Understanding legal matters alone is daunting, especially when dealing with them as a military officer. It can pose various challenges to you. So, it becomes essential to consult an experienced lawyer and get their help to understand the legalities and intricacies of the law. However, as a military officer, you can get help from military and civil lawyers. But, many people need to be aware of the difference between their roles.

So, in this article, we will understand the critical difference between civil and military lawyers and their jurisdiction on service. If you are an army official, you can consult a civilian military lawyer and understand the legal complexities of your case.

Who is a Military Lawyer?

A military lawyer is commonly known as a Judge Advocate who provides special legal services in the military community. They must undergo rigorous training in law to understand complex military codes, culture, and processes. The primary role is to advise and represent fellow military officials in the legal proceedings.

Who is a Civilian Lawyer?

A civilian lawyer holds a law degree and state licensing for legal practices. It primarily practices outside the military jurisdiction, but they are trained to interpret and apply state laws to govern the military legal process.

When can you Hire a Civilian Lawyer for a Military Case?

There are various instances in which military lawyers can help you better as they are experts in that field and are very well aware of the military rules, regulations, codes, and other processes. However, in certain circumstances, you can hire civil lawyers, as they can help you with various legal matters.

• Suppose there are cases in which the legal concerns are beyond the bounds of military law and surround the more conventional areas of law. In that case, you can also consider consulting civilian lawyers who are experts in the military field.
• Court martials are potential threats to your career, and therefore, you need expert legal advice in your cases. So, in such circumstances, you can consult civilian lawyers who can provide you with top-notch advice and help in the investigation without any pressure from the military command chain.
• Suppose you feel underrepresented because military lawyers can be under the influence of higher authorities. In that case, you can try consulting civilian lawyers who are experts in the military field, as they would be independent agents for your case.