Show Cause - Board of Inquiry (BOI) CAREER SAVING SHOW CAUSE, BOI DEFENSEPosted by CPT anonymousOctober 19, 2021 As an officer who had never before required a lawyer much less foreseen a Show Cause/Board of Inquiry (BOI) in my future, I had no idea what to do. I began by calling a few military lawyers and their free consultation consisted of a five minute discussion and then what the fee would be. But when I found COL(R) Bill Meili, his free consultation consisted of examining documents, multiple discussions, and a frankness I appreciated when it seemed the whole world was against me. And he provided all of this before I even decided to hire him as my lawyer. COL(R) Meili is someone who cared not only about the case, but also about what type of person I am - and have been - as well as what the Army means to me. When you're out of hope and optimism while drowning in despair that you have given everything to the Army, and are now in danger of losing it all, he is the one to lift you up and guide you back to yourself. He helped save my career, and I will be forever grateful for everything he did. Senior Army Officer Client Retained by Board of Inquiry (BOI)Posted by anonymousMarch 16, 2021 I am very grateful to Mr. Meili in coaching me on proving my continued value to the Army. The government was set to separate me through a Board of Inquiry (BOI)/ Show Cause despite my long career of contributions. Mr. Meili's communication was direct and up front. He told me that I had a 50/50 chance to be eliminated and not retained. Nevertheless, Mr. Meili firmly believed in me throughout the process, and reminded me to be myself which positively impacted my confidence. Mr. Meili was correct, and when the time came for me to stand up in front of the board members, I was fired up to convince them that I could continue to be a great asset to the Army. Mr. Meili was calm and convincing to the point that he had the board members' full attention and nodding their heads in agreement while he was speaking. As a result the board members were tolerant of my mistakes and decided to retain me. Thank you so much Mr. Meili; you will forever have my recognition and respect. Active Duty Army (AMEDD) Medical Officer Show Cause BoardPosted by anonymousMay 23, 2020 I am currently an officer in the Medical Corps. In late 2017, I was undergoing issues with my leadership and in process of leaving the training program I was in. I reached out to attorneys as I had ambiguously negative OERs and in addition was forced to sign them/threatened with UCMJ if I did not. I had a very specialized issue as a military physician and was curious about pursuing a UQR. I found Mr. Meili’s website and was intrigued by the reviews for officers and UQRs. I became acquainted with Bill during this time. He talked with me for about 2 hours and linked me up with one of his consultants who had gone through a somewhat similar circumstance. He was incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and if he did not know an answer, I can tell you he definitely knew someone who did and was not afraid to ask. Overwhelmed and with a desire to move past the situation, I chose to continue my obligation elsewhere, decided not to hire an attorney, and PCS’d to a new duty station. I found success in my new assignment; unfortunately negative OERs do not go away. 2 years later, I did not make Major and faced involuntary separation with possible other than honorable (OTH) discharge through a Show Cause-Board of Inquiry action. I was terrified about the impact on my medical and military career. I wasn’t sure if an OTH would fly at future employers on the civilian side. Remembering how thorough and helpful Bill had been for an individual who had not even given him a retainer, I reached back out immediately. To my delight, he recalled my situation and once again dove headfirst into all of the possible outcomes. His extraordinary ability to analyze the situation and outline necessary courses of action was invaluable. What made Bill different from other attorneys I spoke with about my case was his demeanor. He has the distinct ability to enter a situation or a room with a sense of clarity and calmness; even if you didn’t agree with him. He worked closely with my command, JAG and the TDS attorney that was representing me as well. He flew to Ft. Polk while I was on a training exercise to ensure a face to face before my Board, which ultimately took place in Hawaii a few months later. He flew there too! At that time that I questioned my abilities as a physician, as an officer, and as a leader, Bill was able to show the Board that I was not who or what was written in my OERs, and I was able to see it as well. After my Board of Inquiry voted unanimously to retain me, opposing counsel informed me that I was the first officer who had ever been retained by that particular Board President. I cannot describe what it feels like to experience that sense of validation of self... and not sure many others can do it to the extent that Bill can. I continue to do well in my current duty station and was told I’m up for top block rating this year. After working with Mr. Meili on the Board of Inquiry with a favorable outcome, it is one of my biggest