Number: RS21849
Title: Administrative Separations for Misconduct: An Alternative or Companion to Military Courts-Martial
Authors: Estela I. Velez Pollack, American Law Division 
Abstract: The recent reports of abuse of prisoners held by U.S. military personnel have raised questions about how the armed forces control servicemembers. Congress, under the authorities vested in it by the U.S. Constitution, has enacted procedures for addressing misconduct by servicemembers. One such procedure is an administrative separation under which a members continued suitability for service is determined. Administrative separations are non-punitive and can be initiated for a number of reasons, including misconduct or criminal offenses. They may be used in place of or after the service member has been subject to a court-martial or nonjudicial punishment. This report provides an overview of administrative separations as an alternative or companion to courts-martial.
Pages: 6
Date: May 26, 2004