Jobs for Lawyers Within the Military

I'm thinking about becoming a lawyer and am interested in how I can work within the military legal system. What roles are available for lawyers in the military, and what path should I take to pursue this?

Lawyers play a significant role in the military, where they are known as Judge Advocate Generals (JAGs). As a JAG officer, you'll serve as the military's legal arm, dealing with military justice matters like defending or prosecuting military personnel in courts-martial, interpreting and counsel military leaders on matters of military law and ethics, or providing legal assistance to military personnel and their families on personal civil matters such as contracts, wills, or estate plans.

To pursue this path, you'll first need a Bachelor's degree before heading to law school to earn your Juris Doctorate (JD). It's important to note that law school admission is very competitive. Admissions committees will consider your undergrad GPA, LSAT scores, letters of recommendation, etc. After getting your JD, you'll need to pass the bar exam in your state to become a licensed attorney.

While in law school or after passing your bar exam, you may apply to a JAG program in one of the military branches. Each branch of the military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force) has its own JAG Corps and will have different application processes and requirements. Being a JAG Officer, you'll be commissioned as an officer in your respective branch.

Specific roles you might fill as a JAG could include acting as a military prosecutor or defense counsel, advising commanders on the rules of engagement in warfare, assisting service members with personal legal matters, or even handling issues of international law.

It's also worth highlighting that JAG offices also have opportunities for legal professionals who aren't licensed attorneys, such as paralegals and legal administrators. These roles can offer a foot in the door to the world of military law, especially for those still in the process of acquiring their credentials or exploring the field.

Keep in mind, joining the military, even in a professional capacity like a JAG officer, will involve fulfilling other military obligations and meeting physical and moral fitness standards. Take some time to research and speak with individuals who have pursued this path to understand all that it entails. Best of luck!