MANUAL FOR 

MILITARY COMMISSIONS 

UNITED STATES 

(2016 REVISED EDITION)

The 2012 Edition of the Manual for Military Commissions has been revised in accordance with 

amendments made to Chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code by Sections 1031 and 1037 of 

the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2014. 

i

CONTENTS 

PART I. PREAMBLE

Preamble........................................................................................................................... I-1 

PART II. RULES FOR MILITARY COMMISSIONS 

CHAPTER I. GENERAL PROVISIONS

Rule 101. Scope, title ...................................................................................................... II-1 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................... II-1 

(b) Title ............................................................................................................................. II-1 

Rule 102. Purpose and construction............................................................................. II-1 

(a) Purpose ........................................................................................................................ II-1 

(b) Construction ................................................................................................................ II-1 

Rule 103. Definitions and rules of construction .......................................................... II-1 

Rule 104. Unlawfully Influencing Action of Military Commissions and the

United States Court of Military Commission Review ................................................ II-9 

(a) Military Commissions ................................................................................................ II-9 

(b) United States Court of Military Commission Review ............................................. II-10 

(c) Professional supervision ......................................................................................... II-11 

(d) Offense ...................................................................................................................... II-11 

(e) Prohibition on consideration of actions on commission in evaluation of fitness .... II-11 

Rule 105. Direct communications: convening authorities and Legal Advisors 

among Legal Advisors ................................................................................................. II-11 

(a) Convening authorities and legal advisors ................................................................. II-11 

(b) Among legal advisors ............................................................................................... II-11 

(c) Among members of the Judge Advocate General’s Corps ...................................... II-11 

Rule 106. Delivery of unprivileged enemy belligerents to civilian authorities 

[Reserved] ..................................................................................................................... II-11 

Rule 107. [Reserved] .................................................................................................... II-11 

Rule 108. Rules of court .............................................................................................. II-12 

Rule 109. Professional responsibility rules for military judges and counsel ......... II-12 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-12 

(b) Application of professional responsibility rules to attorneys .................................. II-12 

(c) Application of professional responsibility rules to judges ...................................... II-13 
ii 

CHAPTER II. JURISDICTION

Rule 201. Jurisdiction in general ................................................................................ II-14 

(a) Nature of jurisdiction of military commissions ....................................................... II-14 

(b) Requisites of military commission jurisdiction ....................................................... II-14 

(c) Contempt ................................................................................................................... II-14 

(d) Types of military commissions .............................................................................. II-15 

Rule 202. Persons subject to the jurisdiction of the military commissions ............ II-15 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-15 

(b) Privileged belligerents .............................................................................................. II-15 

(c) Competent Tribunal .................................................................................................. II-15

Rule 203. Jurisdiction over the offense ..................................................................... II-15 

Rule 204. [Reserved] .................................................................................................... II-15 

CHAPTER III. INITIATION OF CHARGES; PRETRIAL MATTERS 

Rule 301. Report of offense ........................................................................................ II-16 

Rule 302. [Reserved] .................................................................................................... II-16 

Rule 303. [Reserved] .................................................................................................... II-16 

Rule 304. [Reserved] .................................................................................................... II-16 

Rule 305. [Reserved] .................................................................................................... II-16 

Rule 306. [Reserved] .................................................................................................... II-16 

Rule 307. Swearing of charges .................................................................................... II-16 

(a) Who may swear charges ........................................................................................... II-16 

(b) How charges are sworn; oath ................................................................................... II-16 

(c) How to allege offenses ............................................................................................ II-17 

(d) Capital offenses ........................................................................................................ II-17 

(e) Harmless error in citation ....................................................................................... II-17 

Rule 308. Notification to accused of charges ............................................................. II-18 

CHAPTER IV. FORWARDING AND DISPOSITION OF CHARGES

Rule 401. Forwarding and disposition of charges in general .................................. II-19 

(a) Who may dispose of charges .................................................................................... II-19 

(b) How charges may be disposed of ............................................................................. II-19 
iii 

Rule 402. [Reserved] .................................................................................................... II-19 

Rule 403. [Reserved] .................................................................................................... II-19 

Rule 404. [Reserved] .................................................................................................... II-19 

Rule 405. [Reserved] .................................................................................................... II-19 

Rule 406. Pretrial advice ............................................................................................. II-19 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-19 

(b) Contents .................................................................................................................... II-20 

(c) Distribution ............................................................................................................... II-20 

Rule 407. Action by convening authority .................................................................. II-20 

(a) Disposition ................................................................................................................ II-20 

(b) National security matters .......................................................................................... II-21 

CHAPTER V. MILITARY COMMISSION COMPOSITION AND 

PERSONNEL, CONVENING MILITARY COMMISSION

Rule 501. Composition and personnel of military commission .............................. II-22 

(a) Composition of a military commission .................................................................... II-22 

(b) Counsel in a military commission............................................................................ II-22 

(c) Court reporters .......................................................................................................... II-22 

(d) Interpreters ................................................................................................................ II-22 

(e) Other personnel ........................................................................................................ II-22 

(f) Military Commission Privilege Team ...................................................................... II-22 

(g) Other personnel ........................................................................................................ II-22 

Rule 502. Qualifications and duties of personnel of military commissions ........... II-23 

(a) Members ................................................................................................................... II-23 

(b) President ................................................................................................................... II-23 

(c) Military judge ........................................................................................................... II-24 

(d) Counsel ..................................................................................................................... II-24 

(e) Interpreters, reporters, escorts, bailiffs, clerks, and guards ..................................... II-29 

(f) Action upon discovery of disqualification or lack of qualifications ........................ II-30 

Rule 503. Detailing members, military judges, and counsel ................................... II-30 

(a) Members ................................................................................................................... II-30 

(b) Military judge ......................................................................................................... II-30 

(c) Counsel ..................................................................................................................... II-31 

(d) Record of detail ........................................................................................................ II-31 

Rule 504. Convening military commissions .............................................................. II-31 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-31 

(b) Who may convene military commissions ................................................................ II-31 
iv 

(c) Disqualification ........................................................................................................ II-31 

(d) Convening orders ..................................................................................................... II-31 

(e) Place .......................................................................................................................... II-31 

Rule 505. Changes of members, military judge, and counsel .................................. II-31

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-32 

(b) Procedure .................................................................................................................. II-32 

(c) Changes of members ................................................................................................ II-32 

(d) Changes of detailed counsel ................................................................................... II-33 

(e) Change of military judge .......................................................................................... II-33 

(f) Good cause ................................................................................................................ II-33 

Rule 506. Accused’s right to counsel .......................................................................... II-34 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-34 

(b) Capital Offenses ....................................................................................................... II-34 

(c) Individual Military Counsel .................................................................................... II-34 

(d) Self-representation .................................................................................................... II-35 

(e) Other persons present ............................................................................................... II-35

CHAPTER VI. REFERRAL, SERVICE, AMENDMENT, AND 

WITHDRAWAL OF CHARGES

Rule 601. Referral ........................................................................................................ II-36 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-36 

(b) Who may refer .......................................................................................................... II-36 

(c) Disqualification ...................................................................................................... II-36 

(d) When charges may be referred ............................................................................... II-36 

(e) How charges shall be referred ................................................................................ II-37 

(f) Superior convening authorities ................................................................................. II-38 

Rule 602. Service of charges ........................................................................................ II-38

Rule 603. Changes to charges and specifications ...................................................... II-38 

(a) Minor changes defined ........................................................................................... II-38 

(b) Minor changes before arraignment .......................................................................... II-38 

(c) Minor changes after arraignment ............................................................................. II-38 

(d) Major changes .......................................................................................................... II-39 

Rule 604. Withdrawal of charges ............................................................................... II-39 

(a) Withdrawal ............................................................................................................... II-39 

(b) Referral of withdrawn charges ................................................................................. II-39 

CHAPTER VII. PRETRIAL MATTERS

Rule 701. Discovery ...................................................................................................... II-41 

(a) Generally ................................................................................................................... II-41 
v 

(b) Disclosure by the trial counsel ................................................................................. II-41 

(c) Examination of documents, tangible objects, reports .............................................. II-42 

(d) Information to be offered at sentencing ................................................................... II-42 

(e) Exculpatory evidence ............................................................................................... II-43 

(f) National security privilege ........................................................................................ II-43 

(g) Disclosure by the defense ......................................................................................... II-45 

(h) Failure to call witness ............................................................................................... II-46 

(i) Continuing duty to disclose ....................................................................................... II-46 

(j) Access to witnesses and evidence ............................................................................. II-46 

(k) Information not subject to disclosure ....................................................................... II-46 

(l) Regulation of discovery ............................................................................................ II-46 

Rule 702. Depositions ................................................................................................. II-47 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-47 

(b) Who may order ......................................................................................................... II-47 

(c) Request to take deposition ...................................................................................... II-47 

(d) Action when request is approved ............................................................................. II-48 

(e) Notice ........................................................................................................................ II-49 

(f) Duties of the deposition officer ................................................................................ II-49 

(g) Procedure .................................................................................................................. II-50 

(h) Objections ................................................................................................................. II-51 

(i) Deposition by agreement not precluded ................................................................... II-51 

Rule 703. Production of witnesses and evidence ....................................................... II-51 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-51 

(b) Right to witnesses ..................................................................................................... II-52 

(c) Determining which witnesses will be produced ...................................................... II-52 

(d) Employment of expert witnesses ............................................................................. II-54 

(e) Procedures for production of witnesses ................................................................... II-54 

(f) Right to evidence ...................................................................................................... II-56 

Rule 704. Immunity ..................................................................................................... II-57 

(a) Types of immunity ................................................................................................... II-57

(b) Scope ........................................................................................................................ II-57 

(c) Authority to grant immunity .................................................................................... II-57 

(d) Procedure .................................................................................................................. II-58 

(e) Decision to grant immunity .................................................................................... II-59 

Rule 705. Pretrial agreements .................................................................................... II-59 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-59 

(b) Nature of agreement ................................................................................................. II-59

(c) Terms and conditions .............................................................................................. II-60 

(d) Procedure .................................................................................................................. II-61 

(e) Nondisclosure of existence of agreement ................................................................ II-62 

Rule 706. Inquiry into the mental capacity or mental responsibility
vi 

of the accused ................................................................................................................II-62 

(a) Initial action ............................................................................................................ II-62 

(b) Ordering an inquiry .................................................................................................. II-62 

(c) Inquiry ....................................................................................................................... II-63 

Rule 707. Timing of pretrial matters ......................................................................... II-64 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-64 

(b) Accountability .......................................................................................................... II-64 

(c) Excludable delay ....................................................................................................... II-65 

(d) Remedy ................................................................................................................... II-66 

(e) Waiver ....................................................................................................................... II-66 

CHAPTER VIII. TRIAL PROCEDURE GENERALLY

Rule 801. Military judge’s responsibilities; other matters ...................................... II-67 

(a) Responsibilities of military judge ............................................................................ II-67 

(b) Rules of court; contempt ........................................................................................ II-68 

(c) Obtaining evidence ................................................................................................... II-68 

(d) Uncharged offenses ................................................................................................ II-68 

(e) Interlocutory questions and questions of law ........................................................... II-68 

(f) Rulings on record ...................................................................................................... II-70 

(g) Effect of failure to raise defenses or objections ...................................................... II-70 

Rule 802. Conferences ................................................................................................. II-70 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-70 

(b) Matters on record .................................................................................................... II-70 

(c) Rights of parties ........................................................................................................ II-71 

(d) Accused’s presence .................................................................................................. II-71

(e) Admission ................................................................................................................. II-71 

(f) Limitations ................................................................................................................ II-71 

Rule 803. Military commission sessions without members ..................................... II-71 

Rule 804. Presence of the accused at trial proceedings ............................................ II-72 

(a) Presence required ...................................................................................................... II-72 

(b) Exclusion of accused from certain proceedings ....................................................... II-72 

(c) Continue presence not required ................................................................................ II-72 

(d) Voluntary absence for limited purpose of child testimony ..................................... II-73 

(e) Appearance and security of accused ........................................................................ II-74 

Rule 805. Presence of military judge, members, and counsel ................................. II-74

(a) Military judge ........................................................................................................... II-74 

(b) Members ................................................................................................................... II-74 

(c) Counsel ..................................................................................................................... II-74 

(d) Effect of replacement of member ............................................................................ II-75 
vii 

Rule 806. Public trial .................................................................................................. II-75 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-75 

(b) Control of spectators and closure ............................................................................. II-75 

(c) Photography and broadcasting prohibited .............................................................. II-76 

(d) Protective orders ....................................................................................................... II-77 

Rule 807. Oaths ............................................................................................................ II-77 

(a) Definition .................................................................................................................. II-77 

(b) Oaths in military commissions .............................................................................. II-77 

Rule 808. Record of trial ............................................................................................ II-79 

Rule 809. Contempt proceedings ................................................................................ II-79 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-79 

(b) Method of disposition ............................................................................................. II-79 

(c) Procedure .................................................................................................................. II-80 

(d) Record; review ......................................................................................................... II-80 

(e) Sentence .................................................................................................................... II-80 

(f) Informing person held in contempt .......................................................................... II-80 

Rule 810. Procedures for rehearings and new trials, and other trial ..................... II-80 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-80 

(b) Composition ........................................................................................................... II-81 

(c) Examination of record of former proceeding ........................................................... II-82 

(d) Sentence limitations ................................................................................................. II-82 

(e) Definition .................................................................................................................. II-83 

Rule 811. Stipulations .................................................................................................. II-83 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-83 

(b) Authority to reject .................................................................................................... II-83 

(c) Requirements ............................................................................................................ II-83 

(d) Withdrawal ............................................................................................................... II-83 

(e) Effect of stipulation .................................................................................................. II-84 

(f) Procedure ................................................................................................................... II-84 

Rule 812. Joint and common trials ............................................................................ II-84 

Rule 813. Announcing personnel of the military commission and accused ........... II-84 

(a) Opening sessions .................................................................................................... II-84

(b) Later proceedings ..................................................................................................... II-85 

(c) Additions, replacement, and absences of personnel ................................................ II-85 

CHAPTER IX. TRIAL PROCEDURES THROUGH FINDINGS 

Rule 901. Opening session ......................................................................................... II-86 

 (a) Call to order ............................................................................................................. II-86 
viii 

(b) Announcement of parties ........................................................................................ II-86 

(c) Swearing reporter and interpreter ............................................................................. II-86 

(d) Counsel ................................................................................................................... II-86 

(e) Presence of members .......................................................................................... II-88 

Rule 902. Disqualification of military judge ................................................ II-88 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-88 

(b) Specific grounds ............................................................................ II-88 

(c) Definitions ................................................................................................................ II-89 

(d) Procedure .................................................................................................. II-89 

(e) Waiver ....................................................................................................................... II-90 

Rule 903. [Reserved] .................................................................................................... II-90 

Rule 904. Arraignment ............................................................................................ II-90 

Rule 905. Motions generally ........................................................................................ II-90 

(a) Definitions and form ................................................................................................. II-90 

(b) Pre-trial motions ..................................................................................................... II-90 

(c) Burden of proof ........................................................................................................ II-91 

(d) Ruling on motions .................................................................................................. II-92 

(e) Effect of failure to raise defenses or objections ...................................................... II-92 

(f) Reconsideration ......................................................................................................... II-92 

(g) Effect of final determinations .................................................................................. II-92 

(h) Written motions ...................................................................................................... II-93 

(i) Service ..................................................................................................................... II-93 

(j) Application to convening authority ......................................................................... II-93 

(k) Production of statements on motion to suppress...................................................... II-93 

Rule 906. Motions for appropriate relief ............................................................... II-93 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-93 

(b) Grounds for appropriate relief ................................................................................ II-93 

Rule 907. Motions to dismiss ..................................................................................... II-96 

(a) In general .............................................................................. II-96 

(b) Grounds for dismissal ............................................................................................. II-96 

Rule 908. Appeal by the United States ..................................................................... II-98 

(a) In general .................................................................................................................. II-98 

(b) Procedure for appeals under subsection (a)(1),(a)(2), or (a)(3) ............................... II-98 

(c) Procedure for appeals under subsection (a)(4) ......................................................... II-99 

(d) Appellate proceedings ............................................................................................ II-101 

Rule 909. Capacity of the accused to stand trial by military commission ........... II-102

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-102 

(b) Presumption of capacity ......................................................................................... II-102 
ix 

(c) Determination before referral ................................................................................. II-102 

(d) Determination after referral .................................................................................. II-102 

(e) Incompetence determination hearing ..................................................................... II-102 

(f) Hospitalization of the accused ................................................................................ II-103 

Rule 910. Pleas .......................................................................................................... II-103 

(a) Alternatives ........................................................................................................... II-103 

(b) Refusal to plead; irregular plea .............................................................................. II-104 

(c) Advice to accused ................................................................................................. II-104 

(d) Ensuring that the plea is voluntary ......................................................................... II-104 

(e) Determining accuracy of plea ............................................................................... II-104 

(f) Plea agreement inquiry ................................................................................................ II-105 

(g) Findings ................................................................................................................ II-105 

(h) Later action ........................................................................................................... II-106 

(i) Record of proceedings ........................................................................................... II-106 

(j) Waiver ..................................................................................................................... II-106 

Rule 911. Assembly of the military commission .............................................. II-106 

Rule 912. Challenge of selection of members; examination and challenges of 

members .................................................................................................................... II-107 

(a) Pre-trial matters ..................................................................................................... II-107 

(b) Challenge of selection of members ...................................................................... II-107 

(c) Stating grounds for challenge ................................................................................. II-108 

(d) Examination of members ....................................................................................... II-108 

(e) Evidence ................................................................................................................. II-108 

(f) Challenges and removal for cause ......................................................................... II-108 

(g) Peremptory challenges .......................................................................................... II-110 

(h) Definitions .............................................................................................................. II-110 

Rule 913. Presentation of the case on the merits ................................................... II-111 

(a) Preliminary instructions ........................................................................................ II-111 

(b) Opening statements ................................................................................................ II-111 

(c) Presentation of evidence ....................................................................................... II-111 

Rule 914. Production of statements of witnesses ....................................................... II-113 

(a) Motion for production .......................................................................................... II-113 

(b) Production of entire statement .............................................................................. II-113 

(c) Production of excised statement ............................................................................. II-113 

(d) Recess for examination of the statement .................................................. II-113 

(e) Remedy for failure to produce statement ............................................................... II-113 

(f) Definition ................................................................................................................ II-113 

Rule 914A. Use of remote live testimony of a witness whose presence at trial

cannot be procured by legal process, or of a child, victim, or protected entity .. II-114 

(a) General Procedures ............................................................................................... II-114 
x 

(b) Prohibitions ........................................................................................................... II-114 

Rule 914B. [Reserved] ............................................................................................... II-114 

Rule 915. Mistrial ..................................................................................................... II-114 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-115 

(b) Procedure .................................................................................................. II-115 

(c) Effect of declaration of mistrial .................................................................... II-115 

Rule 916. Defenses .................................................................................................... II-115 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-115 

(b) Burden of proof ...................................................................................................... II-115 

(c) Justification ........................................................................................................... II-115 

(d) Obedience to orders .......................................................................................... II-116 

(e) Self-defense ............................................................................................................ II-116 

(f) Accident ................................................................................................................ II-118 

(g) Entrapment ............................................................................................................. II-118 

(h) Coercion or duress ................................................................................................ II-118 

(i) Inability ................................................................................................................. II-118 

(j) Ignorance or mistake of fact ..................................................................................II-118 

(k) Lack of mental responsibility ................................................................................. II-119 

(l) Not defenses generally ............................................................................................ II-119 

Rule 917. Motion for a finding of not guilty........................................................... II-120 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-120 

(b) Form of motion ..................................................................................................... II-120

(c) Procedure ..............................................................................................................II-120 

(d) Standard .................................................................................................... II-120 

(e) Motion as to greater offense ................................................................................... II-120 

(f) Effect of ruling ...................................................................................................... II-120 

(g) Effect of denial on review ...................................................................................... II-120 

Rule 918. Findings .................................................................................................... II-121 

(a) General findings ..................................................................................................... II-121 

(b) Basis of findings ................................................................................................... II-122 

Rule 919. Argument by counsel on findings ........................................................... II-122 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-122 

(b) Contents .................................................................................................... II-122 

(c) Waiver of objection to improper argument ............................................................ II-122 

Rule 920. Instructions on findings .......................................................................... II-123 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-123 

(b) When given ............................................................................................................. II-123 

(c) Requests for instructions ....................................................................................... II-123 

(d) How given ............................................................................................................ II-123 
xi 

(e) Required instructions ............................................................................................ II-123 

(f) Waiver ..................................................................................................................... II-125 

Rule 921. Deliberations and voting on findings ..................................................... II-125 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................. II-125 

(b) Deliberations ........................................................................................................... II-125 

(c) Voting ...................................................................................................................... II-125 

(d) Action after findings are reached .......................................................................... II-126 

Rule 922. Announcement of findings ...................................................................... II-127 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................. II-127 

(b) Findings by members .............................................................................................. II-127 

(c) Findings by military judge in the event of a guilty plea ........................................ II-127 

(d) Erroneous announcement ...................................................................................... II-128 

(e) Polling prohibited ................................................................................................... II-128 

Rule 923. Impeachment of findings ......................................................................... II-128 

Rule 924. Reconsideration of findings ...................................................................... II-128 

(a) Time for reconsiderations ....................................................................................... II-128 

(b) Procedure .................................................................................................. II-128 

CHAPTER X. SENTENCING

Rule 1001. Presentencing procedure ........................................................................ II-130 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................. II-130 

(b) Matter to be presented by the prosecution ............................................................ II-130 

(c) Matter to be presented by the defense ................................................................... II-131 

(d) Rebuttal and surrebuttal ........................................................................................ II-132 

(e) Production of witnesses .......................................................................................... II-132 

(f) Additional matters to be considered ....................................................................... II-133 

(g) Detention ............................................................................................................... II-133 

(h) Argument .................................................................................................. II-133 

Rule 1002. Sentence determination ......................................................................... II-133 

Rule 1003. Punishment ...........................................................................................II-133 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................. II-133 

(b) Limits on punishments .......................................................................................... II-134 

Rule 1004. Capital cases ........................................................................................... II-135 

(a) In general .............................................................................................................. II-135 

(b) Procedure ................................................................................................................ II-135 

(c) Aggravating factors ............................................................................................... II-136 

(d) Other penalties ...................................................................................................... II-137 

Rule 1005. Instructions on sentence ......................................................................... II-137 
xii 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-137 

(b)When given ............................................................................................................ II-137 

(c) Requests for instructions ........................................................................................ II-137 

(d) How given ............................................................................................................ II-138 

(e) Required instructions .......................................................................... II-138 

(f) Waiver ..................................................................................................................... II-138 

Rule 1006. Deliberations and voting on sentence ................................................... II-138 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-138 

(b) Alternate measures ................................................................................................. II-138

(c) Deliberations ........................................................................................................... II-138 

(d) Proposal of sentences ........................................................................................... II-139 

(e) Voting ..................................................................................................................... II-139 

(f) Action after a sentence is reached .......................................................................... II-140 

Rule 1007. Announcement of sentence .................................................................... II-140 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-140 

(b) Erroneous announcement ..................................................................................... II-140 

(c) Polling prohibited ................................................................................................... II-140 

Rule 1008. Impeachment of sentence ....................................................................... II-140 

Rule 1009. Reconsideration of sentence ................................................................... II-140 

(a) Reconsideration ...................................................................................................... II-140 

(b) Exception .............................................................................................................. II-140 

(c) Clarification of sentence ......................................................................................... II-141 

(d) Action by the convening authority ....................................................................... II-141 

(e) Reconsideration procedure .................................................................................... II-141 

Rule 1010. Notice concerning post-trial and appellate rights ............................... II-141 

Rule 1011. Adjournment ........................................................................................... II-142 

CHAPTER XI. POST-TRIAL PROCEDURE

Rule 1101. Report of result of trial; post-trial restraint; deferment of 

confinement and fine................................................................................................II-143 

(a) Report of the result of trial .................................................................................... II-143 

(b) Post-trial confinement ........................................................................................... II-143 

(c) Deferment of confinement or fine ........................................................................ II-143 

Rule 1102. Post-trial sessions .................................................................................. II-145 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-145 

(b) Purpose ................................................................................................................. II-145 

(c) Matters not subject to post-trial sessions ............................................................... II-146 

(d) When directed......................................................................................................... II-146 
xiii 

(e) Procedure ................................................................................................................ II-146 

Rule 1102A. Post-trial hearing for person found not guilty by reason of 

lack of mental responsibility .................................................................................... II-147

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-147 

(b) Psychiatric or psychological examination and report ........................................... II-147 

(c) Post-trial hearing ..................................................................................................... II-147 

Rule 1103. Preparation of record of trial ............................................................... II-147 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-147 

(b) Contents .................................................................................................... II-148 

(c) Copies of the record of trial .................................................................. II-149 

(d) Security classification ............................................................................................ II-149

(e) Examination and correction before authentication ................................................ II-149 

(f) Examination by defense counsel ............................................................................ II-149 

(g) Videotape and similar records ............................................................................. II-149 

Rule 1104. Records of trial: Authentication; service; loss; correction; 

forwarding ................................................................................................................ II-150

(a) Authentication ....................................................................................................... II-150 

(b) Service .................................................................................................................. II-150 

(c) Substitute service .................................................................................................... II-150 

(d) Information subject to Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505 & 506 ...................................... II-151 

(e) Loss of record ......................................................................................................... II-151 

(f) Correction of record after authentication; certificate of correction ....................... II-152 

(g) Forwarding ........................................................................................................... II-152 

Rule 1105. Matters submitted by the accused ........................................................ II-152 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-152 

(b) Time periods ........................................................................................................... II-152 

(c) Good cause............................................................................................................ II-153 

(d) Waiver .................................................................................................................. II-153 

Rule 1106. Recommendation of the legal advisor ................................................... II-153 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-153 

(b) Disqualification ...................................................................................................... II-153 

(c) Form and content of recommendation .................................................................. II-154 

(d) No findings of guilty; findings of not guilty only by reason of lack of mental 

responsibility ........................................................................................... II-154 

(e) Service of recommendation on defense counsel and accused; defense response.. II-155 

Rule 1107. Action by convening authority ............................................................. II-156 

(a) Who may take action .............................................................................................. II-156 

(b) General considerations ......................................................................................... II-156 

(c) Action on findings ................................................................................................ II-157 

(d) Action on the sentence.......................................................................................... II-158 
xiv 

(e) Ordering rehearing .................................................................................................. II-158 

(f) Contents of action and related matters .................................................................. II-159 

(g) Incomplete, ambiguous, or erroneous action ......................................................... II-160 

(h) Service on accused ............................................................................................... II-160 

Rule 1108. Suspension of execution of sentence; remission .................................. II-160 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-160 

(b) Who may suspend and remit .................................................................................. II-160 

(c) Conditions of suspension ............................................................................. II-160 

(d) Limitations on suspension .................................................................................... II-161 

(e) Termination of suspension by remission ................................................................ II-161 

Rule 1109. Vacation of suspension of sentence ....................................................... II-161 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-161 

(b) Timeliness ............................................................................................................. II-161 

Rule 1110. Waiver or withdrawal of appellate review .......................................... II-161 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-161 

(b) Right to counsel ......................................................................................... II-161 

(c) Compulsion, coercion, inducement prohibited ..................................................... II-163 

(d) Form of waiver or withdrawal .............................................................................. II-163 

(e) To whom submitted ................................................................................................ II-163 

(f) Time limit .............................................................................................................. II-163 

(g) Effect of waiver or withdrawal ............................................................................. II-163 

Rule 1111. Disposition of the record of trial after action ...................................... II-163 

Rule 1112. [Reserved] ................................................................................................ II-164 

Rule 1113. Execution of sentences .......................................................................... II-164 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-164 

(b) Punishments which the convening authority may order executed in the initial 

action ............................................................................................................................ II-164 

(c) A punishment of death may be ordered executed only by the President .............. II-164 

(d) Confinement ......................................................................................................... II-165 

CHAPTER XII. APPEALS AND REVIEW

Rule 1201. The United States Court of Military Commission Review; Chief 

Judge ............................................................................................................................ II-167 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-167 

(b) Composition of the court ..................................................................... II-167 

(c) Cases reviewed by the United States Court of Military Commission Review ..... II-167 

(d) Action on cases reviewed by the United States Court of Military 

Commission Review .................................................................................................. II-167 

(e) Notification to accused ......................................................................................... II-168 
xv 

Rule 1202. Appellate counsel ................................................................................... II-169 

(a) Appointment ......................................................................................................... II-169 

(b) Representation of the United States ...................................................................... II-169 

(c) Representation of the accused ............................................................................... II-169 

Rule 1203. [Reserved] ................................................................................................ II-169 

Rule 1204. [Reserved] ................................................................................................ II-169 

Rule 1205. Further review ...................................................................................... II-169 

(a) Petition to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia 

Circuit by the accused ................................................................................................ II-169 

(b) Petition to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia 

Circuit by the Government ......................................................................................... II-169 

(c) Review by the Supreme Court .............................................................................. II-170 

Rule 1206. [Reserved] ................................................................................................ II-170 

Rule 1207. Sentences requiring approval by the President ................................... II-170 

Rule 1208. [Reserved] ................................................................................................ II-170 

Rule 1209. Finality of military commissions ..........................................................II-170 

Rule 1210. New trial ................................................................................................. II-171 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................ II-171 

(b) Who may petition ................................................................................................. II-171 

(c) Form of petition ....................................................................................................II-171

(d) Effect of petition ................................................................................................... II-171 

(e) Who may act on petition ....................................................................................... II-172 

(f) Grounds for new trial .............................................................................................. II-172

(g) Action on the petition ........................................................................................ II-172 

(h) Action when new trial is granted .......................................................................... II-172 

(i) Number of petitions under this rule ....................................................................... II-173 

CHAPTER XIII.

