What is a non-judicial punishment (NJP)?

Non-judicial punishment (NJP) is a form of military justice that is authorized by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). It is a disciplinary action available in the armed forces of every branch and in the Michigan National Guard. NJP does not involve a court-martial proceeding, but it can still result in punishments such as extra duty, restriction to a certain area, or even forfeiture of pay. NJP allows military personnel to be disciplined without going through a court-martial. It is used in instances where the misconduct is minor and does not warrant a formal trial. The commanding officer is able to decide the proper punishment for the wrong done based on the evidence presented. For example, if a service member is caught using foul language, they might be presented with an NJP. The commanding officer can then decide what punishment they deem appropriate. This might include anything from a verbal reprimand to a verbal warning to extra duty. NJP is an important tool for commanders when it comes to enforcing military rules. It allows commanders to respond quickly to instances of misconduct and maintain discipline in their units. It is also important to note that, although NJP is considered an informal process, a service member can still appeal the decision of the commanding officer if they disagree.

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What is a non-judicial punishment (NJP)?

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