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Nonjudicial Punishment (NJP) Lawyers

Nonjudicial punishment (NJP) serves as a critical disciplinary tool for all branches of the U.S. military, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. NJP, also referred to as Article 15 of the UCMJ, or Captain’s Mast, grants commanders an alternative to court-martial for handling minor offenses committed by service members. Civilian attorneys with significant military experience, like our nonjudicial punishment (NJP) lawyers at Military Law, possess the necessary expertise to guide you through the intricacies of the NJP process while safeguarding your rights.

What is Nonjudicial Punishment (NJP)?

NJP is a form of disciplinary action that allows military commanders to impose penalties for minor offenses without resorting to a court-martial. The primary goal of NJP is to maintain good order and discipline within military units and correct unacceptable behavior. Engaging a skilled attorney, especially one with a military background, can significantly influence the outcome of your case.

Categories of Nonjudicial Punishment

NJP is categorized into three types:

  • Summarized Article 15
  • Company-Grade Article 15
  • Field-Grade Article 15

The NJP category depends on the commander’s rank and the offense’s severity. It’s crucial to consult a knowledgeable civilian attorney with military experience, like our team at Military Law, to help you comprehend the implications of each NJP category.

The Nonjudicial Punishment Process

NJP is how the military enforces good order and discipline is prioritized in all service branches. The NJP process generally involves the following steps:

  1. Commander receives information about a service member’s misconduct.
  2. Commander conducts an informal investigation to determine if NJP is appropriate.
  3. If NJP is deemed suitable, the commander notifies the service member of the proposed NJP, detailing the alleged offenses and evidence.
  4. The service member may consult with a military attorney (free of charge) or hire a civilian attorney with military experience, like our team at Military Law.
  5. The service member has the option to accept or refuse NJP. Refusal may result in a court-martial.
  6. If the service member accepts NJP, they may present evidence, witnesses, and/or make a statement to the commander.
  7. Commander considers the evidence and decides whether to impose punishment or dismiss the charges.
  8. If the commander imposes punishment, the service member may appeal the decision within a specified time frame.

Having an experienced attorney guide you through the NJP process can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Top 5 Frequently Asked Questions about NJP

  1. Does accepting NJP mean I am admitting guilt?
    Accepting NJP does not constitute an admission of guilt. It merely means you are opting for NJP instead of a court-martial, which may have more severe consequences.
  2. Can I appeal an NJP decision?
    Yes, you can appeal an NJP decision within a specified time frame. Your attorney can help you navigate the appeal process.
  3. Does NJP appear on my civilian criminal record?
    NJP does not typically appear on your civilian criminal record. However, it may be noted in your military personnel file and affect your military career.
  4. Can I be demoted or discharged due to NJP?
    Yes, NJP may result in demotion or even administrative discharge, depending on the severity of the offense and the commander’s decision.
  5. Do I need a lawyer for NJP?
    While not required, consulting an experienced civilian attorney with military expertise can be beneficial. They can provide valuable guidance and help protect your rights throughout the process.

An experienced attorney can provide essential guidance and support during the NJP process. They can:

  • Evaluate the evidence against you
  • Advise you on whether to accept or refuse NJP
  • Help you gather and present evidence to support your case
  • Assist with the appeal process, if necessary

Seeking legal advice from a qualified civilian attorney, like our team at Military Law, can help protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Debunking Common Myths About Nonjudicial Punishment (NJP)

  • Myth: Accepting NJP is an admission of guilt.
    Fact: Accepting NJP does not mean you are admitting guilt. It simply means you opt for NJP instead of a court-martial.
  • Myth: NJP is always less severe than a court-martial.
    Fact: While NJP generally has less severe consequences than a court-martial, the outcome depends on the commander’s decision and the specific circumstances of your case.
  • Myth: If I accept NJP, I cannot appeal the decision.
    Fact: You can appeal an NJP decision within a specified time frame. Your attorney can help you navigate the appeal process.
  • Myth: NJP will not affect my military career.
    Fact: NJP can have a significant impact on your military career, including promotion opportunities, assignments, and even administrative discharge.
  • Myth: I don’t need a lawyer for NJP.
    Fact: Although not required, hiring an experienced civilian attorney with military expertise can help you protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.

Nonjudicial Punishment (NJP) vs. Court-Martial: Key Differences

  • Scope: NJP is designed for minor offenses, while a court-martial is used for more severe criminal offenses.
  • Process: NJP is an administrative process overseen by the commander, whereas a court-martial is a judicial process with a judge and jury.
  • Consequences: NJP generally has less severe consequences than a court-martial. However, NJP can still result in demotion, loss of pay, or administrative discharge.
  • Record: NJP does not appear on your civilian criminal record, but it is noted in your military personnel file. A court-martial conviction, on the other hand, will appear on your civilian criminal record.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the intricacies of nonjudicial punishment (NJP) is essential for service members facing disciplinary action. Enlisting the assistance of an experienced civilian attorney with military expertise, like military defense attorneys at Military Law, can help you navigate the NJP process and protect your rights.

  1. Military Investigation: Understand the Process
  2. Court-Martial: What You Need to Know
  3. Administrative Separation from the Military: An Overview

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Jeremy Snyder

Nonjudicial Punishment (NJP) Attorney, Jeremy Snyder

Additional Resources

  1. Article 15 of the UCMJ
  2. U.S. Army: Article 15 Fact Sheet
  3. Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps – Nonjudicial Punishment
  4. U.S. Air Force: Article 15 Fact Sheet

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