Number: RS21024
Title: Martial Law and National Emergency
Authors: Harold C. Relyea, Government and Finance Division 
Abstract: Crises in public order, both real and potential, often evoke comments concerning a resort to martial law. While some ambiguity exists regarding the conditions of a martial law setting, such a prospect, nonetheless, is disturbing to many Americans who cherish their liberties, expect civilian law enforcement to prevail, and support civilian control of military authority. An overview of the concept of, exercise of, and authority underlying martial law is provided in this report.
Pages: 5
Date: January 7, 2005