[Reserved] ................................................................................................................... II-174 

PART III MILITARY COMMISSION RULES OF EVIDENCE 

SECTION I GENERAL PROVISIONS

Rule 101. Scope .............................................................................................................. III-1 

(a) Applicability .............................................................................................................. III-1 

(b) Secondary sources .................................................................................................. III-1 
xvi 

Rule 102. Purpose and construction ......................................................................... III-1 

Rule 103. Ruling on evidence ....................................................................................... III-1 

(a) Effect of erroneous ruling ....................................................................................... III-1 

(b) Record of offer and ruling ...................................................................................... III-2 

(c) Hearing of members ............................................................................................... III-2 

(d) Plain error ............................................................................................................... III-2 

Rule 104. Preliminary questions ............................................................................... III-2 

(a) Questions of admissibility and procedure generally ................................................... III-2 

(b) Probative value conditioned on fact .......................................................................... III-2 

(c) Hearing of members .................................................................................................. III-2

(d) Testimony by accused ............................................................................................ III-3 

(e) Weight and credibility............................................................................................. III-3 

(f) Statements of the accused .......................................................................................... III-3 

Rule 105. Limited admissibility ................................................................................ III-3 

Rule 106. Remainder of or related writings or recorded statements ..................... III-3 

SECTION II JUDICIAL NOTICE

Rule 201. Judicial notice of adjudicative facts ......................................................... III-4 

(a) Scope of rule .............................................................................................................. III-4 

(b) Kinds of facts ............................................................................................................. III-4 

(c) When discretionary ................................................................................................. III-4 

(d) When mandatory ....................................................................................................... III-4 

(e) Opportunity to be heard ........................................................................ III-4 

(f) Time of taking notice ................................................................................................. III-4 

(g) Instructing members .................................................................................................. III-4 

Rule 201A. Judicial notice of law ............................................................................. III-4 

(a) Domestic law ............................................................................................................. III-4 

(b) Foreign law ............................................................................................................. III-4 

SECTION III RULES RELATED TO SELF-INCRIMINATION AND CERTAIN 

OTHER STATEMENTS

Rule 301. Privilege concerning compulsory self-incrimination ............................... III-5 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................... III-5 

(b) Standing ...................................................................................................... III-5 

(c) Exercise of the privilege ............................................................................................ III-5 

(d) Waiver by a witness .................................................................................................. III-6 

(e) Waiver by the accused ............................................................................................ III-6 

(f) Effect of claiming the privilege ................................................................................. III-6 
xvii 

(g) Instructions ............................................................................................................. III-6 

Rule 302. Privilege concerning mental examination of an accused ........................ III-7 

(a) In general ................................................................................................................... III-7 

(b) Exceptions .............................................................................................................. III-7 

(c) Release of evidence ................................................................................................... III-7 

(d) Noncompliance by the accused ................................................................................. III-7 

(e) Procedure ................................................................................................................... III-7 

Rule 303. Degrading questions .................................................................................. III-7 

Rule 304. Confessions, admissions, and other statements ....................................... III-7 

(a) General rules ........................................................................................................... III-7 

(b) Definitions .............................................................................................................. III-9 

(c) Procedure ................................................................................................................. III-10 

(d) Burden of proof .................................................................................................... III-11

(e) Defense evidence ..................................................................................................... III-12 

(f) Miscellaneous ....................................................................................................... III-12 

Rule 305. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-12 

Rule 306. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-12 

Rule 311. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-12 

Rule 312. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-12 

Rule 313. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-12 

Rule 314. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-13 

Rule 315. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-13 

Rule 316. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-13 

Rule 317. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-13 

Rule 321. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-13 

SECTION IV PROBATIVE EVIDENCE AND ITS LIMITS

Rule 401. Scope of probative evidence in military commissions............................ III-14 

Rule 402. Evidence having “probative value to a reasonable person” generally 

admissible ..................................................................................................................... III-14

Rule 403. Exclusion of probative evidence on grounds of prejudice,
xviii 

confusion, or waste of time ......................................................................................... III-14 

Rule 404. Character evidence not admissible to prove conduct; exceptions; 

other crimes .............................................................................................................. III-14 

(a) Character evidence generally .................................................................................. III-14 

(b) Other crimes, wrongs, or acts .................................................................................. III-15 

Rule 405. Methods of proving character .................................................................. III-15 

(a) Reputation or opinion ........................................................................................... III-15 

(b) Specific instances of conduct .................................................................................. III-15 

(c) Affidavits ................................................................................................................ III-15 

(d) Definitions ........................................................................................................... III-15 

Rule 406. Habit; routine practice .............................................................................. III-15 

Rule 407. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-15 

Rule 408. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-15 

Rule 409. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-16 

Rule 410. Inadmissibility of pleas, plea discussions, and related statements ...... III-16 

(a) In general .............................................................................................................. III-16 

(b) Definitions ........................................................................................................... III-16 

Rule 411. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-16 

Rule 412. Nonconsensual sexual offenses; relevance of victim’s behavior or

sexual predisposition ................................................................................................ III-16 

(a) Evidence generally inadmissible ............................................................................. III-16 

(b) Exceptions ............................................................................................................ III-16 

(c) Procedure to determine admissibility ............................................................................... III-17 

(d) .............................................................................................................................. III-17 

(e) .................................................................................................................................. III-18 

Rule 413. Evidence of similar crimes in sexual assault cases ................................ III-18

Rule 414. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-19 

SECTION V PRIVILEGES

Rule 501. General rule ................................................................................................ III-20 

Rule 502. Lawyer-client privilege .............................................................................. III-20 

(a) General rule of privilege ......................................................................................... III-20 

(b) Definitions ............................................................................................................ III-21 
xix 

(c) Who may claim the privilege .................................................................................. III-21 

(d) Exceptions ............................................................................................................ III-21 

Rule 503. Communications to clergy ...................................................................... III-22 

(a) General rule of privilege ............................................................................. III-22 

(b) Definitions ........................................................................................................... III-22 

(c) Who may claim the privilege ................................................................................. III-22 

(d) Exceptions ........................................................................................................... III-22 

Rule 504. Husband-wife privilege ...................................................................... III-23 

(a) Spousal incapacity ......................................................................................................... III-23 

(b) Confidential communication made during marriage .............................................. III-23 

(c) Exceptions ............................................................................................................. III-23 

Rule 505. Classified information ............................................................................. III-24 

(a) Protection of classified information: applicability of rule ..................................... III-24 

(b) Definitions ............................................................................................................ III-24 

(c) Who may claim the privilege .................................................................................. III-24 

(d) Pretrial conference ................................................................................................ III-25

(e) Protective orders ................................................................................................... III-25 

(f) Discovery of, and access to, classified information by the accused ....................... III-26 

(g) Notice by accused of intention to disclose classified information .................... III-28 

(h) Procedure for cases involving classified information ........................................... III-29 

(i) Introduction of classified information into evidence .............................................. III-33 

Rule 506. Government information other than classified information ................ III-35 

(a) General rule of privilege .......................................................................................... III-35

(b) Scope ....................................................................................................................... III-35 

(c) Who may claim the privilege .................................................................................. III-35 

(d) Action prior to referral of charges ........................................................................ III-35 

(e) Pretrial session ...................................................................................................... III-36 

(f) Action after motion for disclosure of information ................................................ III-36 

(g) Disclosure of government information to the defense .......................................... III-36 

(h) Prohibition against disclosure ................................................................................. III-37 

(i) In camera proceedings ........................................................................................... III-37 

(j) Appeals of orders and rulings ................................................................................ III-39 

(k) Introduction of government information subject to a claim of privilege .............. III-39 

(l) Procedures to safeguard against compromise of government information 

disclosed to military commissions ............................................................................. III-39 

Rule 506A. Privilege for ICRC communications in the possession of the 

Government ................................................................................................................. III-39

(a) General rule of privilege .......................................................................................... III-39

(b) Assertion of privilege .............................................................................................. III-40 

(c) Procedure to determine discoverability of ICRC communications ........................ III-40 

(d) Procedure for disclosing privileged ICRC communications to the Defense .......... III-41 
xx 

(e) Issuance of protective order as to privileged ICRC communications .................... III-41 

(f) Introduction of ICRC communications subject to a claim of privilege .................. III-42 

(g) ................................................................................................................................. III-42 

(h) Effective date ........................................................................................................... III-42 

Rule 507. Identity of informants ............................................................................. III-43 

(a) Rule of privilege ................................................................................................... III-43 

(b) Who may claim the privilege ................................................................................ III-43 

(c) Exceptions ............................................................................................................. III-43 

(d) Procedures ............................................................................................................. III-43 

Rule 508. Political vote ........................................................................................... III-44 

Rule 509. Deliberations of courts, juries, and military commissions ................... III-44 

Rule 510. Waiver of privilege by voluntary disclosure ........................................... III-44 

Rule 511. Privileged matter disclosed under compulsion or without

opportunity to claim privilege .................................................................................... III-44 

Rule 512. Comment upon or inference from claim of privilege; instruction ....... III-44 

(a) Comment or inference not permitted ........................................................... III-45 

(b) Claiming privilege without knowledge of members ............................................... III-45 

(c) Instruction ............................................................................................................. III-45 

Rule 513. Psychotherapist-patient privilege ............................................................. III-45 

(a) General rule of privilege ....................................................................................... III-45 

(b) Definitions ............................................................................................................ III-45 

(c) Who may claim the privilege ................................................................................... III-46 

(d) Exceptions ............................................................................................................. III-46 

(e) Procedure to determine admissibility of patient records or communications ....... III-46 

SECTION VI WITNESSES

Rule 601. General rule of competency .................................................................... III-48 

Rule 602. Lack of personal knowledge ...................................................................... III-48 

Rule 603. Oath or affirmation ................................................................................. III-48 

Rule 604. Interpreters .............................................................................................. III-48 

Rule 605. Competency of military judge as witness .............................................. III-48 

Rule 606. Competency of military commission member as witness ..................... III-48 

(a) At the military commission ............................................................................................ III-48 
xxi 

(b) Inquiry into validity of finding or sentence .................................................... III-48 

Rule 607. Who may impeach ................................................................................... III-49 

Rule 608. Evidence of character, conduct, and bias of witness .............................. III-49

(a) Opinion and reputation evidence of character ....................................................... III-49 

(b) Specific instances of conduct ................................................................................ III-49 

(c) Evidence of bias .................................................................................................... III-49 

Rule 609. Impeachment by evidence of conviction of crime .................................. III-49 

(a) General rule .......................................................................................................... III-49 

(b) Time limit ............................................................................................................. III-50 

(c) Effect of pardon, annulment, or certificate of rehabilitation .................................. III-50 

(d) Juvenile adjudications .......................................................................................... III-50 

(e) Pendency of appeal .................................................................................................. III-50 

(f) Definition .............................................................................................................. III-50 

Rule 610. Religious beliefs or opinions ................................................................... III-50 

Rule 611. Mode and order of interrogation and presentation .............................. III-50 

(a) Control by the military judge .................................................................................. III-50 

(b) Scope of cross-examination .................................................................................... III-51 

(c) Leading questions ................................................................................................. III-51 

(d) Alternative forms of testimony of a child, victim, protected entity, or witness 

whose presence at trial cannot be procured by legal process ..................................... III-51 

Rule 612. Writing used to refresh memory ............................................................ III-52 

Rule 613. Prior statements of witnesses .................................................................. III-53 

(a) Examining witness concerning prior statement .................................................... III-53 

(b) Extrinsic evidence of prior inconsistent statement of witness .............................. III-53 

Rule 614. Calling and interrogation of witnesses by the military commission ... III-53 

(a) Calling by the military commission ........................................................................ III-53 

(b) Interrogation by the military commission ............................................................. III-53 

(c) Objections ............................................................................................................. III-53 

Rule 615. Exclusion of witnesses ............................................................................. III-53 

SECTION VII OPINIONS AND EXPERT TESTIMONY

Rule 701. Opinion testimony by lay witnesses ....................................................... III-54 

Rule 702. Testimony by experts .............................................................................. III-54 

Rule 703. Bases of opinion testimony by experts ................................................. III-54 
xxii 

Rule 704. Opinion on ultimate issue ......................................................................... III-54 

Rule 705. Disclosure of facts or data underlying expert opinion ......................... III-54 

Rule 706. Experts appointed by the military commission .................................... III-55 

(a) Appointment and compensation .............................................................................. III-55 

(b) Disclosure of employment .................................................................................... III-55 

(c) Accused’s experts of own selection ........................................................................ III-55 

Rule 707. Polygraph examinations.......................................................................... III-55 

SECTION VIII HEARSAY

Rule 801. Definitions ................................................................................................ III-56 

(a) Statement ................................................................................................................. III-56 

(b) Declarant .................................................................................................................. III-56 

(c) Hearsay ................................................................................................................. III-56 

(d) Statements which are not hearsay ......................................................................... III-56 

Rule 802. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-56 

Rule 803. Admissibility of hearsay ............................................................................ III-56 

Rule 804. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-57 

Rule 805. Hearsay within hearsay .......................................................................... III-57 

Rule 806. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-57 

Rule 807. Attacking and supporting credibility of declarant ............................... III-58 

SECTION IX AUTHENTICATION AND IDENTIFICATION

Rule 901. Requirement of authentication or identification .................................. III-59 

Rule 902. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-59 

Rule 903. [Reserved] ................................................................................................... III-59 

SECTION X

[Reserved] ................................................................................................................. III-60 

SECTION XI
xxiii 

[Reserved] ....................................................................................................................III-61 

PART IV CRIMES AND ELEMENTS

1. Definitions; construction of certain offenses; common circumstances .............. IV-1 

(a) Definitions ................................................................................................................ IV-1 

(b) Construction of certain offenses ............................................................................. IV-1 

(c) Common circumstances ...................................................................................... IV-2 

(d) Effect ........................................................................................................................ IV-2 

2. Principals .................................................................................................................. IV-2 

a. Text ......................................................................................................................... IV-2 

3. Accessory after the fact .......................................................................................... IV-2

a. Text ......................................................................................................................... IV-2 

b. Elements ...................................................................................................... IV-2 

c. Maximum punishment ............................................................................................. IV-3 

4. Conviction of lesser included offense ..................................................................... IV-3 

a. Text ......................................................................................................................... IV-3 

5. Crimes triable by military commission ................................................................ IV-3 

(1) MURDER OF PROTECTED PERSONS .......................................................... IV-3 

a. Text ......................................................................................................................... IV-3 

b. Elements .................................................................................................................. IV-3 

c. Comment ................................................................................................................. IV-3 

d. Maximum punishment .............................................................................................. IV-3 

(2) ATTACKING CIVILIANS ................................................................................. IV-3 

a. Text ......................................................................................................................... IV-3 

b. Elements .................................................................................................................. IV-4 

c. Comment ................................................................................................................. IV-4 

d. Maximum punishment ............................................................................................ IV-4 

(3) ATTACKING CIVILIAN OBJECTS ................................................................. IV-4 

a. Text ......................................................................................................................... IV-4 

b. Elements ...................................................................................................... IV-4 

c. Comment ................................................................................................................... IV-4 

d. Maximum punishment .......................................................................................... IV-5 

(4) ATTACKING PROTECTED PROPERTY ...................................................... IV-5 

a. Text ......................................................................................................................... IV-5 

b. Elements ...................................................................................................... IV-5 

c. Comment ................................................................................................................. IV-5 

d. Maximum punishment .......................................................................................... IV-5 
xxiv 

(5) PILLAGING ......................................................................................................... IV-5 

a. Text ......................................................................................................................... IV-5 

b. Elements .................................................................................................................. IV-5 

c. Maximum punishment ............................................................................................. IV-5 

(6) DENYING QUARTER .......................................................................................... IV-6

a. Text .......................................................................................................................... IV-6 

b. Elements .................................................................................................................. IV-6 

c. Maximum punishment ............................................................................................. IV-6 

(7) TAKING HOSTAGES ........................................................................................... IV-6 

a. Text .......................................................................................................................... IV-6 

b. Elements .................................................................................................................. IV-6 

c. Maximum punishment ............................................................................................. IV-7 

(8) EMPLOYING POISON OR SIMILAR WEAPONS ......................................... IV-7 

a. Text .......................................................................................................................... IV-7 

b. Elements .................................................................................................................. IV-7 

c. Comment ................................................................................................................. IV-7 

d. Maximum punishment ........................................................................................... IV-8 

(9) USING PROTECTED PERSONS AS A SHIELD ............................................. IV-8 

a. Text .......................................................................................................................... IV-8 

b. Elements ...................................................................................................... IV-8 

c. Maximum punishment ............................................................................................. IV-8 

(10) USING PROTECTED PROPERTY AS A SHIELD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-8 

a. Text .......................................................................................................................... IV-8 

b. Elements ...................................................................................................... IV-8 

c. Maximum punishment ............................................................................................. IV-8 

(11) TORTURE ........................................................................................................... IV-9 

a. Text .......................................................................................................................... IV-9 

b. Elements .................................................................................................................. IV-9 

c. Explanation .............................................................................................................. IV-9 

d. Maximum punishment ........................................................................................... IV-10 

(12) CRUEL OR INHUMAN TREATMENT ........................................................ IV-10 

a. Text ........................................................................................................................ IV-10 

b. Elements .................................................................................................... IV-10 

c. Comment.................................................................................................................. IV-10 

d. Maximum punishment ........................................................................................... IV-11 

(13) INTENTIONALLY CAUSING SERIOUS BODILY INJURY .................... IV-11 

a. Text ........................................................................................................................ IV-11 
xxv 

b. Elements .................................................................................................................. IV-11 

c. Definition ................................................................................................................. IV-11 

d. Comment ................................................................................................................. IV-11 

e. Maximum punishment ........................................................................................... IV-12 

(14) MUTILATING OR MAIMING .............................................................. IV-12 

a. Text........................................................................................................................ IV-12 

b. Elements .................................................................................................... IV-12 

c. Comment ................................................................................................................. IV-12 

d. Maximum Punishment .......................................................................................... IV-12 

(15) MURDER IN VIOLATION OF THE LAW OF WAR ................................. IV-13 

a. Text ....................................................................................................................... IV-13 

b. Elements .................................................................................................... IV-13 

c. Comment ............................................................................................................... IV-13 

d. Maximum punishment ......................................................................................... IV-13 

(16) DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY IN VIOLATION OF THE 

LAW OF WAR. ............................................................................................. IV-13 

a. Text ....................................................................................................................... IV-13 

b. Elements .................................................................................................... IV-13 

c. Comment ................................................................................................................. IV-14 

d. Maximum punishment ......................................................................................... IV-14 

(17) USING TREACHERY OR PERFIDY ........................................................... IV-14 

a. Text ....................................................................................................................... IV-14 

b. Elements .................................................................................................... IV-14 

c. Comment ................................................................................................................. IV-14 

d Maximum punishment .......................................................................................... IV-15 

(18) IMPROPERLY USING A FLAG OF TRUCE............................................... IV-15 

a. Text ....................................................................................................................... IV-15 

b. Elements .................................................................................................................. IV-15 

c. Maximum punishment ........................................................................................... IV-15 

(19) IMPROPERLY USING A DISTINCTIVE EMBLEM ................................. IV-15 

a. Text ....................................................................................................................... IV-15 

b. Elements .................................................................................................... IV-16 

c. Comment ............................................................................................................... IV-16 

d. Maximum punishment ........................................................................................ IV-16 

(20) INTENTIONALLY MISTREATING A DEAD BODY ................................ IV-16 

a. Text ....................................................................................................................... IV-16 

b. Elements .................................................................................................................. IV-16 

c. Comment .............................................................................................................. IV-17 

d. Maximum punishment ......................................................................................... IV-17 
xxvi 

(21) RAPE ................................................................................................................. IV-17 

a. Text ....................................................................................................................... IV-17 

b. Elements .................................................................................................... IV-17 

c. Comment ................................................................................................................. IV-17 

d. Maximum punishment ......................................................................................... IV-17 

(22) SEXUAL ASSAULT OR ABUSE .................................................................... IV-18

a. Text ....................................................................................................................... IV-18 

b. Elements ................................................................................................................ IV-18 

c. Comment ............................................................................................................... IV-18 

d. Maximum punishment ......................................................................................... IV-18 

(23) HIJACKING OR HAZARDING A VESSEL OR AIRCRAFT ................... IV-18 

a. Text ....................................................................................................................... IV-18 

b. Elements .................................................................................................................. IV-18 

c. Comment ................................................................................................................. IV-19 

d. Maximum punishment ........................................................................................ IV-19 

(24) TERRORISM ..................................................................................................... IV-19 

a. Text ....................................................................................................................... IV-19 

b. Elements .................................................................................................... IV-19 

c. Comment ................................................................................................................. IV-19 

d. Maximum Punishment .......................................................................................... IV-20 

(25) PROVIDING MATERIAL SUPPORT FOR TERRORISM ........................ IV-20 

a. Text ....................................................................................................................... IV-20 

b. Elements .................................................................................................................. IV-20 

c. Definition ................................................................................................................. IV-20 

d. Maximum Punishment .......................................................................................... IV-20 

(26) WRONGFULLY AIDING THE ENEMY ..................................................... IV-20 

a. Text ....................................................................................................................... IV-20 

b. Elements ................................................................................................................ IV-21 

c. Comment ............................................................................................................... IV-21 

d. Maximum punishment .......................................................................................... IV-21 

(27) SPYING .................................................................................................................. IV-21 

a. Text ....................................................................................................................... IV-21 

b. Elements ................................................................................................................ IV-22 

c. Comment ............................................................................................................... IV-22 

d. Maximum punishment .......................................................................................... IV-22 

(28) ATTEMPTS ...................................................................................................... IV-22 

a. Text ....................................................................................................................... IV-22 

b. Elements ................................................................................................................ IV-22 
xxvii 

c. Maximum punishment ........................................................................................... IV-23 

(29) CONSPIRACY ................................................................................................... IV-23 

a. Text ....................................................................................................................... IV-23 

b. Elements .................................................................................................... IV-23 

c. Comment ................................................................................................................. IV-23 

d. Maximum Punishment ............................................................................................ IV-24 

(30) SOLICITATION ................................................................................................ IV-24

a. Text .......................................................................................................................... IV-24 

b. Elements .................................................................................................................. IV-25 

c. Maximum punishment ........................................................................................... IV-25 

(31) CONTEMPT ..................................................................................................... IV-25 

a. Text .......................................................................................................................... IV-25 

(32) PERJURY AND OBSTRUCTION OF JUSTICE .......................................... IV-25

(a) Perjury and false testimony ................................................................................. IV-25

a. Text .......................................................................................................................... IV-25 

b. Elements ................................................................................................................ IV-25 

c. Maximum Punishment .......................................................................................... IV-25 

(b) Obstruction of Justice .......................................................................................... IV-25

a. Text ........................................................................................................................ IV-25 

b. Elements ................................................................................................................ IV-26 

c. Maximum punishment ............................................................................................. IV-26 
I-1

PART I

PREAMBLE

1. Structural provisions of chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code. 

(a) The procedures for military commissions are based upon the procedures for trial by general 

courts-martial under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (U.C.M.J.). The U.C.M.J. does not, by 

its terms, apply to trial by military commission except as specifically provided in the U.C.M.J. or 

in chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code. The judicial construction and application of the 

U.C.M.J., while instructive, are not of their own force binding on military commissions. (10 

U.S.C. § 948b(c)). 

(b) 10 U.S.C. § 810, relating to speedy trial, 10 U.S.C § 831(a), (b), & (d), relating to 

compulsory self-incrimination, and 10 U.S.C. § 832, relating to pre-trial investigation, do not 

apply to these military commissions (10 U.S.C. § 948b(d)(1)). 

(c) Other provisions of the U.C.M.J. apply only as to the extent provided by the terms of such 

provisions or chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code (10 U.S.C. § 948b(d)(2)). 

(d) chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, provides that the Secretary of Defense may

prescribe pretrial, trial, and post-trial procedures, including elements and modes of proof, for 

cases triable by military commission (10 U.S.C. § 949a(a)). 

2. Departures from the rules of evidence and procedure applicable in trials by general courtsmartial of the United States reflect the Secretary’s determinations that these departures are 

required by the unique circumstances of the conduct of military and intelligence operations 

during hostilities or practical need consistent with chapter 47A, title 10, United States Code. Just 

as importantly, they provide procedural and evidentiary rules that not only comport with chapter 

47A of title 10, United States Code, and ensure protection of classified information, but extend to 

the accused all the judicial guarantees which are recognized as indispensible by civilized peoples 

as required by Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions of 1949. 
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PART II. RULES FOR MILITARY COMMISSIONS

CHAPTER I. GENERAL PROVISIONS

Rule 101. Scope, title 

(a) In general. These rules govern the procedures and punishments in all trials by military 

commissions under chapter 47A, title 10, United States Code. 

(b) Title. These rules may be known and cited as the Rules for Military Commissions (R.M.C.). 

Rule 102. Purpose and construction 

(a) Purpose. These rules are intended to provide for the just determination of every proceeding 

relating to trial by military commission.

(b) Construction. The procedures for military commissions set forth in chapter 47A, title 10, 

United States Code, and this Manual are based upon the procedures for trial by general courtsmartial under chapter 47 of title 10 (the Uniform Code of Military Justice). Chapter 47 of title 10 

does not, by its terms, apply to trial by military commission except as specifically provided 

therein or in chapter 47A, title 10, United States Code, and many of the provisions of chapter 47 

of title 10, United States Code, are by their terms inapplicable to military commissions. The 

judicial construction and application of chapter 47 of title 10, United States Code, while 

instructive, is therefore not of its own force binding on military commissions established under 

chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code. These rules shall be construed to secure simplicity 

in procedure, fairness in administration, and the elimination of unjustifiable expense and delay. 

Rule 103. Definitions and rules of construction 

(a) The following definitions and rules of construction apply throughout this Manual, unless 

otherwise expressly provided. 

(1) “Alien” means an individual who is not a citizen of the United States. 

(2) “Appellate military judge” means an appellate judge who is a commissioned officer 

of the armed forces, serving on active duty, and who is a member of the bar of a Federal court or 

a member of the bar of the highest court of a State or the District of Columbia. An appellate 

military judge shall be certified to be qualified for duty under 10 U.S.C. § 826 (Article 26 of the 

Code) by The Judge Advocate General of the armed force of which such military judge is a 

member. 

(3) “Article” refers to articles of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (Title 10 U.S.C., 

Chapter 47) unless the context indicates otherwise. 

(4) “Capital case” means a military commission to which a capital offense has been 

referred with an instruction that the case be treated as capital, and, in the case of a rehearing or 
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new or other trial, for which offense death remains an authorized punishment under R.M.C. 

810(d). 

(5) “Capital offense” means an offense for which death is an authorized punishment 

under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, or the law of war. 

(6) “Citizen of the United States.” A person may become a citizen of the United States 

only by birth within the territory of the United States, by birth to parents who are United States 

citizens, or by naturalization. See 8 U.S.C. §§ 1401, 1427. 

(7) “Classified information” means the following: 

(A) Any information or material that has been determined by the United States 

Government pursuant to statute, Executive order, or regulation to require protection against 

unauthorized disclosure for reasons of national security; or

(B) Any restricted data, as that term is defined in section 11y of the Atomic 

Energy Act of 1954 (42 U.S.C. § 2014(y)). 

(8) “Coalition partner”, with respect to hostilities engaged in by the United States, means 

any State or armed force directly engaged along with the United States in such hostilities or 

providing direct operational support to the United States in connection with such hostilities.

(9) “Code” refers to the Uniform Code of Military Justice, unless the context indicates 

otherwise. 

(10) “Convening authority” means the Secretary of Defense or any officer or official of 

the United States designated by the Secretary of Defense for that purpose. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 504(b) concerning who may convene military commissions. 

(11) “Copy” means an accurate reproduction, however made. Whenever necessary and 

feasible, a copy may be made by handwriting. 

(12) “Days” When a period of time is expressed in a number of days, the period shall be 

in calendar days, unless otherwise specified. Unless otherwise specified, the date on which the 

period begins shall not count, but the date on which the period ends shall count as one day. 

(13) “Detail” means to order a person to perform a specific temporary duty, unless the 

context indicates otherwise. 

(14) “Geneva Convention Relative to the Treatment of Prisoners of War” means the 

Convention Relative to the Treatment of Prisoners of War, done at Geneva August 12, 1949 (6 

UST 3316).
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(15) “Geneva Conventions” means the international conventions signed at Geneva on 

August 12, 1949.

(16) “Hostilities” means any conflict subject to the laws of war.

