Military Justice System

The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) governs the conduct of all members of the United States Armed Forces. One of the more controversial and often misunderstood offenses under the UCMJ is UCMJ prostitution , which falls under Article 134 , commonly referred to as the "General Article." This provision is used to maintain good order and discipline within the military ranks and applies to a wide range of offenses not specifically covered by other articles. What is UCMJ Prostitution? Under Article 134 , prostitution is defined as the act of engaging in sexual activity for compensation or offering compensation for sexual services. This includes both the provider and the buyer of such services. The UCMJ criminalizes both prostitution and solicitation of prostitution , even in jurisdictions where such conduct might be legal under civilian law. The military’s stance on prostitution is clear: it is viewed as conduct that brings discredit upon the armed forces and can negati...

The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) is the cornerstone of legal discipline in the U.S. Armed Forces. Within this code, the UCMJ punitive articles play a critical role by outlining specific criminal offenses and corresponding punishments for service members. These articles ensure accountability, uphold military order, and promote justice across all branches of the military. Whether you are a service member, military attorney, or simply looking to understand the foundation of military law, knowing the structure and significance of UCMJ punitive articles is essential. What Are UCMJ Punitive Articles? The UCMJ punitive articles are found in Articles 77 through 134 of the UCMJ. These articles detail a wide range of offenses — from minor misconduct to major crimes — that are punishable under military law. They serve to regulate the behavior of service members and preserve the integrity of the armed forces. Each article specifies: The nature of the offense Legal definit...