Assistance with Army Regulation (AR) 15-6 Investigations & Guidelines
Contact Joseph L. Jordan, Attorney at Law, for a Consultation
Are you a military service member who is under an Army Regulation (AR) 15-6 investigation? Whether it’s a formal or informal investigation, you need an experienced military attorney to ensure your rights are protected. If an AR 15-6 Investigating Officer is investigating you, it’s essential to have an attorney by your side before agreeing to a search or giving any statements. Joseph L. Jordan, Attorney at Law, travels the globe to represent service members from all branches who have been charged in various military criminal defense matters. As a former service member himself, Joseph L. Jordan understands the immediacy in protecting your rank and reputation after a criminal accusation and investigation have been launched. Contact our law firm today to schedule a consultation!
What Sort of Allegations Warrant an AR 15-6 Investigation?
When a military service member has been accused of a crime and is arrested for any reason, it’s up to an Investigating Officer to see if disciplinary action should be initiated under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Most AR 15-6 investigations are informal in nature. It’s called an investigation because it’s a fact-gathering process. An informal investigation usually only requires one Investigating Officer, while a formal investigation may involve several parties and/or defense counsel at a hearing.
The duty of an Investigating Officer is to gather thorough evidence on all sides of an issue while remaining impartial. He or she then reports these findings to the appointing authority, so they can make an informed decision on what disciplinary action (if any) needs to be taken. Investigating Officers are usually commissioned officers, warrant officers, or DA civilian employees. Examples of allegations warranting an AR 15-6 investigation may include any of the following:
- Adultery
- Unit Property Loss
- Larceny
- Inappropriate Relationships (with a subordinate, superior, or the spouse of either)
- Sexual Harassment
- Hostile Work Environment
- Equal Opportunity Complaints
- Cruelty and Maltreatment of Subordinates
- Hazing
- Sexual Harassment
- Inappropriate Punishments
What Happens During an AR 15-6 Investigation?
During an AR 15-6 investigation, physical evidence may be collected, and witness interviews may be conducted to build witness testimony in the event of a future due process hearing. Documentary and physical evidence may include photographs, accident or police reports, and witness statements. This type of information is gathered during the initial stages of the investigation. While witness testimony is best-conducted face-to-face, interviews conducted via telephone or through correspondence are also admissible depending upon the circumstances. Although AR 15-6 guidelines do not require all statements to be sworn for informal investigations, an appointing authority may require them to be at their discretion. Even if the Investigating Officer recommends a finding of “no fault, no loss, or no wrongdoing,” they must also include sufficient documentation and evidence supporting this finding.
Why Legal Counsel Is Essential During an Investigation
Joseph L. Jordan, Attorney at Law, can advise you when making a statement and in speaking with the Investigating Officers during an AR 15-6 investigation. Enlisting counsel early on in a formal or informal investigation is critical. Not only do we advocate on your behalf, but we can conduct our own investigative work to assist in pointing the investigation in a direction that is in your best interest. We may also begin interviewing witnesses or collecting documentary materials beneficial to your case. While you may be appointed a military defense attorney by the government or your respective military branch, this counsel only offers basic advice and may not be permitted to form an attorney-client relationship with you. Don’t jeopardize your military career by not relying on our rights advisement.
What Are Typical Punishments?
Due to the severe consequences you may face if an AR 15-6 investigation goes to a hearing, you cannot afford to be without an experienced criminal military defense attorney in your corner. You could face an administrative discharge after an appearance before a separation board or a possible court-martial trial, which could impact your military career and future. The minute you find yourself under any type of military investigation, it’s in your best interest to contact experienced legal representation.
Facing an AR 15-6 Investigation? Contact Our Firm Today!
Joseph L. Jordan, Attorney at Law, can provide legal counsel if you are facing an AR 15-6 investigation. He is a former Army enlisted soldier, Army combat arms officer, and Army Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps officer. He is an active member of the American Bar Association, the Criminal Law Section of the American Bar Association, the Arkansas Bar Association, and the Military Law Section of the Texas Bar Association. Please contact our firm today at 254-853-0064 or toll free at 833-884-2715 to request a consultation and begin discussing your case.