In many ways, courts-martial mimic civilian trials. In other ways, they are distinctly different. Take, for example, the composition of a court-martial. Although the prosecution and defendant's counsel will be present and typically a judge will preside over the court-martial, the type of attorney can differ from a civilian trial and the jury is known as a “panel.” Plus, the composition of a court-martial varies based on the type of court-martial, which is decided by the severity of the crime. So many differences, yet the essence is the same.

Composition of a Court-Martial

Imagine that you're walking into a courtroom for a court-martial. Who do you see? First, of course, you will see the defendant (the accused) and the plaintiff (the person bringing the case against the defendant). Typically both parties will have an attorney representing them as well. Military counsel is provided to the accused free of charge, but they can also hire a civilian attorney at their own expense or use both (a military attorney and a civilian attorney). In addition, a court reporter (employed by the convening authority) will be present to record the proceedings of the court-martial and the testimony given. If necessary, an interpreter may be present as well. Finally, witnesses may be called to provide evidence.

Beyond this, the composition of a court-martial changes based on the type of court:

SUMMARY COURT-MARTIAL

As the lowest level of military court, the composition of a summary court-martial is unique. Unlike the two higher levels of court, the accused is not typically provided with legal representation free of charge. However, they do have the right to hire a civilian attorney at their own expense. In addition, a military judge is not present. Instead, a commissioned officer (typically a level O-3 or above) assesses the facts, studies legal precedents, reviews sentencing guidelines, and makes the verdict. If the accused is found guilty, this commissioned officer will also determine the sentence.

SPECIAL COURT-MARTIAL

In a special court-martial, the intermediate level of court, there is a military judge and a minimum of three officers sitting on the panel (i.e., the jury). If the accused is enlisted, they can request that at least one-third of the panel consists of enlisted personnel. They can also request to be tried by judge alone.

GENERAL COURT-MARTIAL

A general court-martial, the highest level of court, also consists of a trial counsel, defense counsel, and a military judge, but the panel must have at least five officers. If the accused may be sentenced to death, there must at least twelve members. Again, an enlisted accused can request a panel composed of at least one-third enlisted personnel. They may also request a trial by judge alone. The judge of a general court-martial is designated by the Judge Advocate General (or his or her designee).

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After the court-martial, the members will report back to the convening authority (the person who convened the court-martial, selected the level of court, approved any experts and witnesses, and more). The convening authority can approve or reduce the sentence, and they can order a rehearing when necessary.

If you or someone you know is preparing for a court-martial, contact the top-quality lawyers at Newsom & Gapasin. Whether you're under investigation, facing a court-martial, or seeking an appeal, our experienced and aggressive law firm would be happy to help. We focus on winning tough cases, some of which have been reported on by national media outlets like CNN, Fox News, Time, the Washington Post, and the New York Times. For more information, please give us a call at 1-(888) 919-8265 , send an e-mail to [email protected], or click here to contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!