Can Military Sexual Assault Survivors Sue Their Assailants?

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

What Does a Sexual Assault Victim Get If They Win Their Case?

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

What is the Maximum Punishment for an Article 120 Violation?

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

Why Does Sexual Assault Occur in the Military?

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

How Jury Selection Differs in the Military & Article 120 Cases

Courts-martial are military courts that try the serious offenses of accused service members. As in civilian courts, a jury sits in on most court-martial cases. However, the selection process differs greatly, especially for Article 120 cases addressing sexual assault and rape. Learn about the differences and how a military defense attorney can help ensure you … Read more

NAVY-MARINE CCA REVERSES SEXUAL ASSAULT CONVICTION DUE TO “FACTUAL INSUFFICIENCY”

Judge's gavel with American flag and open book in background

In United States v. Gilpin, the sexual assault conviction is reversed by the Navy-Marine Corps Court of Criminal Appeals (CCA). According to the CCA’s review, the conviction was based primarily on testimonies from the alleged victim, which were deemed “factually insufficient.” The victim claimed they had been unconscious due to heavy intoxication while the accused sexually assaulted them, … Read more

ARMY SEEKS WAYS TO ENCOURAGE MALE SERVICE MEMBERS TO FILE SEXUAL ASSAULT REPORTS

In a relatively short span of time, the United States Armed Forces has pushed a revitalized campaign to penalize alleged criminal offenders in the ranks. The Air Force Academy added protections for service members who report sexual assault, the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) was updated to distinguish domestic violence from assault, and United States Secretary … Read more