Military law in the UK governs the conduct of service personnel and the legal framework within which the military justice system functions.
Obtaining early legal representation in defending charges initiated within the military justice system is vital, especially in complex cases involving court martials, where the consequences for service personnel can be significant.
Common ‘Military Offences’ will include:
- Absence Without Leave (AWOL)
- Insubordination
- Mutiny and Disobeying Orders
- Desertion
- Criminal Conduct (Theft, Assault, Drugs Offences)
- Sexual Offences
- Drunkenness or Misconduct on Duty
A ‘Court Martial’ will involve an investigation, a preliminary hearing (if charged with an offence(s)), a Court Martial trial (if charge(s) contested), verdict and sentence (if convicted).
A ‘Court Martial’ panel will comprise a judge advocate (a military judge) together with service personnel, acting as the tribunal of fact.
Following a ‘Court Martial’ conviction there can be many consequences namely:
- Discharge from the Armed Forces
- Loss of Rank and Pay
- Adverse impact to future career prospects
- Criminal record
The PDS can provide specialist defence lawyers, familiar with the unique aspects of the military justice system.
If you or someone you know are currently facing investigation or court martial proceedings, do not hesitate to contact the PDS for independent legal advice, assistance and representation.
At the PDS, we will ensure that your rights are protected, the military justice system proceeds fairly, whilst preventing unjust outcomes and consequences.
Notable cases
Advocacy team
Simon Perkins
About the case
Successful defence of a Royal Marine accused of assaulting no fewer than three senior naval ratings whilst ashore in Japan.
Advocacy team
Simon Perkins
About the case
Successful Court Martial defence of a Warrant Officer accused of drunken violence in the Mess.
Advocacy team
Simon Perkins
About the case
Successful Court Martial defence of a soldier facing allegations of sexual assault.
Advocacy team
Simon Perkins
About the case
Conspiracy to Supply Class A. Whilst this was a Guilty Plea significant work was done to mitigate sentence involving psychiatric enquiries in defendant’s PTSD consequent upon Army service in Northern Ireland.
Advocacy team
Simon Perkins
About the case
An allegation of theft from stores and subsequent sale of items on EBay. The case required detailed analysis of several hundred alleged eBay transactions. The key point was that deficiencies in Army stock control systems leading to short cuts in paper recording systems created the impression of stock deficiencies when none existed. Case was stopped by the Judge Advocate when it emerged that the Prosecution could not prove any stock was missing.