(17) “Legal advisor” is an official appointed by authority of the Secretary of Defense who 

fulfills the responsibilities of that position, as delineated in this Manual, and otherwise provides 

legal advice and recommendations to the convening authority, similar in nature to that provided 

by a staff judge advocate under the Code. A legal advisor may be military or civilian and may 

include a staff judge advocate, if so appointed. 

(18) “'M.C.A.” means the Military Commissions Act of 2009, which provides the 

authority to establish military commissions under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, 

unless otherwise noted. 

(19) “M.C.M.” means the Manual for Courts-Martial. 

(20) “Members” Any active duty commissioned officer is eligible to serve on a military 

commission. The members of a military commission are voting members detailed by the 

convening authority who, in the opinion of the convening authority, are best qualified for the 

duty by reason of age, education, training, experience, length of service, and judicial 

temperament. No member of an armed force is eligible to serve as a member of a military 

commission when such member is the accuser or a witness for the prosecution or has acted as an 

investigator or counsel in the same case. 

(21) “Military commission” includes, depending on the context: 

(A) The military judge and members of a military commission; or 

(B) The military judge when a session of a military commission is conducted 

without members under R.M.C. 803. 

(22) “Military judge” means the presiding officer of a military commission detailed in 

accordance with 10 U.S.C. § 948j. No person is eligible to act as military judge in a case of a 

military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, if he is the accuser or a 

witness or has acted as investigator or a counsel in the same case. A military judge detailed to a 

military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, may not consult with the 

members of the commission except in the presence of the accused (except as otherwise provided 

for in 10 U.S.C. § 949d), trial counsel, and defense counsel, nor may he vote with the members 

of the commission. 

(23) “National Security” means the national defense and foreign relations of the United 

States.

(24) “Party” in the context of parties to a military commission, means: 
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(A) The accused and any defense or associate or assistant defense counsel and 

agents of the defense counsel when acting on behalf of the accused with respect to the military 

commission in question; and 

(B) Any trial or assistant trial counsel representing the United States, and agents 

of the trial counsel when acting on behalf of the trial counsel with respect to the military 

commission in question. 

(25) “Privileged Belligerent” means an individual belonging to one of the eight 

categories enumerated in Article 4 of the Geneva Convention Relative to the Treatment of 

Prisoners of War.

(26) “Sexual contact” means the intentional touching, either directly or through clothing, 

of the genitalia, anus, groin, breast, inner thigh, or buttocks of another person, or intentionally 

causing another person to touch, either directly or through the clothing, the genitalia, anus, groin, 

breast, inner thigh, or buttocks of any person, with an intent to abuse, humiliate, or degrade any 

person, or to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person.

(27) “Staff Judge Advocate” means a judge advocate so designated in Army, Air Force, 

or Marine Corps, and means the principal legal advisor of a command in the Navy and Coast 

Guard who is a judge advocate. 

(28) “sua sponte” means that the person involved acts on that person’s initiative, without 

the need for a request, motion, or application. 

(29) “Unprivileged Enemy Belligerent” means an individual (other than a privileged 

belligerent) who—

(A) has engaged in hostilities against the United States or its coalition partners;

(B) has purposefully and materially supported hostilities against the United States 

or its coalition partners; or

(C) was a part of al Qaeda at the time of the alleged offense under chapter 47A of 

title 10, United States Code.

(30) “Victim” means a person who has suffered direct physical, emotional or pecuniary 

harm or loss as a result of the commission of an offense as defined in chapter 47A of title 10, 

United States Code, or the law of war. 

(31) The definitions and rules of construction in 1 U.S.C. §§ 1 through 5 and in 10 U.S.C. 

§§ 101 and 801. 

Discussion

1 U.S.C. §§ 1 through 5, 10 U.S.C. § 101, and 10 U.S.C. § 801 (Article 1) are set forth below. 
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1 U.S.C. § 1. Words denoting number, gender, and so forth. 

In determining the meaning of any Act of Congress, unless the context indicates otherwise— words importing the 

singular include and apply to several persons, parties, or things; words importing the plural include the singular; 

words importing the masculine gender include the feminine as well; words used in the present tense include the 

future as well as the present; the words “insane” and “insane person” and “lunatic” shall include every idiot, lunatic, 

insane person, and person non compos mentis; the words “person” and “whoever” include corporations, companies, 

associations, firms, partnerships, societies, and joint stock companies, as well as individuals; “officer” includes any 

person authorized by law to perform the duties of the office; “signature” or “subscription” includes a mark when the 

person making the same intended it as such; “oath” includes affirmation, and “sworn” includes affirmed; “writing” 

includes printing and typewriting and reproductions of visual symbols by photographing, multigraphing, 

mimeographing, manifolding, or otherwise. 

§ 2. “County” as including “parish,” and so forth. 

The word “county” includes a parish, or any other equivalent subdivision of a State or Territory of the United States. 

§ 3. “Vessel” as including all means of water transportation. 

The word “vessel” includes every description of watercraft or other artificial contrivance used or capable of being 

used, as a means of transportation on water. 

§ 4. “Vehicle” as including all means of land transportation. 

The word “vehicle” includes every description of carriage or other artificial contrivance used or capable of being 

used, as a means of transportation on land. 

§ 5. “Company” or “association” as including successors and assigns. 

The word “company” or “association”, when used in reference to a corporation, shall be deemed to embrace the 

words “successors and assigns of such company or association”, in like manner as if these last-named words, or 

words of similar import, were expressed. 

10 U.S.C. § 101. Definitions 

In addition to the definitions in sections 1-5 of title 1, the following definitions apply in this title: 

(1) “United States”, in a geographic sense, means the States and the District of Columbia. 

(2) Except as provided in section 101(1) of title 32 for laws relating to the militia, the National Guard, the Army 

National Guard of the United States, and the Air National Guard of the United States, “Territory” means any 

Territory organized after this title is enacted, so long as it remains a Territory. 

(3) “Possessions” includes the Virgin Islands, the Canal Zone, Guam, American Samoa, and the Guano islands, so 

long as they remain possessions, but does not include any Territory or Commonwealth. 

(4) “Armed forces” means the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. 

(5) “Department”, when used with respect to a military department, means the executive part of the department and 

all field headquarters, forces, reserve components, installations, activities, and functions under the control or 

supervision of the Secretary of the department. When used with respect to the Department of Defense, it means the 

executive part of the department, including the executive parts of the military departments, and all field 
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headquarters, forces, reserve components, installations, activities, and functions under the control or supervision of 

the Secretary of Defense, including those of the military departments. 

(6) “Executive part of the department” means the executive part of the Department of the Army, Department of the 

Navy, or Department of the Air Force, as the case may be, at the seat of government. 

(7) “Military departments” means the Department of the Army, the Department of the Navy, and the Department of 

the Air Force. 

(8) “Secretary concerned” means—

(A) the Secretary of the Army, with respect to matters concerning the Army; 

(B) the Secretary of the Navy, with respect to matters concerning the Navy, the Marine Corps, and the Coast Guard 

when it is operating as a service in the Navy; 

(C) the Secretary of the Air Force, with respect to matters concerning the Air Force; and 

(D) the Secretary of Homeland Security, with respect to matters concerning the Coast Guard when it is not operating 

as a service in the Navy. 

(E) the Secretary of Defense is the head of the Department of Defense and is the principal assistant to the President 

in all matters relating to the Department of Defense. 

(9) “National Guard” means the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard. 

(10) “Army National Guard” means that part of the organized militia of the several States and Territories, Puerto 

Rico, and the Canal Zone, and the District of Columbia, active and inactive, that—

(A) is a land force; 

(B) is trained, and has its officers appointed, under the sixteenth clause of section 8, article 1, of the Constitution; 

wholly or partly at Federal expense; and 

(C) is federally recognized. 

(11) “Army National Guard of the United States” means the reserve component of the Army all of whose members 

are members of the Army National Guard. 

(12) “Air National Guard” means that part of the organized militia of the several States and Territories, Puerto Rico, 

the Canal Zone, and the District of Columbia, active and inactive, that— 

(A) is an air force; 

(B) is trained, and has its officers appointed, under the sixteenth clause of section 8, article 1, of the Constitution; 

(C) is organized, armed, and equipped wholly or partly at Federal expense; and 

(D) is federally recognized. 

(13) “Air National Guard of the United States” means the reserve component of the Air Force all of whose members 

are members of the Air National Guard. 
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(14) “Officer” means commissioned or warrant officer. 

(15) “Commissioned officer” includes a commissioned warrant officer. 

(16) “Warrant officer” means a person who holds a commission or warrant in a warrant officer grade. 

(17) “Enlisted member” means a person in an enlisted grade. 

(18) “Grade” means a step or degree, in a graduated scale of office or military rank that is established and designated 

as a grade by law or regulation. 

(19) “Rank” means the order of precedence among members of the armed forces. [Definitions established in clauses 

(18) and (19) post-date the enactment of the code and, as a result, differ from usage of the same terms in the code 

and current and prior provisions in the Manual for Courts-Martial (M.C.M.). See Articles 1(5) and 25(d)(1); Rules 

for Courts-Martial 1003(c)(2); paragraphs 13c(1), 83c(2), and 84c, Part IV, M.C.M., 1984. M.C.M. 1951 referred to 

officer personnel by “rank” and enlisted personnel by “grade.” See paragraphs 4c, 16b, 126d, 126i, and 168, 

M.C.M., 1951. “Rank” as defined in 10 U.S.C. § 101, clause (19) above, refers to the M.C.M., 1951 provision 

regarding “lineal precedence, numbers, and seniority.” Paragraph 126i, M.C.M., 1951; see also paragraph 126i, 

M.C.M., 1969 (Rev). Except where lineal position or seniority is clearly intended, rank, as commonly and 

traditionally used, and grade refer to the current definition of “grade.”] 

(20) “Rating” means the name (such as “boatswain’s mate”) prescribed for members of an armed force in an 

occupational field. “Rate” means the name (such as “chief boatswain’s mate”) prescribed for members in the same 

rating or other category who are in the same grade (such as chief petty officer or seaman apprentice). [Note: The 

definitions in clauses (3), (15), (18)-(21), (23)-(30), and (31)-(33) reflect the adoption of terminology that, though 

undefined in the source statutes restated in this title, represents the closest practicable approximation of the ways in 

which the terms defined have been most commonly used. A choice has been made where established uses conflict.] 

(21) “Authorized strength” means the largest number of members authorized to be in an armed force, a component, 

a branch, a grade, or any other category of the armed forces. 

(22) “Active duty” means full-time duty in active military service of the United States. It includes full-time training 

duty, annual training duty, and attendance, while in active military service, at a school designated as a service school 

by law or by the Secretary of the military department concerned. 

(23) “Active duty for a period of more than 30 days” means active duty under a call or order that does not specify a 

period of 30 days or less. 

(24) “Active service” means service on active duty. 

(25) “Active status” means the status of a reserve commissioned officer, other than a commissioned warrant officer, 

who is not in the inactive Army National Guard or inactive Air National Guard, on an inactive status list, or in the 

Retired Reserve. 

(26) “Supplies” includes material, equipment, and stores of all kinds. 

(27) “Pay” includes basic pay, special pay, retainer pay, incentive pay, retired pay, and equivalent pay, but does not 

include allowances. 

(28) “Shall” is used in an imperative sense. 

(29) “May” is used in a permissive sense. The words “no person may . . .” mean that no person is required, 

authorized, or permitted to do the act prescribed. 
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(30) “Includes” means “includes but is not limited to.” 

(31) “Inactive-duty training” means— 

(A) duty prescribed for Reserves by the Secretary concerned under section 206 of title 37 or any other provision of 

law; and 

(B) special additional duties authorized for Reserves by an authority designated by the Secretary concerned and 

performed by them on a voluntary basis in connection with the prescribed training or maintenance activities of the 

units to which they are assigned. It includes those duties when performed by Reserves in their status as members of 

the National Guard. 

(32) “Spouse” means husband or wife, as the case may be. 

(33) “Regular”, with respect to an enlistment, appointment, grade, or office, means enlistment, appointment, grade, 

or office in a regular component of an armed force. 

(34) “Reserve”, with respect to an enlistment, appointment, grade, or office, means enlistment, appointment, grade, 

or office held as a Reserve of an armed force. 

(35) “Original”, with respect to the appointment of a member of the armed forces in a regular or reserve component, 

refers to his most recent appointment in the component that is neither a promotion nor a demotion. 

(36) Repealed. 

(37) “Active-duty list” means a single list for the Army, Navy, Air Force or Marine Corps (required to be 

maintained under section 620 of this title), which contains the names of all officers of that armed force, other than 

officers described in section 641 of this title, who are serving on active duty. 

(38) “Medical officer” means an officer of the Medical Corps of the Army, an officer of the Medical Corps of the 

Navy, or an officer in the Air Force designated as a medical officer. 

(39) “Dental officer” means an officer of the Dental Corps of the Army, an officer of the Dental Corps of the Navy, 

or an officer of the Air Force designated as a dental officer. 

(40) “General officer” means an officer of the Army, Air Force, or Marine Corps serving in or having the grade of 

general, lieutenant general, major general, or brigadier general. 

(41) “Flag officer” means an officer of the Navy or Coast Guard serving in or having the grade of admiral, vice 

admiral, rear admiral, or commodore. 

(d) 10 U.S.C. § 801. Article 1. Definitions. In this chapter: 

(1) “Judge Advocate General” means, severally, the Judge Advocates General of the Army, Navy, and Air Force 

and, except when the Coast Guard is operating as a service in the Navy, an official designated to serve as Judge 

Advocate General of the Coast Guard by the Secretary of Homeland Security. 

(2) The Navy, the Marine Corps, and the Coast Guard when it is operating as a service in the Navy, shall be 

considered as one armed force. 

(3) “Commanding officer” includes only commissioned officers. 
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(4) “Officer in charge” means a member of the Navy, the Marine Corps, or the Coast Guard designated as such by 

appropriate authority. 

(5) “Superior commissioned officer” means a commissioned officer superior in rank or command. 

(6) “Cadet” means a cadet of the United States Military Academy, the United States Air Force Academy, or the 

United States Coast Guard Academy. 

(7) “Midshipman” means a midshipman of the United States Naval Academy and any other midshipman on active 

duty in the naval service. 

(8) “Military” refers to any or all of the armed forces. 

(9) “Accuser” means a person who signs and swears to charges, any person who directs that charges nominally be 

signed and sworn to by another, and any other person who has an interest other than an official interest in the 

prosecution of the accused. 

(10) “Military judge” means a commissioned officer of the armed forces detailed to preside over the military 

commission in accordance with section 826 of this title (article 26). [See also Rules for Courts-Martial 103(15).] 

(11) “Legal officer” means any commissioned officer of the Navy, Marine Corps or Coast Guard designated to 

perform legal duties for a command. 

(12) “Judge Advocate” means—

(A) an officer of the Judge Advocate General’s Corps of the Army or Navy; or 

(B) an officer of the Air Force or the Marine Corps who is designated as a judge advocate. 

(13) “National security” means the national defense and foreign relations of the United States. 

Rule 104. Unlawfully Influencing Action of Military Commissions and the United States 

Court of Military Commission Review 

(a) Military Commissions. 

(1) No authority convening a military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, United 

States Code, may censure, reprimand, or admonish the military commission, or any member, 

military judge, or counsel thereof, with respect to the findings or sentence adjudged by the 

military commission, or with respect to any other exercises of its or their functions or in the 

conduct of the proceedings.

(2) No person may attempt to coerce or, by any unauthorized means, influence 

(A) the action of a military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, United 

States Code, or any member thereof, in reaching the findings or sentence in any case; 

(B) the action of any convening, approving, or reviewing authority with respect to 

their judicial acts; or 
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(C) the exercise of professional judgment by trial counsel or defense counsel. 

(3) The provisions of this subsection, and subsection (b) below, shall not apply with 

respect to— 

(A) general instructional or informational courses in military justice if such 

courses are designed solely for the purpose of instructing members of a command in the 

substantive and procedural aspects of military commissions; 

(B) statements and instructions given in open proceedings by a judge or counsel;

(C) contempt proceedings under 10 U.S.C. § 950t(31); or

(D) professional supervision and discipline under R.M.C. 109.

(b) United States Court of Military Commission Review.

(1) No person may attempt to coerce or, by any unauthorized means, influence—

(A) the action of a judge on the United States Court of Military Commissions 

Review in reaching a decision on the findings or sentence on appeal in any case; or

(B) the exercise of professional judgment by trial counsel or defense counsel 

appearing before the United States Court of Military Commission Review.

(2) No person may censure, reprimand, or admonish a judge on the United States Court 

of Military Commission Review, or counsel thereof, with respect to any exercise of their 

functions in the conduct of proceedings under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code.

(3) No appellate military judge on the United States Court of Military Commission 

Review may be reassigned to other duties, except under circumstances as follows:

(A) The appellate military judge voluntarily requests to be reassigned to other 

duties and the Secretary of Defense, or the designee of the Secretary, in consultation with the 

Judge Advocate General of the armed force of which the appellate military judge is a member, 

approves such reassignment.

(B) The appellate military judge retires or otherwise separates from the armed 

forces.

(C) The appellate military judge is reassigned to other duties by the Secretary of 

Defense, or the designee of the Secretary, in consultation with the Judge Advocate General of the 

armed force of which the appellate military judge is a member, based on military necessity and 

such reassignment is consistent with service rotation regulations (to the extent such regulations 

are applicable).
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(D) The appellate military judge is withdrawn by the Secretary of Defense, or the 

designee of the Secretary, in consultation with the Judge Advocate General of the armed force of 

which the appellate military judge is a member, for good cause consistent with applicable 

procedures under chapter 47 of title 10 (the Uniform Code of Military Justice).

(c) Professional supervision. Subsections (a)(1) and (2) of this rule do not prohibit action by the 

Judge Advocate General concerned under R.M.C. 109. 

(d) Offense. Subsection (a)(1) and (2) of this rule do not prohibit appropriate action against a 

person for an offense committed while detailed as a judge, counsel, or member of a military 

commission, or while serving as individual counsel. 

(e) Prohibition on Consideration of Actions on Commission in Evaluation of Fitness. In the 

preparation of an effectiveness, fitness, or efficiency report or any other report or document used 

in whole or in part for the purpose of determining whether a commissioned officer of the armed 

forces is qualified to be advanced in grade, or in determining the assignment for transfer of such 

officer, or whether any such officer should be retained on active duty, no person may: 

(1) consider or evaluate the performance of duty of any such person as a member of a 

military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code; or 

(2) give a less favorable rating or evaluation to any commissioned officer because of the 

zeal with which such officer, in acting as counsel represented any accused before a military 

commission under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code. 

Rule 105. Direct communications: convening authorities and Legal Advisors; among Legal 

Advisors 

(a) Convening authorities and legal advisors. Convening authorities shall at all times 

communicate directly with their legal advisors in matters relating to the administration of 

military commissions. 

(b) Among legal advisors. Legal advisors may communicate directly with colleagues and 

superiors. 

(c) Among members of the Judge Advocate General’s Corps. Nothing in this Manual is intended 

to preclude Judge Advocates from seeking and receiving advice, as appropriate, from their 

respective service Judge Advocates General. 

Rule 106. Delivery of unprivileged enemy belligerents to civilian authorities 

Reserved.

Rule 107. 

Reserved.
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Rule 108. Rules of court 

The Chief Trial Judge for Military Commissions may make rules of court not inconsistent with 

these rules for the conduct of the military commission’s proceedings. Such rules shall be 

disseminated in accordance with procedures prescribed by the chief judge or a person to whom 

this authority has been delegated. Noncompliance with such procedures shall not affect the 

validity of any rule of court with respect to a party who has received actual and timely notice of 

the rule or who has not been prejudiced under 10 U.S.C. § 950a by the absence of such notice. 

Copies of all rules of court issued under this rule shall be forwarded to the convening authority 

concerned. 

Rule 109. Professional responsibility rules for military judges and counsel 

(a) In general. Each Judge Advocate General is responsible for the professional supervision and 

discipline of military trial and appellate military judges, judge advocates, and other lawyers who 

practice in proceedings governed by chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, and this 

Manual. 

(b) Application of professional responsibility rules to attorneys. 

(1) In addition to complying with State and service-specific Rules of Professional 

Conduct, all attorneys practicing before military commissions shall adhere to any rules of 

professional responsibility prescribed by the Secretary of Defense and shall, in the course of 

practice before military commissions, apply state, service-specific and commission-specific rules 

of practice and professional responsibility consistent with the provisions of this Rule. 

(2) Failure to adhere to the rules applicable to trials by military commission may be 

subject to appropriate action by the military judge, the convening authority, the Judge Advocate 

General of the appropriate armed force, or the General Counsel of the Department of Defense. 

Such action may include permanently barring an individual from participating in any military 

commission proceeding convened pursuant to chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, and 

this Manual, punitive measures imposed under R.M.C. 809, and any other lawful sanction. 

(3) Recognizing the specialized nature of military commissions and military commissions 

practice the following principles and procedures shall apply to trials by military commission 

under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, and this Manual: 

(A) In effecting a choice of law between the professional responsibility rules of a 

counsel’s licensing jurisdiction and the rules, regulations, and instructions applicable to trials by 

military commission, the latter shall be considered paramount, unless such consideration is 

expressly forbidden by the rules of a counsel’s licensing jurisdiction. 

(i) Any military counsel who believes such an express prohibition exists 

shall immediately bring the matter to the attention of the chief prosecutor or chief defense 

counsel, the convening authority, and the military judge, if one has been detailed. If the conflict 

cannot be resolved, the military judge or the chief prosecutor or chief defense counsel, as 
II-13

appropriate, shall remove the affected counsel from the case and may effect detail of another 

military counsel. 

(ii) Any civilian defense counsel who raises such a prohibition may elect 

to remain on the case, but may not thereafter raise the conflict as an impediment to complying 

with any statute, rule, regulation, or instruction applicable to trials by military commission and 

waives any issue arising from any alleged prohibition or conflict on appeal, either interlocutory 

or due course. 

(B) Military commissions shall be deemed a “court,” “forum,” or “tribunal” for 

the purposes of construing any choice of law provision in the professional responsibility rules of 

a counsel’s licensing jurisdiction that defers to the rules of a court, tribunal, or other forum. 

(C) If an express conflict exists between the rules applicable to trials by military 

commission and the branch specific armed forces Rules of Professional Conduct, the convening 

authority or military judge shall apply the rules applicable to trials by military commission only 

after the legal advisor to the convening authority has coordinated with The Judge Advocate 

General of the appropriate armed force to resolve the conflict. If the conflict cannot be resolved, 

the chief prosecutor or chief defense counsel, as appropriate, or the military judge shall remove 

the affected counsel from the case and may effect detail of another military counsel. 

(D) Prior to approving assignment of a military defense counsel to the Office of 

Chief Defense Counsel, the chief defense counsel will verify that licensing bar association rules 

of each such counsel cannot reasonably be foreseen as an impediment to that counsel’s 

adherence to the rules of professional responsibility expressly applicable to trials by military 

commission. 

(c) Application of professional responsibility rules to judges. If the conduct of a military judge, 

in the course of military commissions practice appears to be in violation of applicable servicespecific Rules of Professional Conduct or rules of other jurisdictions that regulate the 

professional conduct of attorneys, and the military judge’s conduct was not undertaken to 

comply with an express requirement of chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, this Manual, 

or other statute or regulation applicable to trials by military commission, the convening authority 

may forward information concerning such instances to the Judge Advocate General of the 

appropriate armed force. 
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CHAPTER II. JURISDICTION

Rule 201. Jurisdiction in general 

(a) Nature of jurisdiction of military commissions. 

(1) The jurisdiction of a military commission is penal. 

Discussion

“Jurisdiction” means the power to hear a case and to render a legally competent decision. A military commission has 

no power to adjudge civil remedies. For example, a military commission may not adjudge the payment of damages, 

collect private debts, order the return of property, or order a criminal forfeiture of seized property. 

(2) Chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, applies in all places. 

(3) The jurisdiction of a military commission with respect to offenses under chapter 47A 

of title 10, United States Code, is not affected by the place where the military commission sits. 

The jurisdiction of a military commission with respect to military government or the law of war 

is not affected by the place where the military commission sits except as otherwise expressly 

required by this Manual or applicable rule of international law. 

(b) Requisites of military commission jurisdiction. A military commission always has 

jurisdiction to determine whether it has jurisdiction. Otherwise for a military commission to have 

jurisdiction: 

(1) The military commission must be convened by an official empowered to convene it; 

(2) The military commission must be composed in accordance with these rules with 

respect to number and qualifications of its personnel. As used here “personnel” includes only the 

military judge and the members; 

(3) Each charge before the military commission must be referred to it by a competent 

authority; 

(4) The accused must be a person subject to military commission jurisdiction; and

(5) The offense must be subject to military commission jurisdiction. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 203. The judgment of a military commission without jurisdiction is void and is entitled to no legal 

effect. 

(c) Contempt. A military commission may punish for contempt any person who uses any 

menacing word, sign, or gesture in its presence, or who disturbs its proceedings by any riot or 

disorder. The punishment may not exceed confinement for 30 days or a fine of $1000, or both.
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Discussion

See R.M.C. 809 for procedures and standards for contempt proceedings. 

(d) Types of military commissions. 

(1) Non-capital military commissions. All cases not referred capital by the convening 

authority are non-capital cases, even if they contemplate trial of one or more offenses for which 

the sentence of death is specifically authorized under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, 

or the law of war. 

(2) Capital military commission. Any commission in which: 

(A) The case has been referred with a special instruction that the case be tried as 

capital; and

(B) A sentence of death is specifically authorized under chapter 47A of title 10, 

United States Code, or the law of war for one or more offenses referred to trial. 

Rule 202. Persons subject to the jurisdiction of the military commissions 

(a) In general. Any alien unprivileged enemy belligerent is subject to trial by military 

commission under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code.

(b) Privileged belligerents. Military commissions under chapter 47A of title 10, United States 

Code, shall not have jurisdiction over privileged belligerents. 

(c) Competent Tribunal. A military commission is a competent tribunal to make a finding 

sufficient for jurisdiction.

Rule 203. Jurisdiction over the offense 

A military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, shall have jurisdiction 

to try persons subject to that chapter for any offense made punishable by that chapter, sections 

904 and 906 of title 10 (articles 104 and 106 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice), or the law 

of war, whether such offense was committed before, on, or after September 11, 2001, and may, 

under such limitations as the President or Secretary of Defense may prescribe, adjudge any 

punishment not forbidden by that chapter. 

Rule 204. 

Reserved.
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CHAPTER III. INITIATION OF CHARGES; RELATED MATTERS

Rule 301. Report of offense 

Any person may report an offense subject to trial by military commission. 

Rule 302.

Reserved.

Rule 303. 

Reserved.

Rule 304. 

Reserved.

Rule 305. 

Reserved.

Rule 306. 

Reserved.

Rule 307. Swearing of charges 

(a) Who may swear charges. Any person subject to chapter 47 of title 10 may swear charges. 

Discussion

No person may be ordered to swear charges to which that person is unable to make truthfully the required oath. See

Article 30(a) of the Code and section (b) of this rule. A person who has been the accuser or nominal accuser (see

Article 1(9) of the Code) may not also serve as the convening authority of a military commission to which the 

charges are later referred. 

(b) How charges are sworn; oath. Charges and specifications against an accused in a military 

commission under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, shall be signed by a person 

subject to chapter 47 of title 10 under oath before a commissioned officer of the armed forces 

authorized to administer oaths and shall state:

(1) that the signer has personal knowledge of, or reason to believe, the matters set forth 

therein; and

(2) that such matters are true in fact to the best of the signer’s knowledge and belief.
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Discussion

See 10 U.S.C. § 948q(a). The following form may be used to administer the oath: 

“You (swear) (affirm) that you are a person subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice, that you have personal 

knowledge of or have investigated the matters set forth in the foregoing charge(s) and specification(s), and that the 

same are true in fact to the best of your knowledge and belief. (So help you God.)” 

The accuser’s belief may be based upon reports of others in whole or in part. 

(c) How to allege offenses. 

(1) In general. The format of charge and specification is used to allege violations under 

chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code. 

(2) Charge. A charge states the offense as defined in this Manual or under the law of war 

that the accused is alleged to have committed. 

(3) Specification. A specification is a plain, concise, and definite statement of the 

essential facts constituting the offense charged. A specification is sufficient if it alleges every 

element of the charged offense expressly or by necessary implication. Except for aggravating 

circumstances under R.M.C. 1001(b)(2), facts that increase the maximum authorized punishment 

must be alleged in order to permit the possible increased punishment. No particular format is 

required. 

(4) Multiple offenses. Charges and specifications alleging all known offenses by an 

accused may be sworn at the same time. Each specification shall state only one offense. What is 

substantially one transaction should not be the basis for an unreasonable multiplication of 

charges against one person. 

(5) Multiple offenders. A specification may name more than one person as an accused if 

each person so named is believed by the accuser to be a principal in the offense that is the subject 

of the specification. 

(d) Capital offenses. If the offenses charged are offenses for which the maximum possible 

punishment is death, the trial counsel will make a recommendation as to whether the convening 

authority should refer the case to a capital military commission. The trial counsel will include in 

the transmittal letter which aggravating factor(s) the prosecution intends to prove or rely on to 

pursue a death sentence pursuant to R.M.C. 1004(b)(1) and (c).

