What is the difference between a general court-martial and a special court-martial?

In Mississippi, Military Law is governed by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). While the UCMJ is the governing body of the laws that apply to the military, there are two types of military courts that serve different purposes. The two court types are known as general court-martials and special court-martials. A general court-martial is the highest level of military court and has the most significant jurisdiction. General court-martials are reserved for the most serious offenses and are presided over by a judge and at least five members of the court, who are usually officers. Defendants may receive life in prison or the death penalty depending on the severity of the offense. In contrast, a special court-martial is a less serious court than a general court-martial. A special court-martial is presided over by three or more members, usually officers. The jurisdiction of a special court-martial is more limited than a general court-martial and the maximum punishment is usually one year of confinement and a bad-conduct discharge, rather than life in prison or the death penalty. The main difference between a general court-martial and a special court-martial is the severity of the offenses being considered and the punishments handed down. General court-martials are reserved for the most serious offenses, while special court-martials are reserved for lesser offenses. Additionally, the jurisdiction and maximum punishments of a general court-martial are greater than a special court-martial.

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What is the difference between a general court-martial and a special court-martial?

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