What is an adjudicative authority?

An adjudicative authority is a type of authority in the military justice system. It is responsible for deciding the guilt or innocence of an accused service member. In Mississippi, an adjudicative authority is the military judge. The judge is responsible for deciding whether a service member has broken the law, and if they are guilty of the charges against them. The judge also has the power to determine the appropriate punishment or sentence for a service member found guilty of a crime. During a court-martial, it is the adjudicative authority that makes the final decision. The authority will hear arguments from both the accused and the prosecution. After hearing the evidence and arguments, the judge will determine what sentence should be imposed. They will also decide whether the accused service member should be discharged, court-martialed, or acquitted of the charges. The adjudicative authority is an important part of ensuring justice within the military system. It is their responsibility to ensure that service members who are accused of a crime are given a fair hearing and that the appropriate sentence is imposed.

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