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
Article 120 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) deals with rape, sexual assault, and sexual contact. These offenses cover a range of unlawful, forced sexual actions on another person. Charges involving sexual misconduct involving a child fall under Article 120b, while “other sexual misconduct” is outlined in Article 120c. Sexual assault in the … Read more
Required vaccines are nothing new for the US military. Yet the topic has garnered newfound attention following the COVID-19 vaccination order. Are you considering joining the military, or do you already serve in the Armed Forces? If so, be prepared to adhere to the Department of Defense (DoD) vaccination mandates as part of the requirement … Read more
Sexual assault claims among military service members are alarmingly high. According to the 2018 Department of Defense Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military, 20,500 active-duty service members reported experiencing sexual assault or rape, including about 13,000 women and 7,500 men. This indicates that 6.2 percent of female and 0.7 percent of male service … Read more
In general, it is not a crime to lie about serving in the military just to brag or impress others. Doing so may be morally reprehensible, but the deception isn’t enough to fine someone or put them in jail. However, “stolen valor” is a crime, as is impersonating a military member or officer. Learn more … Read more
Sexual assaults committed by someone in the general population often give rise to criminal prosecutions, which may result in fines, jail time, probation, and sanctions against the offender, if convicted. There are similar repercussions in the military, where sexual assaults are punishable under Article 120 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Sentences may … Read more
A Military Protective Order (MPO) is a legal order issued by a commanding officer that prohibits an accused military service member from contacting the person or persons identified in the order. Learn more about the rules that apply to an MPO and how a military defense lawyer can defend you during any associated legal proceedings. … Read more
A General Officer Memorandum of Reprimand (GOMOR) is a Letter of Reprimand (LOR), or administrative warning, sent from a general officer to a military service member who fails to meet established standards or policies. A GOMOR may be filed in one of two ways: In the Military Personnel Record Jacket (MPRJ), a “local file” that … Read more
All branches of the U.S. military have rules regarding friendships, business associations, dating, and marriage among service members of different ranks and positions. Not all contact between officers and their subordinates is prohibited, and the goal is not to dissuade service members from having interpersonal relationships. Rather, the regulations are intended to prevent compromising order, … Read more