allegation was made which delayed my BOI for over a year. During this time, Mr. Carpenter continued to stay in touch and provide sound legal advice as updates came up. When the BOI drew close, he spent hours working with me to perfect our defense. He is meticulous and highly detail oriented. He honed in on key facts that led to the BOI declaring the Art 120 allegation unsubstantiated. While the original allegation was declared substantiated and a recommendation for separation was submitted, it was with an HONORABLE discharge. Furthermore, Mr. Carpenter’s work on this case paved the way for (hopefully) the Army Review Boards Agency to overturn the board’s separation recommendation and allow me to retire. Time will tell, but I will tell you this…if you’re in trouble with military justice…call Stephen Carpenter.”
Board of Inquiry (BOI)
Conduct Unbecoming
Navy LT
NPC Appeal
June 26, 2024 | Hired Attorney
Saved my retirement
“Worked with Stephen for approximately eight months on appealing my case in which I was recommended for separation. Ultimately the decision was partially overturned, and I am now able to retire this year.”
Board of Inquiry (BOI)
Conduct Unbecoming
Army MAJ
JBER, Alaska
February 22, 2020 | Hired Attorney
Army BOI
“Highly recommend Mr. Carpenter for Army BOI. He was superb during trial and very precise against the prosecutor. Result: I was RETAINED to stay in the Army. He did the impossible and made it possible for my family and I. Jason and Stephen did a amazing teamwork. I will never forget them and will always be thankful for what they did. Stephen is a Great person.”
Board of Inquiry (BOI)
Drug Use
Army CPT
Germany
March 1, 2023 | Hired Attorney
Military Elimination Board of Inquiry (BOI)
“I was falsely accused of using illegal drug (codeine); given a GOMOR and referred to the board for elimination. Mr. Carpenter representing me pointed out the inconsistencies in my case and was able to secure my retain in the Army. He went beyond what I hired him for to get me information on my next moves and pathway to retirement (16 years in the army). As a lawyer he has done an excellent job and as person he cares. We are still in contact. He keeps looking into my files and updates me. I think hiring him was one of the best decisions I ever made. Stephen and his team were amazing.”
Board of Inquiry (BOI)
Failure to Obey Lawful Order
Army MAJ
Germany
May 25, 2022 | Hired Attorney
Retained by Board of Inquiry
“I hired Mr. Carpenter to represent me at my Board of Inquiry (BOI). Mr. Carpenter was patient and dedicated to representing me at this complicated hearing. The case was unique and needed someone skilled in military law and psychology. He aggressively responded to the false allegations against me and was determined to restore my character and credibility. As a man of faith, my attorney needed to understand my faith and the position I held in the military. Mr. Carpenter was God-sent and needed at my BOI. I was hesitant about hiring an attorney, but with the culture of the military today, it is a necessity to hire someone outside of the influence of the military. I won my case with the help of God and the expertise of Mr. Carpenter.””
Board of Inquiry (BOI)
Drunk Driving
Army MAJ
Germany
November 25, 2020 | Hired Attorney
Retained after Board of Inquiry due to DUI in Germany!
“I was recommended by my wife to seek Mr. Carpenter as our attorney after receiving my DUI. Due to this misconduct, a board of inquiry was initiated. He worked hard, very personal, and did not waist anytime when we were together building our case. He definitely exceeded my expectation. When your dealing with the utmost difficult situation with many odds against you, hiring an experienced attorney will give you a piece of mind even if it’s for a couple hours out of the day. With mixed emotions and so many block roads with a DUI case it’s hard to predict what the outcome maybe. This is why they say you get what you paid for and to be honest I believe whole heartedly it help save my career. With his experience and expertise, the court process seems more smooth sailing compared to the regular TDS appointed representative. Thank you, Mr. Carpenter! My family and I appreciate you for your passion in fighting for service members, we cannot thank you enough for what you have done for us. Your passion and resilience is truly a gift from God! Highly recommended! He travels from Germany to the States which is a plus!!! God bless everyone that is currently reading this. We hope you get through these difficult times as we did with Mr. Stephen Carpenter’s help.”
Board of Inquiry (BOI)
Sexual Misconduct
Army CW2
JBLM, WA
August 18, 2020 | Hired Attorney
Retained by a BOI – Stephen Carpenter is an amazing UCMJ attorney!
“Mr. Carpenter is the most competent, diligent, responsive, and ethical lawyer that I’ve ever hired. He is a very personable attorney, who understands the tough circumstances Service Members face when dealing with an unjust military legal system, and will fight relentlessly to achieve positive results for his clients. Mr. Carpenter disproved numerous false allegations against me by proving the government’s evidence did not substantiate their claims. His sound arguments and effective display of evidence, or the lack there of, clearly demonstrated that his experience level is far superior to any government attorney. If you want a fighting chance to continue to serve, then you need to hire Stephen Carpenter.”
Board of Inquiry (BOI)
Withdrawn
Sexual Harassment
National Guard MAJ
Colorado
September 29, 2017 | Hired Attorney
A Military Diagnosis, ‘Personality Disorder,’ Is Challenged. NY Times
“Steve was referred by colleagues as “one of the best, if not the best trial attorney in the country, aggressive and a master strategist.” My case speaks to this. It was lengthy and complicated. I received a GOMOR for sexual harassment in Afghanistan and was ordered to undergo a Mental Health Evaluation. The psychiatrist had a condescending attitude. He feigned concern when I discovered that I had been assaulted and waved aside my distress. His diagnosis was adjustment disorder” and recommended my immediate return JBLM adding “This is in my best interest” I requested a copy his note but was denied. He said “behavioral health notes are released at the discretion of the provider. The contents may be traumatizing. “ I was in trouble. I had an “adjustment disorder” diagnosis placing me at risk for involuntary separation. The psychiatrist inferred negative information in my behavioral health record. There was a GOMOR in my permanent file. My commander was openly hostile and wouldn’t return my salute. I was facing certain administrative separation under Other Than Honorable (OTH) Conditions. I’d lose both benefits and my civilian position with DOD. I was despondent, but Steve would change that. I was able to get a copy of the psychiatrist’s note at JBLM. His diagnosis was not “adjustment disorder” as I was told, but “Personality Disorder.” Even more stunning, he said “Her command specifically asks for a diagnosis of a “Personality Disorder”, Important evidence confirming the long- held belief that Unlawful Command Influence is practiced by unethical, criminal commanders. Steve is always on top. Characteristically, he contacted one of the most revered newspapers in the country, the NY Times, to publish the psychiatrist’s note. On Feb 25, 2012, my case appeared on the front page but, Steve wasn’t finished yet. He filed a Whistle Blower complaint against my command that ultimately made its way to the Army IG at the Pentagon who requested my sworn statements. Steve’s excellence appeared to be acknowledged by my command. During the course of my case, I received three separate Board notifications. Steve responded to each and each time, my command retreated. I never had a Board hearing nor was I separated for a personality disorder or misconduct. My characterization of service was honorable. That’s how good Steve is. Steve’s expertise is matched by his compassion. My case went on for 6 years. Resignation with OTH Conditions was out of the question so I road it out. During that time, my command targeted me with reprisals that leveled the life I had built. If not for Steve’s steady support, I would have taken my life. In the end, the VA rated me as 100% disabled from PTSD and spinal injuries. I was medically retired from my position with DOD for PTSD and was granted Social Security Disability for PTSD. The presiding Secretary of the Army, however, would not acknowledge my PTSD. To my knowledge, I’m the only military member on record who was denied medical retirement under these circumstances.”