Cody Harnish, Esq.
Founder and lead attorney at Harnish Law, PLLC. Cody is a dedicated military defense attorney with a profound commitment to justice. A graduate of UCLA and the American University Washington College of Law, Cody's career began as a U.S. Army Cavalry Scout before commissioning into the JAG Corps, where he excelled as a Trial Defense Counsel and was recognized for his exceptional skill in defending soldiers. Appointed as the Senior Complex Litigator for the Army Trial Defense Western Region, he oversaw high-profile cases and mentored defense attorneys across a vast area. Transitioning to civilian practice, Cody continues his mission to defend those who serve our nation, achieving significant successes such as full acquittals in courts-martial and helping service members retain their careers. His unwavering dedication and comprehensive understanding of military law make him a formidable advocate for service members across all branches of the military.
A Dedicated Military Defense Attorney
Educational Foundation and Early Career:
Cody Harnish, a graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in 2006 and the American University, Washington College of Law, in 2013, has always been driven by a profound commitment to justice. From his formative years in Southern California, where a family legacy deeply influenced him in law enforcement, Cody harbored a singular ambition: to excel in the field of law. His journey at UCLA, majoring in Political Science, was a stepping stone toward his dream of becoming a criminal trial lawyer. At American University, he honed his legal acumen, actively participating in the top-ranked Trial Advocacy Program and earning national recognition as a finalist in trial competitions.
Military Service and JAG Corps Experience:
Seeking to deepen his understanding of military life and leadership, Cody enlisted in the U.S. Army as a 19D Cavalry Scout. Guided by his brother's advice, a former Green Beret, Cody embraced the ethos of learning "to follow before leading." His tenure at Fort Benning, GA, and Fort Riley, Kansas, with the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, was transformative, laying the groundwork for his unique perspective on military justice.
Commissioning into the JAG Corps, Cody's exceptional background in trial advocacy swiftly propelled him into the role of a Trial Defense Counsel (a Military Defense Attorney). His tenure here was marked by remarkable success in defending soldiers in various military legal proceedings, from Courts-Martial to Administrative Separation Boards. Recognized for his unparalleled skill and dedication, Cody was appointed as the Senior Complex Litigator for the Army Trial Defense Western Region, overseeing high-profile cases and mentoring defense attorneys across a vast geographic area.
Transition to Civilian Defense and Continuing Mission:
Cody's unwavering passion for defending those who serve our nation led to an extraordinary decision. After four years of formidable service in the JAG Corps, he chose to continue his advocacy in the civilian realm. Cody's transition from a military role to establishing a civilian practice was driven by his deep-seated commitment to providing the best possible defense for service members. Now, as a civilian defense lawyer, Cody offers an unparalleled ability and a comprehensive understanding of the military legal defense strategy.
His firm, dedicated exclusively to representing military personnel, reflects his lifelong mission: to stand as a beacon of hope and justice for those who dedicate their lives to defending our country. Cody Harnish remains a formidable advocate, a seasoned litigator, a heavy-hitter lawyer, and a relentless defender of the rights of service members across all branches of the military.
Successes as a Civilian Defense Attorney
Continuing his mission to defend those who serve our nation, Cody has achieved significant successes as a civilian military defense attorney. His relentless advocacy in courts-martial has led to full acquittals in cases involving allegations of Sexual Assault and Basic Housing Allowance (BHA) fraud. By meticulously examining evidence and crafting compelling defense strategies, he has helped service members clear their names and preserve their military careers.
Cody has also been instrumental in retaining Marines accused of wrongful use of controlled substances. Understanding the severe repercussions such accusations can have on a military career, he vigorously challenges the evidence and procedures involved, resulting in clients being exonerated and allowed to continue their service.
His dedication extends to assisting both senior leaders and junior members in getting reprimands rescinded or filed locally, which have saved numerous careers. Cody recognizes the long-term impact that administrative reprimands can have and works tirelessly to mitigate these effects, ensuring his clients' futures remain bright within the military.
Actively and aggressively fighting for his clients, Cody conducts thorough private investigations that have led to many cases being dismissed or charges never being filed. His proactive approach often uncovers critical evidence overlooked by authorities, providing a robust defense that protects his clients from unwarranted legal actions.
Cody's unwavering commitment to justice and his clients' well-being drives him to go above and beyond in every case. His comprehensive understanding of military law and dedication to aggressive defense have not only resulted in favorable outcomes but have also reinforced his reputation as a formidable advocate for service members across all branches of the military.