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Charged with a military offence?
Offences against Military Law in the United Kingdom, which are set out in the Armed Forces Act 2006 (AFA 2006), fall into two main categories; discipline offences and criminal conduct offences.
Our experience and knowledge means we are able to provide you with the support you will need, working with you to deliver the best outcome. No matter how serious or how minor the offence, we can provide you with a comprehensive and supportive service here or in bases abroad such as Cyprus, Germany and Kenya.
For advice from a specialist lawyer, contact our firm today.
What are discipline offences?
Discipline offences are those that can only be committed by service personnel and, in some cases, by civilians subject to service discipline. These offences range from the most serious such as mutiny, assisting the enemy, misconduct on operations, hazarding a ship, and dangerous flying through a range of other offences including:
What is criminal conduct?
Not only do we have an in-depth knowledge of discipline offences, but our lawyers also understand how criminal conduct offences are perceived and sanctioned within the military framework.
The law
Criminal conduct is covered by s42 of AFA 2006 and relates to any act anywhere in the world that, if committed in England and Wales, would be subject to civilian criminal law. Examples of such offences can be found in the Our Work section.
The consequences
In addition to sentences imposed, either by Court-Martial or Commanding Officer, the effect on your future service career and promotion prospects could be substantial. You should therefore seek advice as soon as you become aware that you are, or are likely, to be investigated.
Military Law FAQs
Your questions answered:
Can you represent me at the police station and at Court if necessary?
Yes. We can be at your side from the point that an allegation is made against you, attending with you at the police station, and representing you in all courts or tribunals whatever the level, including civilian and appeal courts. Our service also extends to those who face disciplinary action through the AGAI procedures.
Can you help me if I am under investigation abroad?
Yes. Investigations invariably start with an interview in a Military Police Station by the Royal Military Police (RMP) or Special Investigation Branch (SIB). If you have been arrested or advised you are under investigation you should contact us immediately.
A firm wholly committed to the service of their clients, providing excellent and well judged advice and representation in the most serious military and criminal cases, by a close knit team led by Drew Pettifer.
Richard Barraclough QC
Hard headed and practical advice and successful attempt to expedite hearing.
PL of Surrey
Our cases
We have extensive experience of defending people on military cases ranging from high profile war crimes to the full range of offences associated with civilian courts. Please see below some of the cases we acted in. If you would like us to represent you, get in touch now.
01
SPA v V 2021 Bulford MCC
Defendant acquitted of fighting following successful written representations drafted by Drew Pettifer.
02
SPA v N 2021 Bulford MCC
Prosecution offered no evidence following submissions made in respect of an allegation of Conduct prejudicial to good order.
03
SPA v S 2021 Bulford MCC
Ruth Cassidy secured the acquittal of a client charged with Assault following trial.
04
SPA v N 2018 Colchester Court Martial Centre
Drew Pettifer acted for a member of the UK Armed Forces who was acquitted following trial on charge of Attempted Sexual assault by penetration and Sexual Assault.
05
R v M 2016 Central Criminal Court
Alphie Doran acted for a member of the UK Armed Forces charged with Possession of Terrorist related material.
06
R v M 2015 Winchester Crown Court
Ruth Cassidy was successful in 2015 of defending a member of HM Armed Forces against an allegation of Rape.