What should I consider about becoming a military lawyer in the reserves?

I'm considering a career as a military lawyer in the reserves. What should I know about the job description and career path? How does it differ from active duty, and is it feasible alongside a civilian law career?

As a lawyer in the reserve, you would be part of the Judge Advocate General's (JAG) Corps, the legal branch of the military. The main responsibility would be providing legal help to fellow service members, their families, and military retirees. This includes a wide range of areas – criminal law, family law, international law, administrative law, etc.

Reserve duty differs from active duty in terms of the time commitment. The typical commitment for reservists is one weekend a month and two weeks a year for training. This enables you to balance military service with a civilian career. On the other hand, active duty implies full-time employment in the military, which leaves little room for a civilian job.

Being a reserve JAG can benefit your civilian legal career in many ways. The military can provide you with valuable training and practical experience that civilian firms value. Moreover, it allows you to network with military personnel and other JAGs which could be beneficial in the future.

That said, balancing a dual career can be challenging. It's crucial to establish good communication with your civilian employer about your military commitments to avoid clashes.

Furthermore, just like with any position in the reserves, you should be prepared for the possibility of deployment during times of conflict. Although these instances might be rare, they could disrupt your civilian career and personal life. Therefore, it's important to consider your willingness to meet such commitments.

In comparison, active duty military lawyers are full-time and their primary job is to serve within the military's legal system. They're also more likely to be deployed overseas.

Each path has unique opportunities and challenges. Before making a decision, take time to talk with JAGs in active duty and in the reserves. This will give you a clearer picture of the career path and help you make an informed choice.