Courtsmartial

A court-martial, or court-martial, is a military court established to try service members for violations of military law. It operates within the military justice system and is distinct from civilian courts. Courts-martial may determine guilt and impose punishment, subject to higher review in some jurisdictions. They handle offenses ranging from minor disciplinary infractions to serious crimes, depending on the legal framework of each country.

Many militaries use three general types of court-martial: general, special, and summary. A general court-martial typically handles the most serious offenses and can impose the broadest range of punishments. A special court-martial addresses less serious offenses and has more limited powers. A summary court-martial deals with minor offenses and is designed to be quicker and simpler, with the least authority granted to the court.

Procedures vary by country but share common elements. A convening authority brings charges; proceedings may be conducted by a military judge or by a panel of service members acting as the court. Defendants have rights to counsel, to be informed of charges, to present evidence and to call witnesses, and to confront accusers. A verdict of guilty or not guilty is rendered, followed by sentencing in appropriate cases. Many systems provide a path for appeal within the military appellate structure, and in some jurisdictions, further review by civilian courts is possible.

Courts-martial sit alongside civilian justice systems, with some offenses falling under military jurisdiction and others potentially handled by civilian courts. They are subject to national laws and, in some contexts, international norms regarding due process, independence, and fair trial guarantees.