(e) Harmless error in citation. Error in or omission of the designation of any section or 

subsection of chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, or other statute, or law of war, violated 

shall not be ground for dismissal of a charge or reversal of a conviction if the error or omission 

did not prejudicially mislead the accused. 
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Rule 308. Notification to accused of charges 

Upon the swearing of the charges and specifications, the accused shall be informed of the 

charges and specifications against the accused as soon as practicable. Such charges shall be in 

English and, if appropriate, in another language that the accused understands. The notification 

shall also include any recommendation by the trial counsel to the convening authority refer the 

case to a capital military commission.
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CHAPTER IV. FORWARDING AND DISPOSITION OF CHARGES

Rule 401. Forwarding and disposition of charges in general 

(a) Who may dispose of charges. Only the Secretary of Defense or an officer or official of the 

United States designated by the Secretary for the purpose to convene military commissions may 

dispose of charges. A superior competent authority may withhold the authority of a subordinate 

to dispose of charges in individual cases, types of case, or generally.

(b) How charges may be disposed of. Unless the authority to do so has been limited or 

withheld by a superior competent authority, an authority may dispose of charges by dismissing 

any or all of them, forwarding any or all of them to another authority for disposition, or referring 

any or all of them to a military commission. 

Discussion

A proper authority may dispose of charges individually or collectively. If charges are referred to a military 

commission, ordinarily all known charges should be referred to a single military commission. Charges are 

ordinarily dismissed by lining out and initialing the deleted specifications or otherwise recording that a specification 

is dismissed. When all charges and specifications are dismissed, the accuser and the accused ordinarily should be 

informed. A charge should be dismissed when it fails to state an offense, when it is unsupported by available 

evidence, or when there are other sound reasons why trial by military commission is not appropriate. Charges may 

be dismissed because trial would be detrimental to the prosecution of a war or harmful to national security, see

R.M.C. 407(b). 

Rule 402. 

Reserved.

Rule 403. 

Reserved.

Rule 404. 

Reserved.

Rule 405. 

Reserved.

Rule 406. Pretrial advice 

(a) In general. Before any charge may be referred for trial by a military commission, it shall be 

referred to the legal advisor of the convening authority for consideration and advice. 
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Discussion

The legal advisor to a convening authority may make changes in the charges and specifications in accordance with 

RMC 603.

(b) Contents. The advice of the legal advisor shall include a written and signed statement which 

sets forth that person’s: 

(1) Conclusion with respect to whether each specification alleges an offense made 

punishable under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code; 

(2) Conclusion with respect to whether the allegation of each offense is warranted by the 

evidence indicated in the report of investigation (if there is such a report); 

(3) Conclusion with respect to whether a military commission would have jurisdiction 

over the accused and the offense; 

(4) Conclusion, after consultation with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence 

and appropriate intelligence agencies, with respect to whether trial of the charges would be 

harmful to national security; and 

(5) Recommendation of the action to be taken by the convening authority. 

Discussion

The legal advisor is personally responsible for the pretrial advice and must make an independent and informed 

appraisal of the charges and evidence in order to render the advice. Another person may prepare the advice, but the 

legal advisor is, unless disqualified, responsible for it and must sign it personally. Grounds for disqualification in a 

case include previous action in that case as investigating officer, military judge, trial counsel, defense counsel, or 

member. 

The advice need not set forth the underlying analysis or rationale for its conclusions. Ordinarily, the charging 

document is forwarded with the pretrial advice. In addition, the pretrial advice should include when appropriate: a 

brief summary of the evidence; and discussion of significant aggravating, extenuating, or mitigating factors. 

Whatever matters are included in the advice, whether or not they are required, should be accurate. Information 

which is incorrect or so incomplete as to be misleading may result in a determination that the advice is defective. 

The standard of proof to be applied in R.M.C. 406(b)(2) is probable cause. See R.M.C. 601(d). Defects in the pretrial 

advice are not jurisdictional and are raised by pretrial motion. 

(c) Distribution. A copy of the advice of the legal advisor shall be provided to the defense if 

charges are referred to trial by military commission. 

Rule 407. Action by convening authority 

(a) Disposition. When in receipt of charges, a convening authority may: 

(1) Dismiss any charges or specifications; 
II-21

(2) Forward charges (or, after dismissing charges, the matter) to a subordinate convening 

authority for disposition;

(3) Forward any charges to a superior competent authority for disposition;

(4) Subject to R.M.C. 601(d), refer any or all charges to a military commission. 

(b) National security matters. When in receipt of charges the trial of which the convening 

authority finds would probably be inimical to the prosecution of a war or harmful to national 

security, that convening authority, unless otherwise prescribed by regulations of the Secretary of 

Defense, and after appropriate consultation with the Office of the Director of National 

Intelligence, shall determine whether trial is warranted and, if so, whether the security 

considerations involved are paramount to a trial. As the convening authority finds appropriate, he 

may dismiss the charges, authorize trial of them, or forward them to a superior competent 

authority. 
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CHAPTER V. MILITARY COMMISSION COMPOSITION AND PERSONNEL; 

CONVENING MILITARY COMMISSION

Rule 501. Composition and personnel of military commission 

(a) Composition of a military commission.

(1) A non-capital military commission shall consist of a military judge and at least five 

primary members and as many alternate members as the convening authority shall detail. 

Alternate members shall be designated in the order in which they will replace an excused 

primary or alternate member.

(2) Subject to the provisions of subsection (3), a capital military commission shall consist 

of a military judge and not less than twelve primary members. 

(3) In any capital case in which twelve primary members are not reasonably available 

because of physical conditions or military exigencies, the convening authority shall specify a 

lesser number of primary members for the military commission but not fewer than nine primary 

members. In such a case, the convening authority shall make a detailed statement, to be 

appended to the record, stating why a greater number of members were not reasonably available. 

(b) Counsel in a Military Commission. Military trial and defense counsel shall be detailed to 

military commissions by the Chief Prosecutor and Chief Defense Counsel, respectively. 

Assistant trial and associate or assistant defense counsel may also be detailed. Civilian trial 

counsel may be detailed by the Chief Prosecutor, with the approval of the convening authority 

and, if such counsel are employed by another government agency, with the approval of the head 

of that agency. Should an accused, pursuant to his request, be deemed competent to represent 

himself, detailed defense counsel shall serve as standby counsel. 

(c) Court reporters. The convening authority of the military commission shall detail to or 

employ for the commission qualified court reporters.

(d) Interpreters. The convening authority may detail or employ for the military commission 

interpreters. 

(e) Military Magistrates. The Chief Trial Judge may designate [or detail], subject to such rules 

as the Secretary may prescribe, one or more military magistrates who shall perform such 

functions as the Secretary may prescribe in regulation. 

(f) Military Commission Privilege Team. To balance national security with applicable legal 

privileges there may be a Military Commissions Privilege Team (M.C.P.T.) subject to such 

Regulations as the Secretary may prescribe.

(g) Other personnel. Other personnel, such as, interpreters, reporters, escorts, bailiffs, clerks, 

guards, and orderlies, may be detailed or employed as appropriate but need not be detailed by the 

convening authority personally. 
II-23

Rule 502. Qualifications and duties of personnel of military commissions 

(a) Members.

(1) Qualifications. Any commissioned officer of the armed forces on active duty is 

eligible to serve on a military commission, including commissioned officers of the reserve 

components of the armed forces on active duty, commissioned officers of the National Guard on 

active duty in Federal service, or retired commissioned officers recalled to active duty. 

(2) Role of primary and alternate members.

(A) Primary members. Primary members of a military commission are voting 

members.

(B) Alternate members. A military commission may include alternate members to 

replace primary members who are excused from service on the commission. 

(3) Duties. The members of a military commission shall determine whether the accused is 

proved guilty and, if necessary, adjudge a proper sentence, based on the evidence and in 

accordance with the instructions of the military judge. Each primary member has an equal voice 

and vote with other primary members in deliberating upon and deciding all matters submitted to 

them, except as otherwise specifically provided in these rules. No member may use rank or 

position to influence another member. No member of a military commission may have access to 

or use in any open or closed session this Manual, reports of decided cases, or any other reference 

material. 

Discussion

Members should avoid any conduct or communication with the military judge, witnesses, or other trial personnel 

during the trial which might present an appearance of partiality. Except as provided in these rules, members should 

not discuss any part of a case with anyone until the matter is submitted to them for determination. Members should 

not on their own visit or conduct a view of the scene of the crime and should not investigate or gather evidence of 

the offense. Members should not form an opinion on any matter in connection with a case until that matter has been 

submitted to them for determination. 

(b) President. 

(1) Qualifications. The president of a military commission shall be the detailed member 

senior in rank then serving. 

(2) Duties. The president shall have the same duties as the other members and shall also: 

(A) Preside over closed sessions of the members of the military commission 

during their deliberations; 

(B) Speak for the members of the commission when announcing the decision of 

the members or requesting instructions from the military judge; 
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(c) Military judge. 

(1) Qualifications. A military judge shall be a commissioned officer of the armed forces, 

serving on active duty, who is a member of the bar of a Federal court or a member of the bar of 

the highest court of a State or the District of Columbia. The military judge shall be certified to 

be qualified for duty under 10 U.S.C. § 826 (Article 26 of the Code) by The Judge Advocate 

General of the armed force of which such military judge is a member. 

Discussion

Any officer so selected who is not currently serving on active duty, but consents to the selection, may be ordered to 

active duty for this purpose, in accordance with applicable service regulations.

(2) Ineligibility of certain individuals. No person is eligible to act as military judge in a 

case of a military commission if he is the accuser or a witness or has acted as investigator or a 

counsel in the same case. 

(3) Consultation with members; ineligibility to vote. A military judge detailed to a 

military commission may not consult with the members of the commission except in the 

presence of the accused (except as otherwise provided by R.M.C. 803), trial counsel, and 

defense counsel, nor may such military judge vote with the members of the commission. 

(4) Other duties. A commissioned officer who is certified to be qualified for duty as a 

military judge of a military commission may perform such other duties as are assigned to him by 

or with the approval of the Judge Advocate General of the armed force of which such officer is a 

member or the designee of such Judge Advocate General. 

(5) Prohibition on evaluation of fitness by convening authority. The convening authority 

of a military commission may not prepare or review any report concerning the effectiveness, 

fitness, or efficiency of a military judge detailed to the military commission which relates to such 

judge's performance of duty as a military judge on the military commission. 

(d) Counsel. 

(1) Trial counsel. Subject to subsection (4), trial counsel detailed for a military 

commission under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, shall be—

(A) A judge advocate (as that term is defined in section 801 of title 10 (Article 1 

of the Uniform Code of Military Justice)) who is—

(i) a graduate of an accredited law school or is a member of the bar of a 

Federal court or of the highest court of a State or District of Columbia; and

(ii) certified as competent to perform duties as trial counsel before general 

courts-martial by the Judge Advocate General of the armed force of which such judge advocate 

is a member; or
II-25

(B) A civilian who is—

(i) a member of the bar of a Federal court or of the highest court of a State 

or District of Columbia; and

(ii) otherwise qualified to practice before the military commission 

pursuant to regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense.

(2) Military defense counsel. Subject to subsection (5), a military defense counsel 

detailed for a military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, shall be a 

judge advocate (as so defined) who is—

(A) A graduate of an accredited law school or a member of the bar of a Federal 

court or of the highest court of a State or District of Columbia; and

(B) Certified as competent to perform duties as defense counsel before general 

courts-martial by the Judge Advocate General of the armed force of which such judge advocate 

is a member.

(3) Civilian defense counsel. The accused may be represented by civilian counsel if 

retained by the accused, provided that such civilian counsel—

(A) is a United States citizen;

(B) is admitted to the practice of law in a State, district, or possession of the 

United States, or before a Federal court;

(C) has not been the subject of any sanction of disciplinary action by any court, 

bar, or other competent governmental authority for relevant misconduct;

(D) has been determined to be eligible for access to information classified at the 

level Secret or higher;

(E) has signed a written agreement to comply with all applicable regulations or 

instructions for counsel, including any rules of court for conduct during the proceedings and to 

protect any classified information received during the course of representation of the accused in 

accordance with all applicable law governing the protection of classified information, and to not 

divulge such information to any person not authorized to receive it.

(4) Chief prosecutor; chief defense counsel. 

(A) The Chief Prosecutor in a military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, 

United States Code, shall meet the requirements set forth in subsection (d)(1)(A).

(B) The Chief Defense Counsel in a military commission under chapter 47A of 

title 10, United States Code, shall meet the requirements set forth in subsection (d)(2).
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(C) In general, the Chief Prosecutor and the Chief Defense Counsel shall have 

the same grade. The Secretary of Defense may temporarily waive the same grade requirement, if 

the Secretary determines compliance would:

(i) be infeasible due to non-availability of qualified officers of the same 

grade to fill the billets of Chief Prosecutor and Chief Defense Counsel; or

(ii) cause a significant disruption to proceedings.

(5) Ineligibility of certain individuals. No person who has acted as an investigator, 

accuser, military judge, or member of a military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, 

United States Code, in any case may act later as trial counsel or military defense counsel in the 

same case. No person who has acted for the prosecution before a military commission under 

chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, may act later in the same case for the defense, nor 

may any person who has acted for the defense before a military commission under chapter 47A 

of title 10, United States Code, act later in the same case for the prosecution.

Discussion

In the absence of evidence to the contrary, it is presumed that a person who, between referral and trial of a case, has 

been detailed as counsel for any party to the military commission to which the case has been referred, has acted in 

that capacity. 

(6) Duties of trial and assistant trial counsel. The trial counsel shall prosecute cases on 

behalf of the United States and shall cause the record of trial of such cases to be prepared. Under 

the supervision of trial counsel, an assistant trial counsel may perform any act or duty which trial 

counsel may perform under law, regulation, or custom of the service. 

Discussion

(A) General duties before trial. Upon receipt of referred charges, trial counsel should cause a copy of the charges to 

be served upon accused (see R.M.C. 602). Trial counsel should: examine the charging document and allied papers 

for completeness and correctness; correct (and initial) minor errors or obvious mistakes in the charges but may not 

without authority make any substantial changes (see R.M.C. 603); and assure that the information about the accused 

on the charge sheet and any evidence of previous convictions are accurate.

(B) Relationship with convening authority. Trial counsel should: report to the convening authority any substantial 

irregularity in the convening orders, charges, or allied papers; report an actual or anticipated reduction of the number 

of members below quorum to the convening authority; bring to the attention of the convening authority any case in 

which trial counsel finds trial inadvisable for lack of evidence or other reasons. 

(C) Relations with the accused and defense counsel. Trial counsel must communicate with a represented accused 

only through the accused’s defense counsel. But see R.M.C. 602. Trial counsel may not attempt to induce an 

accused to plead guilty or surrender other important rights. 

(D) Preparation for trial. Trial counsel should: ensure that a suitable room, a reporter (if authorized), and necessary 

equipment and supplies are provided for the military commission; obtain copies of the charges and specifications 

and convening orders for each member and all personnel of the commission; give timely notice to the members, 

other parties, other personnel of the commission, and witnesses for the prosecution and (if known) defense of the 

date, time, place, and uniform of the meetings of the commission; ensure that any person having custody of the 
II-27

accused is also informed; comply with applicable discovery rules (see R.M.C. 701); prepare to make a prompt, full, 

and orderly presentation of the evidence at trial; consider the elements of proof of each offense charged, the burden 

of proof of guilt and the burdens of proof on motions which may be anticipated, and the Military Commission Rules 

of Evidence; secure for use at trial such legal texts as may be available and necessary to sustain the prosecution’s 

contentions; arrange for the presence of witnesses and evidence in accordance with R.M.C. 703; prepare to make an 

opening statement of the prosecution’s case (see R.M.C. 913(b)); prepare to conduct the examination and crossexamination of witnesses; and prepare to make final argument on the findings and, if necessary, on sentencing (see 

R.M.C. 919; 1001(h)). 

(E) Trial. Trial counsel should bring to the attention of the military judge any substantial irregularity in the 

proceedings. Trial counsel should not allude to or disclose to the members any evidence not yet admitted or 

reasonably expected to be admitted in evidence or intimate, transmit, or purport to transmit to the military judge or 

members the views of the convening authority or others as to the guilt or innocence of the accused, an appropriate 

sentence, or any other matter within the discretion of the military commission. 

(F) Post-trial duties. Trial counsel must promptly provide written notice of the findings and sentence adjudged to the 

convening authority or a designee, and the officer in charge of the confinement facility, and supervise the 

preparation, authentication, and distribution of copies of the record as required by these rules (see R.M.C. 1103; 

1104). 

(G) Assistant trial counsel. An assistant trial counsel may act in that capacity only under the supervision of the 

detailed trial counsel. Responsibility for trial of a case may not devolve to an assistant not qualified to serve as trial 

counsel. Unless the contrary appears, all acts of an assistant trial counsel are presumed to have been done by the 

direction of the trial counsel. An assistant trial counsel may not act in the absence of trial counsel at trial in a 

military commission unless the assistant has the qualifications required of a trial counsel (see R.M.C. 805(c)).

(7) Duties of defense and associate or assistant defense counsel. Defense counsel shall 

represent the accused in matters under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, and these 

rules arising from the offenses of which the accused is then suspected or charged. Under the 

supervision of the defense counsel an associate or assistant defense counsel may perform any act 

or duty which a defense counsel may perform under law, regulation, or custom of the service. 

Discussion

(A) Initial advice by military defense counsel. Defense counsel should promptly explain to the accused the general 

duties of the defense counsel and inform the accused of the right to retain civilian counsel. Unless the accused 

directs otherwise, military counsel will begin preparation of the defense immediately after being detailed without 

waiting for approval of a request for retention of civilian counsel (see R.M.C. 506).

(B) General duties of defense counsel. Defense counsel must: guard the interests of the accused zealously within the 

bounds of the law without regard to personal opinion as to the guilt of the accused; disclose to the accused any 

interest defense counsel may have in connection with the case, any disqualification, and any other matter which 

might influence the accused in the selection of counsel; represent the accused with undivided fidelity and may not 

disclose the accused’s secrets or confidences except as the accused may authorize (see also Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 

502). A defense counsel designated to represent two or more co-accused in a joint or common trial or in allied cases 

must be particularly alert to conflicting interests of those accused. Defense counsel should bring such matters to the 

attention of the military judge so that the accused’s understanding and choice may be made a matter of record. 

Defense counsel must explain to the accused: the type of the military commission, capital or non-capital, the right to 

plead guilty or not guilty and the meaning and effect of a plea of guilty; the applicable rights to introduce evidence, 

to testify or remain silent, and to assert available defenses; and the rights to present evidence during sentencing and 

the rights of the accused to testify under oath, make an unsworn statement, and have counsel make a statement on 

behalf of the accused. These explanations must be made regardless of the intentions of the accused as to testifying 
II-28

and pleading. Defense counsel should try to obtain complete knowledge of the facts of the case before advising the 

accused, and should give the accused a candid opinion of the merits of the case. 

(C) Preparation for trial. Defense counsel may have the assistance of trial counsel in obtaining the presence of 

witnesses and evidence for the defense (see R.M.C. 703). Defense counsel should consider the elements of proof of 

the offenses alleged and the pertinent military commission rules of evidence to ensure that evidence that the defense 

plans to introduce is admissible and to be prepared to object to inadmissible evidence offered by the prosecution. 

Defense counsel should: prepare to make an opening statement of the defense case (see R.M.C. 913(b)); and prepare 

to examine and cross-examine witnesses, and to make final argument on the findings and, if necessary, on 

sentencing (see R.M.C. 919; 1001(h)). 

(D) Trial. Defense counsel should represent and protect the interests of the accused at trial. When a trial proceeds in 

the absence of the accused, defense counsel must continue to represent the accused. 

(E) Post-trial duties. 

(i) Deferment of confinement. If the accused is sentenced to confinement, the defense counsel must 

explain to the accused the right to request the convening authority, or general or flag officer in command should 

their subordinate organization exercise control over the accused, or if no longer under the jurisdiction or control of 

either a convening authority or military command to any official so empowered by the Secretary of Defense or his 

designee to defer service of the sentence to confinement and assist the accused in making such a request if the 

accused chooses to make one (see R.M.C. 1101(c)).

(ii) Examination of the record; appellate brief. The defense counsel should in any case examine the 

record for accuracy and note any errors in it. This notice may be forwarded for attachment to the record (see R.M.C. 

1103(e) and (f)).(iii) Submission of matters. If the accused is convicted, the defense counsel may submit to the 

convening authority matters for the latter’s consideration in deciding whether to approve the sentence or to 

disapprove any findings (see R.M.C. 1105). Defense counsel should discuss with the accused the right to submit 

matters to the convening authority and the powers of the convening authority in taking action on the case. Defense 

counsel may also submit a brief of any matters counsel believes should be considered on further review.

(iii) Appellate rights. Defense counsel must explain to the accused the rights to appellate review that 

apply in the case, and advise the accused concerning the exercise of those rights. Defense counsel should explain the 

powers of the United States Court of Military Commission Review and advise the accused of the right to be 

represented by counsel before it (see R.M.C. 1202). Defense counsel should also explain the right to review by the 

United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit and the possibility of further review by the 

Supreme Court (see R.M.C. 1205). Defense counsel must explain the consequences of waiver of appellate review, 

when applicable, and, if the accused elects to waive appellate review, defense counsel will assist in preparing the 

waiver (see R.M.C. 1110(b)(2)). 

(iv) Examination of post-trial recommendation. When the post-trial recommendation is served on 

defense counsel, defense counsel should examine it and reply promptly in writing, noting any errors or omissions. 

Failure to note defects in the recommendation waives them (see R.M.C. 1106(e)).

(F) Associate or assistant defense counsel. Associate or assistant counsel may act in that capacity only under the 

supervision and by the general direction of the defense counsel. A detailed defense counsel becomes associate 

defense counsel when the accused has other military or civilian counsel and detailed counsel is not excused. 

Although associate counsel acts under the general supervision of the defense counsel, associate defense counsel may 

act without such supervision when circumstances require and only if such counsel has the qualifications to act as 

defense counsel. Responsibility for trial of a case may not devolve upon an assistant who is not qualified to serve as 

defense counsel. An assistant defense counsel may not act in the absence of the defense counsel at trial unless the 

assistant has the qualifications required of a defense counsel. Unless the contrary appears, all acts of an assistant or 

associate defense counsel are presumed to have been done under the supervision of the defense counsel.
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(e) Military magistrates, privilege team members, interpreters, reporters, escorts, bailiffs, clerks, 

guards and orderlies. 

(1) Qualifications. The qualifications of interpreters and reporters may be prescribed by 

the Secretary of Defense. Any person who is not disqualified under subsection (e)(2) of this rule 

may serve as military magistrate, privilege team member, interpreter, reporter, escort, bailiff, 

clerk, guard or orderly, subject to removal by the military judge. 

(2) Disqualifications. In addition to any disqualifications which may be prescribed by the 

Secretary of Defense, no person shall act as military magistrate, privilege team member, 

interpreter, reporter, escort, bailiff, clerk, guard, or orderly in any case in which that person is or 

has been in the same case: 

(A) The accuser; 

(B) A witness; 

(C) Counsel for any party; or 

(D) A member of the military commission or of any earlier commission of which 

the trial is a rehearing or new or other trial. 

(3) Duties. In addition to such other duties as the Secretary may prescribe, the following 

persons may perform the following duties. 

(A) Interpreters. Interpreters shall interpret for the commission and as necessary, 

for the trial counsel and defense counsel and for the accused. 

Discussion 

The accused also may retain an otherwise qualified unofficial interpreter without expense to the United States. 

(B) Reporters. Reporters shall make a verbatim recording of the proceedings of 

and testimony taken before the military commission and shall transcribe them so as to comply 

with the requirements for the record of trial as prescribed in these rules. 

(C) Military Magistrates. The military magistrate is a judicial officer designated 

[or detailed], pursuant to R.M.C. 501(e) and any regulations prescribed by the Secretary, by the 

Chief Judge of the Military Commission Trial Judiciary and shall perform such duties as directed 

by the Chief Judge in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Secretary.

(D) Military Commission Privilege Team (M.C.P.T.). The M.C.P.T. shall 

perform such duties as prescribed by the Secretary or by order of the military judge. 

(E) Others. Other personnel detailed for the assistance of the military commission 

shall have such duties as may be imposed by the military judge. 
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(4) Payment of reporters, interpreters. The Secretary of Defense may prescribe 

regulations for the payment of allowances, expenses, per diem, and compensation of reporters 

and interpreters. 

Discussion 

See R.M.C. 807 regarding oaths for reporters, interpreters, and escorts. 

(f) Action upon discovery of disqualification or lack of qualifications. Any person who discovers 

that a person detailed to a military commission is disqualified or lacks the qualifications 

specified by this rule shall cause a report of the matter to be made to the convening authority, if 

prior to the military commission’s first session, or to the military judge, if during or after trial. 

Rule 503. Detailing members, military judges, and counsel 

(a) Members. The convening authority shall detail active duty commissioned officers as primary 

members and alternate members for trials by military commission. 

(1) The convening authority shall select from the lists of available officers those who are 

best qualified for the duty by reason of age, education, training, experience, length of service, 

and judicial temperament. 

(2) No member of an armed force is eligible to serve as a member of a military 

commission when such member is the accuser or a witness or has acted as an investigator or 

counsel in the same case. 

(3) Alternate members will be designated in the order in which they will replace an 

excused primary member. 

(b) Military judges. 

(1) Military judges. A military judge shall be detailed to preside over each military 

commission by the Chief Trial Judge from a pool of certified military judges nominated for that 

purpose by The Judge Advocates General of each of the military departments. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 502(c) discussion. 

(2) Chief Trial Judge for Military Commissions. The Secretary of Defense or designee 

shall select a military judge from the pool described in subsection (1) to serve as the Chief Trial 

Judge for the Military Commissions. The Chief Trial Judge shall have extensive experience as a 

military judge certified to be qualified for duty as a military judge in general courts-martial and 

shall be currently appointed in the grade of colonel or captain. 
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(3) Military Commissions Trial Judiciary. The Military Commissions Trial Judiciary 

shall consist of the Chief Trial Judge and such military judges as have been nominated under 

(b)(1) to comprise the pool from which military judges will be detailed to military commissions. 

(c) Counsel. As soon as practicable after charges are sworn, military trial and defense counsel 

shall be detailed to each military commission. Assistant trial and associate or assistant defense 

counsel may also be detailed. The Secretary of Defense shall prescribe regulations providing for 

the manner in which trial counsel and military defense counsel are detailed for military 

commissions under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, and for the persons who are 

authorized to detail such counsel for such military commissions. 

(d) Record of detail. The orders detailing counsel shall indicate who made the detail and shall be 

included in the record of trial. The military judge shall announce his or her detail information on 

the record at the military commission. 

Rule 504. Convening military commissions 

(a) In general. A military commission is created by a convening order of the convening 

authority. 

(b) Who may convene military commissions. A military commission may be convened by the 

Secretary of Defense or, unless otherwise limited by superior competent authority, any officer or 

official of the United States designated by the Secretary of Defense. 

(c) Disqualification. 

(1) Accuser. An accuser may not convene a military commission for the trial of the 

person accused. 

(2) Action when disqualified. When a convening authority who would otherwise convene 

a military commission is disqualified in a case, the charges shall be forwarded to the Secretary of 

Defense for disposition. That authority may personally dispose of the charges or forward the 

charges to another convening authority. 

(d) Convening orders. A convening order for a military commission shall detail the primary and 

alternate members and may designate where the military commission will meet. If a convening 

authority has been designated by the Secretary of Defense, the convening order shall so state. 

Additional matters to be included in convening orders may be prescribed by the Secretary of 

Defense. 

(e) Place. The convening authority shall ensure that an appropriate location and facilities for 

military commissions are provided. 

Rule 505. Changes of members, military judge, and counsel 
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(a) In general. Subject to this rule, the members, military judge, and counsel may be changed by 

an authority competent to detail such persons. Members also may be excused as provided 

elsewhere in this rule. 

Discussion

Changes of the members of the military commission should be kept to a minimum. If extensive changes are 

necessary and no session of the military commission has begun, it may be appropriate to withdraw the charges from 

one commission and refer them to another (see R.M.C. 604). 

(b) Procedure. Whenever a primary member is excused from service on the commission, an 

alternate member, if available, shall replace the excused primary member and the trial may 

proceed. When new persons are added as members or counsel or when substitutions are made as 

to any primary members or counsel or the military judge, such persons shall be detailed in 

accordance with R.M.C. 503. An order changing the members of the commission, except one 

which excuses primary members without replacement, shall be reduced to writing before 

authentication of the record of trial. Excusal of any member, including an alternate member, 

shall be reflected in the record. 

Discussion

When members or counsel have been excused and the excusal is not reduced to writing, the excusal should be 

announced on the record. A member who has been temporarily excused need not be formally reappointed to the 

military commission. 

(c) Changes of members. 

(1) Before assembly. Before the military commission is assembled, the convening 

authority may change the primary or alternate members of the military commission without 

showing cause. 

(2) After assembly. After assembly no primary or alternate member may be absent or 

excused, except: 

(A) By the convening authority for good cause shown on the record; 

(B) By the military judge for good cause shown on the record; or 

(C) As a result of challenge under R.M.C. 912;

(D) In the case of an alternate member, by the convening authority in order to 

reduce the number of alternate members required for service on the commission. 

