What is the UCMJ Article 120?

Article 120 of the Uniformed Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) is a federal law that provides criminal standards for military members in the United States. The UCMJ is the legal code that provides criminal punishment to members of the Armed Forces. The UCMJ applies to all branches, including the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard. Article 120 outlines the criminal offenses of rape, sexual assault, aggravated sexual contact, abusive sexual contact, and other sexual misconduct in the military. These criminal offenses are subject to court martial proceedings, which are military trials. Depending on the severity of the alleged crime, the court martial could have a panel of officers or a single judge who will review the evidence, listen to testimony, and either acquit or convict the accused. Article 120 also outlines the punishments for those found guilty of these crimes. Punishments may include confinement for a period of time, restriction from certain activities, punitive discharge from the military, or a dishonorable discharge. The law is meant to ensure that justice is applied fairly and impartially to all military members, regardless of rank or position.

Related FAQs

How does the chain of command factor into a court-martial?
What type of offenses can be tried by a special court-martial?
How does military law differ from civilian law?
What is the UCMJ Article 77?
What is the difference between a court martial and a summary court-martial?
What is the role of a Navy JAG lawyer?
What is a plea bargain in a court-martial?
How are witnesses examined in a court-martial?
What is the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) Article 31?
What is the role of an appellate defense counsel?

What is the UCMJ Article 120?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts