What is the maximum punishment for an Article 134 offense?
The maximum punishment for an Article 134 offense in California is dependent on the specific offense and the circumstances of the case. Generally speaking, the offense could result in a court-martial with a fine or prison sentence of up to one year or less, a reprimand, or a combination of these punishments. In some cases, a series of offenses committed by the same individual may result in a longer prison sentence. In addition to the above punishments, Article 134 also allows for a dishonorable discharge as a consequence, which is a serious type of discharge that is typically associated with especially serious offenses. A dishonorable discharge can prevent a person from ever serving in the military again, as well as making it difficult to find employment in the civilian world. Article 134 covers a wide range of offenses, from those related to sexual misconduct and misconduct in the face of the enemy to more minor offenses such as drinking or using illegal substances and disobeying orders. All of these offenses are taken seriously in California and can have serious consequences for a service member.
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