Becky Haugen, Author at Law Offices of David P. Sheldon

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon Advocates for Amendment to SB93 to Expand Tax Benefits for Uniformed Services Retirees

Posted on February 17, 2025March 25, 2025 by Becky Haugen

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon Advocates for Fair Tax Treatment of All Uniformed Service Retirees in Montana

Washington, D.C. – The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, a leading firm in military and veteran legal advocacy, is actively supporting an amendment to Montana Senate Bill 93 (SB93) to ensure that all uniformed service retirees, including those from the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Corps, receive equitable tax benefits.

Currently, SB93 provides a partial tax exemption on retirement income for military retirees who meet specific residency requirements. However, the bill excludes retired members of the USPHS and NOAA Corps, despite their official classification as part of the United States Uniformed Services under 10 U.S.C. 101.

Proposed Amendment to SB93

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon is advocating for a critical amendment to:

Expand eligibility to include all uniformed services as defined by federal law.

Modify SB93’s language to reflect the full scope of eligible retirees, including USPHS and NOAA Corps personnel.

Remove the five-year limitation and extend the benefits permanently beyond 2033.

Why This Matters

The U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (USPHS) has served Montana and the nation for over a century, leading public health initiatives, emergency responses, and critical healthcare services—especially in underserved communities. Despite this, USPHS retirees remain excluded from Montana’s proposed tax relief, even though they receive the same pay and benefits as their military counterparts.

Montana residents can take action now by urging their legislators to support the amendment. A one-page fact sheet with key details about SB93’s requested changes is available.

How You Can Help

✔ Contact Montana state legislators and request their support for the SB93 amendment.
✔ Use our pre-drafted email template to easily reach out to your representatives [insert link].
✔ Spread the word on social media using #SB93 and tagging relevant policymakers.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon is a nationally recognized firm specializing in military law, veterans’ rights, and administrative advocacy. With decades of experience fighting for service members and their families, our firm remains committed to securing justice and fair treatment for those who have served.

For media inquiries or legal assistance, please contact:

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC
MilitaryDefense.com
202-546-9575

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this press release is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or legal representation. Service members facing legal or administrative challenges should consult with a qualified attorney who is experienced in military law to receive guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.

Annie Morgan on Military Justice & Women in the Armed Forces – Dog Tag Diaries Podcast

Posted on February 12, 2025February 19, 2025 by Becky Haugen

Guest Appearance by Annie Morgan on the Dog Tag Diaries Podcast to Discuss Military Justice and Defending High Value Detainees at Guantanamo Bay

Washington, D.C. – February 12, 2025 – The Dog Tags Podcast, hosted by Captain Kim and Captain Dakota, features a powerful new episode with special guest Annie Morgan, Senior Military Defense Attorney at the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon. Known for her fierce advocacy for service members and extensive work in military justice, Morgan shares her insights on legal challenges within the military, her experiences representing detainees at Guantanamo Bay, and the ongoing push for military justice.

Dog Tag Diaries, hosted by Captain Kim and Captain Dakota, has become a trusted platform for sharing authentic stories of experiences in the military—particularly those highlighting the voices and experiences of women in service. This episode adds another meaningful conversation to their growing library of compelling content.

Episode Highlights Include:

Annie Morgan’s work as military attorney for detainees at Guantanamo Bay
Defending military members and her commitment to justice for the military community
The importance improving conditions for women in the armed forces
Her own experiences of being part of the military community from childhood to now a Senior Military Attorney for the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon

Where to Listen:
The Dog Tag Diaries Podcast is available on Dog Tag Diaries. Don’t miss this episode featuring Annie Morgan and other inspiring voices from women in the military community. “Join Captain Kim as she explores Annie’s experiences defending airmen and navigating the intricacies of criminal justice.”

Lawsuit Filed Against Department of Defense for Medical Negligence and Procedural Violations

Posted on February 7, 2025March 25, 2025 by Becky Haugen

Complaint Filed Against Department of Defense Alleging Medical Negligence and Violations of Procedural Rights

Washington, DC – The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon have filed a federal complaint on behalf of the father of a deceased U.S. Navy seaman, alleging severe medical negligence by the medical staff aboard the USS Ronald Reagan and significant violations of due process by the Department of Defense.

