ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England – The gavel strikes and all rise. The Judge Advocate General team files into the courtroom across from the Area Defense Counsel. Two teams of legal representatives are present here.

The 48th Fighter Wing Judge Advocate General upholds the key pillars of mission readiness, discipline, and quality of life. They serve as direct voices to commanders and the ever-evolving Air Force. Meanwhile, the Area Defense Counsel serves as a direct voice to the Airmen needing representation and guidance.

“Our job is to provide timely and relevant legal advice to decision-makers, typically commanders and supervisors,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Rena Weinstein, 48th FW JAG chief of operations and international law.

The JAG is available to Airmen of all ranges to assist in arranging legal reviews, discharge boards, deployment readiness and ensuring that international law, civil law, and military justice are upheld to the highest standard.

“I’m really grateful that I get to be in the crucial spot of ensuring that we do things the right way for the benefit of what we’re fighting for and defending,” said Weinstein.

The forefront of operations, mission effectiveness and strategic clarity starts with the JAG personnel advising and preparing leaders around the Air Force. Their guidance ensures that decisions align with legal and ethical standards, strengthening the 48th FW’s mission at every level.

“The JAG office commits itself to impacting the mission by providing peace of mind, assisting members through difficult times, and helping with the process along the way,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Chelsea Koch, 48th FW JAG superintendent.

This focus on helping Airmen shows a bigger promise in military law to make sure that service members are not only kept informed but also have support when they face tough times, whether they need to turn to the JAG or a different advocate.

On the other side of military law, serving Airmen as a supporter and defender stands the Area Defense Counsel.

The Air Force Trial Defense Division ADC is an advocate for Airmen, equipping them with assistance and advisement under no charge and providing an opportunity for Airmen to receive the best representation when in need.

To maintain impartiality and ensure the clients receive the best support possible, the ADC operates separately. This structure allows Airmen to receive objective guidance and a broader legal perspective.

“Our job as the ADC is to provide representation to Airmen and Guardians in a zealous, ethical, and professional manner. This could be for anything from a letter of counseling, admonishment or reprimand, to an Article 15 or court-martial,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jeorgina Silva, Air Force Trial Defense Division ADC defense paralegal.

These attorneys and paralegals stand alongside Airmen in need. Whether it’s members from the JAG or the ADC, reassurance, guidance and expert counsel are always within reach.

“I love the mission impact that I get to have, being face to face with a client,” said Silva.

“Having the ability to give reassurance and show that we are here to represent the client and fight on their behalf so they can focus on their duties.”

Defending on all fronts, the two services ensure that Airmen and families across the base are provided with the utmost professional and knowledgeable attorneys and paralegals. Despite the duties of the JAG and ADC being on two different sides of the room, make no mistake, these Airmen are here for you.