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The Uniform Code of Military Justice (“UCMJ”) sets out how criminal cases in the military are prosecuted. One specific part of the UCMJ sets out the military offenses for which a service member can be disciplined by the command if a service member is alleged to have violated one or more of the offenses. These military offenses are set out in detail in Articles 77 through Article 134 of the UCMJ. These Articles are commonly referred to as the “Punitive Articles” of the UCMJ.

Since the Uniform Code of Military Justice is enacted by Congress, they are also set out in 10 United States Codes, Chapter 47.  Consequently, a conviction of any of the military offenses at a general or special court-martial is considered a federal conviction. Generally, a conviction of any of the offenses at a General Court-Martial is considered a federal felony conviction and a conviction of any offense at a Special Court-Martial is considered a federal misdemeanor conviction.

“Military Law Center showed their experience, tenacity, and skill in taking my lawsuit to a successful settlement. It was a far more favorable outcome than anyone told me was possible, even the judge. They were thorough over months of preparing my suit. As it escalated toward a trial, they managed expert witnesses, depositions, and documents. Then they advised us well as we finally negotiated a settlement. Military Law Center is outstanding for their specialized knowledge about military customs and traditions as well as the law. They are highly recommended in their specialty.”
— Michael Lawless, LCDR USN ret

Military Law Center Attorneys Gary S. Barthel and Kevin Courtney
The Military Law Center Attorneys Gary S. Barthel and Kevin Courtney

Congress frequently makes changes to the Manual for Courts-Martial and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. The most recent changes were made in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (NDAA FY19).   The President signed the NDAA FY19 on August 13, 2018, which incorporates additional changes to the Manual for Courts-Martial that will go into effect on January 1, 2019.

It is important that you seek representation from a civilian military attorney who is knowledgeable of these changes.

Facing a Military Legal Issue? We Can Help.

Why You Need Expert Defense for Military Offenses

A finding of guilty of any of the military offenses at a non-judicial proceeding (“NJP”) is not considered a federal conviction because it is an administrative hearing and not a criminal trial. Additionally, an allegation of any of the military offenses can form the basis for an administrative separation from the military, whether or not a service member is convicted at a court-martial or found guilty at NJP.

Each military offense set out in the Punitive Articles contains the text of the offense, the elements of the offense, an explanation of the offense with definitions, whether any lessor included offense(s) apply to the offense; the maximum punishment for the offense, and sample specifications (i.e. charges) for the offense.

The law related to each military offense is further defined and clarified through the military appellate courts and the U.S. Supreme Court.

Make sure that you get the right help from a Civilian Military Attorney, in San Diego or Worldwide, built to support your needs. Military Law Center Is Ready to Help You – Right Now. Military Law Center will aggressively advise and defend you – Know Your Military Legal Rights.

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Why You Should Choose the Military Law Center:

  • Experienced Military Law Attorneys: 
    Our team has a proven track record of success in handling a wide range of military legal issues.
  • California Expertise: 
    We understand the specific laws and regulations that apply to California service members.
  • Aggressive Representation:
    We’ll fight tirelessly to protect your rights and minimize the impact on your military career.
  • Free Consultation:
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Military Law Center is a team of experienced and aggressive civilian military defense attorneys dedicated to protecting the rights of service members facing courts-martial in California and across the nation.

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