What is a court-martial specification?

A court-martial specification is a formal accusation alleging a violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). These specifications are similar to criminal indictments in civilian law, but involve a specific branch of the military. In the state of California, these court-martials are typically held for members of the U.S. Coast Guard, Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marine Corps. Each court-martial specification must clearly state the alleged violation of the UCMJ. This includes the nature of the offenses, the time and place the offense occurred, and any additional evidence that will support the allegation. The specification must also name the accused and the specific UCMJ article they are accused of violating. The process of court-martial can be lengthy and complicated. If the accused is found guilty, they will receive a sentence from the court-martial. This could include a range of punishments, from fines or reprimands to imprisonment. The court-martial specification is an essential part of the military justice system and holds members of the armed forces accountable for their actions. It ensures that the accused is aware of the charges and has an opportunity to defend themselves.

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