(3) New members. New primary members may be detailed after assembly only when, as a 

result of excusals under subsection (c)(2) of this rule, the number of primary members of the 

commission is reduced below the number required by R.M.C. 501(a) and there are no remaining 

alternate members to replace the excused primary members. The trial may proceed with the new 
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primary members present after the recorded evidence previously introduced before the members 

has been read to the military commission in the presence of the military judge, the accused 

(except as provided in R.M.C. 803), and counsel for both sides. An alternate member who was 

present for the introduction of all evidence shall not be considered to be a new or additional 

member. 

(4) Sentencing. The primary members present for a vote on a sentence need not be the 

same primary members who voted on the conviction if the requirements of section (c)(2) of this 

Rule are met.

(d) Changes of detailed counsel. 

(1) Trial counsel. An authority competent to detail trial counsel may change the trial 

counsel and any assistant trial counsel at any time without showing cause. 

(2) Defense counsel. 

(A) Before formation of attorney-client relationship. Before an attorney-client 

relationship has been formed between the accused and detailed defense counsel or associate or 

assistant defense counsel, an authority competent to detail defense counsel may excuse or change 

such counsel without showing cause. 

(B) After formation of attorney-client relationship. After an attorney-client 

relationship has been formed between the accused and detailed defense counsel or associate or 

assistant defense counsel, an authority competent to detail such counsel may excuse or change 

such counsel only: 

(i) Upon request of the accused or application for withdrawal by such 

counsel; or 

(ii) For other good cause shown on the record. 

(e) Change of military judge. 

(1) Before assembly. Before the military commission is assembled, the military judge 

may be changed by the Chief Trial Judge, without cause shown on the record. 

(2) After assembly. After the military commission is assembled, the military judge may 

be changed by the Chief Trial Judge only when, as a result of disqualification under R.M.C. 902 

or for good cause shown, the previously detailed military judge is unable to proceed. 

(f) Good cause. For purposes of this rule, “good cause” includes physical disability, military 

exigency, and other extraordinary circumstances which render the member, counsel, or military 

judge unable to proceed with the military commission within a reasonable time. “Good cause” 
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does not include temporary inconveniences which are incident to normal conditions of military 

life. 

Rule 506. Accused’s rights to counsel 

(a) In general. The accused has the right to be represented before a military commission by 

civilian counsel if provided at no expense to the Government, by military counsel detailed under 

R.M.C. 503, or by military counsel of the accused's own selection, if reasonably available. 

Except as otherwise provided by section (b) of this rule, the accused is not entitled to be 

represented by more than one military counsel; however, the person authorized under regulations 

prescribed by R.M.C. 503 to detail counsel, in such person’s sole discretion, may detail 

additional military counsel to represent the accused.

(b) Capital Offenses. In any case in which the trial counsel makes a recommendation to the 

convening authority pursuant to R.M.C. 307(d) that a charge be referred to a capital military 

commission, or in which the convening authority refers a charge to a capital military 

commission, the accused has the right to be represented in accordance with section (a) above, 

and by at least one additional counsel who is learned in applicable law relating to capital cases. 

The right to be represented by at least one additional counsel who is learned in applicable law 

relating to capital cases terminates at such time as all charges for which the death penalty is 

authorized are dismissed or referred as a non-capital offenses. Such appointment of learned 

counsel shall be in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense. If 

necessary, such additional learned counsel may be a civilian and may be compensated in 

accordance with regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 502(d)(4) for determining qualifications of civilian defense counsel. See R.M.C. 502(d)(7) and 

505(d)(2) concerning the duties and substitution of defense counsel. These rules and this Manual do not prohibit 

participation on the defense team by consultants not expressly covered by section (d) of this rule, as provided in 

such regulations as the Secretary of Defense may prescribe, subject to the requirements of Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505. 

See 10 U.S.C. § 949a(b)(2)(C).

(c) Individual Military Counsel

(1) Reasonably available. Counsel are not reasonably available to serve as individual 

military counsel unless detailed or assigned to the Office of Military Commissions to perform 

defense counsel duties at the time the request is received by the Office. 

(2) Procedure. Subject to this section, the Secretary may prescribe procedures for 

determining whether a requested person is “reasonably available” to act as individual military 

counsel. Requests for individual military counsel shall be made by the accused or the detailed 

defense counsel with notice to the trial counsel. If the requested person is not reasonably 

available under this rule, the Chief Defense Counsel shall deny the request and notify the 

accused. If the requested counsel is not among those listed as not reasonably available in this 

rule, the Chief Defense Counsel shall make an administrative determination whether the 
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requested person is reasonably available. This determination is a matter within the sole 

discretion of that authority.

(d) Self-representation. The accused may knowingly and competently waive the assistance of 

counsel, subject to the provisions of subparagraph (3).

(1) The accused may expressly waive the right to be represented by counsel and may 

thereafter conduct the defense personally. Such waiver shall be accepted by the military judge 

only if the military judge finds that the accused is competent to understand the disadvantages of 

self-representation and that the waiver is voluntary and understanding. 

(2) The military judge shall require that a detailed defense counsel remain present even if 

the accused waives counsel and conducts the defense personally. 

(3) If the waiver is accepted, the accused shall conform the accused's deportment and the 

conduct of the defense to the rules of evidence, procedure, and decorum applicable to trials by 

military commission.

(A) Failure of the accused to conform to the rules described in subsection (3) may 

result in a partial or total revocation by the military judge of the right of self-representation. 

(B) In such case, the military counsel of the accused or an appropriately

authorized civilian counsel shall perform the functions necessary for the defense.

(e) Other persons present. Subject to the discretion of the military judge, R.M.C. 903, and such 

regulations as the Secretary of Defense may prescribe, the accused may have present and seated 

at the counsel table for purpose of consultation persons not qualified to serve as counsel under 

R.M.C. 502. 

Discussion

See also Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 615 if the person is a potential witness in the case. Individual military counsel shall 

be qualified as prescribed in R.M.C. 502(d)(2).
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CHAPTER VI. REFERRAL, SERVICE, AMENDMENT, AND WITHDRAWAL OF 

CHARGES

Rule 601. Referral 

(a) In general. Referral is the order of a convening authority that charges against an accused will 

be tried by a specified military commission. 

Discussion

Referral of charges requires three elements: a convening authority who is authorized to convene the military 

commission and is not disqualified (see R.M.C. 601(b) and (c)); sworn charges that have been received by the 

convening authority for disposition (see R.M.C. 307); and a military commission convened by that convening 

authority or a predecessor. If trial would be warranted but would be detrimental to the prosecution of a war or 

inimical to national security, see R.M.C. 407(b). 

(b) Who may refer. A convening authority may refer charges to a military commission convened 

by that convening authority, or a predecessor, unless the power to do so has been withheld by 

superior competent authority. 

(c) Disqualification. An accuser may not refer charges to a military commission. 

Discussion

Convening authorities are not disqualified from referring charges by prior participation in the same case except 

when they have acted as accuser. For a definition of “accuser,” see the discussion following R.M.C. 103. A 

convening authority who is disqualified may forward the charges and allied papers for disposition by competent 

authority superior authority.

(d) When charges may be referred. 

(1) If the convening authority finds, or is advised by a legal advisor that there are 

reasonable grounds to believe that an offense triable by a military commission has been 

committed and that the accused committed it, and that the specification alleges an offense, the 

convening authority may refer the charge and specification to a military commission for trial. 

The finding may be based on hearsay in whole or in part. The convening authority or legal 

advisor may consider information from any source and shall not be limited to the information 

reviewed by any previous authority, but a case may not be referred to a military commission 

except in compliance with R.M.C. 406. The convening authority or legal advisor shall not be 

required before charges are referred to resolve legal issues, including objections to evidence, 

which may arise at trial. 

(2) If a charge transmitted by trial counsel to the convening authority is a charge for 

which the death penalty is authorized, the convening authority may not refer the charge as a 

capital offense unless the provisions regarding the provision of learned counsel under Rule 

506(b) have been met. 
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(e) How charges shall be referred. 

(1) Order, instructions. Referral shall be by the personal order of the convening authority. 

The convening authority may include proper instructions in the order. 

Discussion

Referral is ordinarily evidenced by an indorsement to the charging document. The signature may be that of a person 

acting by the order or direction of the convening authority. In such a case, the signature element must reflect the 

signer’s authority. 

The convening authority may instruct that the charges against the accused be tried with certain other charges against 

the accused. (See subsection (2) below). The convening authority may instruct that charges against one accused be 

referred for joint or common trial with another accused. (See subsection (3) below). Capital offenses may be 

referred as non-capital. Any special instructions must be stated in the referral indorsement. When the charges have 

been referred to a military commission, the indorsed charge sheet and allied papers should be promptly transmitted 

to the trial counsel. 

(2) Joinder of offenses. In the discretion of the convening authority, two or more offenses 

charged against an accused may be referred to the same military commission for trial, whether 

serious or minor offenses or both, regardless whether related. Additional charges may be joined 

with other charges for a single trial at any time before arraignment if all necessary procedural 

requirements concerning additional charges have been complied with. After arraignment of the 

accused upon charges, no additional charges may be referred to the same trial without consent of 

the accused. 

Discussion

Ordinarily all known charges should be referred to a single trial by military commission.

(3) Joinder of accused. Allegations against two or more accused may be referred for joint 

trial if the accused are alleged to have participated in the same act or transaction or in the same 

series of acts or transactions constituting an offense or offenses. Such accused may be charged 

in one or more specifications together or separately, and every accused need not be charged in 

each specification. Related allegations against two or more accused which may be proved by 

substantially the same evidence may be referred to a common trial. 

Discussion

A joint offense is one committed by two or more persons acting together with a common intent. Joint offenses may 

be referred for joint trial, along with all related offenses against each of the accused. A common trial may be used 

when the evidence of several offenses committed by several accused separately is essentially the same, even though 

the offenses were not jointly committed. A joint offense is one committed by two or more persons acting together 

with a common intent. Offenders are properly joined only if there is a common unlawful design or purpose. 

Convening authorities should consider that joint and common trials may be complicated by procedural and 

evidentiary rules. 
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(f) Superior convening authorities. Except as otherwise provided in these rules, a superior 

competent authority may cause charges, whether or not referred, to be transmitted to the 

authority for further consideration, including, if appropriate, referral. 

Rule 602. Service of charges 

The trial counsel assigned to a case before a military commission shall cause to be served upon 

the accused and military defense counsel a copy of the charges upon which trial is to be had. 

Such charges shall be served in English and, if appropriate, in another language that the accused 

understands. Such service shall be made sufficiently in advance of trial to prepare a defense. 

Discussion

Trial counsel should comply with this rule upon receipt of the charges. Whenever after service the charges are 

amended or changed the trial counsel must give notice of the changes to the defense counsel. Whenever such 

amendments or changes add a new party, a new offense, or substantially new allegations, the charge sheet so 

amended or changed must be served anew (see also R.M.C. 603). Service may be made only upon the accused; 

substitute service upon defense counsel is insufficient. The trial counsel should promptly inform the defense counsel 

when charges have been served. If the accused has questions when served with charges, the accused should be told 

to discuss the matter with defense counsel. 

Rule 603. Changes to charges and specifications 

(a) Minor changes defined. Minor changes in charges and specifications are any except those 

which add a party, offenses, or substantial matter not fairly included in those previously sworn, 

or which are likely to mislead the accused as to the offenses charged. 

Discussion

Minor changes include those necessary to correct inartfully drafted or redundant specifications; to correct a 

misnaming of the accused; to allege the proper offense; or to correct other slight errors. Minor charges also include 

those which reduce the seriousness of an offense. 

(b) Minor changes before arraignment. Any person forwarding, acting upon, or prosecuting 

charges on behalf of the United States may make minor changes to charges or specifications 

before arraignment. 

Discussion

Charges forwarded or referred for trial should be free from defects of form and substance. Minor errors may be 

corrected and the charge may be redrafted without being sworn anew by the accuser. Other changes should be 

signed and sworn to by an accuser. All changes in the charges should be initialed by the person who makes them. A 

trial counsel acting under this provision ordinarily should consult with the convening authority before making any 

changes which, even though minor, change the nature or seriousness of the offense. 

(c) Minor changes after arraignment. After arraignment the military judge may, upon motion, 

permit minor changes in the charges and specifications at any time before findings are 

announced if no substantial right of the accused is prejudiced. 
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(d) Major changes. Changes or amendments to charges or specifications other than minor 

changes may not be made over the objection of the accused unless the charge or specification 

affected is sworn anew. 

Discussion

If there has been a major change or amendment over the accused’s objection to a charge already referred, a new 

referral is necessary. When charges are re-referred, they must be served anew under R.M.C. 602. Any charges or 

specifications sworn or referred pursuant to the Military Commissions Act of 2006 may be amended, without 

prejudice, as needed to properly allege jurisdiction under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code (as so 

amended), and crimes triable under such chapter.

Rule 604. Withdrawal of charges 

(a) Withdrawal. The convening authority or a superior competent authority may for any reason 

cause any charges or specifications to be withdrawn from a military commission at any time 

before findings are announced. 

Discussion

Charges which are withdrawn from a military commission should be dismissed (see R.M.C. 401(b)), unless it is 

intended to refer them anew promptly or to forward them to another authority for disposition. 

Charges should not be withdrawn from a military commission arbitrarily or unfairly to an accused. (See also section 

(b) of this rule). Some or all charges and specifications may be withdrawn. In a joint or common trial the 

withdrawal may be limited to charges against one or some of the accused. 

Charges which have been properly referred to a military commission may be withdrawn only by the direction of the 

convening authority or a superior competent authority in the exercise of that authority’s independent judgment. 

When directed to do so by convening authority or a superior competent authority, trial counsel may withdraw 

charges or specifications by lining out the affected charges or specifications, renumbering remaining charges or 

specifications as necessary, and initialing the changes. Charges and specifications withdrawn before commencement 

of trial will not be brought to the attention of the members. When charges or specifications are withdrawn after they 

have come to the attention of the members, the military judge must instruct them that the withdrawn charges or 

specifications may not be considered for any reason. 

(b) Referral of withdrawn charges. Charges which have been withdrawn from a military 

commission may be referred to another military commission unless the withdrawal was for an 

improper reason. Charges withdrawn after the introduction of evidence on the general issue of 

guilt may be referred to another military commission only if the withdrawal was necessitated by 

urgent and unforeseen military necessity. 

Discussion

See also R.M.C. 915 (Mistrial). When charges which have been withdrawn from a military commission are referred 

to another military commission, the reasons for the withdrawal and later referral should be included in the record of 

the later military commission, if the later referral is more onerous to the accused. Therefore, if further prosecution is 

contemplated at the time of the withdrawal, the reasons for the withdrawal should be included in or attached to the 

record of the earlier proceeding. 
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Improper reasons for withdrawal include an intent to interfere with the free exercise by the accused of any rights to 

which he may be entitled, or with the impartiality of a military commission. A withdrawal is improper if it was not 

directed personally and independently by the convening authority or by a superior competent authority. 

Whether the reason for a withdrawal is proper, for purposes of the propriety of a later referral, depends in part on the 

stage in the proceedings at which the withdrawal takes place. Before arraignment, there are many reasons for a 

withdrawal which will not preclude another referral. These include receipt of additional charges, absence of the 

accused, reconsideration by the convening authority or by a superior competent authority of the seriousness of the 

offenses, questions concerning the mental capacity of the accused, and routine duty rotation of the personnel 

constituting the military commission. Charges withdrawn after arraignment may be referred to another military 

commission where withdrawal was not for an improper reason and the accused suffers no unfair prejudice. For 

example, it is permissible to refer charges which were withdrawn pursuant to a pretrial agreement if the accused fails 

to fulfill the terms of the agreement (see R.M.C. 705). Charges withdrawn after some evidence on the general issue 

of guilty is introduced may be re-referred only under the narrow circumstances described in the rule. 
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CHAPTER VII. PRETRIAL MATTERS

Rule 701. Discovery 

(a) Generally. 

(1) In interviewing and obtaining statements, oral and written, from witnesses, both trial 

and defense counsel may use audio-visual and/or telecommunications technology when 

practicable, and shall have equal access to such technology in preparation for and during trial. 

(2) The right to examine, under this rule, includes the right to copy, subject to 10 U.S.C. 

§ 949p-4. The defense’s right to examine classified evidence under this rule is subject to section 

(f) and Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505 and 506 as applicable. 

(3) The military judge may specify the time, place and manner of discovery and may 

prescribe such terms and conditions as are necessary to the interests of justice, the protection of 

national security, and the safety of witnesses. 

(4) In the event that the accused has elected to represent himself and the military judge 

has approved that election, standby defense counsel shall examine the evidence and be prepared 

to provide advice to the accused. 

(5) The duty to provide discovery is continuing, meaning that if at any time prior to or 

during a military commission, a party discovers additional material subject to discovery under 

the rule, that party shall promptly notify the other party or military judge as to the existence of 

the material. 

(b) Disclosure by the trial counsel. Except as directed by the military judge pursuant to section 

(a), the trial counsel shall provide the following information or matters to the defense: 

(1) Papers accompanying charges; convening orders; statements. As soon as practicable 

after service of charges the trial counsel shall provide the defense with copies of, or, if 

extraordinary circumstances make it impracticable to provide copies, permit the defense to 

examine: 

(A) Any paper which accompanied the charges, when they were referred to 

military commission including papers sent with charges upon a rehearing or new trial; 

(B) The convening order and any amending orders; and 

(C) Any sworn or signed statement relating to an offense charged in the case 

which is in the possession of the trial counsel. 

(2) Witnesses. Before the beginning of trial on the merits the trial counsel shall notify the 

defense of the names of the witnesses the trial counsel intends to call: 
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(A) In the prosecution case-in-chief; and 

(B) To rebut a defense of alibi or lack of mental responsibility, when trial counsel 

has received timely notice under this rule. 

Discussion

Such notice should be in writing except when impracticable. 

(3) Prior convictions of accused offered on the merits. Before trial on the merits, the trial 

counsel shall notify the defense of any records of prior criminal convictions of the accused of 

which the trial counsel is aware and which the trial counsel may offer on the merits for any 

purpose, including impeachment, and shall permit the defense to examine such records when 

they are in the trial counsel’s possession. 

(c) Examination of documents, tangible objects, reports. After service of charges, upon a request 

of the defense, the Government shall permit the defense counsel to examine the following 

materials: 

(1) Any books, papers, documents, photographs, tangible objects, buildings, or places, or 

copies of portions thereof, which are within the possession, custody, or control of the 

Government, the existence of which is known or by the exercise of due diligence may become 

known to trial counsel, and which are material to the preparation of the defense or are intended 

for use by the trial counsel as evidence in the prosecution case-in-chief at trial. 

(2) Any results or reports of physical or mental examinations, and of scientific tests or 

experiments, or copies thereof, which are within the possession, custody, or control of the 

Government, the existence of which is known or by the exercise of due diligence may become 

known to the trial counsel, and which are material to the preparation of the defense or are 

intended for use by the trial counsel as evidence in the prosecution case-in-chief at trial. 

(3) The contents of all relevant statements—oral, written or recorded—made or adopted 

by the accused, that are within the possession, custody or control of the Government, the 

existence of which is known or by the exercise of due diligence may become known to trial 

counsel, and are material to the preparation of the defense or are intended for use by trial counsel 

as evidence in the prosecution case-in-chief at trial. 

Discussion

For the definition of “material to the preparation of the defense” in subsections (1), (2), and (3), see United States v. 

Yunis, 867 F.2d 617 (D.C. Cir. 1989). Evidence introduced by the Government at trial must be disclosed to the 

accused. See 10 U.S.C. § 949a(b)(A). 

(d) Information to be offered at sentencing. Upon request of the defense the trial counsel shall: 

(1) Permit the defense to examine such written material as will be presented by the 

prosecution at the presentencing proceedings; and 
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(2) Notify the defense of the names of the witnesses that trial counsel intends to call at 

the presentencing proceedings. 

(e) Exculpatory evidence. 

(1) Subject to section (f), the trial counsel shall, as soon as practicable after referral of 

charges, disclose to the defense the existence of evidence known to the trial counsel which 

reasonably tends to: 

(A) Negate the guilt of the accused of an offense charged; 

(B) Reduce the degree of guilt of the accused with respect to an offense charged; 

or 

(C) Reduce the punishment. 

In this section, the term “evidence known to trial counsel,” as it relates to exculpatory evidence, 

means exculpatory evidence that the prosecution would be required to disclose in a trial by 

general court-martial under chapter 47 of title 10. 

(2) The trial counsel shall, as soon as practicable after referral of charges, disclose to the 

defense the existence of evidence that reasonably tends to impeach the credibility of a witness 

whom the government intends to call at trial.

(3) The trial counsel shall, as soon as practicable, disclose to the defense the existence of 

evidence that is not subject to paragraph (1) or paragraph (2) but that reasonably may be viewed 

as mitigation evidence at sentencing.

(4) The disclosure obligations under this subsection encompass evidence that is known or 

reasonably should be known to any government officials who participated in the investigation 

and prosecution of the case against the accused.

(f) National security privilege. Classified information shall be protected and is privileged from 

disclosure if disclosure would be detrimental to the national security. This rule applies to all 

stages of proceedings in military commissions, including the discovery phase. Pursuant to 10 

U.S.C. §§949 p1-p7, the military judge may issue a protective order to limit the distribution or 

disclosure to the defense of classified evidence, including the sources, methods or activities by 

which the United States acquired the evidence. 

(1) To withhold disclosure of information otherwise subject to discovery under this rule, 

the military judge must find that the privilege is properly claimed under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 

505 and 506 as applicable. 

(2) Once such a finding is made, the military judge shall authorize, to the extent 

practicable: 
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(A) the deletion of specified items of classified information from documents made 

available to the defense; 

(B) the substitution of a portion or summary of the information for such classified 

documents; 

(C) the substitution of a statement admitting relevant facts that the classified 

information would tend to prove. 

(3) The military judge, upon motion of trial counsel, shall authorize trial counsel, in the 

course of complying with discovery obligations under this rule, to protect from disclosure any 

classified sources, methods, or activities by which the United States acquired the evidence. The 

military judge may require trial counsel to provide, to the extent practicable, an unclassified 

summary of the sources, methods, or activities by which the United States acquired such 

evidence. 

(4) In making the determinations under subsections (2) and (3) as to whether alternatives 

to classified information are practicable, the military judge may consider any relevant factor, 

including the burden that producing the alternatives would impose on the Government, the time 

it would take to produce the alternative, the degree to which a summary could be provided 

consistent with national security, whether the evidence is cumulative of or distinct from other 

evidence available to the defense, the relevance and materiality of the evidence to the preparation 

of the defense, and the significance of the evidence in comparison with other evidence to which 

the defense has access. 

(5) Where exculpatory evidence is classified, the defense shall be provided with an 

adequate substitute in accordance with the procedure under paragraphs (A), (B), or (C) of this 

section. 

(6) In the event that trial counsel plans to introduce classified information as evidence at 

trial, trial counsel shall permit the defense to examine that information in advance of trial in the 

form authorized by 10 U.S.C. §§ 949p1-949p-7 and Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505. Any information 

admitted into evidence pursuant to any rule, procedure, or order by the military judge shall be 

provided to the accused. Upon motion of the trial counsel, the military judge shall issue an order 

to protect against the disclosure of any classified information that has been disclosed by the 

United States to any accused in any military commission or that has otherwise been provided to, 

obtained by or is in the possession of, any such accused in any such military commission.

(7) In the event the military judge determines that (i) the classified information itself is 

evidence that the Government seeks to use at trial, exculpatory, or necessary to enable the 

defense to prepare for trial, and (ii) the Government’s proposed alternative is not adequate or that 

no alternative to classified information is practicable, the military judge may issue any order 

permitted under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(h)(6)(B). 

(8) Nothing in this rule prevents the military judge from issuing additional protective 

orders, unrelated to classified matters, as may be required in the interests of justice. 
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(g) Disclosure by the defense. Except as otherwise provided in sections (k) and (l)(2) of this rule, 

the defense shall provide the following information to the trial counsel: 

(1) Names of witnesses and statements. 

(A) Before the beginning of trial on the merits, the defense shall notify the trial 

counsel of the names of all witnesses, other than the accused, whom the defense intends to call 

during the defense case-in-chief and provide sworn or signed statements known by the defense to 

have been made by such witnesses in connection with the case. 

(B) Upon request of the trial counsel, the defense shall also: 

(i) Provide the trial counsel with the names of any witnesses whom the 

defense intends to call at the presentencing proceedings; and 

(ii) Permit the trial counsel to examine any written material that will be 

presented by the defense at the presentencing proceeding. 

(2) Notice of certain defenses. The defense shall notify the trial counsel before the 

beginning of trial on the merits of its intent to offer the defense of alibi or lack of mental 

responsibility, or its intent to introduce expert testimony as to the accused’s mental condition. 

Such notice by the defense shall disclose, in the case of an alibi defense, the place or places at 

which the defense claims the accused to have been at the time of the alleged offense. 

Discussion

Such notice shall be in writing unless impracticable. See R.M.C. 916(k) concerning the defense of lack of mental 

responsibility. See R.M.C. 706 concerning inquiries into the mental responsibility of the accused. See Mil. Comm. 

R. Evid. 302 concerning statements by the accused during such inquiries. If the defense needs more detail as to the 

time, date, or place of the offense to comply with this rule, it should request a bill of particulars (see R.M.C. 

906(b)(6)). 

(3) Documents and tangible objects. If the defense requests disclosure under section (c) 

of this rule, upon compliance with such request by the Government, the defense, on request of 

the trial counsel, shall permit the trial counsel to examine books, papers, documents, 

photographs, tangible objects, or copies or portions thereof, which are within the possession, 

custody, or control of the defense and which the defense intends to introduce as evidence in the 

defense case-in-chief at trial. 

(4) Reports of examination and tests. If the defense requests disclosure under section (c) 

of this rule, upon compliance with such request by the Government, the defense, on request of 

trial counsel, shall permit the trial counsel to examine any results or reports of physical or mental 

examinations and of scientific tests or experiments made in connection with the particular case, 

or copies thereof, that are within the possession, custody, or control of the defense that the 

defense intends to introduce as evidence in the defense case-in-chief at trial or that were prepared 

by a witness whom the defense intends to call at trial when the results or reports relate to that 

witness’ testimony. 
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(5) Inadmissibility of withdrawn defense. If an intention to rely upon a defense under 

subsection (g)(2) of this rule is withdrawn, evidence of such intention and disclosures by the 

accused or defense counsel made in connection with such intention is not, in any military 

commission, admissible against the accused who gave notice of the intention. 

Discussion

Nothing in this rule precludes defense counsel from its obligation to disclose evidence as required by other rules in 

this manual and the military commission rules of evidence. 

(h) Failure to call witness. The fact that a witness’ name is on a list of expected or intended 

witnesses provided to an opposing party, whether required by this rule or not, shall not be ground 

for comment upon a failure to call the witness. 

(i) Continuing duty to disclose. If, before or during the military commission, a party discovers 

additional evidence or material previously requested or required to be produced, which is subject 

to discovery or inspection under this rule, that party shall promptly notify the other party or the 

military judge of the existence of the additional evidence or material. 

(j) Access to witnesses and evidence. Each party shall have adequate opportunity to prepare its 

case and no party may unreasonably impede the access of another party to a witness or evidence. 

Discussion

Convening authorities, commanders and members of their immediate staffs should make no statement, oral or 

written, and take no action which could reasonably be understood to discourage or prevent witnesses from testifying 

before a military commission, or as a threat of retribution for such testimony. 

(k) Information not subject to disclosure. Nothing in this rule shall be construed to require the 

disclosure of information protected from disclosure by the Military Commission Rules of 

Evidence. Nothing in this rule shall require the disclosure or production of notes, memoranda, or 

similar working papers prepared by counsel and counsel’s assistants and representatives. 

(l) Regulation of discovery. 

(1) Time, place, and manner. The military judge may consistent with this rule, specify the 

time, place and manner of making discovery and may prescribe such terms and conditions as are 

just. 

(2) Protective and modifying orders. In addition to the orders specified in section (a) of 

this rule, upon a sufficient showing by either party, the military judge may at any time order that 

the discovery or examination be denied, restricted, or deferred, or make such other order as is 

appropriate. Upon motion by a party, the military judge may permit the party to make such 

showing, in whole or in part, in writing to be inspected only by the military judge. If the military 

judge grants relief after such an ex parte showing, the entire text of the party’s statement shall be 

sealed and attached to the record of trial as an appellate exhibit. Such material may be examined 
II-47

by reviewing authorities in closed proceedings for the purpose of reviewing the determination of 

the military judge. 

(3) Failure to comply. If at any time during the military commission it is brought to the 

attention of the military judge that a party has failed to comply with this rule, the military judge 

may take one or more of the following actions: 

(A) Order the party to permit discovery; 

(B) Grant a continuance; 

(C) Prohibit the party from introducing evidence, calling a witness, or raising a 

defense not disclosed; and 

(D) Enter such other order as is just under the circumstances. This rule shall not 

limit the right of the accused to testify in the accused’s behalf. 

Discussion

Factors to be considered whether to grant an exception to exclusion under (3)(C) include: the extent of disadvantage 

that resulted from a failure to disclose; the reason for the failure to disclose; the extent to which later events 

mitigated the disadvantage caused by failure to disclose; and any other relevant factors. 

