Service Branches

  • Army logo
  • Marines logo
  • navy logo
  • Air Force logo
  • Coast Guard logo

Work Environment

Lawyers work in legal offices and courtrooms on land and aboard ships.

  • Military Status

    Officer

  • Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.

    $103,599

    Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.

    $23,255 - $252,494

Overview

A military lawyer's job is similar to a civilian lawyer in their day-to-day duties. Representing clientele under jurisdiction of military courts and law is the primary difference. Military lawyers handle a wide variety of legal issues including international law, operations law, environmental law, as well as military and civilian personnel issues. From trial preparation to post-trial actions, lawyers provide important legal counsel every step of the way.

Military Training

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for lawyers primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Like other officers they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities military structure and etiquette traditions and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include:

  • Military trial procedures
  • Application of the Uniform Code of Military Justice
  • Methods of obtaining evidence
  • Court-martial advocacy techniques

Helpful Attributes

  • Ability to speak effectively in public
  • Ability to write clearly and concisely
  • Attention to detail
  • Interest in working with and researching legal concepts
  • Sensitivity to the needs of others

Related Civilian Careers

  • Paralegals and Legal Assistants
  • Lawyers