Serving as a military member is an honorable profession that puts one's life on the line to protect their country. Unfortunately, military members can sometimes find themselves in legal trouble. For instance, if you are accused of a crime, you will be tried in a military court. If you are facing charges in a military court, you should strongly consider hiring a military defense attorney. Keep reading to learn about four occasions when you should consider hiring a military defense attorney.

When Accused of a Crime

If you receive accusations of a crime, you must take these accusations seriously, as a conviction could result in a lengthy prison sentence. You should always have an attorney by your side during the trial to protect your rights and give you the best chance at a favorable outcome. A military defense attorney will be familiar with the military justice system and can navigate it effectively on your behalf.

When Fired from the Military

You have the right to an attorney if you face administrative separation from the military. It is true even if you do not believe you did anything wrong. You should not try to fight the charges on your own as an attorney can help you understand the situation and what, if any, defenses you have available to you. If you recently got wrongfully discharged from the military or are in the process, you need to speak with an attorney about your options.

In Case of Discrimination

If you feel you have been the victim of discrimination, you should consult an attorney. They can help you file a complaint and determine if you have a case against the military. Discrimination can take many forms, so it is essential to speak with an attorney to see if you have a case. For instance, you may have a discrimination case if you feel you have been passed over for a promotion or demoted because of your race, gender, or religion.

When Dealing with Sexual Assault

If you are a victim of sexual assault, you have options available to you. You must understand these options and what they mean. For instance, you can choose to file a restricted or unrestricted report. If you file a restricted report, your information will be confidential and will not be used to prosecute your attacker. However, your attacker could be prosecuted if you file an unrestricted report. You should speak to an attorney to understand the best option and protect your rights.

These are four occasions when you should consider hiring a military defense attorney. If you find yourself in any legal trouble, it is always best to consult an attorney to ensure your rights are protected and to give you the best chance at a favorable outcome. Contact a military defense attorney in your area to discuss your case.