regrets not engaging with him the first time around. Sometimes we make mistakes; sometimes the circumstances are not in our favor... in these times I would highly recommend Mr. Meili’s counsel without reservation. CPT MS, MC, USA Show Cause BOI Action Withdrawn by Initiating AuthorityShow Cause BOI Action Withdrawn by Initiating AuthorityAs a Lieutenant Colonel with nearly 27 years of military service, three combat tours to: Iraq, Afghanistan, and Horn of Africa, and a solid track record of exemplary military service, I found myself in the difficult and awkward situation of being forced to go before a Show Cause Board in order to justify to a Board of Inquiry why I should be retained in the Army. Not only was my continued military career in jeopardy, but most importantly – so too was my good name and honor. Given all that was at stake for my family and me, I embarked on a comprehensive search to find the best possible attorney to handle my case. Although there were many other well-qualified attorneys to choose from, Bill Meili's very specific past military experience and specialized military background helped set him apart from all others. After our initial phone interview, I KNEW that Bill Meili was the right attorney to represent me and my interests. No sooner was the required paperwork signed, than Bill got to work on my case. During the entire process I found him to be responsive, thorough, and very engaged - with a sincere interest in the outcome of my case. At one point, Bill insisted he meet face-to-face with my fiancée and me in order to truly get to know me as a person and thus, better represent my interests. In the end, Bill was able to deliver: Although I always felt that I had strong justifications on why I should be retained in the military, Bill was able to effectively articulate these reasons in a very clear, well-written, organized, professional and convincing manner - enough to convince two higher commands to approve Exception to Policies in order to withdraw my name from separation procedures, thus forgoing the need to go before the Show Cause Board. The final outcome being that, with Bill's help, I was allowed to continue my military career. Bill's contributions and his handling of my case cannot be overstated. Like many of Bill's past clients, I too would not hesitate to call him again if the need arose, and would whole-heartedly recommend his professional services to anyone else who might need expert military legal counsel. Thank you Bill, you're the best! -Lieutenant Colonel JR Dental Officer Victorious in GOMOR and Show Cause - BOI ActionDental Officer Victorious in GOMOR and Show Cause - Board of Inquiry ActionMr. Meili advocated wholeheartedly for my future. He prepared to engage many POCs at JAG and HRC who may have had a stake in handling my GOMOR, Show Cause-Board of Inquiry (BOI), and RILO situation. The lack of real proof and evidence to support an "alcohol-related incident" warranting a GOMOR had provided enough wiggle room for an honorable discharge. Seven months of agony awaiting what I believed to be my sealed fate finally arrived on 1 September 2016 with a discharge ETS of 14 September 2016. Perhaps a miracle worker, Mr. Meili fought tooth-and-nail to defend my good name, to justify an honorable discharge of service. During the prior seven months, he regularly reminded me to stay vigilant and non-confrontational amid a unit and higher chain of command that marked me for termination. His many years of practicing law clearly speak for themselves. If you find yourself unsure of where to go during adversarial circumstances, Mr. Meili is a terrific advocate to deliver perhaps the best outcome in your case. If your unit or colleagues tell you to simply "Go away and disappear," as if you're a leper, give Mr. Meili's office a call. -CPT S Good Result in an Army Body Composition Program - BOIGood Result in an Army Body Composition Program (ABCP), aka. Body Fat CompositionAfter 14 years of honorable military service as an Army officer, I was faced with administrative separation for failing the Army's body composition program. I was initially provided with military legal counsel, but eventually chose to seek my own civilian representation. I felt that a civilian lawyer would represent me impartially, as well as fight harder for my cause. In making my decision, I reviewed the credentials and websites of several attorneys advertising expertise in military law. None of the other attorneys appeared to have Mr. Meili's experience or depth of knowledge. Mr. Meili's background as a former Army Judge Advocate and retired Colonel clearly set him apart from the others. I chose to go with Mr. Meili, and after speaking with him, I immediately realized that I had made a wise decision. From the very beginning, Mr. Meili clearly had a sound, thoroughly thought out strategy. While preparing for my Board of Inquiry, he engaged key decision makers early on, reached out to all parties involved, meticulously researched my case, and collected all of the necessary data. He truly was my advocate. He responded to all of my questions and concerns, and he tirelessly worked on my behalf. He skillfully prepared a very difficult case and crafted a