What is the difference between the military justice system and the civilian justice system?
The military justice system, otherwise known as the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), is the legal system that governs the conduct of members of the military. UCMJ is separate from the civilian court system that governs the rest of the population. In the military, members are subject to military law and civilians are subject to the laws of the state or federal court system. The main difference between the two systems is their enforcement. The military justice system is overseen by military commanders and staffed by military personnel. Offenses under the UCMJ can lead to a court-martial, which can result in jail time, demotion or a dishonorable discharge. The civilian justice system is overseen by the court system and is staffed by civilian judges and attorneys. Sentences in the civilian justice system can range from community service to fines and/or jail time. The purpose of the military justice system is to promote discipline within the military as well as to deter criminal activity. Civilian justice is aimed more at rehabilitation of the offender and ensuring justice is served. Another key difference between the two systems is that the military justice system does not recognize the right to a jury trial, and defendants in a military court-martial are not allowed to have an attorney present during the proceedings. On the other hand, in the civilian system, defendants are allowed to have an attorney present during proceedings and have the right to a jury trial. Overall, the military justice system has more rigorous standards than the civilian system and is intended to maintain order and discipline in the military.
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