Special Courts-Martial

Special Courts-Martial are a type of military court that handle misdemeanor-level offenses committed by military personnel. They are less formal than a General Courts-Martial but more formal than summary procedures. A Special Courts-Martial typically consists of at least three members (military personnel) and can include a judge. These courts can impose a range of punishments, including confinement, forfeiture of pay, or reduction in rank, but not the death penalty or dishonorable discharge. This system ensures that service members are held accountable while still allowing for a fair examination of the facts.