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Simple English definitions for legal terms
general court-martial
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A quick definition of general court-martial:
A general court-martial is a type of military court that is used to try members of the armed forces who are accused of violating the Uniform Code of Military Justice. It is the highest level of military trial court and is presided over by a military judge and at least five members who serve as jurors. The court has jurisdiction over all members of the armed forces and can impose severe punishments, including dishonorable discharge, imprisonment, and even the death penalty.
A more thorough explanation:
A general court-martial is a type of military court that is convened under military authority to try someone accused of violating the Uniform Code of Military Justice, particularly a member of the armed forces. It is the highest military trial court.
For example, if a soldier is accused of a serious offense like desertion or mutiny, they may be tried in a general court-martial. The court is presided over by a military judge and no fewer than five members who serve as jurors.
Other types of courts-martial include:
- Special court-martial: An intermediate level of courts-martial that is presided over by a military judge and no fewer than three members to hear noncapital offenses and prescribe a sanction of hard labor, dismissal, or extended confinement (up to six months).
- Summary court-martial: The lowest level of courts-martial, presided over by a single commissioned officer who is jurisdictionally limited in what sanctions can be imposed.
Overall, courts-martial are used to maintain discipline and order within the military and ensure that members of the armed forces are held accountable for their actions.