Does a person have to accept an Article 15?

• A. Yes
• B. No, he or she has the right to demand a trial by court martial
• C. No, he or she must accept
• D. Only if commanded to

Answer: (B)

You don’t have to accept an Article 15. When a commanding officer offers non-judicial punishment under Article 15, you have the right to demand trial by court-martial instead. An Article 15 is a quicker, less formal way to discipline for minor offenses, with certain penalties imposed without a trial. If you choose to demand a court-martial, the case goes through the military justice process with the full rights of defense counsel, the opportunity to present evidence, and the chance for an acquittal or different penalties. This option exists precisely to provide a formal alternative to non-judicial punishment, so you’re not forced to accept the Article 15.