What is a non-judicial punishment (NJP)?

Non-judicial punishment (NJP) is a form of military discipline authorized by the United States military, available to commanders of all branches. It is used to maintain good order and discipline in the armed forces and was designed to provide a quicker and more informal form of discipline than a court-martial. NJP allows commanders to resolve disciplinary issues swiftly, without an extensive judicial process. When a service member is accused of an offense, a commander can decide to address it administratively without a court-martial. The accused service member can accept or refuse non-judicial punishment (NJP). If accepted, the accused will be subject to administrative or disciplinary action prescribed by the commanding officer. The penalties for NJP vary depending on the severity of the incident, but typically include extra duties, reduction in rank, or restriction of privileges. Service members may also be reprimanded or admonished for minor offenses. While the accused does not face jail time or a dishonorable discharge, a conviction will remain in the service member’s record, so it is important to weigh the consequences and consider the potential damage to a person’s career. It is important to keep in mind that NJP is not always the most appropriate form of discipline, and can sometimes be avoided with a plea bargain or pre-trial agreement. Additionally, if you are facing NJP, it is important to speak with an attorney to understand your rights and determine the best course of action to take.

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What is a non-judicial punishment (NJP)?

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