Court Martial & Military Law

DJMS Solicitors have expert lawyers available to deal both with service personnel who have fallen foul of the criminal law relating to civilians and those who are alleged to have breached rules relating to serving officers.

We are instructed by all service personnel to deal with Courts Martial and Military Law. We deal with matters from the police station to Magistrates’ Court and onwards. This allows for continuity of representation and allows findings to be fully explained to the Court Martial tribunal.

Service Police Interviews

The first stage of the Court Martial proceedings for members of the army and military personnel is the interview process. If you are arrested by the service police in connection with an alleged offence, you are entitled to the same rights as you would be if you were arrested by the civilian police, and that includes the right to have a solicitor present at your interview.

DJMS’ specialist military lawyers represent clients both in the UK and abroad. All service police interviews must be conducted in accordance with the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984.

Summary Dealings & Court Martial

Under Military Law, minor offences will be dealt with by either the Officer Commanding or, where the offence is of a more serious nature, by your Commanding Officer. The most serious offences are dealt with by the Court Martial.

You will not be entitled to legal representation at a Summary Hearing by either your Officer Commanding or your Commanding Officer. However, you have the absolute right to elect for a trial by Court Martial if you wish to have your case heard in a recognised Court of law.

Alternatively, you can proceed with the summary hearing, and if you disagree with the outcome, you have the right of appeal to the Summary Appeal Court and can appeal either against the finding of guilt, the sentence imposed, or both.

At a Court Martial or at the Summary Appeal Court, you are entitled to legal representation. Our lawyers are experienced at defending service personnel at both.

What are the Penalties under Military Law?

If you are convicted of an offence, the punishments available to the Court are very similar to those available to a civilian Court. Additionally, there are specific military punishments available, such as dismissal from the service, service detention, and demotion in rank. Prior to any Court case, our lawyers will advise you on the possible punishment you face should you be convicted or if you plead guilty.

DJMS Solicitors Can Help – Get in Touch

Our lawyers are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, providing immediate advice, representation, and assistance during proceedings. For more information or if you or a loved one need urgent advice and/or representation, please contact DJMS’ specialist team.