Court-Martial Convening Authority

A Court-Martial Convening Authority is a military official with the power to initiate legal proceedings against service members accused of offenses under military law. This authority can be held by officers of various ranks, depending on the type of court-martial being convened. Essentially, the Convening Authority decides whether to refer a case for trial, selects the judges or jury, and has other significant responsibilities related to the prosecution process. Their role is crucial in maintaining military discipline and ensuring that justice is fairly administered within the armed forces.