All service members in the U.S. Armed Forces are subject to military law, consisting of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and other statutory provisions. While it is similar to civilian law in many ways, such as the right to counsel and full protection under the Constitution, the UCMJ has many provisions and crimes unique to the military. These include rules against fraternization with officers; the discharge process; and the crimes of insubordination, absence without leave (AWOL), and desertion. The military tries cases through the court martial process, which is similar to a civilian trial but has its own rules and procedures. FindLaw's Military Law Center will help you navigate this sometimes confusing area of law.