The sanction of excluding the testimony of a defense witness should be used only upon finding that the defense 

counsel’s failure to comply with this rule was willful and motivated by a desire to obtain tactical advantage or to 

conceal a plan to present fabricated testimony. Moreover, the sanction of excluding the testimony of a defense 

witness should only be used if alternative sanctions could not have minimized the prejudice to the Government. 

Before imposing this sanction, the military judge must weigh the defendant’s rights under chapter 47A of title 10, 

United States Code, against the countervailing public interests, including (1) the integrity of the adversary process; 

(2) the interest in a fair and efficient administration of justice; and (3) the potential prejudice to the truthdetermining function of the trial process. 

Rule 702. Depositions 

(a) In general. A deposition may be ordered whenever, after swearing of charges, due to 

exceptional circumstances of the case it is in the interest of justice that the testimony of a 

prospective witness be taken and preserved for use at a military commission. 

(b) Who may order. A convening authority who has the charges for disposition or, after referral 

the military judge may order that a deposition be taken on request of a party. 

(c) Request to take deposition. 

(1) Submission of request. At any time after charges have been sworn, any party may 

request in writing that a deposition be taken. 
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Discussion

A copy of the request and any accompanying papers ordinarily should be served on the other parties when the 

request is made. 

(2) Contents of request. A request for a deposition shall include: 

(A) The name and address of the person whose deposition is requested, or, if the 

name of the person is unknown, a description of the office or position of the person; 

(B) A statement of the matters on which the person is to be examined; 

(C) A statement of the reasons for taking the deposition; and 

(D) Whether an oral or written deposition is requested. 

(3) Action on request. 

(A) In general. A request for a deposition may be denied for good cause, e.g., to 

protect classified information, sources, methods and means of acquiring intelligence, subject to 

review by the military judge. 

Discussion

Good cause for denial includes: failure to state a proper ground for taking a deposition; failure to show the probable 

relevance of the witness’ testimony, or that the witness’ testimony would be unnecessary. The fact that a witness 

will be available for trial is good cause for the denial in the absence of unusual circumstances, such as when the 

Government has improperly impeded defense access to a witness. 

(B) Written deposition. A request for a written deposition may not be approved 

without the consent of the opposing party and the authority ordering the deposition determines 

that the interests of the parties and the military commission can be adequately served by a written 

deposition. 

(C) Notification of decision. The authority who acts on the request shall promptly 

inform the requesting party of the action on the request and, if the request is denied, the reasons 

for denial. 

(D) Waiver. Failure to review before the military judge a request for a deposition 

denied by a convening authority waives further consideration of the request. 

(d) Action when request is approved. 

(1) Detail of deposition officer. When a request for a deposition is approved, the 

convening authority shall detail an officer to serve as deposition officer or request an appropriate 

civil officer to serve as deposition officer. A deposition officer under this rule, shall be an officer 

in the grade of major or lieutenant commander or higher or one with legal training. 
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(2) Instructions. The convening authority may give instructions not inconsistent with this 

rule to the deposition officer. 

Discussion

Such instruction may include the time and place for the deposition. 

(e) Notice. The party at whose request a deposition is to be taken shall give to every other party a 

copy of the deposition request, including a proposed time and place for conducting the 

deposition. On motion of a party upon whom the notice is served the deposition officer may for 

cause shown extend or shorten the time or change the place for taking the deposition, consistent 

with any instructions from the convening authority. 

(f) Duties of the deposition officer. In accordance with this rule, and subject to any instructions 

under subsection (d)(2) of this rule, the deposition officer shall: 

(1) Arrange a time and place for taking the deposition and, in the case of an oral 

deposition, notify the party who requested the deposition accordingly; 

(2) Arrange for the presence of any witness whose deposition is to be taken in accordance 

with the procedures for production of witnesses and evidence under R.M.C. 703(e) and (f). 

(3) Maintain order during the deposition and protect the parties and witnesses from 

annoyance, embarrassment, or oppression; 

(4) Administer the oath to each witness, the reporter, and interpreter, if any; 

(5) In the case of a written deposition, ask the questions submitted by counsel to the 

witness; 

(6) Cause the proceedings to be recorded so that a verbatim record is made or may be 

prepared; 

(7) Record, but not rule upon, objections or motions and the testimony to which they 

relate; 

(8) Authenticate the record of the deposition and forward it to the authority who ordered 

the deposition; and

(9) Report to the convening authority any substantial irregularity in the proceeding. 

Discussion

When any unusual problem, such as improper conduct by counsel or a witness, prevents an orderly and fair 

proceeding, the deposition officer should adjourn the proceedings and inform the convening authority. The authority 

who ordered the deposition should forward copies to the parties. 
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(g) Procedure. 

(1) Oral depositions. 

(A) Rights of accused. At an oral deposition, the accused shall have the right to be 

represented by counsel who will examine, cross-examine and make objections on behalf of the 

accused. 

Discussion

An accused does not have the right to be present at an oral deposition, except as provided by the military judge. The 

military judge also may order the provision of direct communication, including video where practicable, between an 

accused and counsel for oral depositions. 

(B) Examination of witnesses. Each witness giving an oral deposition shall be 

examined under oath. The scope and manner of examination and cross-examination shall be such 

as would be allowed in the trial itself. The Government shall make available to the defense for 

examination and use at the taking of the deposition any statement of the witness which is in the 

possession of the United States and to which the defense would be entitled at the trial by military 

commission. 

Discussion

A sample oath for deposition follows: “You (swear) (affirm) that the evidence you give shall be the truth, the whole 

truth, and nothing but the truth (so help you God)?”

(2) Written depositions. 

(A) Rights of accused. The accused shall have the right to be represented by 

counsel as provided in R.M.C. 506 for the purpose of taking a written deposition. 

(B) Presence of parties. No party has a right to be present at a written deposition. 

(C) Submission of interrogatories to opponent. The party requesting a written 

deposition shall submit to opposing counsel a list of written questions to be asked of the witness. 

Opposing counsel may examine the questions and shall be allowed a reasonable time to prepare 

cross-interrogatories and objections, if any. 

(D) Examination of witnesses. The deposition officer shall swear the witness, read 

each question presented by the parties to the witness, and record each response. The testimony of 

the witness shall be recorded on videotape, audiotape, or similar material or shall be transcribed. 

When the testimony is transcribed, the deposition shall, except when impracticable, be submitted 

to the witness for examination. The deposition officer may enter additional matters then stated by 

the witness under oath. The deposition shall be signed by the witness if the witness is available. 

If the deposition is not signed by the witness, the deposition officer shall record the reason. The 

certificate of authentication shall then be executed.
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(3) How recorded. In the discretion of the authority who ordered the deposition, a 

deposition may be recorded by a reporter or by other means including videotape, audiotape, or 

sound film. In the discretion of the military judge, depositions recorded by videotape, audiotape, 

or sound film may be played for the military commission or may be transcribed and read to the 

military commission. 

Discussion

A deposition read in evidence or one that is played during a military commission is recorded and transcribed by the 

reporter in the same way as any other testimony. The deposition need not be included in the record of trial. 

(h) Objections. 

(1) In general. A failure to object prior to the deposition to the taking of the deposition on 

grounds which may be corrected if the objection is made prior to the deposition waives such 

objection. 

(2) Oral depositions. Objections to questions, testimony, or evidence at an oral deposition 

and the grounds for such objection shall be stated at the time of taking such deposition. If an 

objection relates to a matter which could have been corrected if the objection had been made 

during the deposition, the objection is waived if not made at the deposition. 

Discussion

A party may show that an objection was made during the deposition but not recorded, but, in the absence of such 

evidence the transcript of the deposition governs. 

(3) Written depositions. Objections to any question in written interrogatories shall be 

served on the party who proposed the question before the interrogatories are sent to the 

deposition officer or the objection is waived. Objections to answers in a written deposition may 

be made at trial. 

(i) Deposition by agreement not precluded. 

(1) Taking deposition. Nothing in this rule shall preclude the taking of a deposition 

without cost to the United States, orally or upon written questions, by agreement of the parties. 

(2) Use of deposition. Subject to protection of classified information, nothing in this rule 

shall preclude the use of a deposition at the military commission by agreement of the parties 

unless the military judge forbids its use for good cause. 

Rule 703. Production of witnesses and evidence 

(a) In general. The defense shall have reasonable opportunity to obtain witnesses and other 

evidence as provided in these rules. 
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Discussion

The opportunity to obtain witnesses and evidence shall be comparable to the opportunity available to a criminal 

defendant in a court of the United States under article III of the Constitution.

(b) Right to witnesses. 

(1) On the merits or on interlocutory questions. Each party is entitled to the production of 

any available witness whose testimony on a matter in issue on the merits or on an interlocutory 

question would be relevant and necessary. See R.M.C. 701(j).

(2) On sentencing. Each party is entitled to the production of a witness whose testimony 

on sentencing is required under R.M.C. 1001(e). 

(3) Unavailable witness. 

(A) In general. A party is not entitled to the presence of a witness who is deemed 

“unavailable” in the discretion of the military judge. 

Discussion

In determining whether a witness is “unavailable,” the military judge shall consider the factors in Mil. R. Evid. 

804(a). 

(B) Exceptions. Notwithstanding paragraph (A), if the testimony of a witness 

determined to be unavailable is of central importance to the resolution of an issue essential to a 

fair trial, and there is no adequate substitute for such testimony, the military judge shall grant a 

continuance or other relief in order to attempt to secure the witness’ presence, or shall abate the 

proceedings, if the military judge finds that the reason for the witness’ unavailability is within 

the control of the United States. 

Discussion

This rule departs from the R.C.M. 703(b)(3), which would permit the abatement of the proceedings even when the 

absence of the witness is not the fault of the United States. That rule provides a broader standard than that existing in 

the federal civilian courts, and it is particularly impracticable for military commissions. chapter 47A of title 10, 

United States Code, recognizes that witnesses located in foreign countries may be unavailable for many reasons 

outside the control of the United States, and Congress provided for the broad admissibility of hearsay precisely to 

allow for the introduction of evidence where the witnesses are not subject to the jurisdiction of the military 

commission or are otherwise unavailable. 

(c) Determining which witnesses will be produced. 

(1) Witnesses for the prosecution. The trial counsel shall obtain the presence of witnesses 

whose testimony the trial counsel considers relevant and necessary for the prosecution. 

(2) Witnesses for the defense. 
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(A) Request. The defense shall submit to the trial counsel a written list of 

witnesses whose production by the Government the defense requests. 

(B) Contents of request. 

(i) Witnesses on merits or interlocutory questions. A list of witnesses 

whose testimony the defense considers relevant and necessary on the merits or on an 

interlocutory question shall include the name, telephone number, if known, and address or 

location of the witness such that the witness can be found upon the exercise of due diligence and 

a synopsis of the expected testimony sufficient to show its relevance and necessity. 

(ii) Witnesses on sentencing. A list of witnesses wanted for presentencing 

proceedings shall include the name, telephone number, if known, and address or location of the 

witness such that the witness can be found upon the exercise of due diligence, a synopsis of the 

testimony that it is expected the witness will give, and the reasons why the witness’ personal 

appearance will be necessary under the standards set forth in R.M.C. 1001(e). 

(C) Time of request. A list of witnesses under this subsection shall be submitted in 

time reasonably to allow production of each witness on the date when the witness’ presence will 

be necessary. The military judge may set a specific date by which such lists must be submitted. 

Failure to submit the name of a witness in a timely manner shall permit denial of a motion for 

production of the witness, but relief from such denial may be granted for good cause shown. 

(D) Determination. The trial counsel shall arrange for the presence of witnesses 

listed by the defense unless the trial counsel contends that the witness’ production is not required 

under this rule, classified under 10 U.S.C. § 948a, or government information as defined by Mil. 

Comm. R. Evid. 506(b). If the trial counsel contends that the witness’ production is not required 

or protected, the matter may be submitted to the military judge, or if prior to referral, the 

convening authority. If, after consideration of the matter and an in camera review of any trial 

counsel submissions asserting that the material is subject to such provisions, the trial judge 

grants a motion for a witness, the trial counsel shall produce the witness, or the military judge 

shall issue such order as the interests of justice may require. 

Discussion

When significant or unusual costs would be involved in producing witnesses, the trial counsel should inform the 

convening authority, as the convening authority may elect to dispose of the matter by means other than military 

commission (see R.M.C. 905(j)). 

(3) Upon request of either party the military judge may permit a witness to testify from a 

remote location by two-way video teleconference, or similar technology. If the opposing party 

objects to such a request, the military judge shall resolve the matter by balancing all probative 

factors, including, but not limited to, the need of either party for personal appearance of the 

witness, the remote and unique situation of the forum, and the logistical difficulties in obtaining 

the presence of the witness. 
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(d) Employment of expert witnesses. When the employment at Government expense of an expert 

is considered necessary by a party, the party shall, in advance of employment of the expert, and 

with notice to the opposing party, submit a request to the convening authority to authorize the 

employment and to fix the compensation for the expert. The request shall include a complete 

statement of reasons why employment of the expert is necessary and the estimated cost of 

employment. A request denied by the convening authority may be renewed before the military 

judge, who shall determine whether the testimony of the expert is relevant and necessary, and, if 

so, whether the Government has provided or will provide an adequate substitute. If the military 

judge grants a motion for employment of an expert or finds that the Government is required to 

provide a substitute, the proceedings shall be abated if the Government fails to comply with the 

ruling. In the absence of advance authorization, an expert witness may not be paid fees other 

than those to which entitled under paragraph (e)(2)(D) of this rule. 

(e) Procedures for production of witnesses. The process to compel such witnesses to appear and 

testify and to compel the production of other such evidence shall be by subpoena. 

(1) Military witnesses. The attendance of a military witness may be obtained by notifying 

the commander of the witness of the time, place, and date the witness’ presence is required and 

requesting the commander to issue any necessary orders to the witness. 

(2) Civilian witnesses.

(A) In general. The presence of witnesses not on active duty may be obtained by 

subpoena. 

(B) Contents. A subpoena shall state the command by which the proceeding is 

directed, and the title, if any, of the proceeding. A subpoena shall command each person to 

whom it is directed to attend and give testimony at the time and place specified therein. A 

subpoena may also command the person to whom it is directed to produce books, papers, 

documents or other objects designated therein at the proceeding or at an earlier time for 

inspection by the parties.

(C) Who may issue. A subpoena may be issued by the military judge, the Chief 

Prosecutor or his designee, or by an officer detailed to take a deposition to secure witnesses or 

evidence for those proceedings respectively. 

(D) Service. A subpoena may be served by the person authorized by this rule to 

issue it, a United States marshal, or any other person who is not less than 18 years of age. Service 

shall be made by delivering a copy of the subpoena to the person named and by tendering to the 

person named travel orders and fees as may be prescribed by the Secretary.

(E) Place of service. 

(i) In general. A subpoena requiring the attendance of a witness at a 

deposition or military commission, may be served at any place. 
II-55

(ii) Foreign territory. A subpoena requiring the attendance of a witness in 

a foreign territory may be obtained in accordance with 28 U.S.C. § 1783 and this rule. 

(iii) Occupied territory. In occupied enemy territory, the appropriate 

commander may compel the attendance of civilian witnesses located within the occupied 

territory. 

(F) Relief. If a person subpoenaed requests relief on grounds that compliance is 

unreasonable or oppressive, the convening authority or, after referral, the military judge may 

direct that the subpoena be modified or withdrawn if appropriate. 

(G) Neglect or refusal to appear.

(i) Issuance of warrant of attachment. The military judge or, if there is no 

military judge, the convening authority may, in accordance with this rule, issue a warrant of 

attachment to compel the attendance of a witness or production of documents. 

Discussion

A warrant of attachment may be used when necessary to compel a witness to appear or produce evidence under this 

rule. A warrant of attachment is a legal order addressed to an official directing that official to have the person named 

in the order brought before a court. 

(ii) Requirements. A warrant of attachment may be issued only upon 

probable cause to believe that the witness was duly served with a subpoena, that the subpoena 

was issued in accordance with these rules, that appropriate fees and mileage were tendered to the 

witness, that the witness is material, that the witness refused or willfully neglected to appear at 

the time and place specified on the subpoena, and that no valid excuse reasonably appears for the 

witness’ failure to appear. 

(iii) Form. A warrant of attachment shall be written. All documents in 

support of the warrant of attachment shall be attached to the warrant, together with the charge 

sheet and convening orders.

(iv) Execution. A warrant of attachment may be executed by a United 

States marshal or such other person who is not less than 18 years of age as the authority issuing 

the warrant may direct. Only such non-deadly force as may be necessary to bring the witness 

before the military commission or other proceeding may be used to execute the warrant. A 

witness attached under this rule shall be brought before the military commission or proceeding 

without delay and shall testify as soon as practicable and be released. 

Discussion

In executing a warrant of attachment, no more force than necessary to bring the witness to the military commission 

or deposition may be used. 
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(f) Right to evidence. 

(1) In general. Subject to § 949j(c) and R.M.C. 701, each party is entitled to the 

production of evidence which is relevant, necessary and noncumulative. 

Discussion

Relevant evidence is necessary when it is not cumulative and when it would contribute to a party’s presentation of 

the case in some positive way on a matter in issue. A matter is not in issue when it is stipulated as a fact. As to the 

discovery of classified information or other government information, see Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505 and 506. 

(2) Unavailable evidence. 

(A) Notwithstanding subsection (f)(1) of this rule, a party is not entitled to the 

production of evidence that is destroyed, lost, or otherwise not subject to compulsory process. 

However, if such evidence is of such central importance to an issue that it is essential to a fair 

trial, and if there is no adequate substitute for such evidence, the military judge may grant a 

continuance or other relief in order to attempt to produce the evidence. 

(B) If a continuance under paragraph (A) cannot or does not result in the 

production of the evidence, the military judge shall grant a continuance or other relief in order to 

attempt to produce the evidence or shall abate the proceedings, unless the unavailability of the 

evidence is the fault of or could have been prevented by the requesting party.. 

(3) Determining what evidence will be produced. The procedures in section (c) of this 

rule shall apply to a determination of what evidence will be produced, except that any defense 

request for the production of evidence shall list the items of evidence to be produced and shall 

include a description of each item sufficient to show its relevance and necessity, a statement 

where it can be obtained, and, if known, the name, address email address and telephone number 

of the custodian of the evidence. 

(4) Procedures for production of evidence.

(A) Evidence under the control of the Government. Evidence under the control of 

the Government may be obtained by notifying the custodian of the evidence of the time, place, 

and date the evidence is required and requesting the custodian to send or deliver the evidence, 

subject to the provisions of Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505. 

(B) Evidence not under the control of the Government. Evidence not under the 

control of the Government may be obtained by subpoena issued in accordance with subsection 

(e)(2) of this rule. 

(C) Relief. The person having custody of evidence may request relief from a 

subpoena or order of production on the grounds that compliance is unreasonable or oppressive. 

Before referral, the convening authority will consider the positions of the custodian and the 

parties and determine what evidence must be produced and what relief will be granted. Relief 

may include withdrawing or modifying the order of production, or issuing protective orders to 
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limit further disclosure. After referral, the military judge may order that the evidence be 

submitted to the military judge for an in camera inspection in order to determine whether relief 

should be granted.

Rule 704. Immunity 

(a) Types of immunity. Two types of immunity may be granted under this rule. 

(1) Transactional immunity. A person may be granted transactional immunity from trial 

by military commission or court-martial for one or more offenses under chapter 47A of title 10, 

United States Code, or the U.C.M.J. 

(2) Testimonial immunity. A person may be granted immunity from the use of testimony, 

statements, and any information directly or indirectly derived from such testimony or statements 

by that person in a later military commission or court-martial. 

Discussion

“Testimonial” immunity is also called “use” immunity. Immunity ordinarily should be granted only when testimony 

or other information from the person is necessary to the public interest, including the needs of good order and 

discipline, and when the person has refused or is likely to refuse to testify or provide other information on the basis 

of the privilege against self-incrimination. Testimonial immunity is preferred because it does not bar prosecution of 

the person for the offenses about which testimony or information is given under the grant of immunity. 

In any trial of a person granted testimonial immunity after the testimony or information is given, the Government 

must meet a heavy burden to show that it has not used in any way for the prosecution of that person the person’s 

statements, testimony, or information derived from them. In many cases this burden makes difficult a later 

prosecution of such a person for any offense that was the subject of that person’s testimony or statements. Therefore, 

if it is intended to prosecute a person to whom testimonial immunity has been or will be granted for offenses about 

which that person may testify or make statements, it may be necessary to try that person before the testimony or 

statements are given. 

(b) Scope. Nothing in this rule bars: 

(1) A later military commission for perjury or court-martial for perjury, false swearing, 

making a false official statement, or failure to comply with an order to testify; or 

(2) Use in a military commission or court-martial under subsection (b)(1) of this rule of 

testimony or statements derived from such testimony or statements. 

(c) Authority to grant immunity. Only a general court-martial convening authority, or in a 

military commission the convening authority, may grant immunity, and may do so only in 

accordance with this rule. 

Discussion

Only convening authorities are authorized to grant immunity. However, in some court-martial circumstances, when 

a person testifies or makes statements pursuant to a promise of immunity, or a similar promise, by a person with 

apparent authority to make it, such testimony or statements and evidence derived from them may be inadmissible in 
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a later trial. Under some circumstances a promise of immunity by someone other than a general court-martial 

convening authority may bar prosecution altogether. Persons not authorized to grant immunity should exercise care 

when dealing with accused or suspects to avoid inadvertently causing statements to be inadmissible or prosecution 

to be barred. In a military commission under this M.C.A., only the convening authority may grant immunity. A 

convening authority who grants immunity to a prosecution witness in a court-martial may be disqualified from 

taking post trial action in the case under some circumstances. 

(1) Persons subject to chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code. The military 

commission convening authority may grant immunity to any person subject to chapter 47A of 

title 10, United States Code. However, the convening authority may grant immunity to a person 

subject to chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, extending to a prosecution in a United 

States District Court only when specifically authorized to do so by the Attorney General of the 

United States or other authority designated under 18 U.S.C. § 6004. 

(2) Persons subject to the U.C.M.J. The military commission convening authority may 

grant immunity to any person subject to the U.C.M.J. from prosecution before a court-martial 

when specifically authorized to do so by a general court-martial convening authority. The 

military commission convening authority may grant immunity to a person subject to the 

U.C.M.J. extending to a prosecution in a United States District Court only when specifically 

authorized to do so by the Attorney General of the United States or other authority designated 

under 18 U.S.C. § 6004. 

(3) Persons not subject to either the U.C.M.J. or chapter 47A of title 10, United States 

Code. A military commission convening authority may grant immunity to persons not subject to 

either the U.C.M.J. or chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, only when specifically 

authorized to do so by the Attorney General of the United States or other authority designated 

under 18 U.S.C. § 6004. 

Discussion

See the discussion under section (c) of this rule concerning forwarding a request for authorization to grant immunity 

to the Attorney General. 

(4) Other limitations. The authority to grant immunity under this rule may not be 

delegated. The authority to grant immunity may be limited by superior authority. 

(d) Procedure. A grant of immunity shall be written and signed by the convening authority who 

issues it. The grant shall include a statement of the authority under which it is made and shall 

identify the matters to which it extends. 

Discussion

A person who has received a valid grant of immunity from a proper authority may be ordered to testify. A person 

who refuses to testify despite a valid grant of immunity may be prosecuted for such refusal. Persons subject to the 

code may be charged as provided in the M.C.M. A grant of immunity removes the right to refuse to testify or make a 

statement on self-incrimination grounds. It does not, however, remove other privileges against disclosure of 

information. An immunity order or grant must not specify the contents of the testimony it is expected the witness 

will give. When immunity is granted to a prosecution witness, the accused must be notified. 
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(e) Decision to grant immunity. Unless limited by superior competent authority, the decision to 

grant immunity is a matter within the sole discretion of the appropriate convening authority. 

However, if a defense request to immunize a witness has been denied, the military judge may, 

upon motion by the defense, grant appropriate relief directing that either an appropriate 

convening authority grant testimonial immunity to a defense witness or, as to the affected 

charges and specifications, the proceedings against the accused be abated, upon findings that: 

(1) The witnesses intends to invoke the right against self-incrimination to the extent 

permitted by law if called to testify; and 

(2) The Government has engaged in discriminatory use of immunity to obtain a tactical 

advantage, or the Government, through its own overreaching, has forced the witness to invoke 

the privilege against self-incrimination; and 

(3) The witness’ testimony is material, clearly exculpatory, not cumulative, not 

obtainable from any other source and does more than merely affect the credibility of other 

witnesses. 

Rule 705. Pretrial agreements 

(a) In general. Subject to such limitations as the Secretary may prescribe, an accused and the 

convening authority may enter into a pretrial agreement in accordance with this rule. All of the 

terms of the agreement must be contained in the agreement and must be in writing. 

Discussion

The authority of convening authorities to refer cases to trial and approve pretrial agreements extends only to trials by 

military commission. To ensure that such actions do not preclude appropriate action by Federal civilian authorities 

in cases likely to be prosecuted in the United States district courts, convening authorities shall ensure that 

appropriate consultation under the “Memorandum of Understanding Between the Departments of Justice and 

Defense Relating to the Investigation and Prosecution of Crimes Over Which the Two Departments Have 

Concurrent Jurisdiction ” (see Manual for Courts-Martial app. 3) has taken place prior to trial by military 

commission or approval of a pretrial agreement in cases where such consultation is required. 

(b) Nature of agreement. A pretrial agreement may include: 

(1) A promise by the accused to plead guilty to, or to enter a confessional stipulation as to 

one or more charges and specifications, and to fulfill such additional terms or conditions which 

may be included in the agreement and which are not prohibited under this rule; and 

(2) A promise by the convening authority to do one or more of the following: 

(A) Refer the charges to a certain type of military commission; 

(B) Refer a capital offense as noncapital; 

(C) Withdraw one or more charges or specifications from the commission; 
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Discussion

A convening authority may withdraw certain specifications and/or charges from a military commission and dismiss 

them if the accused fulfills the accused’s promises in the agreement. Except when jeopardy has attached (see R.M.C. 

907(b)(2)(B)), such withdrawal and dismissal does not bar later reinstitution of the charges by the same or a 

different convening authority. A judicial determination that the accused breached the pretrial agreement is not 

required prior to reinstitution of withdrawn or dismissed specifications and/or charges. If the defense moves to 

dismiss the reinstituted specifications and/or charges on the grounds that the government remains bound by the 

terms of the pretrial agreement, the government will be required to prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that 

the accused has breached the terms of the pretrial agreement. If the agreement is intended to grant immunity to an 

accused (see R.M.C. 704). See 10 U.S.C. § 949i(c) as amended by Section 1030(b) of the National Defense 

Authorization Act of Fiscal Year 2012 (Public Law 112-81 (enacted Dec. 31, 2011)). 

(D) Have the trial counsel present no evidence as to one or more specifications or 

portions thereof; 

(E) Take specified action on the sentence adjudged by the commission; and 

(F) Fulfill such additional terms or conditions requested by the accused, within 

the power of the convening authority, and not otherwise prohibited under this Manual or chapter 

47A of title 10, United States Code. 

Discussion

For example, the convening authority may agree to approve no sentence in excess of a specified maximum or 

outside a specified and agreed upon range, to suspend all or part of a sentence, to defer confinement, or to mitigate 

certain forms of punishment into less severe forms. 

(c) Terms and conditions. 

(1) Prohibited terms or conditions. 

(A) Not voluntary. A term or condition in a pretrial agreement shall not be 

enforced if the accused did not freely and voluntarily agree to it. 

(B) Deprivation of certain rights. A term or condition in a pretrial agreement shall 

not be enforced if it deprives the accused of the right to counsel or to other indispensable judicial 

guarantees. 

Discussion

A pretrial agreement provision which prohibits the accused from making certain pretrial motions (see R.M.C. 

905907) may be improper. 

(2) Permissible terms or conditions. Subject to paragraph (c)(1)(A) of this rule, 

paragraph (c)(1)(B) of this rule does not prohibit either party from proposing the following 

additional conditions: 
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(A) A promise to enter into a stipulation of fact concerning offenses to which a 

plea of guilty or as to which a confessional stipulation will be entered; 

(B) A promise to testify as a witness in the trial of another person; 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 704(a)(2) concerning testimonial immunity.

(C) A promise to provide restitution; 

(D) A promise to conform the accused’s conduct to certain conditions; and 

(E) A promise to waive procedural requirements such as the opportunity to obtain 

the personal appearance of witnesses at sentencing proceedings, or a promise to waive appellate 

review. 

(d) Procedure. 

(1) Negotiation. Pretrial agreement negotiations may be initiated by the accused, defense 

counsel, trial counsel, the legal advisor, convening authority, or their duly authorized 

representatives. Either the defense or the government may propose any term or condition not 

prohibited by law or public policy. Government representatives shall negotiate with defense 

counsel unless the accused has waived the right to counsel. 

(2) Formal submission. After negotiation, if any, under subsection (d)(1) of this rule, if 

the accused elects to propose a pretrial agreement, the defense shall submit a written offer. All 

terms, conditions, and promises between the parties shall be written. The proposed agreement 

shall be signed by the accused and defense counsel, if any. If the agreement contains any 

specified action on the adjudged sentence, such action shall be set forth on a page separate from 

the other portions of the agreement. 

