The United States military is a drug-free employer. This means that even in states where marijuana or CPD is decriminalized, members of the military can face disciplinary action if they have a positive result on a drug test. There are even stricter penalties possible...
Military Law
What rights do you have at an Article 15 hearing?
As a military servicemember, you are subject to very strict rules that apply to you on duty and off duty. While the same federal and state laws that apply to all civilians and service members, service members must also to abide by the Uniform Code of Military Justice...
Should I appeal a negative Officer Evaluation Report?
If you have made your career in the United States Army, you realize that your advancement and promotion possibilities depend on varying factors. One is the Officer Evaluation Report (OER) -- an assessment that carries enough weight to deter any further progress up the...
Protecting your military career after a failed urinalysis test
Urinalysis or the chemical evaluation of a clean urine sample has become one of the go-to methods for drug policy enforcement utilized by the United States armed forces. It is non-invasive and relatively quick, as well as cost-effective when compared to more involved...
Has your security clearance been revoked?
As a service person in the military, you rely on having security clearance to do your job. Under certain conditions, your security clearance may be revoked, which ultimately means you can no longer do your job. It’s important to note that accusations of misconduct do...
What does it mean to go AWOL?
In the military, there is a term called “AWOL.” It means to go “absent without leave.” Going AWOL is a problem for military members, because it means that they have left their posts without permission. While going AWOL is less serious than desertion, it is still an...
What does a DUI mean for military service members?
Allegations of driving under the influence (DUI) offenses can threaten your license and your freedom. For those in the military, however, there may be different risks that come from allegations of impaired driving. A DUI charge on the base could lead to different...
What’s the difference between military and civilian courts?
If you face trouble while you’re in the military, you need to know the differences between a military court or civilian court and how it will handle your case. For the most part, civilian courts will handle cases in civil or criminal court. On the other hand, a...
Can you quit the military?
With most jobs in the United States, you can simply quit whenever you want. Unless you have a contract, it means you're an at-will employee, so you can leave if you no longer want to work there. You don't have to have a reason to do so and, while you are usually asked...
Can you appeal an OER?
An officer evaluation record, or OER, is important for those who want to move up in the ranks. When you have an OER with negative commentary or ratings, your career as an officer could be threatened. The thing to remember is that you do have a right to an OER appeal,...