Facing an Article 15 can feel like your military career is on the line. The anxiety is real – you’ve worked hard to build your reputation, and now a non-judicial punishment under Article 15 of the UCMJ threatens to derail it. Will you lose rank or pay? Could this incident end your chances of promotion or even lead to separation? These worries weigh heavily on any service member’s mind​

It’s important to remember, however, that you don’t have to go through this ordeal alone. With the right support and expert legal representation, an Article 15 does not have to be a career-ending event. Skilled military defense attorneys deal with Article 15 cases every day and know how to protect your rights, mount a strong defense, and mitigate the consequences. In short, expert legal representation can make all the difference in the outcome of your Article 15 proceedings – and in how you move forward with your military career.

At National Security Law Firm (NSLF), we understand what’s at stake for you. Our team has stood alongside many service members in your shoes, helping them face Article 15 charges with confidence and a clear plan. We know you’re likely feeling overwhelmed by uncertainty and fear of the unknown. Our mission is to be your trusted advocate – answering your questions, addressing your fears, and fighting for your future as if it were our own. The Article 15 process may be intimidating, but you are not powerless in this situation. With experienced legal counsel by your side, you can navigate the process step by step, ensuring your voice is heard and your career is protected.

What to Expect: The Article 15 Process

When you’re facing an Article 15, knowledge is power. Understanding the steps involved will help ease your uncertainty and allow you to make informed decisions. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the Article 15 process and what you can expect at each stage:

  1. Notification and Right to Counsel: The process begins when your commander notifies you that you are being offered an Article 15 (often in writing, detailing the alleged offenses). This notification is formal and it’s your wake-up call that disciplinary action is being initiated. At this stage, you will also be informed of your rights – including your right to consult with an attorney before deciding how to proceed​. In most cases, you have the right to speak with a military defense counsel (JAG) at no cost, and you may also seek a civilian military law attorney at your own expense. Take advantage of this right immediately. Consulting a lawyer early on will help you understand the allegations, possible consequences, and your options (such as accepting the Article 15 or demanding a court-martial). You do not have to make any statements or decisions on the spot – first, get the legal guidance you need.
  2. Gathering Evidence and Witness Statements: After notification, there is usually a short period before your Article 15 hearing (especially for Company or Field Grade Article 15s) during which you can prepare your defense. This preparation phase is crucial. Work with your attorney to gather any evidence that supports your case. You have the right to see the evidence your commander will use against you and to make copies of all documents. Likewise, you can collect witness statements or even request certain witnesses to speak on your behalf. For example, if there are people who saw what happened or can attest to your character and reliability, their input can be invaluable. It’s your opportunity to build your side of the story: find any documents, texts, emails, or service records that rebut the allegations or put them in context. A seasoned NSLF attorney will help identify what evidence is needed and ensure nothing is overlooked. By proactively gathering favorable evidence and witnesses, you begin to level the playing field.
  3. Presenting a Defense and Submitting Mitigating Factors: The Article 15 proceeding itself is usually an informal hearing in front of your commander (or an officer appointed by your commander). This is your chance to personally present your case and defend yourself. Depending on your branch and the type of Article 15, you might present your defense in writing, verbally, or both. You can point out any evidence that casts doubt on your guilt or explains the circumstances. If you have witnesses, you may be allowed to have them provide testimony or written statements supporting you. Just as importantly, you can submit extenuating and mitigating factors for the commander to consider. Extenuating circumstances might explain why an incident happened (for instance, you were facing unusual personal stress or there was a misunderstanding). Mitigating factors highlight your good qualities and service record – think of character letters from supervisors or colleagues, past evaluations, awards, and other evidence of your dedication. Even if the evidence against you is strong, showing your commander that this incident is out of character and that you have value to your unit can influence the outcome. In essence, you and your NSLF attorney will make the case for either your innocence or, at the very least, for fair and lenient treatment.
  4. Commander’s Decision: Once you’ve presented your side, the ball is in your commander’s court. They will consider the evidence, your defense, and any mitigating information, then decide whether you are found in violation of the UCMJ article and, if so, what punishment to impose. It’s important to note that in Article 15 proceedings, your commander acts as judge and jury. The burden of proof is lower than at a court-martial – essentially, if the commander believes it’s more likely than not that you committed the offense (a “preponderance of evidence”), they can find you guilty​. Punishments under Article 15 can vary widely and often depend on the severity of the offense and whether it’s a Summarized, Company Grade, or Field Grade Article 15. They can range from a formal reprimand, extra duty, or restriction to base, all the way to forfeiture of pay, reduction in rank, or other career-impacting penalties. No commander can directly discharge you through an Article 15 (it’s not a court-martial), but the consequences can still be long-lasting. For example, a reduction in rank or a punitive letter filed in your service record can halt your career progression and even set the stage for a future separation​. This is why having a compelling defense and mitigation matters – it can influence the commander to decide not to impose the maximum punishment, or even to find you not guilty if there’s enough doubt. When NSLF represents you, we aim to either defeat the Article 15 or minimize its impact on your career.
  5. Appeal Rights and Procedures: If you are found guilty and punished under Article 15, you have the right to appeal that decision to the next higher commander in your chain of command​. Appeals are time-sensitive – typically, you only have a few days (usually 5 calendar days) to submit your appeal in writing, so you must act quickly. This is where having an attorney is again crucial: we will help you draft a strong appeal letter pointing out any errors in the proceedings, lack of evidence, or unfairness in the punishment. During an appeal, the imposing punishment might still start (for instance, you may have to begin any extra duties or restrictions), but the higher commander will review the case and can decide to uphold, reduce, or set aside the Article 15 findings and/or punishment. They cannot increase the punishment, so there is nothing to lose by appealing if you have legitimate grounds. Common reasons to appeal include: insufficient evidence to support the findings, punishment too harsh for the offense, or new evidence or mitigating information that wasn’t considered. The appeals process is relatively quick, and you will be informed of the outcome soon by the appellate authority. A successful appeal can remove the Article 15 from your record or reduce the penalties, which can be lifesaving for your career. Our NSLF attorneys have extensive experience with Article 15 appeals and will ensure your voice is heard at this final crucial stage.

