A judge advocate general (JAG) is a lawyer or judge employed by a military organization to provide legal services and advice, as well as conduct military trials. Many countries have a JAG branch, and most JAGs are required to be qualified attorneys with military training. They serve in various capacities, from crafting international military laws and treaties to serving as attorneys for both prosecution and defense in military trials. Most JAGs serve a period of active duty, with the option to extend their occupation for longer.
Many countries have a legal branch of their military to serve as advisers and conduct military trials. A judge advocate general, or JAG, is a lawyer or judge employed by a military organization. Typically a trained officer, a judge advocate general may serve in a variety of capacities under orders from the military.
The concept of a legal-minded military branch is quite old; the UK has had a JAG branch since the mid-17th century. Although originally the Judge Advocate General dealt primarily with matters internal to the military, the rise of international law and treaties has expanded the role of a Judge Advocate General considerably. Other countries that have a similar branch include the United States, Canada, Israel, India and Denmark.
While requirements vary between military branches, most JAGs are required to be qualified attorneys who have a law degree and have passed the required legal exams, such as bar. They typically receive basic military training and attend officer training classes. This course of study can be quite rigorous and requires physical and mental fitness to pass. Once qualified, a judge advocate general can be appointed to many different positions around the world.
Some JAGs serve primarily as military advisers. Some of the areas they are involved in include crafting international military laws and treaties, reviewing and providing guidance on rules of engagement, and cooperating with government officials on a variety of topics. With a deep understanding of both military and civil law, these professionals are typically well versed in difficult cases involving both jurisdictions.
A judge advocate general can provide legal services, advice, and help to members of the military and their families. In the event of a military trial, members of the JAG corps are appointed as attorneys for both the prosecution and defense, while a highly experienced senior member serves as the judge. Rather than choosing their clients, like civil lawyers, judges’ advocates general are given jobs. Regardless of one’s feelings on the case, a JAG must serve as military orders to ensure proper procedure and a fair trial.
Most judge advocates general serve a period of active duty that varies depending on which military employs them. In the United States, most JAGs agree to serve four years of active duty, with the option to extend that occupation for longer. Many JAGs remain in the position throughout their careers, working through the ranks of qualified officers to positions of high responsibility and prestige within the organisation.
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