What Is the Punishment for an Article 15

Summarized: The maximum punishment at a summarized Article 15 can include extra duty for 14 days, restriction for 14 days, and/or an oral reprimand. Soldiers are not entitled to a defense attorney and may choose to request trial by court-martial.

Is an Article 15 serious?

An Article 15 hearing is less formal than a court-martial. A commanding officer reviews the case and administers the punishment, and no judge or jury is involved. The individual accused can request a full court-martial. Article 15 hearings typically involve less serious offenses.

Can you recover from an Article 15?

If you are found guilty during an Article 15 hearing, you have the right to appeal to the next higher commander. For example, if the imposing commander is your company commander, the appellate authority is usually the battalion commander. The appeal must be submitted within five days of your hearing.