The complaint asserts that the seaman, who tragically passed away in 2016, was denied proper medical care over a six-day period despite showing increasingly severe symptoms of illness. Medical personnel allegedly ignored protocol and failed to administer necessary diagnostic tests, resulting in the preventable death of a young service member.

“This case highlights a profound failure of care and accountability,” said Dylan Thayer, an attorney with the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon. “No family should ever experience such a tragic loss due to negligence, nor should they be denied justice by procedural errors and misapplications of the law.”

The complaint further alleges that after the independent autopsy revealed the true cause of death, the Department of Defense repeatedly misrepresented the circumstances surrounding the seaman’s passing. Efforts by the family to seek justice were met with denials and procedural barriers, including an improper refusal to apply the discovery rule to determine the timeliness of the claim.

“We are committed to ensuring that this family’s voice is heard and that those responsible are held accountable,” Thayer added. “This lawsuit is about more than just one individual case—it’s about exposing a broader issue and preventing future injustices.”

The lawsuit seeks judicial review of the Defense Health Agency’s denial of the family’s claim, arguing that the agency’s actions were arbitrary, capricious, and in violation of constitutional and statutory rights.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon
The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon are dedicated to representing military service members and their families in matters involving military justice, medical negligence, and appeals. With extensive experience in military law, the firm is known for its tireless advocacy and pursuit of justice for those who serve.

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon
202-546-9575
militarydefense.com

Disclaimer:

Political Stunt Feasibility As Migrants Are Sent To Guantanamo

Posted on February 7, 2025March 25, 2025 by Becky Haugen

Accommodating 30,000 migrants would be “logistically impossible”, according to former Air Force Judge Advocate (JAG) Annie Morgan, a military attorney for the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, Located in Washington, DC.

Full CNN story.

Trump’s Guantanamo Bay Migrant Detention Plan: Legal, Ethical, and Logistical Challenges

Trump’s plan to detain 30,000 undocumented migrants at Guantanamo Bay. Legal challenges, ethical concerns, and staggering costs dominate discussions of this controversial immigration policy.

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or legal representation. Service members facing legal or administrative challenges should consult with a qualified attorney who is experienced in military law to receive guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.

Federal Complaint Filed Over Denial of Education Benefits

Posted on February 6, 2025March 25, 2025 by Becky Haugen

Retired Navy Commander Files Federal Complaint Over Denial of Education Benefits

Washington, D.C. – February 4, 2025 – A retired U.S. Navy Commander with nearly three decades of service has filed a federal lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia (Civil Action No. 1:25-cv-00324) against the Acting Secretary of the Navy, challenging the denial of Post-9/11 GI Bill education benefits for his children.

The complaint alleges that the Commander, who was eligible for reserve retirement as of 2008, was improperly denied the right to transfer education benefits due to errors by the Navy and inadequate counseling regarding eligibility requirements. Despite fulfilling all criteria outlined by Department of Defense and Navy regulations, he was misinformed that additional years of service were required. Acting on this misinformation, the Commander extended his service commitment but later retired in 2015 to address urgent family needs, including supporting a child with autism enrolled in the Navy’s Exceptional Family Member Program.

The lawsuit claims the denial of benefits was arbitrary, capricious, and inconsistent with established military regulations and past Board for Correction of Naval Records precedents. The Commander asserts that other service members in similar situations were granted relief and that his case deserves the same outcome.

“This case is about ensuring fairness for service members who have dedicated their lives to this country and holding the Navy accountable for fulfilling its commitments to military families,” said a Dylan Thayer the Commander’s legal representative.

The complaint asks the Court to remand the case for a new review, recognize the Commander’s eligibility to transfer education benefits, and correct his military records to reflect that eligibility. The case is being handled by the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, a firm specializing in military justice and veterans’ rights.

Media Contact:
Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC
Tel: (202) 546-9575
Contact Us

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Military Wrongful Death & FTCA Claims | Law Offices of David P. Sheldon

Posted on February 3, 2025March 25, 2025 by Becky Haugen

Justice for Wrongful Death Caused by Military Negligence

When a loved one’s life is tragically cut short due to military negligence, civilians have legal options to seek justice. Under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), individuals can hold the U.S. government accountable for wrongful death caused by military actions—whether through negligent vehicle accidents, or other misconduct.

Navigating claims against the government is complex, requiring skilled legal representation. The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, based in Washington, DC, specializes in military law and wrongful death cases. With a deep understanding of FTCA claims, our firm fights for the justice and compensation families deserve.

