Serving your country and facing a court-martial is overwhelming. Whatever allegations you are facing, it is wise to hire an experienced defense attorney. A court-martial trial will affect how people will view your personality and your military experience, curbing your career’s future. Therefore, hiring an attorney or a law firm specialized and well-experienced in military defense cases is crucial.
Below are a few elements that you need to pay strict attention to when you are subject to a court-martial.
Waiting is Not the Solution
If authorities have not yet charged you against a court-martial trial, do not take it casually. If you have the slightest doubt that you will get arrested, it is wise to seek counsel. Staying prudent and knowing the legal situation is essential. Having a court martial attorney by your side will help you in clearing all your doubts.
The Process of Questioning
A court-martial trial takes up to a week. During this duration, multiple processes are undertaken, such as jury selection, opening statements of both parties, examination, cross-examination of the witnesses, closing arguments, deliberations, and the findings’ announcement. The sentencing phase will follow if there is a conviction.
When you are facing the court-martial, a member can ask you several questions related to the act. However, you have the right to remain silent. If you are not confident enough, it is wise that you do not open your mouth. Providing a confusing statement can stir the case to a higher pace. It can also lead to irreparable consequences down the road. A professional attorney will analyze your case and suggest what you can do during the questioning process.
Did You Already Give a Statement?
If you did no hire an attorney and have already provided a statement, do not panic. However, do not offer them any added information, and consult a defense attorney that can handle your case. An experienced court-martial defense attorney can undo any harm that is caused by the statement.
Help Your Defense
To better analyze your case, the defense attorney will need to know all the details. Sitting together, identify several people as witnesses in the alleged incident. Give their full name, unit, and rank to the attorney. When you are hiring a defense attorney, seek one with many years of experience winning such cases.
Hiring a Civilian Lawyer is Also an Option
You can hire a civilian lawyer for your case. However, one essential factor you need to pay attention to is to check their track record on such matters. Someone who has experience will know the process and the similar case scenarios from previous cases. An attorney with experience in military service can help you in handling and winning such kinds of trials.
Many people lose court-martial cases due to the lack of proper investigation, flawed prosecution, and command abuse. Therefore, hiring an attorney who is practicing and well-versed in military law is essential. Since such trials can cause serious consequences, extensive experience of the attorney in handling and winning such cases plays a vital role in receiving an acquittal.
