Have you heard of the Brandon Act? This legislation “modifies the regulatory requirement for the referral of a member of the Armed Forces for a mental health evaluation. It requires that commanding officers or supervisors make referrals as soon as practicable and that the referral process protect the confidentiality of the member.” The Brandon Act … Read more
The recent firing of Brig. Gen. Wells from the newly created position of top prosecutor to handle sexual assault and misconduct cases has raised eyebrows and sparked concerns within the legal community. The decision to remove Wells, made by the Army Secretary within hours of receiving an email Wells sent 10 years ago, paints a … Read more
The phrase “You have the right to remain silent” has become synonymous with arrests, thanks to countless portrayals in films and television. The right to remain silent is a powerful one, both in civilian and military contexts. It’s one of the Miranda rights granted to arrested civilians, making it a crucial part of the US … Read more
When it comes to military enlistment, the criminal background check holds significant weight. Joining the US Military, revered for its high ethical and moral standards, calls for thoroughly vetting every applicant’s history. Such rigorous scrutiny may have you wondering—can a misdemeanor on your criminal record ruin your military ambitions? The short answer is that a … Read more
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
Are you familiar with the civilian judicial process? Once you enter the military, you have to throw out most of what you know. After all, the military operates under its own set of rules and guidelines, making it unique from civilian courts. However, a pivotal change currently being discussed may soon align the military justice … Read more
Understanding statutes of limitations can be complicated, especially when it comes to the military’s Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Yet, it’s crucial to realize your legal accountability as a service member accused of a crime. Let’s demystify the statute of limitations for Article 120 of the UCMJ to give you a better understanding of … 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