Cost of Hiring a Lawyer for Your Article 15 Case

At National Security Law Firm, we provide clear, upfront pricing so you know exactly what to expect. If you’re facing Article 15 (Non-Judicial Punishment), we offer a flat fee of $2,500, which includes:

✅ Thorough Case Investigation – We analyze the allegations, gather evidence, and assess the strength of your case.
✅ Preparation & Strategic Planning – We craft a compelling defense, including written responses, mitigating evidence, and witness statements.
✅ Representation at the Article 15 Hearing – We advocate for you during the proceedings, working to minimize penalties or even get the charges dropped.
✅ Guidance on Article 15 vs. Courts-Martial – We help you understand your rights, the potential consequences of each option, and whether rejecting Article 15 in favor of a courts-martial is the right choice for your case.

Learn More About Article 15 Defense

Choosing NJP or court-martial is just the first step. To truly maximize your chances of a favorable outcome, you need to understand the best legal defenses, how to minimize penalties, and what mistakes to avoid. Visit our comprehensive Article 15 resource page to learn about:

  • Winning strategies for NJP hearings
  • Common defenses that can beat an Article 15
  • How to negotiate the best possible outcome
  • The true cost of an NJP vs. a court-martial
  • Mistakes that get service members kicked out—and how to avoid them

Why Choose National Security Law Firm?

When facing NJP or a court-martial, experience matters. The attorneys at National Security Law Firm are not just skilled military defense lawyers—we are battle-tested litigators with real-world experience in military justice. Here’s why service members trust us:

✅ Decades of Military Law Experience: Our team consists of former JAG officers, military prosecutors, retired federal judges, and defense attorneys who have handled thousands of cases like yours.

✅ Aggressive, Strategic Defense: We don’t back down. Our attorneys develop calculated strategies to maximize your chances of avoiding conviction, reducing penalties, or winning outright acquittals.

✅ Insider Knowledge of Military Justice: With extensive experience advising commands on Article 15 and court-martial procedures, we know how the military prosecutes these cases—and we use that knowledge to your advantage.

✅ Personalized Legal Guidance: No two cases are the same. We provide tailored legal strategies, ensuring that your defense is built around the specific facts of your case.

You’ve given your service to this country. Now let us serve you by protecting your rights, your career, and your future.

Don’t Make This Decision Alone—Get Experienced Legal Advice Now

You have a limited time to decide whether to accept NJP or demand a court-martial. Making the wrong choice could cost you your career, your benefits, or even your freedom. Don’t take that risk without talking to an experienced military defense lawyer.

At National Security Law Firm, we provide confidential consultations to help you understand your options and develop a game plan. Call us today at (202) 600-4996 or schedule a free consultation online: Book Now. 

We also offer legal financing options allowing you to pay your legal fees over monthly installments.

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