When facing military charges, your biggest worry should be the expertise of the Judge Advocate General (JAG) defense counsel that will be randomly selected for you. Note that JAG defense counsel cannot officially start representing you until the court-martial gives the go-ahead – usually when the investigation into your case is already over, and you have been charged with an offense. The results of these investigations can be of irreversible impact to your career, life, and family, which is why you need a civilian attorney to represent you in a court-martial.
A seasoned military defense attorney from a reputable organization such as Law Office of Jocelyn C. Stewart will do all it takes to ensure you’re acquitted of all charges or that the verdict doesn’t severely blemish your military record and career.
Under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, every member of the armed forces has the right to be represented in a court-martial by an attorney of their choice. Here are some of the benefits you enjoy by hiring a civilian military attorney.
Independent investigations
The first thing any attorney should do is to investigate the allegations separately and try to identify any weaknesses. A reasonable attorney can quickly identify and challenge weaknesses in military cases, which are not always thoroughly investigated.
Pre-trial preparation
Every case has legal and factual challenges that can be used to your benefit. Typically, a civilian attorney will try to have the charges dismissed or reduced. If after reviewing the allegations, the government’s case seems to be solid, the attorney will discuss with you the available options for the most favorable possible outcome.
Informed legal counsel
Any court-martial is a legitimate threat to your military career. While attorneys may not be allowed at Summary Courts-Martial, you would be quite within your rights to seek independent counsel beforehand.
There are enough reasons why consulting a civilian military attorney should be considered a prerequisite as you prepare to face the prosecutors. Most boil down to the fact that the martial court system is just too sophisticated for you if you have limited knowledge on military law. A seasoned attorney will give insights into the prosecutors’ heads and prepare you for potential questions.
Support
It is not uncommon for members of the armed forces suspected of wrongdoing to feel alienated by their own command. What’s more, you’re probably not going to be allowed to have military defense counsel while investigations are still ongoing. Having an experienced civilian military attorney by your side provides you with the advice and support needed during this stage of your case.
How to find the right attorney
If you’re wondering how to find an attorney to represent you in a court-martial, consider employing the following suggestions:
- Check their military experience
- Check their record
- Check if they have handled cases similar to yours
- Confirm they have a desire to help you out
An attorney specialized in martial law can help you get around the sophisticated court-martial system with ease. It is up to you to ensure you have the right professional by your side and one that has the zeal to help you out.