CHARGED WITH DRUG USE IN THE MILITARY?

Charged with Drug Use in the Military? Understand What’s at Stake Before It’s Too Late

Being accused of drug use while in uniform places your entire military future at risk. What begins as a single allegation can quickly turn into separation proceedings, the loss of hard-earned benefits, and a permanent stain on your record. The military treats controlled substance violations with absolute seriousness. Under Article 112a of the UCMJ, even minor infractions can trigger formal prosecution. There is no leniency built into the system. It’s structured to move fast and often harshly.

Will I Be Discharged for Drug Use?

The short answer is: very likely. Whether you’re in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard, military leadership takes drug violations seriously. A single positive urinalysis or a small amount of contraband can lead to a general or other-than-honorable discharge, even if no court-martial takes place. You may be summoned before an administrative discharge board, where your command will argue for separation. Even if there are mitigating factors such as mental health conditions, accidental ingestion, or unclear testing procedures, your fate may be decided by people who prioritize policy over nuance. Once discharge paperwork is initiated, reversing that momentum becomes difficult without an aggressive, legally grounded response.

Why You Need Independent Legal Representation

If you’ve been charged, you may be offered a free JAG attorney. But ask yourself this: Will a command-assigned lawyer have the time, bandwidth, and courtroom experience to challenge flawed evidence, cross-examine witnesses, or navigate the political layers of your case? In many situations, the answer is no. You need a military defense attorney who works for you, not the system. Someone who knows how to attack the government’s evidence, spot procedural violations, and advocate forcefully for retention or acquittal.

Work Directly with a Former JAG – Attorney Joseph L. Jordan

Joseph L. Jordan has defended military personnel around the world, from junior enlisted to high-ranking officers, in drug-related cases involving urinalysis failures, prescription disputes, and alleged distribution. With 11 years of military experience as an enlisted soldier, officer, and JAG, he brings unmatched insight into how the UCMJ actually functions on the ground. His approach is practical, aggressive, and focused on preserving your record and your future.

Call Today Before Discharge Becomes Inevitable

Don’t wait until your separation is finalized or your case is beyond appeal. The earlier you act, the better your chances of avoiding career-ending consequences. Call Joseph L. Jordan, Attorney at Law, at (866) 624-7503 to speak directly with a military criminal defense lawyer who knows how to fight drug allegations within the UCMJ system. Your career, benefits, and future are too important to leave in passive hands.

We Are Committed to Serving You

Joseph L. Jordan is a UCMJ lawyer who travels around the globe to represent service members in military criminal defense matters. He is an accomplished, experienced military attorney who specializes in defending ALL service members against violations of the UCMJ.