Military Law for Civilian?

[epbeeman]

What is the name of your state? Texas

I am a civilian, I was arrested and am "suspected" of assault involving another civilian on a military base. I have never been arrested before, and have no other record. What will happen now? What punishment can I be sentenced to as a civilian? Will I need a lawyer who is in the military? Any other advice?

 

[racer72]

Your going to get lucky, you will be tried in a federal court, not a state or local court. There will be nothing military about it. Your best bet is an attorney familiar federal court procedures. There is a chance the feds may defer your prosecution to local authorities, this will be something your lawyer discuss with you.

 

[fozzy2]

It is extremely doubtful that military law will apply in your case. If the alleged offense took place on military property then the feds will probably handle it. If it is a major base then there is probably a federal magistrate judge who routinely handles such matters. As a general rule, anything "federal" will be treated more harshly than it would be by a state court, even for equivalent crimes.

The base commander might take "administrative" action, either before or after law enforcement is done. For example, you might find yourself restricted from entering base, which could in turn effect your employment. Either way, the base legal office should be able to fill you in on the regular channels/procedures used.