By Airman 1st Class Grace Nichols
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
As stewards of the military justice system, the 19th Airlift Wing Legal Office at Little Rock Air Force Base assists commanders in maintaining good order and discipline in their units.
Although “JA” stands for Judge Advocate, its unofficial meaning in the legal office is “just ask.”
“The difference between the legal office and civilian attorneys is that we do everything,” said Capt. Alexander Zoll, 19th AW Legal Office chief of adverse actions. “We advise commanders and take care of Airmen; we’re advisors and prosecutors and we also provide legal assistance. You’re not going to get that anywhere else.”
The Military Justice Division is also responsible for processing all courts-martial, Articles 15s and administrative disciplinary matters.
The staff is equipped for more than disciplinary actions; Airmen with a wealth of knowledge in all things legal help service members and their families with a variety of issues, offering many services for free.
“We take care of Airmen and families and support the Combat Airlift mission by providing legal counsel,” said Airman 1st Class Pete Davis, 19th AW Legal Office military justice paralegal.
The Airmen are knowledgeable in paralegal matters, powers of attorney and notary services, last will and testaments and more.
Active-duty, reserve, guard, retirees and service members’ dependents are welcome, even if the individual is unsure of the type of legal assistance needed.
“If we can’t help you, we’ll direct you to someone who can,” Zoll said.
The paralegals provide support to family members with matters regarding questions about finances, power of attorney and other issues while their service member is deployed.
“Just because their family member is deployed doesn’t mean resources aren’t available to them,” Zoll said. “We’ll listen and make sure they have what they need.”
The legal office doesn’t represent members in court and cannot assist in criminal cases. Those seeking help in these matters may go to the Area Defense Council.
Appointments can be made in person or over the phone. Walk-ins are available for some services.
For more information, contact the 19th AW Legal Office at 501-987-7886.
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