World-Class Defense For Uniform Code Of Military Justice Offenses
The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) is the guideline that controls procedures and punishments for servicemembers charged with and convicted of crimes. The UCMJ has so many technicalities involved – from what venues are used to what actions constitute crimes – that some attorneys are reluctant to handle these cases.
Attorney Noel Tipon has the experience and confidence you need behind your defense. A lawyer for more than 25 years, he spent 10 years as a Marine Judge Advocate and more than 15 years in private practice, representing members of every branch of the armed forces from his Hawaii office. His entire professional career has been focused on defending those who defend the country.
What Are The Potential Punishments Under The UCMJ?
The Uniform Code of Military Justice authorizes a variety of punishments for various offenses. Exactly what a servicemember can expect upon conviction will vary according to the nature of the charges, but consequences can include:
- Reprimands
- Forfeitures of pay
- Fines
- Restrictions
- Hard labor without confinement
- Confinement
- Reduction in grade
- Bad-conduct discharge
- Dishonorable discharge
- The death penalty
If you are accused of violating the UCMJ, you may face a variety of legal proceedings, including:
- Article 127: This covers extortion charges involving the communication of a threat to another to unlawfully obtain something of value or any acquittal, advantage or immunity by the accused.
- Article 128: This proceeding addresses attempted assault, assault and aggravated assault, whether or not the attempt or offer of violence was consummated.
- Article 15: This is a nonjudicial punishment (NJP) hearing that allows commanders to punish a servicemember in their charge without a court-martial.
- Article 134: This is a general proceeding that covers a wide range of conduct that could be seen as disorderly or discrediting to the armed forces and is not specifically addressed under other articles in the UCMJ.
It is important to remember that even criminal cases that were begun in the local civilian community can end up being turned over to the military for prosecution under the UCMJ.
Get An Experienced Lawyer For Your UCMJ Case
There is no substitute for experience when it comes to selecting your UCMJ lawyer. Attorney Tipon represents members of the armed services, including the Coast Guard, around the globe. Call Tipon Law Firm, LLLC, at 808-727-1289 or use the online contact form to schedule your initial consultation with a UCMJ attorney.