FAQ

Yes, you can appeal a court-martial conviction through the military appellate courts, such as:

• The Court of Criminal Appeals for your branch of service.
• The Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces (CAAF), if applicable.
• The Supreme Court of the United States (in rare cases).

Appeals are time-sensitive and require a skilled attorney to identify errors in the trial process or challenge the verdict.

A dishonorable discharge is the most severe form of separation from the military and has long-term consequences, including:

• Loss of military benefits, such as VA healthcare and GI Bill education benefits.
• Difficulty finding civilian employment due to the stigma.
• Loss of the right to own firearms.
• Potential difficulty with housing or loans.

Preventing a dishonorable discharge requires an aggressive legal strategy. Our team specializes in protecting your future.

The outcomes of a court-martial vary depending on the charges and evidence. Possible results include:

• Acquittal (not guilty verdict).
• Conviction, leading to penalties such as confinement, reduction in rank, forfeiture of pay, and dishonorable discharge.
• Case dismissal due to insufficient evidence or procedural errors.

An experienced attorney can help minimize penalties or achieve a favorable outcome.

Yes, you have the right to legal representation. Options include:

• A free military defense counsel assigned by the military.
• A civilian military attorney of your choice (at your expense).
• Both (you can retain a civilian attorney while keeping your assigned military counsel).

Hiring an experienced civilian attorney can provide additional expertise and personalized attention to your case.

An Article 32 hearing is a preliminary investigation for general court-martial cases, similar to a grand jury in civilian law. Its purpose is to:

• Determine whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed with a court-martial.
• Allow the defense to present evidence and cross-examine witnesses.

An experienced attorney can use this opportunity to challenge the prosecution’s case or negotiate a dismissa

An Article 15, also known as non-judicial punishment (NJP), is a disciplinary measure for minor infractions. It does not involve a court-martial but can still result in penalties such as:

• Loss of pay.
• Reduction in rank.
• Extra duty.
• Restriction to base.

You have the right to refuse an Article 15 and request a court-martial instead, though this decision should be made after consulting an attorney.

If you’re under investigation:

• Do not speak to investigators without consulting an attorney.
• Contact an experienced military defense attorney immediately.
• Avoid discussing your case with anyone, including colleagues and family, as it could harm your defense.

Early legal representation is crucial for protecting your rights and building a strong defense

As a service member, you are entitled to specific rights under the UCMJ, including:

• The right to remain silent.
• The right to legal representation, including a military defense counsel or civilian attorney.
• The right to confront and cross-examine witnesses.
• Protection against self-incrimination.
• The right to appeal a conviction.

These rights are critical to ensuring a fair trial and safeguarding your military career and personal freedoms.

A court-martial is the military’s judicial process for prosecuting service members who violate the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). It’s similar to a civilian criminal trial, but with procedures and rules specific to the military justice system.

There are three types of courts-martial:

1. Summary Court-Martial: Handles minor offenses with less severe penalties.
2. Special Court-Martial: Similar to a civilian misdemeanor court; intermediate-level offenses are tried here.
3. General Court-Martial: Reserved for serious offenses, comparable to felony courts in civilian systems, with severe penalties like confinement and dishonorable discharge