Overview

The Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps attorney is responsible for offering legal support that involves military operations. They primarily focus on the areas of criminal law, legal assistance, civil/administrative law, labor/employment law, international/operational law and contract/fiscal law.

Duty locations include the continental United States and other installations overseas.

Job Duties

• Prosecute criminal cases under the Uniform Code of Military Justice
  
• Provide legal advice to Soldiers, officers and their families
  
• Offer legal reviews, ethics opinions and advice to commanders
  
• Represent Soldiers at courts-martial

Requirements

Those who want to serve must first take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, a series of tests that helps you better understand your strengths and identify which Army jobs are best for you.

Applicants must also meet the minimum requirements:

• Citizen of the United States
• Earned a J.D. or LL.B. from an American Bar Association accredited law school
• Admitted to the bar for the federal/highest court of any state in the United States or the District of Columbia (note: 3L students may also apply)
• Able to serve 20 years of active commissioned service before reaching the age of 62 (under the age of 42 for most)

Training

Job training for a JAG Corps attorney requires completing the Judge Advocate Officer Basic Course, which involves three phases:

• Fort Lee Phase: A twelve-day military orientation course in Fort Lee, Va., that will give you the time to establish personnel and finance records, purchase uniforms, and receive instruction on several basic areas of military life.
  
• Charlottesville Phase: This is a ten-and-a-half week academic course at the Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School in Charlottesville, Va. You will receive instruction on the organization, function and mission of the Judge Advocate General’s Corps, as well as an overview of the practice of law in the U.S. Army.
  
• Direct Commissioned Officer Course: The final phase is a rigorous six-week course in leadership and tactics at Fort Benning, Ga. It’s designed to challenge the new Army officers mentally and physically in the classroom/field.
  
  

Helpful Skills

• Self-discipline, confidence and intelligence
  
• Physically and mentally fit to perform under pressure
  
• Ability to make quick decisions
  
• Capable of bearing numerous responsibilities

Learn more about the ASVAB and see what jobs you could qualify for.

Compensation

Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay, and vacation time. Learn more about total compensation.

Education Benefits

In the Army, qualified students can earn full-tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus an annual stipend for living expenses. Learn more about education benefits.

Future Civilian Careers

The skills you learn will help prepare you for a career as an attorney in various positions.