strategy to ensure the best outcome. Mr. Meili has experience, tenacity, and professionalism that are second to none. I really believe that these qualities were instrumental in my case receiving a favorable outcome. Without his efforts, I doubt that I would have won. He truly was a lifesaver! I am eternally grateful, and I can't thank him enough! I have absolutely no reservations recommending him to others. I sincerely feel that Mr. Meili is the best attorney in the country for military law. -anonymous Successful Show Cause BOI Saves 22 Year Career22-Year Career Saved at the CG's DeskIf you need someone to help with the Military Legal system — and Boards of Inquiry (BOI) - in particular — then Mr. Bill Meili is the Attorney you want. I was facing a Show Cause Board and, after conducting my own research, decided to contact Mr. Meili. Within 30 minutes of my initial email he had already made contact. Before then we were convinced that my 22 year military career was over. After just talking with him, we realized that there was hope, and Mr. Meili was that hope. For the first time in over 6 months we had the confidence that someone was fighting for and with us. Not only did he deliver, we won at the CG's desk. Due to his expert knowledge and deep understanding of the Military, I am now able to retire with honor. As you read of the different cases he has won and the careers he has saved you will no doubt come to understand, as I did, that he will give you 100% of his time, experience and effort to help you. CPT C Another Successful Show Cause BOI - ARMY OfficerANOTHER SUCCESSFUL SHOW CAUSE BOARD OF INQUIRY (BOI) — ARMYLast week of April at Ft. Stewart brought some long awaited great news to my client, his wife and three children. After months of preparation, maneuvering, and waiting, his Show Cause Board of Inquiry panel voted unanimously to retain him on active duty. As a result, this good and deserving officer will be able to retire medically, with honor, dignity and respect, and with full, military medical and concurrent VA benefits. He has given me permission to share his testimonial here, and I do so with a great deal of gratitude and thanks for the team of professionals, friends and supporters who came together to make this all happen. Respectfully, Bill Meili I decided to call Mr. Meili shortly after receiving a GOMOR and subsequently months later a referred OER. Confirming my worst fears I eventually received a "show cause" notification from Human Resources Command (HRC) that put my career of nearly 17 years on active duty in complete jeopardy. Before I decided on Mr. Meili I had previously called a couple other law firms specializing in military law, but none of them seemed to understand the complex administrative process. He gave me hope that my initial appeal was winnable and immediately starting gathering information to map a strategy to work my case. Shortly afterward, while Mr. Meili worked the appeals case to remove the GOMOR filed with HRC, I received the inevitable "intent to eliminate" notification. Mr. Meili brought much needed calm during a stressful moment when I received the notification. He was very reasonable with amending our previous agreement in order to adjust to the new momentum of now a Board of Inquiry (BOI) being initiated to separate me. The preparation of a BOI is a tremendous undertaking and Mr. Meili took on the meticulous details and crafted a strategy to ensure the best outcome, leaving no doubt as we entered the intense day of a BOI. Mr. Meili prepared the case very well, engaging key decision makers early on and made adjustments right up to the final moments of a decision. Mr. Meili brings a level of experience and tenacity to the table that is difficult to find. My case received a favorable vote to retain on active duty, saving my hard earned retirement and medical benefits. Mr. Meili is a true professional, and one of the best in the country for military law. If you want the best outcome for your case, I highly recommend you consider him. Major - U.S. Army. Good Result in Board of Inquiry for an Outstanding Army OfficerGood Result in a Recent Board of Inquiry (BOI) for a Really Outstanding Army OfficerI was in a stew facing a Board of Inquiry (BOI) I spent numerous hours deciding if I needed to contact a civilian lawyer or utilize the one provided by the government. I decided to go with a civilian lawyer because I felt the civilian lawyer I retained would represent me impartially. I then searched for a lawyer who knew military law; Mr. Meili kept being my top result with military experience. After reading Mr. Meili's profile, I decided to give him a call. Mr. Meili gave me an overview of my case. Mr. Meili clearly explained the process necessary for me to understand and he explained his strategy for me to be retained in the Army. He responded to all my questions and concerns. I decided I had to make an investment for my family's future. I had such a complex case that I believe without Bill Meili the board results would not have been the same. Mr. Meili is a true leader: he possesses all the values, and reflects confidence. He quickly took charge of the BOI room and was able to articulate the message that had been so