Are you interested in joining the military? A criminal record doesn’t make it impossible to enlist, but it certainly complicates the process. The military holds recruits to a high standard. When you visit a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS), a recruiter interviews you to determine your mental aptitude, physical qualifications, and moral character. A criminal … Read more
The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) is a strict and complex system governing the lives of United States service members. Accusations of military sexual assault under Article 120 of the UCMJ can devastate your career and reputation. While being falsely accused is a distressing experience, it’s crucial to keep a level head. If you’re … Read more
The military has stood as a unique entity for centuries, with its own rules, regulations, and even a distinct court system. But why? While the idea of having a separate court for service members might appear unnecessary at first, understanding its historical underpinning, current relevance, and future importance paints a clear picture. Are you a … Read more
A tremendous shift recently occurred in the US military justice system, one that is set to reshape how cases involving sexual assault, among other serious offenses, are handled. This historic change primarily aims to address longstanding concerns and improve trust in the system. But what do these reforms entail, and how do they impact you … Read more
Every military service member takes an oath to obey orders from the President of the United States and the officers appointed over them. This promise is not a mere formality. Rather, it serves as a cornerstone of military discipline. So what happens if a service member fails to uphold this oath by disobeying a direct … Read more
Are you considering rejoining the military? Perhaps you miss the camaraderie or want to reenlist for financial, insurance, or other reasons. Your ability to reenlist after being discharged depends on several factors, including the type of discharge you received, the reason behind your discharge, the military reenlistment eligibility code on your discharge documents, and the … Read more
Wrongful appropriation, as defined under Article 121 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), occurs when a person unlawfully takes, obtains, or withholds money, personal property, or an item of value from another person’s possession. This act is differentiated from larceny by the perpetrator’s intention. In wrongful appropriation, the intent is to temporarily deprive … Read more
Conscientious objection to military service is a firm, fixed, and sincere position taken by someone who refuses to participate in war on the basis of religious, moral, or ethical beliefs. This objection may take many forms, such as a refusal to serve in combat, register for the draft, pay taxes tied to war allocations, or … Read more
Sexual assault has been a hot topic in the military for years. When a service member is convicted of this crime under Article 120 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), they may face punishments such as bad conduct or dishonorable discharge, imprisonment, and forfeiture of all pay, allowances, and veteran benefits. But do … Read more
Non-judicial punishment (NJP) is a form of disciplinary action that a military service member may face when charged with a minor offense. The proceedings allow commanders to resolve minor service member misconduct without resorting to higher forms of discipline. Each branch of service calls non-judicial punishment by a different name, including: Captain’s Mast (Navy and … Read more