General Court-Martial

A General Court-Martial is a military court that handles serious offenses by service members, such as felonies or violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). It includes a panel of military officers (and sometimes enlisted members) who act as jurors, presided over by a military judge. The court can impose severe penalties, including confinement, dismissal from service, or even death. The proceedings are formal and structured, ensuring the accused has the right to a defense and a fair trial, similar to civilian criminal courts but within a military framework.