difficult for me to express. The board decided to retain me in the Army and I was given a second chance to continue to serve my country. Mr. Meili has been a blessing for my family and me. I am eternally grateful for his help and highly recommend him. - JJ Show Cause - BOI Defense Counsel TestimonialShow Cause - Board of InquiryDefense Counsel Testimonial #2 I worked with Bill Meili on an officer elimination board, and I was amazed when he immediately dug right into the case, meeting with the client and contacting those key decision-makers who had the authority to terminate the proceeding. Bill was cordial in his dealings with all parties, knowledgeable about the military administrative process, and savvy in his strategy. He was also timely and thorough in his written product and correspondence. Bill's tenacity and dedicated representation of the client resulted in the suspension of the elimination action so the client could be medically discharged. Mr. Bill Meili is a consummate professional with the benefit of years of experience in military justice and military administrative actions! Senior Defense Counsel - Trial Defense Services Show Cause - BOI Defense Counsel TestimonialShow Cause - Board of InquiryDefense Counsel Testimonial #2 I worked with Bill Meili on an officer elimination board, and I was amazed when he immediately dug right into the case, meeting with the client and contacting those key decision-makers who had the authority to terminate the proceeding. Bill was cordial in his dealings with all parties, knowledgeable about the military administrative process, and savvy in his strategy. He was also timely and thorough in his written product and correspondence. Bill's tenacity and dedicated representation of the client resulted in the suspension of the elimination action so the client could be medically discharged. Mr. Bill Meili is a consummate professional with the benefit of years of experience in military justice and military administrative actions! Senior Defense Counsel - Trial Defense Services Show Cause - BOI Thanks From An Army WifeShow Cause - Board of InquiryClient Testimonial #2 I strongly recommend William "Bill" Meili to defend you if you're facing a Show Cause Board of Inquiry for separation from the service. When the active Army defense lawyer never materialized for my Active Guard Reserve husband, we reached out to a personal friend, who recommended Bill. When we discovered Bill's past as an Army Judge Advocate and retired Colonel (0-6), we knew we were getting someone to represent our interests who knew the service and UCMJ well, and who was also intimately familiar with all aspects of administrative elimination process and procedure. Immediately, Bill put us to work gathering historical data and paperwork … and answering some tough, focused questions; all of which helped build the foundation for a successful Show Cause Board defense. My spouse faced separation due to what appeared to be "errant" behaviors: his growing inability to concentrate, anger and impatience – which led to extremely poor conflict resolution - and nagging issues with short-term memory loss. My husband had been an infantry company commander during extended combat operations in Iraq. What we didn't know was that after he demobilized, he was suffering from undiagnosed PTSD and TBI. His chain of command was equally unaware – in large part because my husband was keeping everything "bottled up" inside. Bill was instrumental in helping us identify, discuss and document crucial issues, which he then used to build a case centered on taking care of a "wounded warrior." After proper medical treatment by a multi-disciplinary team, my husband is alive, and on his way to becoming whole again. I thank Bill Meili for his service to our country, to our Soldiers and Service members, and to our family. Because of Bill, my husband will remain in the service, continue receiving the medical care he needs, and he will be able to retire with dignity and respect. We are forever grateful. - An Army wife. Show Cause - Board of InquiryShow Cause - Board of InquiryClient Testimonial #1 While looking for a lawyer who understood military law, Mr. Melli's firm appeared as one of the top search results on the internet. After reading Mr. Meili's profile, I decided to give him a call. Immediately his personable manner was apparent and within minutes I made the decision to have him represent me. Mr. Meili clearly explained the process necessary for me to understand what a Show Cause Board was and he explained his strategy for me to be retained in the Army. Mr. Meili responded promptly and thoroughly to all my questions and concerns. He created a path forward for me, and once we started, my hope for a positive result began to improve. Eventually, I received positive relief. The Commanding General on my installation accepted my rebuttal and recommended that I be retained in the Army. Now I can continue my career with the Army and retire. Mr. Meili's services went above and beyond attaining a positive result. He became a true friend, concerned with my future and overall well-being. I highly recommend him to anyone facing a similar career ending situation. Chief Warrant Officer, US Army |