Discussion

The first part of the agreement ordinarily contains an offer to plead guilty and a description of the offenses to which 

the offer extends. It must also contain a complete and accurate statement of any other agreed terms or conditions. 

For example, if the convening authority agrees to withdraw certain specifications, this should be stated. The written 

agreement should contain a statement by the accused that the accused enters it freely and voluntarily and may 

contain a statement that the accused has been advised of certain rights in connection with the agreement. 

(3) Acceptance. The convening authority may either accept or reject an offer of the 

accused to enter into a pretrial agreement or may propose by counteroffer any terms or 

conditions not prohibited by law or public policy. The decision whether to accept or reject an 

offer is within the sole discretion of the convening authority. When the convening authority has 

accepted a pretrial agreement, the agreement shall be signed by the convening authority or by a 

person, such as the legal advisor, who has been authorized by the convening authority to sign. 
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Discussion

The convening authority should consult with the legal advisor before acting on an offer to enter into a pretrial 

agreement. 

(4) Withdrawal. 

(A) By accused. The accused may withdraw from a pretrial agreement at any 

time; however, the accused may withdraw a plea of guilty or a confessional stipulation entered 

pursuant to a pretrial agreement only as provided in R.M.C. 910(h) or 811(d), respectively. 

(B) By convening authority. The convening authority may withdraw from a 

pretrial agreement at any time before the accused begins performance of promises contained in 

the agreement, upon the failure by the accused to fulfill any material promise or condition in the 

agreement, when inquiry by the military judge discloses a disagreement as to a material term in 

the agreement, or if findings are set aside because a plea of guilty entered pursuant to the 

agreement is held improvident on appellate review. 

(e) Nondisclosure of existence of agreement. No member of a military commission shall be 

informed of the existence of a pretrial agreement. In addition, except as provided in Mil. Comm. 

R. Evid. 410, the fact that an accused offered to enter into a pretrial agreement, and any 

statements made by an accused in connection therewith, whether during negotiations or during a 

providence inquiry, shall not be otherwise disclosed to the members. 

Discussion

See also R.M.C. 910(f) (plea agreement inquiry). 

Rule 706. Inquiry into the mental capacity or mental responsibility of the accused 

(a) Initial action. If it appears to any convening authority who considers the disposition of 

charges, or to any trial counsel, defense counsel, military judge, or member that there is reason to 

believe that the accused lacked mental responsibility for any offense charged or lacks capacity to 

stand trial, that fact and the basis of the belief or observation shall be transmitted through 

appropriate channels to the authority authorized to order an inquiry into the mental condition of 

the accused. The submission may be accompanied by an application for a mental examination 

under this rule. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 909 concerning the capacity of the accused to stand trial and R.M.C. 916(k) concerning mental 

responsibility of the accused. 

(b) Ordering an inquiry. 
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(1) Before referral. Before referral of charges, an inquiry into the mental capacity or 

mental responsibility of the accused may be ordered by the convening authority before whom the 

charges are pending for disposition. 

(2) After referral. After referral of charges, an inquiry into the mental capacity or mental 

responsibility of the accused may be ordered by the military judge. The convening authority may 

order such an inquiry after referral of charges but before beginning of the first session of the 

military commission (including any R.M.C. 803 session) when the military judge is not 

reasonably available. The military judge may order a mental examination of the accused 

regardless of any earlier determination by the convening authority. 

(c) Inquiry.

(1) By whom conducted. When a mental examination is ordered under section (b) of this 

rule, the matter shall be referred to a board consisting of one or more persons. Each member of 

the board shall be either a physician or a clinical psychologist. Normally, at least one member of 

the board shall be either a psychiatrist or a clinical psychologist. The board shall report as to the 

mental capacity or mental responsibility or both of the accused. 

(2) Matters in inquiry. When a mental examination is ordered under this rule, the order 

shall contain the reasons for doubting the mental capacity or mental responsibility, or both, of the 

accused, or other reasons for requesting the examination. In addition to other requirements, the 

order shall require the board to make separate and distinct findings as to each of the following 

questions: 

(A) At the time of the alleged criminal conduct, did the accused have a severe 

mental disease or defect? (The term “severe mental disease or defect” does not include an 

abnormality manifested only by repeated criminal or otherwise antisocial conduct, or minor 

disorders such as nonpsychotic behavior disorders and personality defects.) 

(B) What is the clinical psychiatric diagnosis? 

(C) Was the accused, at the time of the alleged criminal conduct and as a result of 

such severe mental disease or defect, unable to appreciate the nature and quality or wrongfulness 

of his or her conduct? 

(D) Is the accused presently suffering from a mental disease or defect rendering 

the accused unable to understand the nature of the proceedings against the accused or to conduct 

or cooperate intelligently in the defense? Other appropriate questions may also be included. 

(3) Directions to board. In addition to the requirements specified in subsection (c)(2) of 

this rule, the order to the board shall specify: 

(A) That upon completion of the board’s investigation, a statement consisting 

only of the board’s ultimate conclusions as to all questions specified in the order shall be 
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submitted to the officer ordering the examination, the accused’s confinement official, and to all 

counsel in the case, the convening authority, and, after referral, to the military judge; 

(B) That the full report of the board may be released by the board or other medical 

personnel only to other medical personnel for medical purposes, unless otherwise authorized by 

the convening authority or, after referral of charges, by the military judge, except that a copy of 

the full report shall be furnished to the defense and, upon request, to the confinement 

commanding officer of the accused; and 

(C) That neither the contents of the full report nor any matter considered by the 

board during its investigation shall be released by the board or other medical personnel to any 

person not authorized to receive the full report, except pursuant to an order by the military judge. 

(4) No person, other than the defense counsel, the accused, or, after referral of charges, 

the military judge may disclose to the trial counsel any statement made by the accused to the 

board or any statement derived from such statement. 

Rule 707. Timing of pretrial matters 

(a) In general. 

(1) Within 30 days of the service of charges, the accused shall be brought to trial. An 

accused is brought to trial within the meaning of this rule at the time of arraignment under 

R.M.C. 904 or, if arraignment is not required (such as in the case of a sentence-only rehearing), 

at the time of the first session under R.M.C. 803. 

(2) Within 120 days of the service of charges, the military judge shall announce the 

assembly of the military commission, in accordance with R.M.C. 911. 

(3) As soon as practicable after the service of charges, the military judge shall set an 

appropriate schedule for discovery. 

(b) Accountability.

(1) In general. The date of the service of charges against the accused shall not count for 

purpose of computing time under section (a) of this rule. The date on which the accused is 

brought to trial or the military judge announces the assembly of the military commission, as the 

case may be, shall count. 

(2) Multiple charges. When charges are served at different times, accountability for each 

charge shall be determined from the appropriate date under section (a) of this rule for that 

charge. 

(3) Pretrial orders. By appropriate judicial order, the military judge shall direct all parties 

to abide by the time limits set forth in section (a) of this rule, and shall grant departures from 

such time limits only as provided by subsection (b)(4) of this rule. 
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(4) Events which affect time periods. 

 (A) Withdrawal, dismissal or mistrial. If charges are withdrawn, dismissed, or a 

mistrial is granted, time periods under this rule are ended. New time periods under this rule shall 

begin on the date re-referred charges are served on the accused(B) Government appeals. If notice 

of appeal under R.M.C. 908 is filed, new time periods under section (a) of this rule shall begin, 

for all charges neither proceeded on nor severed under R.M.C. 908(b)(4), on the date of notice to 

the parties under R.M.C. 908(b)(3) or 908(c)(2)(C), unless it is determined that the appeal was 

filed solely for the purpose of delay with the knowledge that it was totally frivolous and without 

merit. After the decision of the United States Court of Military Commission Review under 

R.M.C. 908, if there is a further appeal to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of 

Columbia Circuit or, subsequently, to the Supreme Court, new time periods under section (a) of 

this rule shall begin on the date the parties are notified of the final decision of the United States 

Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit or, if appropriate, the Supreme Court. 

(C) Rehearings. If a rehearing is ordered or authorized by an appellate court, new 

time periods under section (a) of this rule shall begin on the date that the responsible convening 

authority receives the record of trial and the opinion authorizing or directing a rehearing. 

(D) Commitment of the incompetent accused. If the accused is hospitalized or 

treated as provided in R.M.C. 909(f), all periods of such commitment shall be excluded when 

determining whether the time periods in section (a) of this rule have run. If, at the end of the 

period of commitment, the accused is returned to the custody of the convening authority, new 

time periods under section (a) of this rule shall begin on the date of such return to custody. 

(E) Continuances. 

(i) The military judge in a military commission under chapter 47A of title 

10, United States Code, may, for reasonable cause, grant a continuance to any party for such 

time, and as often, as may appear to be just.

(ii) All such periods of delay resulting from a continuance granted by the 

military judge in accordance with paragraph (b)(4)(E)(i) shall be excludable.

(F) Appeal of certain matters not grounds for departure. Delay occasioned by the 

accused’s appeal of a finding by a Combatant Status Review Tribunal, or another competent 

tribunal established under the authority of the President or the Secretary of Defense, that the 

accused is an unprivileged enemy belligerent shall not constitute a basis for departing from any 

time limit set forth in section (a) of this rule. 

(c) Excludable delay. All periods of time during which appellate courts have issued stays in the 

proceedings, or the accused is absent without authority, or the accused is hospitalized or treated 

as provided in R.M.C. 909(f), shall be excluded when determining whether new time periods 

under section (a) of this rule have run. All other pretrial delays approved by the military judge in 

accordance with subsection (b)(4) of this rule, or by the convening authority, shall be excluded 

when determining whether any time period in section (a) of this rule has run. 
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(1) Procedure. Prior to referral, all requests for pretrial delay, together with supporting 

reasons, will be submitted to the convening authority or, if authorized under regulations 

prescribed by the Secretary of Defense, to a military judge for resolution. After referral, such 

requests for pretrial delay will be submitted to the military judge for resolution. 

(2) Motions. Upon a party’s timely motion to a military judge under R.M.C. 905 for relief 

under this rule, the proponent of the motion should provide the court with a chronology detailing 

the processing of the case from the date of the swearing of charges. This chronology should be 

made a part of the appellate record.

(d) Remedy. A failure to comply with this rule will result in dismissal of the affected charges, or, 

in a sentence-only rehearing, sentence relief as appropriate. 

(1) Dismissal. Dismissal will be with or without prejudice to the government’s right to 

reinstitute military commission proceedings against the accused for the same offense at a later 

date. In determining whether to dismiss charges with or without prejudice, the military judge 

shall consider, among others, each of the following factors: the seriousness of the offense; the 

facts and circumstances of the case that lead to dismissal; the impact of a re-prosecution on the 

administration of justice; and any prejudice to the accused resulting from the denial of a prompt 

trial under this rule. 

(2) Sentence relief. In determining whether or how much sentence relief is appropriate, 

the military judge shall consider, among others, each of the following factors: the length of the 

delay, the reasons for the delay, the accused’s demand for a speedy trial, and any prejudice to the 

accused from the delay. Any sentence relief granted will be applied against the sentence 

approved by the convening authority. 

(e) Waiver. Except as provided in R.M.C. 910(a)(2), a plea of guilty which results in a finding of 

guilty waives any application of the instant rule as to that offense. 

Discussion

Application of this rule may also be waived by a failure to raise the issue at trial. See R.M.C. 905(e) and 907(b)(2). 
II-67

CHAPTER VIII. TRIAL PROCEDURE GENERALLY

Rule 801. Military judge’s responsibilities; other matters 

(a) Responsibilities of military judge. The military judge is the presiding officer in a military 

commission. 

Discussion

The military judge is responsible for ensuring that military commission proceedings are conducted in a fair and 

orderly manner, without unnecessary delay or waste of time or resources. 

The military judge shall: 

(1) Determine the time and uniform for each session of a commission; 

Discussion

The military judge should consult with counsel concerning the scheduling of sessions and the uniform to be worn. 

The military judge recesses or adjourns the military commission as appropriate. Subject to R.M.C. 504(d), the 

military judge may also determine the place of trial. 

(2) Ensure that the dignity and decorum of the proceedings are maintained; 

Discussion

See also R.M.C. 804 and 806. Military commissions should be conducted in an atmosphere that is conducive to calm 

and detached deliberation and determination of the issues presented and that reflects the seriousness of the 

proceedings. 

(3) Subject to chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, and this Manual, exercise 

reasonable control over the proceedings to promote the purposes of these rules and this Manual; 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 102. The military judge may, within the framework established by chapter 47A of title 10, United States 

Code, and this Manual, prescribe the manner and order in which the proceedings may take place. Thus, the military 

judge may determine: when, and in what order, motions will be litigated (see R.M.C. 905); the manner in which voir 

dire will be conducted and challenges made (see R.M.C. 902(d) and 912); the order in which witnesses may testify 

(see R.M.C. 913; Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 611); the order in which the parties may argue on a motion or objection; and 

the time limits for argument (see R.M.C. 905; 919; 1001(h)).

The military judge should prevent the unnecessary waste of time and promote the ascertainment of truth, but must 

avoid undue interference with the parties’ presentations or the appearance of partiality. The parties are entitled to a 

reasonable opportunity to properly present and support their contentions on any relevant matter. 

(4) Rule on all interlocutory questions and all questions of law raised during the military 

commissions; and 
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(5) Instruct the members on questions of law and procedure that may arise. 

Discussion

The military judge instructs the members concerning findings (see R.M.C. 920) and sentence (see R.M.C. 1005), 

and when otherwise appropriate. For example, preliminary instructions to the members concerning their duties and 

the duties of other trial participants and other matters are normally appropriate (see R.M.C. 913). Other instructions 

(for example, instructions on the limited purpose for which evidence has been introduced (see Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 

105), may be given whenever the need arises. 

(b) Rules of court; contempt. The military judge may: 

(1) Subject to R.M.C. 108, promulgate and enforce rules of court. 

(2) Subject to R.M.C. 809, exercise contempt power. 

(c) Obtaining evidence. The military commission may act to obtain evidence in addition to that 

presented by the parties. The right of the members to have additional evidence obtained is 

subject to an interlocutory ruling by the military judge. 

Discussion

The members may request and the military judge may require that a witness be recalled, or that a new witness be 

summoned, or other evidence produced. The members or military judge may direct trial counsel to make an inquiry 

along certain lines to discover and produce additional evidence (see also Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 614). In taking such 

action, the military commission must not depart from an impartial role. 

(d) Uncharged offenses. If during the trial there is evidence that the accused may be guilty of an 

untried offense not alleged in any specification before the commission, the commission shall 

proceed with the trial of the offense charged. 

Discussion

A report of the matter may be made to the convening authority after trial. If charges are referred for an offense 

indicated by the evidence referred to in this section, no member of the commission who participated in the first trial 

should sit in any later trial. Such a member would ordinarily be subject to a challenge for cause (see R.M.C. 912; see

also Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 105) concerning instructing the members on evidence of uncharged misconduct. 

(e) Interlocutory questions and questions of law. 

(1) Rulings by the military judge. 

(A) Finality of rulings. Any ruling by the military judge upon a question of law, 

including a motion for a finding of not guilty, or upon any interlocutory question is final. 

(B) Changing a ruling. The military judge may change a ruling made by that or 

another military judge in the case except a previously granted motion for a finding of not guilty, 

at any time during the trial. 
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(C) Sessions without members. When required by this Manual or otherwise 

deemed appropriate by the military judge, interlocutory questions or questions of law shall be 

presented and decided at sessions held without members under R.M.C. 803. 

Discussion

Sessions without members are appropriate for interlocutory questions, questions of law, and instructions (see also 

Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 103 and 304). Such sessions should be used to the extent possible consistent with the orderly, 

expeditious progress of the proceedings. 

(2) Standard of proof. Questions of fact in an interlocutory question shall be determined 

by a preponderance of the evidence, unless otherwise stated in this Manual. In the absence of a 

rule in this Manual assigning the burden of persuasion, the party making the motion or raising 

the objection shall bear the burden of persuasion. 

Discussion

A ruling on an interlocutory question should be preceded by any necessary inquiry into the pertinent facts and law. 

For example, the party making the objection, motion, or request may be required to furnish evidence or legal 

authority in support of the contention. An interlocutory issue may have a different standard of proof. 

Most of the common motions are discussed in specific rules in this Manual, and the burden of persuasion is assigned 

therein. The prosecution usually bears the burden of persuasion (see Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 304(d); see also R.M.C. 

905-907) once an issue has been raised. What “raises” an issue may vary with the issue. Some issues may be raised 

by a timely motion or objection (see, e.g., Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 304). Others may not be raised until the defense has 

made an offer of proof or presented evidence in support of its position. The rules in this Manual should be consulted 

when a question arises as to whether an issue is raised, as well as which side has the burden of persuasion. The 

military judge of a military commission may require a party to clarify a motion or objection or to make an offer of 

proof, regardless of the burden of persuasion, when it appears that the motion or objection is vague, inapposite, 

irrelevant, or spurious. 

(3) Scope. Section (e) of this rule applies to the disposition of questions of law and 

interlocutory questions arising during trial except the question whether a challenge should be 

sustained. 

Discussion

Questions of law and interlocutory questions include all issues which arise during trial other than the findings (that 

is, guilty or not guilty), sentence, and administrative matters such as declaring recesses and adjournments. A 

question may be both interlocutory and a question of law. Challenges are specifically covered in R.M.C. 902 and 

912. 

Questions of the applicability of a rule of law to an undisputed set of facts are normally questions of law. Similarly, 

the legality of an act is normally a question of law. For example, the legality of an order when disobedience of an 

order is charged, the legality of restraint when there is a prosecution for breach of arrest, or the sufficiency of 

warnings before interrogation are normally questions of law. It is possible, however, for such questions to be 

decided solely upon some factual issue, in which case they would be questions of fact. For example, the question of 

what warnings, if any, were given by an interrogator to a suspect would be a factual question. 

A question is interlocutory unless the ruling on it would finally decide whether the accused is guilty. Questions 

which may determine the ultimate issue of guilt are not interlocutory. An issue may arise as both an interlocutory 
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question and a question which may determine the ultimate issue of guilt. An issue is not purely interlocutory if an 

accused raises a defense or objection and the disputed facts involved determine the ultimate question of guilt. 

(f) Rulings on record. All sessions involving rulings or instructions made or given by the military 

judge shall be made a part of the record. All rulings and instructions shall be made or given in 

open session in the presence of the parties and the members, except as otherwise may be 

determined in the discretion of the military judge. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 808 and 1103 concerning preparation of the record of trial. 

(g) Effect of failure to raise defenses or objections. Failure by a party to raise defenses or 

objections or to make requests or motions which must be made at the time set by this Manual or 

by the military judge under authority of this Manual, or prior to any extension thereof made by 

the military judge, shall constitute waiver thereof, but the military judge for good cause shown 

may grant relief from the waiver. 

Rule 802. Conferences 

(a) In general. After referral, the military judge may, upon request of any party or sua sponte, 

order one or more conferences with the parties to consider such matters as will promote a fair 

and expeditious trial. 

Discussion

Conferences between the military judge and counsel may be held when necessary before or during trial. The purpose 

of such conference is to inform the military judge of anticipated issues and to expeditiously resolve matters on 

which the parties can agree, not to litigate or decide contested issues (see section (c) below). No party may be 

compelled to resolve any matter at a conference. 

A conference may be appropriate in order to resolve scheduling difficulties, so that witnesses and members are not 

unnecessarily inconvenienced. Matters which will ultimately be in the military judge’s discretion, such as conduct of 

voir dire, seating arrangements in the courtroom, or procedures when there are multiple accused may be resolved at 

a conference. Conferences may be used to advise the military judge of issues or problems, such as unusual motions 

or objections, which are likely to arise during trial. 

Occasionally it may be appropriate to resolve certain issues, in addition to routine or administrative matters, if this 

can be done with the consent of the parties. For example, a request for a witness which, if litigated and approved at 

trial, would delay the proceedings and cause expense or inconvenience, might be resolved at a conference. Note, 

however, that this could only be done by an agreement of the parties and not by a binding ruling of the military 

judge. Such a resolution must be included in the record (see section (b) below). A military judge may not participate 

in negotiations relating to pleas (see R.M.C. 705; see also Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 410). No place or method is 

prescribed for conducting a conference. A conference may be conducted by radio or telephone. 

(b) Matters on record. Conferences need not be made part of the record, but matters agreed upon 

at a conference shall be included in the record orally or in writing. Failure of a party to object at 

trial to failure to comply with this section shall waive this requirement. 
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(c) Rights of parties. No party may be prevented under this rule from presenting evidence or 

from making any argument, objection, or motion at trial. 

(d) Accused’s presence. The presence of the accused is neither required nor prohibited at a 

conference. 

Discussion

Normally the defense counsel may be presumed to speak for the accused. 

(e) Admission. No admissions made by the accused or defense counsel at a conference shall be 

used against the accused unless the admissions are reduced to writing and signed by the accused 

and defense counsel. 

(f) Limitations. This rule shall not be invoked in the case of an accused who is not represented by 

counsel. 

Rule 803. Military commission sessions without members 

(a) A military judge who has been detailed to the military commission may, at any time after the 

service of charges which have been referred for trial by military commission under chapter 47A 

of title 10, United States Code, call the military commission into session without the presence of 

members for the purpose of:

(1) hearing and determining motions raising defenses or objections which are capable of 

determination without trial of the issues raised by a plea of not guilty;

(2) hearing and ruling upon any matter which may be ruled upon by the military judge 

under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, whether or not the matter is appropriate for 

later consideration or decision by the members;

(3) receiving the pleas of the accused; and

(4) performing any other procedural function which may be performed by the military 

judge under these rules and which does not require the presence of the members.

(b) Except as provided in subsection (c), and Rule 804, any proceedings under paragraph (a) 

shall be conducted in the presence of the accused, defense counsel, and trial counsel, and shall be 

made part of the record.

(c) Deliberation or vote of members. When the members of a military commission under chapter 

47A of title 10, United States Code, deliberate or vote, only the primary members may be 

present.

Discussion
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The purpose of the sessions without members is “to give statutory sanction to pretrial and other hearings without the 

presence of the members concerning those matters which are amenable to disposition on either a tentative or final 

basis by the military judge.” The military judge and members may, and ordinarily should, call the commission into 

session without members to ascertain the accused’s understanding of the right to counsel, and the accused’s choices

with respect to these matters; dispose of interlocutory matters; hear objections and motions; rule upon other matters 

that may legally be ruled upon by the military judge, such as admitting evidence; and perform other procedural 

functions which do not require the presence of members. (See R.M.C. 901-910.) The military judge may, if 

permitted by regulations of the Secretary, hold the arraignment, receive pleas, and enter findings of guilty upon an 

accepted plea of guilty. Evidence may be admitted and process, including a subpoena, may be issued to compel 

attendance of witnesses and production of evidence at such sessions.

Rule 804. Presence of the accused 

(a) Presence required. Except for certain in camera and ex parte presentations as may be 

permitted under R.M.C. 701-703 and Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505, the accused shall be present at 

the arraignment, the time of the plea, every stage of the trial including sessions conducted 

without members, voir dire and challenges of members, the announcement of findings, 

sentencing proceedings, and post-trial sessions, if any, except as otherwise provided by this rule. 

(b) Exclusion of accused from certain proceedings. The military judge may exclude the accused 

from any portion of a proceeding upon a determination that, after being warned by the military 

judge, the accused persists in conduct that justifies exclusion from the courtroom:

(1) to ensure the physical safety of individuals; or

(2) to prevent disruption of the proceedings by the accused.

(c) Continued presence not required. The further progress of the trial to and including the return 

of the findings and, if necessary, determination of a sentence shall not be prevented and the 

accused shall be considered to have waived the right to be present whenever an accused:

(1) is voluntarily absent after arraignment; or 

(2) after being warned by the military judge that disruptive conduct will cause the 

accused to be removed from the courtroom, persists in conduct which is such as to justify 

exclusion from the courtroom. 

An accused who is in military custody or otherwise subject to military control at the time of trial 

or other proceeding may not properly be absent from the trial or proceeding without securing the 

permission of the military judge on the record. Prior to exclusion of the accused under this 

section, the military judge shall consider and may, in the military judge’s sole discretion, 

implement alternative measures to preserve the decorum of the proceedings and protect the 

parties and spectators to the trial. 

Discussion

Express waiver. The accused may expressly waive the right to be present at trial proceedings. There is no right to be 

absent, however, and the accused may be required to be present over objection. Thus, an accused cannot frustrate 
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efforts to identify the accused at trial by waiving the right to be present. The right to be present is so fundamental, 

and the Government’s interest in the attendance of the accused so substantial, that the accused should be permitted 

to waive the right to be present only for good cause, and only after the military judge explains to the accused the 

right, and the consequences of foregoing it, and secures the accused’s personal consent to proceeding without the 

accused. 

Voluntary absence. In any case the accused may forfeit the right to be present by being voluntarily absent after 

arraignment. “Voluntary absence” means voluntary absence from trial. For an absence from commission 

proceedings to be voluntary, the accused must have known of the scheduled proceedings and intentionally missed 

them. The prosecution has the burden to establish by a preponderance of the evidence that the accused’s absence 

from trial is voluntary. Voluntariness may not be presumed, but it may be inferred, depending on the circumstances. 

For example, it may be inferred, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, that an accused who was present when 

the trial recessed and who knew when the proceedings were scheduled to resume, but who nonetheless is not present 

when court reconvenes at the designated time, is absent voluntarily. 

Where there is some evidence that an accused who is absent for a hearing or trial may lack mental capacity to stand 

trial, capacity to voluntarily waive the right to be present for trial must be shown (see R.M.C. 909). 

Subsection (1) authorizes but does not require trial to proceed in the absence of the accused upon the accused’s 

voluntary absence. When an accused is absent from trial after arraignment, a continuance or a recess may be 

appropriate, depending on all the circumstances. 

Removal for disruption. Trial may proceed without the presence of an accused who has disrupted the proceedings, 

but only after at least one warning by the military judge that such behavior may result in removal from the 

courtroom. In order to justify removal from the proceedings, the accused’s behavior should be of such a nature as to 

materially interfere with the conduct of the proceedings. 

The military judge should consider alternatives to removal of a disruptive accused. Such alternatives include 

physical restraint (such as binding, shackling, and gagging) of the accused, or physically segregating the accused in 

the courtroom. Such alternatives need not be tried before removing a disruptive accused under subsection (2). 

Removal may be preferable to such an alternative as binding and gagging, which can be an affront to the dignity and 

decorum of the proceedings. 

Disruptive behavior of the accused may also constitute contempt (see R.M.C. 809). When the accused is removed 

from the courtroom for disruptive behavior, the military judge should: 

(A) Afford the accused and defense counsel ample opportunity to consult throughout the proceedings. To 

this end, the accused should be held or otherwise required to remain in the vicinity of the trial, and frequent recesses 

permitted to allow counsel to confer with the accused. 

(B) Take such additional steps as may be reasonably practicable to enable the accused to be informed about 

the proceedings. Although not required, technological aids, such as closed-circuit television or audio transmissions, 

may be used for this purpose. 

(C) Afford the accused a continuing opportunity to return to the courtroom upon assurance of good 

behavior. To this end, the accused should be brought to the courtroom at appropriate intervals, and offered the 

opportunity to remain upon good behavior. 

(D) Ensure that the reasons for removal appear in the record. 

(d) Voluntary absence for limited purpose of child testimony. 

(1) Election by accused. Following a determination by the military judge that remote live 

testimony of a child is appropriate pursuant to Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 611(d), the accused may 
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elect to voluntarily absent himself from the courtroom in order to preclude the use of procedures 

described in R.M.C. 914A. 

(2) Procedure. The accused’s absence will be conditional upon his being able to view the 

witness’ testimony from a remote location. Normally, a two-way closed circuit television system 

will be used to transmit the child’s testimony from the courtroom to the accused’s location. A 

one-way closed circuit television system may be used if deemed necessary by the military judge. 

The accused will also be provided private, contemporaneous communication with his counsel. 

The procedures described herein shall be employed unless the accused has made a knowing and 

affirmative waiver of these procedures. 

(3) Effect on accused’s rights generally. An election by the accused to be absent pursuant 

to subsection (c)(1) shall not otherwise affect the accused’s right to be present at the remainder 

of the trial in accordance with this rule. 

(e) Appearance and security of accused.

(1) Appearance. The accused shall be properly attired in the uniform or dress prescribed 

by the military judge. The accused and defense counsel are responsible for ensuring that the 

accused is properly attired; however, upon request, the Joint Task Force Commander or his 

designee shall render such assistance as may be reasonably necessary to ensure that the accused 

is properly attired. 

(2) Custody. Responsibility for maintaining custody or control of an accused before and 

during trial may be assigned, subject to subsection (c)(3) of this rule, under such regulations as 

the Secretary may prescribe. 

(3) Restraint. Physical restraint shall not be imposed on the accused during open sessions 

of the commission unless prescribed by the military judge. 

Rule 805. Presence of military judge, members, and counsel 

(a) Military judge. No military commission proceeding, except the deliberations of the members, 

may take place in the absence of the military judge. 