If you’ve lost someone due to military negligence, don’t navigate this battle alone. Contact us today for a consultation or Call our firm at 202-546-9575 to discuss your wrongful death by military negligence case.

#MilitaryWrongfulDeath #FTCAClaims #MilitaryNegligence #JusticeForFamilies #DavidPSheldonLaw

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon Successfully Negotiates Settlement for Defendant in Civil Suit

Posted on January 30, 2025March 25, 2025 by Becky Haugen

Press Release

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon Successfully Negotiates Settlement for January 6th Defendant in Civil Suit

On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued “a full, complete and unconditional pardon to all other individuals convicted of offenses related to events that occurred at or near the United States Capitol on January 6, 2021.” While this historic order relieved January 6th defendants of criminal liability, many continue to face civil lawsuits stemming from the events of that day.

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon recently represented one such defendant in a high-stakes civil case seeking $10 million in damages, including claims for wrongful death.

Thanks to the diligence and skill of our legal team, several claims against our client were dismissed. The plaintiff filed a stipulation of dismissal with regard to our client, reaching a settlement for a significantly reduced amount.

At the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, we believe that everyone deserves high-quality legal representation. If you are a defendant in a civil suit in federal or D.C. Superior Court, contact our office today to learn how we can help protect your rights.

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC
100 M St SE, Suite 600
Washington, DC 20003
(202) 546-9575
www.militarydefense.com

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Military Defense Attorneys: Protecting Your Rank, Benefits, and Justice

Posted on January 28, 2025March 25, 2025 by Becky Haugen

Defending the Rights of Military Professionals: Protecting Your Rank, Benefits, and Justice

The brave men and women who serve in our military dedicate their lives to protecting the freedoms we enjoy every day. In return, it is only fair that they receive the protections they deserve when it comes to their careers, benefits, and justice. However, recent changes in policies and executive orders can create confusion, uncertainty, and in some cases, threats to these essential rights.

Military professionals, whether enlisted or civilian, need reliable resources and expert legal representation to ensure their rights are upheld, their careers are protected, and their futures are secure. This is where the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon step in, providing responsible and experienced legal advocacy for uniformed and non-uniformed professionals alike.

Your Rights and Why They Matter

Military members face unique challenges compared to their civilian counterparts. From the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) to complex administrative processes, military professionals are subject to a distinct set of laws and regulations. These include:

– Rights to Due Process: Whether facing administrative separation, court-martial, or adverse personnel actions, you are entitled to fair process and the opportunity to defend yourself.

– Protection of Rank and Benefits: Years of service translate to earned benefits, retirement pay, and rank. Losing these due to unjust actions or lack of representation can have devastating consequences for your future.

– Employment Protections: Non-uniformed professionals, such as defense contractors and civilian employees of the Department of Defense (DoD), also face challenges, including employment disputes, security clearance issues, and discrimination claims.

Recent policy shifts such as reinstating service members previously discharged for refusing COVID-19 vaccinations and changes to diversity and inclusion initiatives may introduce legal complexities, impacting service members employment, benefits, or assignments.

Legal Challenges Facing Military Professionals

Military service comes with its own set of potential legal hurdles:

– Administrative Discharges: Service members facing separation from the military may lose critical benefits such as healthcare, GI Bill eligibility, and retirement pay.

– Court-Martial Proceedings: Criminal allegations under the UCMJ require experienced legal defense to ensure justice is served and careers are not unjustly ruined.

– Security Clearance Revocations: Losing a security clearance can effectively end a career for many military and non-uniformed professionals working in sensitive roles.

– Discrimination or Retaliation: Policies, biases, or personal disputes may lead to discriminatory actions or retaliation against service members or civilian employees, threatening their careers.

How the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon Can Help

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon have been a steadfast advocate for military professionals for over two decades. Their deep understanding of military law and dedication to protecting service members’ rights make them a trusted partner for those navigating complex legal challenges. Here’s what sets them apart:

– Expertise in Military Law: From defending service members in court-martial cases to advocating for civilian DoD employees, the firm has unparalleled experience in military justice matters.

– Protecting Your Benefits: They understand the importance of preserving rank, retirement benefits, and healthcare, and they fight tirelessly to safeguard these essential resources.

– Comprehensive Representation: Whether you’re uniformed or non-uniformed, active duty, Reserve, National Guard, or a civilian contractor, their team provides tailored legal representation for your unique circumstances.

