What is the difference between the Trial by Court-Martial (TCM) and the Summary Court-Martial (SCM)?

The Trial by Court-Martial (TCM) and the Summary Court-Martial (SCM) are two different forms of military prosecution available to service members in the state of California. The TCM is a more serious offense with more serious penalties. It is used for more serious crimes and is presided over by a military judge. There is a panel of at least five members of the military present, who act as jury in weighing the evidence against the accused. The jury is chosen by the military prosecutors. The accused is allowed to cross examine witnesses and call witnesses of his or her own. The TCM is a full-fledged trial like in civilian court. The SCM is used for minor offenses and is heard by either a single officer or a panel of officers. The accused must appear before the SCM, but is not allowed to have witnesses or a lawyer. The SCM has the power to impose punishments such as corrective instruction, extra duties, reduction of rank, and confinement for up to one month. Overall, the TCM is more likely to result in harsher sentences and more serious penalties, while the SCM is usually used for more minor offenses. Both court-martials are conducted in accordance with the Uniform Code of Military Justice, and both follow the same general rules of procedure.

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What is the difference between the Trial by Court-Martial (TCM) and the Summary Court-Martial (SCM)?

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