I'm considering a career in law but also interested in serving in the military. Are there legal jobs, like JAG or similar, that I can pursue without compromising my interest in military service?
You can indeed pursue a career in law within the military! The Judge Advocate General's Corps (JAG Corps) is the legal branch of the military, present in each branch of the armed forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard).
As a military lawyer in the JAG Corps, you can serve as a legal advisor to commanders, conduct criminal and civil prosecutions, and defend service members accused of unlawful conduct, among many other duties. Military lawyers often have opportunities to practice various types of law, far beyond just military law, such as international law, environmental law, and labor law.
To serve as a JAG officer, you'll need to have a Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school and pass a state bar examination. After graduating and passing the bar, you'll then need to attend a military-specific training course.
It's important to note that each branch's JAG Corps has its specific qualifications and requirements, so you'll want to research the branch you're interested in to ensure that you fulfill the necessary steps. Serving in the JAG Corps is not only a way to practice law, but it is also a form of military service, which aligns well with your dual interests!
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