Many members of the armed services probably already know that what happens while they are off duty and off base can still come back to haunt them in their military careers.
The military has the authority to punish servicemembers for their behavior in the civilian world, especially if the alleged misconduct involves criminal behavior.
Commanders do not hesitate to use this authority to impose a discharge or other punishment for civilian criminal convictions. This authority extends to rather common cases like drunk driving, drug possession or domestic violence.
Even what seems like a minor matter in the civilian court can turn into a big deal for military authorities that ultimately leads to a discharge other than the Honorable Discharge servicemembers desire.
As many military members probably know, certain types of discharges can have negative consequences well-beyond those of losing one’s job in the civilian world.
Even an administrative “Less than Honorable” discharge means the loss of important benefits. Civilian employers and others may also look on the discharge unfavorably even though there is no court martial involved.
Although technically not subject to “discharge”, officers can also face formal Dismissal or other consequences because of convictions in civilian court.
Military members should understand their options in front of a civilian court
Someone who is in the military and is facing a civilian criminal charge in the Georgia courts should make sure they understand their legal options.
For the sake of their careers, servicemembers may be forced to put forth a vigorous defense to a civilian charge. This is true even if, at first glance, civilian prosecutors are offering a favorable deal in exchange for a guilty plea.