What is a military lawyer?

A military lawyer, also known as a Judge Advocate General (JAG), is an attorney or legal adviser who provides legal advice to members of the military and consults on various military legal matters within the jurisdiction of the state of Virginia. JAG lawyers have specialized knowledge and training in military law, which includes general legal advice, criminal law, international law, operational law, and other matters related to the U.S. Armed Forces. In Virginia, JAG lawyers are specially certified by the Virginia State Bar to practice law in the state. Military lawyers practice both in and outside the military courtroom. Outside the court, JAG attorneys provide legal counsel to military personnel and their families, advise commanders on matters of operational law, and represent clients in a variety of administrative matters relating to legal issues. Inside the courtroom, JAG lawyers act as both prosecutors and defense attorneys, representing military members in courts-martial proceedings. In addition to the practice of law, military lawyers are also responsible for developing the laws and regulations governing the legal practices of the military. This includes providing opinion on the interpretation of existing military law and drafting proposed regulations for approval by the Department of Defense. Finally, JAG attorneys are tasked with providing legal advice to commanders on ethical matters in order to ensure the proper functioning of the military system.

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What is a military lawyer?

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