Hey, quick question… if I end up going to military court, does the military provide free lawyer services? Also, do they help the spouse too, or is that separate? Just trying to figure out how this works.
Yeah, if you’re in military court, they’ll assign you a JAG lawyer for free. It’s kinda like public defenders for the military.
Ben said:
Yeah, if you’re in military court, they’ll assign you a JAG lawyer for free. It’s kinda like public defenders for the military.
Oh okay, good to know! What’s a JAG lawyer though?
Ben said:
Yeah, if you’re in military court, they’ll assign you a JAG lawyer for free. It’s kinda like public defenders for the military.
JAG stands for Judge Advocate General. Basically, they’re military lawyers who handle cases for service members. Totally free if you’re in court.
They cover you, but I’m not sure about spouses. I think spouses need to look for civilian legal aid instead.
Emerson said:
They cover you, but I’m not sure about spouses. I think spouses need to look for civilian legal aid instead.
Yeah, military legal assistance usually doesn’t represent spouses in court. They might give advice, though.
Emerson said:
They cover you, but I’m not sure about spouses. I think spouses need to look for civilian legal aid instead.
Gotcha, so for spouses, it’s more like general help but not actual representation?
Emerson said:
They cover you, but I’m not sure about spouses. I think spouses need to look for civilian legal aid instead.
Exactly. They can explain stuff or help with documents but won’t represent in court. You’d need a civilian lawyer for that.
If it’s something big like a trial, you’ll definitely get a lawyer through JAG. Spouses might need to check with local legal aid.
Gentry said:
If it’s something big like a trial, you’ll definitely get a lawyer through JAG. Spouses might need to check with local legal aid.
Thanks! Any idea where to find legal aid info for spouses?
Gentry said:
If it’s something big like a trial, you’ll definitely get a lawyer through JAG. Spouses might need to check with local legal aid.
Your base’s family support center should have resources. They’re usually good about pointing you in the right direction.
I had a buddy who went through military court, and they got a JAG lawyer no problem. For spouses, it’s more hit or miss.
Vern said:
I had a buddy who went through military court, and they got a JAG lawyer no problem. For spouses, it’s more hit or miss.
Makes sense. Was your friend happy with the JAG lawyer, or should I consider a civilian one?
Vern said:
I had a buddy who went through military court, and they got a JAG lawyer no problem. For spouses, it’s more hit or miss.
They were happy enough. JAG lawyers know the system well, but if it’s a complex case, you could always get civilian help too.
Just FYI, legal aid for spouses can depend on the state you’re in. Some places offer more support than others.
Mal said:
Just FYI, legal aid for spouses can depend on the state you’re in. Some places offer more support than others.
Good point. I’ll have to check what’s available where I’m at. Thanks!