What is the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) Article 15?
The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) Article 15 is a set of laws that govern the conduct of members of the United States Armed Forces. Article 15, also known as Non Judicial Punishment, is a disciplinary measure that an individual commanding officer, or higher authority in the chain of command, may impose on a military member without going through the court-martial process. This article authorizes commanding officers to impose punishments up to thirty days of restriction, extra-duty, correctional custody and forfeiture of pay. These punishments can be applied if the commanding officer determines that an offense was committed and believes that a court-martial is not necessary. Article 15 is considered to be part of the underlying fundamental principles of military justice, and it provides an avenue of disciplinary action for the commanding officer to maintain good order and discipline within the military without having to go to court-martial. Article 15 is mandated in several states, including Utah, and the procedures and rules may differ from one state to another. These procedures may include the accused being informed of the charge against them, being given the opportunity to deny or explain their actions, and being able to have a representative during the proceedings. However, it is important to note that the UCMJ applies to all members of the US Armed Forces no matter what state they are in.
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