– Commitment to Justice: The firm believes in holding the system accountable to ensure fairness, transparency, and respect for your rights.

Why You Deserve Representation

In the face of changing policies and potential legal challenges, protecting your career and benefits requires more than just hope, it requires action. Navigating military justice and employment law without experienced representation can be overwhelming and costly.

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon stand ready to defend your rights and ensure that your years of service and dedication to the mission are respected and protected. They offer representation for a wide range of cases, including:

– Court-martial defense

– Discharge upgrades

– Security clearance challenges

– Employment disputes

– Discrimination claims

Taking the First Step

If you or someone you know is facing a legal challenge in the military or as a DoD civilian, don’t wait until it’s too late. Reach out to experienced professionals who understand the intricacies of military law and will fight for your rights, benefits, and justice.

Contact the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward protecting what you’ve earned through your dedicated service. Your career, your benefits, and your future are worth fighting for and with the right legal representation, you can ensure they are safeguarded.

For more information on how the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon can assist you, visit their website: MilitaryDefense.com or call 202-546-9575 for a consultation.

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Reinstated Military Members: Addressing Administrative Record Issues with Legal Expertise

Posted on January 23, 2025March 25, 2025 by Becky Haugen

Reclaiming Your Military Record: Navigating Administrative Challenges with Expert Help

As thousands of service members prepare to return to active duty after being discharged for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine, a new chapter begins—one filled with hope but also administrative hurdles. For many, the promise of reinstatement and back pay is a chance to restore not just their careers but their honor. Yet, beneath the surface lies a reality familiar to anyone who’s spent time in uniform: the records must tell the story correctly.

For those reinstated, questions about their military records are already surfacing. What will happen to the separation codes on their DD-214s? Will adverse entries tied to their discharge follow them for the rest of their careers? And how will their reinstatement be reflected for pay, benefits, and retirement?

This is where the right expertise can make all the difference. The Law Firm of David P. Sheldon has built a reputation for helping military members tackle these types of challenges, ensuring their records reflect not just what happened—but the truth.

A Common Story for Many Service Members

Imagine this: You’ve served honorably for years, rising through the ranks with strong evaluations and a spotless record. Then the COVID-19 vaccine mandate rolls out. You wrestle with the decision, driven by personal beliefs or concerns, and ultimately decide to refuse the vaccine.

The fallout is swift. A discharge follows—less than honorable, perhaps, or with codes that quietly suggest misconduct. The administrative process feels cold, a machine that continues rolling forward even as your career comes to a halt.

Now, with the executive order for reinstatement, you’re finally getting the chance to return. But when you look at your records, the damage is there in black and white: separation codes that could raise questions in future reviews, adverse entries that paint an inaccurate picture of your service, and missing details about your reinstatement that leave gaps in your timeline.

Why Records Matter

Military records are more than paperwork—they’re the official story of your service. When they’re wrong, they can follow you for years, affecting everything from promotions and security clearances to post-service employment and VA benefits. And while the Department of Defense has processes for correcting records, they’re not always straightforward.

Take separation codes, for example. If your DD-214 includes an unfavorable SPD or RE code, it can signal to future boards or employers that there were issues with your service—even if your discharge was tied to the vaccine mandate. And if your reinstatement isn’t documented properly, gaps in your service history could complicate your eligibility for benefits, retirement, or even certain assignments.

The Right Help Can Make All the Difference

This is where the expertise of an experienced military attorney comes into play. Firms like the Law Firm of David P. Sheldon specialize in navigating these exact issues. They’ve helped service members challenge adverse titling, correct separation codes, and ensure their reinstatements are documented accurately.

David P. Sheldon’s team has deep experience working with the Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR) and the Discharge Review Board (DRB), two key channels for fixing administrative errors. With the right legal strategy, service members can ensure their records reflect not just their reinstatement, but the honorable service they’ve always provided.

A Path Forward

While the path to reinstatement is exciting, it’s important to remember that navigating the administrative aftermath requires diligence. If your records aren’t accurate, they could continue to cause problems down the line.

As you move forward, consider this: Your career and reputation are worth protecting. Reach out to a qualified military attorney to ensure your records reflect the truth.

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or legal representation. Service members facing legal or administrative challenges should consult with a qualified attorney who is experienced in military law to receive guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.