KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- When an Airman’s career, reputation or freedom is on the line, knowing who is in their corner changes everything. The Area Defense Counsel is here to be that advocate, providing free, independent and confidential legal defense to every Airman stationed at the Wolf Pack.
The ADC’s mission is absolute: defend those who defend our freedom.
“Our job is to fiercely advocate for the individual, no ifs, ands or buts,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Remar Smith, Kunsan defense paralegal. “We operate entirely outside the local chain of command and the base legal office, which means we answer only to our clients.”
Whether a member is facing a court-martial, an Article 15, or a sudden commander-directed investigation, the Area Defense Counsel serves as the ultimate safeguard for due process. The office provides critical, strategic guidance on a wide spectrum of adverse actions, including:
- Administrative discharges.
- Letters of counseling, admonishment or reprimand.
- Unfavorable information files.
- Referral performance briefs.
- Demotions.
- Suspect rights advisements under Article 31.
At the Area Defense Counsel, confidentiality is not just a policy; it is an ironclad legal shield. Every conversation held behind closed doors is protected by strict attorney-client privilege, giving Airmen a safe space to get honest, unfiltered advice without fear of command disclosure.
“We are here to be the reasonable voices in the room, but we are zealous, uncompromising advocates fighting for every single human being who walks through our door. We ensure no Airman has to face the military justice system alone,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Christopher Willett, Kunsan Area Defense Counsel.
Airmen are strongly advised not to wait until charges are formally filed to seek help. If you are questioned, suspect you are under investigation or believe your rights are at risk, reaching out early is critical to protecting your options.
To help streamline the defense process, clients are encouraged to complete the Area Defense Counsel intake form prior to their first visit.
The Kunsan Area Defense Counsel office is located in Building 250. Walk-in hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., with appointments available in the afternoons. Accommodations are readily available for shift workers, as well as appointments all day Friday. The office is closed on federal holidays and Pacific Air Forces family days.
To connect with the Kunsan Area Defense Counsel, call DSN 782-4848.