Lawyers Without Billboards

ROTC Disenrollment Part 2: The Trial Where Your Lawyer Can’t Speak | LWB S2 Ep10

Shewmaker & Lewis Season 2 Episode 10

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0:00 | 21:32

In Part 2 of our ROTC disenrollment series, we examine the hearing process itself — and why it shocks so many families.

Yes, you can hire an attorney.
 No, your attorney cannot speak during the hearing.

Instead, the cadet must conduct their own examination of witnesses, cross-examine accusers, introduce evidence, and make arguments — often in cases involving serious allegations.

We break down:
 • The structure of ROTC disenrollment hearings
 • Why post-hearing review can take over a year
 • What happens if command overrides the board
 • The financial consequences if disenrollment stands
 • Why preparation can cost more than trial representation

If you’re facing ROTC disenrollment, this episode explains the reality of the process — and why strategic preparation is critical.

⏱️ Chapters

00:00 – Part 2 Begins: Why This System Is So Frustrating
 01:04 – Should You Hire an Attorney Who Can’t Speak?
 02:43 – Why “Winning” Doesn’t End the Process
 03:05 – The Army’s Multi-Level Review Process
 04:48 – A Year in Limbo After Victory
 05:59 – Sexual Assault Allegations in ROTC Hearings
 08:40 – The Proof Chart Strategy
 09:02 – Training a Cadet to Act as Their Own Lawyer
 11:38 – The Real Cost of Preparation
 13:46 – False Allegations & Military Culture
 17:24 – Is There Any Appeal After ROTC Command?
 18:11 – Repayment: $25,000 to $200,000+
 19:21 – Enlistment vs. Repayment
 20:09 – Final Takeaways

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🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis
 🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/4p0HMzJgMuQ or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.

📩 Contact: pshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com
| (770) 939-1939
🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com

🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards

🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions
🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.
🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner
📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA