Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ)

The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) is a federal law that establishes the legal framework for the military justice system in the United States. It outlines the rules and procedures for prosecuting service members who violate military laws, known as offenses or violations. The UCMJ ensures that military personnel are held accountable for their actions, maintains order and discipline within the armed forces, and provides rights to the accused, such as the right to a fair trial. It applies to all branches of the military, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.