Most parents love their children and want the best for them. When children excel in life or make admirable decisions, parents usually feel a sense of pride in their child, and understandably so. Alternatively, when a child is struggling or facing adversity, it can be hard on the child and also the parents.
The Griffin Law Firm works with many parents trying to help their kids manage misconduct allegations from the military. Their experience is universally difficult, and incredibly stressful. The stress and concern are justifiable, as an adverse result can have lifelong impacts that are difficult to consider for a young person. Our team recognizes this and actively works to reduce stress and anxiety through responsive communications and expertise.
Joining the U.S. military and serving the country to keep it safe is an honorable decision and a big responsibility. Still, navigating a career in the armed forces is not always smooth and steady; sometimes, it can be incredibly stressful. When your child has been accused of committing a military crime, this is one of those instances that can make you as a parent feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do to support them and help them secure the best outcome.
Understanding how to navigate the complexmilitary justice system and the best practices for providing comfort and assistance to your child during such a tense and challenging time is essential.
The Military Investigation
After being accused of a crime, a service member will have the incident thoroughly investigated by the appropriate agency. This initial step addresses allegations of wrongdoing by gathering evidence and conducting interviews or interrogations. After the investigation concludes, all information will be reviewed, and a determination of whether to proceed with the charges will be made.
The Court-Martial Process
When an investigation leads to a service member receiving formal criminal charges, the court-martial process will begin. Either a summary court-martial for minor offenses, a special court-martial for more severe offenses, or a general court martial for the most serious offenses.
If the case goes to trial, it will be overheard by a judge and jury. The government will prosecute the case against your child, and your child can defend themself with the assistance of their own military attorney. Should a conviction occur, sentencing will be assigned according to guidelines in the UCMJ. Taking post-trial actions like appeals may be possible just as clemency or parole could be granted.
Providing Support To Your Child
Having your support and encouragement can go a long way for your child as they work through the process. Some of the most important actions you can take include:
- Help your child find a qualified and experienced UCMJ criminal defense attorney.
- Stay informed by familiarizing yourself with the specific charges that are being levied against your child and what the military justice system’s consequences are for the alleged crimes.
- If you can and have permission, attend briefings and meetings with your child and take notes on what is happening or being discussed.
- Allow your child to confide in you without judgment. Compassion and emotional support are critical.
- Encourage your child to engage in healthy activities to keep their minds clear and prevent their case from getting them down. Exercise and meditation are good examples of activities or hobbies that can help keep your child’s spirit up. In doing so, communicate and regularly check in with your child and their attorney. One of the worst traditions in the military is the way we treat our members when they have been accused of a crime. The shunning, disrespect, and the lack of communications cause feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and a crisis of identity. You must be deliberate and aggressive about dealing with these feelings, and make sure they are addressed while the process is ongoing. Our team can help.
Contact a Norfolk Military Criminal Defense Lawyer
Accusations of military crimes are tough on servicemembers and their families. However, families can play a critical role in minimizing the stress and strain their loved one has to endure while working through everything and securing the most favorable legal outcome.
Contact a skilledNorfolk military defense lawyer at The Griffin Law Firm today by calling (888) 707-4282.