Consensual Sex Offenses (Fraternization, Adultery)
Military allegations of consensual sexual misconduct, such as adultery, fraternization (UCMJ Article 134), and conduct unbecoming an officer and gentleman (UCMJ Article 133) are handled in many serious ways in the military justice system – from court-martial down through military discipline and adverse administrative actions, such as involuntary administrative discharge/separation, Article 15 (nonjudicial punishment/NJP, captain’s mast), reprimand, admonition or counseling, demotion, denial of reenlistment, officer grade determination for retirement, negative performance report and evaluation.
These consensual sex offense allegations can have significant and long lasting legal, professional, personal and family consequences. Court-martial trials can result in federal criminal conviction, lengthy jail terms, dishonorable discharge or dismissal, sex offender registration (in certain cases) and a variety of other negative outcomes. Military discipline and adverse administrative actions can impact future promotion, career advancement, performance reports, military assignments, rank, retirement, and future employment. In such challenging situations, seeking guidance and representation from an experienced military defense lawyer is crucial to navigate through the complexities of the legal process and safeguard your rights.
An experienced and aggressive defense attorney is absolutely vital in these military cases.
Richard V. Stevens and Frank J. Spinner are civilian criminal defense attorneys and former military JAG lawyers who exclusively practice military law and defend military members stationed around the world who are facing military trials, discipline and investigations. For a free initial case consultation, please contact us.