(b) Members. No military commission proceeding may take place in the absence of any detailed 

member except sessions without members under R.M.C. 803; examination of members under 

R.M.C. 912(d); when the member has been excused under R.M.C. 505 or 912(f); or as otherwise 

provided in R.M.C. 1102. No commission proceeding requiring the presence of members may be 

conducted unless at least five primary members are present or in a capital cases, at least twelve 

primary members are present, unless, as described in R.M.C. 501(a), twelve primary members 

are not reasonably available because of physical conditions or military exigencies. 

(c) Counsel. As long as at least one qualified counsel for each party is present, other counsel for 

each party may be absent from a military commission session with the permission of the military 
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judge. An assistant counsel who lacks the qualifications necessary to serve as counsel for a party 

may not act at a session in the absence of such qualified counsel. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 502(d) concerning qualifications of counsel. Ordinarily, no military commission proceeding should take 

place if any defense or assistant defense counsel is absent unless the accused expressly consents to the absence. The 

military judge may, however proceed in the absence of one or more defense counsel, without the consent of the 

accused, if the military judge finds that, under the circumstances, a continuance is not warranted and that the 

accused’s right to be adequately represented would not be impaired. See R.M.C. 502(d)(7) and 505(d)(2) 

concerning withdrawal or substitution of counsel. See R.M.C. 506(d) concerning the right of the accused to proceed 

without counsel. 

(d) Effect of replacement of member. When after presentation of evidence on the merits has 

begun, a new member is detailed under R.M.C. 505(c)(2)(B), trial may not proceed unless the 

testimony and evidence previously admitted on the merits, if recorded verbatim, is read to the 

new member, or, if not recorded verbatim, and in the absence of a stipulation as to such 

testimony and evidence, the trial proceeds as if no evidence has been presented. 

Discussion

When a new member is detailed, the military judge should give such instructions as may be appropriate. (See also 

912 concerning voir dire and challenges.) When the military commission has been reduced below a quorum, a 

mistrial may be appropriate (see 915). 

Rule 806. Public trial 

(a) In general. Except as otherwise provided in chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, and 

this Manual, military commissions shall be publicly held. For purposes of this rule, “public” 

includes representatives of the press, representatives of national and international organizations, 

as determined by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, and certain members of both the 

military and civilian communities. Access to military commissions may be constrained by 

location, the size of the facility, physical security requirements, and national security concerns. 

(b) Control of spectators and closure.

(1) Control of spectators. 

(A) In order to maintain the dignity and decorum of the proceedings or for other 

good cause, the military judge may reasonably limit the number of spectators in, and the means 

of access to, the courtroom, and exclude specific persons from the courtroom.

(B) Any limitations imposed by the military judge under paragraph (b)(1)(A) shall 

be supported by essential findings of fact appended to the record of trial. 

Discussion
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The military judge must ensure that the dignity and decorum of the proceedings are maintained and that the other 

rights and interests of the parties and society are protected. Public access to a session may be limited, specific 

persons excluded from the courtroom, and, under unusual circumstances, a session may be closed. 

(2) Closure. 

(A) The military judge may close to the public all or part of the proceedings of a 

military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code. 

(B) The military judge may close to the public all or a portion of the proceedings 

under paragraph (A) only upon making a specific finding that such closure is necessary 

to—

(i) protect information the disclosure of which could reasonably be 

expected to damage national security, including intelligence or law enforcement sources, 

methods, or activities; or 

(ii) ensure the physical safety of individuals. 

(C) A finding under paragraph (B) may be based upon a presentation, including a 

presentation ex parte or in camera, by either trial or defense counsel.

Discussion

See 10 U.S.C. § 949d(c). Absent a need to close the proceedings, the military judge may take other lesser measures 

(such as the use of delayed broadcast technologies as a substitute for live testimony) to protect information and 

ensure the physical safety of individuals. Any closure under this subsection should be supported by the findings 

described in paragraph (b)(1)(B). In determining whether to close a proceeding pursuant to paragraphs (b)(2)(A) or 

(B), the military judge does not conduct a de novo review of the classification of sources, methods, or activities 

information in its original form or as it might possibly be reconstituted in a summarized form. Rather, the military 

judge should verify that appropriate officials within the agency concerned conducted an authorized review in 

accordance with governing regulations and determined that such a disclosure of information, in either original or 

summarized form would or would not be detrimental to national security. The review is to verify the existence of a 

legal basis for the agency official’s determination that the information is classified and that no summary of such 

information can be provided consistent with national security. This initial review by the trial judge is not for the 

purpose of conducting a de novo review of the propriety of the agency official’s determination(s). All that must be 

determined is that the material in question has been classified by the proper authorities in accordance with the 

appropriate regulations. See United States v. Grunden, 2 M.J. 116 (C.M.A. 1977). 

Note that there may be other sources of authority to close the hearing, such as Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 412, or the 

authority of a military judge to close a hearing in “unusual circumstances” warranting an ex parte session. See 

United States v. Kaspers, 47 M.J. 176 (1997) 

(c) Photography and broadcasting prohibited. Except as otherwise expressly authorized by the 

Secretary of Defense, video and audio recording and the taking of photographs—except for the 

purpose of preparing the record of trial—in the court room during the proceedings and radio or 

television broadcasting of proceedings from the courtroom shall not be permitted. However, the 

military judge may, as a matter of discretion permit contemporaneous closed-circuit video or 

audio transmission to permit viewing or hearing by an accused removed under R.M.C. 804 or by 
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spectators when courtroom facilities are inadequate to accommodate a reasonable number of 

spectators. 

(d) Protective orders. The military judge may, upon request of any party or sua sponte, issue an 

appropriate protective order, in writing, to prevent parties and witnesses from making 

extrajudicial statements that present a substantial likelihood of material prejudice to a fair trial by 

impartial members. 

Discussion

A protective order may proscribe extrajudicial statements by counsel, parties, and witnesses that might divulge 

prejudicial matter not of public record in the case. Other appropriate matters may also be addressed by such a 

protective order. Before issuing a protective order, the military judge must consider whether other available 

remedies would effectively mitigate the adverse effects that any publicity might create, and consider such an order’s 

likely effectiveness in ensuring an impartial military commission panel. A military judge should not issue a 

protective order without first providing notice to the parties and an opportunity to be heard. The military judge must 

state on the record the reasons for issuing the protective order. If the reasons for issuing the order change, the 

military judge may reconsider the continued necessity for a protective order. 

Rule 807. Oaths 

(a) Definition. “Oath” includes “affirmation.” 

Discussion

An affirmation is the same as an oath, except in an affirmation the words “so help you God” are omitted. 

(b) Oaths in military commissions. 

(1) Who must be sworn. 

(A) Military commission personnel. The military judge, members of military 

commission, trial counsel, assistant trial counsel, defense counsel, associate defense counsel, 

assistant defense counsel, reporter, interpreter, and escort shall take an oath to perform their 

duties faithfully. For purposes of this rule, “defense counsel,” “associate defense counsel,” and 

“assistant defense counsel,” include detailed and individual military and civilian counsel; “trial 

counsel” and “assistant trial counsel” include military and civilian counsel. 

(B) Witnesses. Each witness before a military commission shall be examined on 

oath. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 307 concerning the requirement for an oath in swearing of charges. An accused making an unsworn 

statement is not a “witness” (see R.M.C. 1001(c)(2)(C)). 
II-78

(2) Procedure for administering oaths. Any procedure which appeals to the conscience of 

the person to whom the oath is administered and which binds that person to speak the truth, or, in 

the case of one other than a witness, properly to perform certain duties, is sufficient. 

Discussion

When the oath is administered in a session to the military judge, members, or any counsel, all persons in the 

courtroom should stand. In those rare circumstances in which the trial counsel testifies as a witness, the military 

judge administers the oath. Unless otherwise prescribed by the Secretary the forms below may be used, as 

appropriate, to administer an oath.

(A) Oath for military judge. When the military judge is not previously sworn, the trial counsel 

will administer the following oath to the military judge: 

“Do you (swear) (affirm) that you will faithfully and impartially perform, 

according to your conscience and the laws applicable to trial by military commission, all the 

duties incumbent upon you as military judge of this military commission (, so help you God)?”

(B) Oath for members. The following oath, as appropriate, will be administered to the members 

by the trial counsel: 

“Do you (swear) (affirm) that you will answer truthfully the questions concerning 

whether you should serve as a member of this military commission; that you will faithfully and 

impartially try, according to the evidence, your conscience, and the laws applicable to trial by 

military commission, the case of the accused now before this court; and that you will not disclose 

or discover the vote or opinion of any particular member of the court (upon a challenge or) upon 

the findings or sentence unless required to do so in due course of law (, so help you God)?”

(C) Oaths for counsel. When counsel for either side, including any associate or assistant, is not 

previously sworn the following oath, as appropriate, will be administered by the military judge: 

“Do you (swear) (affirm) that you will faithfully perform all the duties of (trial) 

(assistant trial) (defense)(associate defense) (assistant defense) counsel in the case now in 

hearing (, so help you God)?”

(D) Oath for reporter. The trial counsel will administer the following oath to 

every reporter of a military commission who has not been previously sworn: “Do you (swear) 

(affirm) that you will faithfully perform the duties of reporter to this military commission (, so 

help you God)?”

(E) Oath for interpreter. The trial counsel shall administer the following oath to every interpreter 

in the trial of any case before a military commission: 

“Do you (swear) (affirm) that in the case now in hearing you will interpret truly 

the testimony you are called upon to interpret (, so help you God)?”
II-79

(F) Oath for witnesses. The trial counsel will administer the following oath to each witness 

before the witness first testifies in a case: 

“Do you (swear) (affirm) that the evidence you shall give in the case now in 

hearing shall be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth (, so help you God)?” 

(G) Oath for escort. The escort on views or inspections by the military commission will, before 

serving, take the following oath, which will be administered by the trial counsel: 

“Do you (swear) (affirm) that you will escort the military commission and will 

well and truly point out to them (the place in which the offense charged in this case is alleged to 

have been committed) ( ); and that you will not speak to members concerning (the alleged 

offense) ( ), except to describe (the place aforesaid) ( ) (, so help you God)?” 

Rule 808. Record of trial 

A separate, verbatim, record of the proceedings in each military commission case will be 

prepared. The trial counsel of a military commission shall take such action as may be necessary 

to ensure that the record will meet the requirements of R.M.C. 1103. 

Discussion

Trial counsel should also ensure that all exhibits and other documents relating to the case are properly maintained 

for later inclusion in the record. See also R.M.C. 1103(g) as to the use of videotapes, audiotapes, and similar 

recordings for the record of trial. Because of the requirement for a verbatim transcript, all proceedings, including 

sidebar conferences, arguments, and rulings and instructions by the military judge, should be recorded. 

Where there is recorder failure or loss of court reporter’s notes, the record should be reconstructed as completely as 

possible. If the interruption is discovered during trial, the military judge should summarize or reconstruct the portion 

of the proceedings which has not been recorded and then proceed anew and repeat the proceedings from the point 

where the interruption began. 

Rule 809. Contempt proceedings 

(a) In general. The military commission may exercise contempt power granted under 10 U.S.C. 

§ 950t. 

(b) Method of disposition. 

(1) Summary disposition. When conduct constituting contempt is directly witnessed by 

the commission, the conduct may be punished summarily. 

(2) Disposition upon notice and hearing. When the conduct apparently constituting 

contempt is not directly witnessed by the commission, the alleged offender shall be brought 

before the commission and informed orally or in writing of the alleged contempt. The alleged 

offender shall be given a reasonable opportunity to present evidence, including calling witnesses. 

The alleged offender shall have the right to be represented by counsel and shall be so advised. 

The contempt must be proved beyond a reasonable doubt before it may be punished. 
II-80

(c) Procedure. The military judge shall in all cases determine whether to punish for contempt 

and, if so, what the punishment shall be. The military judge shall also determine when during the 

trial the contempt proceedings shall be conducted; however, the military judge shall conduct the 

contempt proceedings outside the members’ presence. The military judge may punish 

summarily under subsection (b)(1) only if the military judge recites the facts for the record and 

states that they were directly witnessed by the military judge in the actual presence of the 

commission. Otherwise, the provisions of subsection (b)(2) shall apply. 

(d) Record; review. A record of the contempt proceedings shall be part of the record of the trial 

of the military commission during which it occurred. If the person was held in contempt, then a 

separate record of the contempt proceedings shall be prepared and forwarded to the convening 

authority for review. The convening authority may approve or disapprove all or part of the 

sentence. The action of the convening authority is not subject to further review or appeal. 

(e) Sentence. The punishment may not exceed confinement for 30 days or a fine of $1,000, or 

both. A sentence of confinement pursuant to a finding of contempt shall begin to run when it is 

adjudged unless deferred, suspended, or disapproved by the convening authority. The place of 

confinement for a civilian or military person who is held in contempt and is to be punished by 

confinement shall be designated by the convening authority. A fine does not become effective 

until ordered executed by the convening authority. The military judge may delay announcing the 

sentence after a finding of contempt to permit the person involved to continue to participate in 

the proceedings. 

Discussion

The immediate commander, if applicable, of the person held in contempt, or, in the case of a civilian, the convening 

authority should be notified immediately so that the necessary action on the sentence may be taken (see R.M.C. 

1101). 

(f) Informing person held in contempt. The person held in contempt shall be informed by the 

convening authority in writing of the holding and sentence, if any, of the commission and of the 

action of the convening authority upon the sentence. 

Discussion

Copies of this communication should be furnished to such other persons including the immediate commander, if 

applicable, of the offender as may be concerned with the execution of the punishment. A copy shall be included with 

the record of both the trial and the contempt proceeding. 

Rule 810. Procedures for rehearings, new trials, and other trials 

(a) In general. 

(1) Scope of Rehearing. Upon a rehearing—

(A) the accused may not be tried for any offense of which the accused was found 

not guilty by the first military commission; and
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(B) no sentence in excess of or more than the original sentence may be imposed 

unless—

(i) the sentence is based upon a finding of guilty of an offense not 

considered upon the merits in the original proceedings; or

(ii) the sentence prescribed for the offense is mandatory; or

(2) Rehearings in full and new or other trials. In rehearings which require findings on all 

charges and specifications referred to a military commission, the procedure shall be the same as 

in an original trial except as otherwise provided in this rule. 

(3) Rehearings on sentence only. In a rehearing on sentence only, the procedure shall be 

the same as in an original trial, except that the portion of the procedure which ordinarily occurs 

after challenges and through and including the findings is omitted, and except as otherwise 

provided in this rule. 

(A) Contents of the record. The contents of the record of the original trial 

consisting of evidence properly admitted on the merits relating to each offense of which the 

accused stands convicted but not sentenced may be established by any party whether or not it 

was given through an interpreter. 

Discussion

Matters excluded from the record of the original trial on the merits or improperly admitted on the merits must not be 

brought to the attention of the members as a part of the original record of trial. 

(B) Plea. The accused at a rehearing only on sentence may not withdraw any plea 

of guilty upon which findings of guilty are based. However, if such a plea is found to be 

improvident, the rehearing shall be suspended and the matter reported to the authority ordering 

the rehearing. 

(4) Combined rehearings. When a rehearing on sentence is combined with a trial on the 

merits of one or more specifications referred to the military commission, whether or not such 

specifications are being tried for the first time or reheard, the trial will proceed first on the 

merits, without reference to the offenses being reheard on sentence only. After findings on the 

merits are announced, the members, if any, shall be advised of the offenses on which the 

rehearing on sentence has been directed. Additional challenges for cause may be permitted, and 

the sentencing procedure shall be the same as at an original trial, except as otherwise provided in 

this rule. A single sentence shall be adjudged for all offenses. 

(5) Such sessions may be ordered in the sole discretion of the convening authority. 

(b) Composition. 

(1) In general. Each rehearing under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, shall 

take place before a military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code.
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(2) Members. No member of the military commission which previously heard the case 

may sit as a member of the military commission at any rehearing, new trial, or other trial of the 

same case. 

(3) Military judge. The military judge at a rehearing may be the same military judge who 

presided over a previous trial of the same case. 

(c) Examination of record of former proceedings. No member may, upon a rehearing or upon a 

new or other trial, examine the record of any former proceedings in the same case except when 

permitted to do so by the military judge after such matters have been received in evidence. 

Discussion

When a rehearing is ordered, the trial counsel should be provided a record of the former proceedings, accompanying 

documents, and any decision or review relating to the case, as well as a statement of the reason for the rehearing. 

(d) Sentence limitations. 

(1) In general. Sentences at rehearings, new trials, or other trials shall be adjudged within 

the limitations set forth in R.M.C. 1003. Except as otherwise provided in subsection (d)(2) of 

this rule, offenses on which a rehearing, new trial, or other trial has been ordered shall not be the 

basis for an approved sentence in excess of or more severe than the sentence ultimately approved 

by the convening or higher authority following the previous trial or hearing. When a rehearing or 

sentencing is combined with trial on offenses not considered upon the merits in the original 

proceedings, the maximum punishment that may be approved by the convening authority shall be 

the maximum punishment under R.M.C. 1003 for the offenses being reheard as limited above, 

plus the total maximum punishment under R.M.C. 1003 for any new charges of which the 

accused has been found guilty. 

Discussion

In approving a sentence not in excess of one more severe than one imposed previously, a convening authority is not 

limited to approving the same or lesser amount of the same type of punishment formerly approved. An appropriate 

sentence on a retried or reheard offense should be adjudged without regard to any credit to which the accused may 

be entitled. 

See R.M.C. 103(a)(4) and (5) as to when a rehearing may be a capital case. The members should not be advised of 

the basis for the sentence limitation under this rule. 

(2) Pretrial agreement. If, after the earlier military commission, the sentence was 

approved in accordance with a pretrial agreement and at the rehearing the accused fails to 

comply with the pretrial agreement, by failing to enter a plea of guilty or otherwise, the approved 

sentence resulting at a rehearing of the affected charges and specifications may include any 

otherwise lawful punishment not in excess of or more serious than lawfully adjudged at the 

earlier military commission. 
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(e) Definition. “Other trial” means another trial by military commission in which the original 

proceedings were declared invalid because of lack of jurisdiction or failure of a charge to state an 

offense. 

Rule 811. Stipulations 

(a) In general. The parties may make an oral or written stipulation to any fact, the contents of a 

document, or the expected testimony of a witness. 

(b) Authority to reject. The military judge may, in the interest of justice, decline to accept a 

stipulation. 

Discussion

Although the decision to stipulate should ordinarily be left to the parties, the military judge should not accept a 

stipulation if there is any doubt of the accused’s or any other party’s understanding of the nature and effect of the 

stipulation. The military judge should also refuse to accept a stipulation which is unclear or ambiguous. A 

stipulation of fact which amounts to a complete defense to any offense charged should not be accepted nor, if a plea 

of not guilty is outstanding, should one which practically amounts to a confession, except as described in the 

discussion under section (c) of this rule. If a stipulation is rejected, the parties may be entitled to a continuance. 

(c) Requirements. Before accepting a stipulation in evidence, the military judge must be satisfied 

that the parties consent to its admission. 

Discussion

Ordinarily, before accepting any stipulation the military judge should inquire to ensure that the accused understands 

the right not to stipulate, understands the stipulation, and consents to it. 

If the stipulation practically amounts to a confession to an offense to which a not guilty plea is outstanding, it may 

not be accepted unless the military judge ascertains: (A) from the accused that the accused understands the right not 

to stipulate and that the stipulation will not be accepted without the accused’s consent; that the accused understands 

the contents and effect of the stipulation; that a factual basis exists for the stipulation; and that the accused, after 

consulting with counsel, consents to the stipulation; and (B) from the accused and counsel for each party whether 

there are any agreements between the parties in connection with the stipulation, and, if so, what the terms of such 

agreements are.

A stipulation practically amounts to a confession when it is the equivalent of a guilty plea, that is, when it 

establishes, directly or by reasonable inference, every element of a charged offense and when the defense does not 

present evidence to contest any potential remaining issue of the merits. Thus, a stipulation which tends to establish, 

by reasonable inference, every element of a charged offense does not practically amount to a confession if the 

defense contests an issue going to guilt which is not foreclosed by the stipulation. Whenever a stipulation establishes 

the elements of a charged offense, the military judge should conduct an inquiry as described above.

(d) Withdrawal. A party may withdraw from an agreement to stipulate or from a stipulation at 

any time before a stipulation is accepted; the stipulation may not then be accepted. After a 

stipulation has been accepted a party may withdraw from it only if permitted to do so in the 

discretion of the military judge. 
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Discussion

If a party withdraws from an agreement to stipulate or from a stipulation, before or after it has been accepted, the 

opposing party may be entitled to a continuance to obtain proof of the matters which were to have been stipulated. If 

a party is permitted to withdraw from a stipulation previously accepted, the stipulation must be disregarded by the 

commission, and an instruction to that effect should be given. 

(e) Effect of stipulation. Unless properly withdrawn or ordered stricken from the record, a 

stipulation of fact that has been accepted is binding on the commission and may not be 

contradicted by the parties thereto. The contents of a stipulation of expected testimony or of a 

document’s contents may be attacked, contradicted, or explained in the same way as if the 

witness had actually so testified or the document had been actually admitted. The fact that the 

parties so stipulated does not admit the truth of the indicated testimony or document’s contents, 

nor does it add anything to the evidentiary nature of the testimony or document. The Military 

Commission Rules of Evidence apply to the contents of stipulations. 

(f) Procedure. When offered, a written stipulation shall be presented to the military judge and 

shall be included in the record whether accepted or not. Once accepted, a written stipulation of 

expected testimony shall be read to the members, if any, but shall not be presented to them; a 

written stipulation of fact or of a document’s contents may be read to the members, if any, 

presented to them, or both. Once accepted, an oral stipulation shall be announced to the 

members, if any. 

Rule 812. Joint and common trials 

In joint trials and in common trials, each accused shall be accorded the rights and privileges as if 

tried separately. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 307(c)(5) concerning preparing charges and specifications for joint trials. See R.M.C. 601(e)(3) 

concerning referral of charges for joint or common trials, and the distinction between the two. See R.M.C. 906(b)(8) 

concerning motions to sever and other appropriate motions in joint or common trials. 

In a joint or common trial, each accused may be represented by separate counsel, make challenges for cause, make 

peremptory challenges (see R.M.C. 912), and cross-examine witnesses, elect whether to testify, introduce evidence. 

In a joint or common trial, evidence which is admissible against only one or some of the joint or several accused 

may be considered only against the accused concerned. For example, when a stipulation is accepted which was made 

by only one or some of the accused, the stipulation does not apply to those accused who did not join it. In such 

instances the members must be instructed that the stipulation or evidence may be considered only with respect to the 

accused with respect to whom it is accepted. 

Rule 813. Announcing personnel of the military commission and accused 

(a) Opening sessions. When the military commission is called to order for the first time in a case, 

the military judge shall ensure that the following is announced: 

(1) The order, including any amendment, by which the military commission is convened; 
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(2) The name, and known aliases of the accused; 

(3) The name and rank of the military judge, if one has been detailed; 

(4) The names and ranks of the members, if any, who are present; 

(5) The names and ranks of members who are absent, if presence of members is required; 

(6) The names and ranks (if any) of counsel who are present; 

(7) The names and ranks (if any) of counsel who are absent; and 

(8) The name and rank (if any) of any detailed court reporter. 

(b) Later proceedings. When the military commission is called to order after a recess or 

adjournment or after it has been closed for any reason, the military judge shall ensure that the 

record reflects whether all parties and members, who were present at the time of the adjournment 

or recess, or at the time the military commission closed, are present. 

(c) Additions, replacement, and absences of personnel. Whenever there is a replacement of the 

military judge, any member, or counsel, either through the appearance of new personnel or 

personnel previously absent or through the absence of personnel previously present, the military 

judge shall ensure the record reflects the change and the reason for it. 
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CHAPTER IX. TRIAL PROCEDURES THROUGH FINDINGS

Rule 901. Opening session 

(a) Call to order. A military commission is in session when the military judge so declares. 

Discussion

The military judge should examine the charge sheet, convening order, and any amending orders before calling the 

initial session to order. 

(b) Announcement of parties. After the military commission is called to order, the presence or 

absence of the parties, military judge, and members shall be announced. 

Discussion

If the orders detailing the military judge and counsel have not been reduced to writing, an oral announcement of 

such detailing is required. See R.M.C. 503(d). 

(c) Swearing reporter and interpreter. After the personnel have been accounted for as required in 

section (b) of this rule, the trial counsel shall announce whether the reporter and interpreter, if 

any is present, have been properly sworn. If not sworn, the reporter and interpreter, if any, shall 

be sworn. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 807 concerning the oath to be administered to a court reporter or interpreter. If a reporter or interpreter is 

replaced at any time during trial, this should be noted for the record, and the procedures in this section should be 

repeated. 

(d) Counsel. 

(1) Trial counsel. The trial counsel shall announce the legal qualifications and status as to 

oaths of the members of the prosecution and whether any member of the prosecution has acted in 

any manner which might tend to disqualify that counsel. 

(2) Defense counsel. The detailed defense counsel shall announce the legal qualifications 

and status as to oaths of the detailed members of the defense and whether any member of the 

defense has acted in any manner which might tend to disqualify that counsel. Any defense 

counsel not detailed shall state that counsel’s legal qualifications, and whether that counsel has 

acted in any manner which might tend to disqualify the counsel. 

(3) Disqualification. If it appears that any counsel may be disqualified, the military judge 

shall decide the matter and take appropriate action. 
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Discussion

Counsel may be disqualified because of lack of necessary qualifications, or because of duties or actions which are 

inconsistent with the role of counsel. See R.M.C. 502(d) concerning qualifications of counsel. 

If it appears that any counsel may be disqualified, the military judge should conduct an inquiry or hearing. If any 

detailed counsel is disqualified, the appropriate authority should be informed. If any defense counsel is disqualified, 

the accused should be so informed. 

If the disqualification of trial or defense counsel is one which the accused may waive, the accused should be so 

informed by the military judge, and given the opportunity to decide whether to waive the disqualification. In the 

case of defense counsel, if the disqualification is not waivable or if the accused elects not to waive the 

disqualification, the accused should be informed of the choices available and given the opportunity to exercise such 

options. 

If any counsel is disqualified, the military judge should ensure that the accused is not prejudiced by any actions of 

the disqualified counsel or any break in representation of the accused. Disqualification of counsel is not a 

jurisdictional defect; such error must be tested for prejudice. 

If the membership of the prosecution or defense changes at any time during the proceedings, the procedures in this 

subsection should be repeated as to the new counsel. In addition, the military judge should ascertain on the record 

whether the accused objects to a change of defense counsel. See R.M.C. 505(d)(2) and 506(c). 

(4) Inquiry. The military judge shall, in open session: 

(A) Inform the accused of the rights to be represented by military counsel detailed 

to the defense; or by individual military counsel requested by the accused, if such military 

counsel is reasonably available; or by civilian counsel, either alone or in association with 

military counsel, if such civilian counsel is provided at no expense to the United States; 

(B) In capital cases, inform the accused of the right to at least one additional 

counsel who is learned in applicable law relating to capital cases and who, if necessary, may be a 

civilian and compensated in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense;

(C) Inform the accused that, if afforded requested individual military counsel, the 

accused may request retention of detailed counsel as associate counsel, which request may be 

granted or denied in the sole discretion of the authority who detailed the counsel;

(D) Ascertain from the accused whether the accused understands these rights; 

(E) Promptly inquire, whenever two or more accused in a joint or common trial 

are represented by the same detailed or civilian counsel, or by civilian counsel who are 

associated in the practice of law, with respect to such joint representation and shall personally 

advise each accused of the right to effective assistance of counsel, including separate 

representation. Unless it appears that there is good cause to believe no conflict of interest is 

likely to arise, the military judge shall take appropriate measures to protect each accused’s right 

to counsel; and 
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Discussion

Whenever it appears that any defense counsel may face a conflict of interest, the military judge should inquire into 

the matter, advise the accused of the right to effective assistance of counsel, and ascertain the accused’s choice of 

counsel. When defense counsel is aware of a potential conflict of interest, counsel should discuss the matter with the 

accused. If the accused elects to waive such conflict, counsel should inform the military judge of the matter at an 

R.M.C. 803 session so that an appropriate record can be made. 

(F) Ascertain from the accused by whom the accused chooses to be represented. 

(5) Unsworn counsel. The military judge shall administer the oath to any counsel not 

sworn. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 807. 

(e) Presence of members. The procedures described in R.M.C. 901, 902, 904, and 905 through 

910 shall be conducted without members present in accordance with R.M.C. 803. 

Rule 902. Disqualification of military judge 

(a) In general. Except as provided in section (e) of this rule, a military judge shall disqualify 

himself or herself in any proceeding in which that military judge’s impartiality might reasonably 

be questioned. 

(b) Specific grounds. A military judge shall also disqualify himself or herself in the following 

circumstances: 

(1) Where the military judge has a personal bias or prejudice concerning a party or 

personal knowledge of disputed evidentiary facts concerning the proceeding. 

(2) Where the military judge has acted as counsel, legal officer, staff judge advocate, or 

convening authority as to any offense charged or in the same case generally. 

(3) Where the military judge has been or will be a witness in the same case, is the 

accuser, has forwarded charges in the case with a personal recommendations as to disposition, 

or, except in the performance of duties as military judge in a previous trial of the same or a 

related case, has expressed an opinion concerning the guilt or innocence of the accused. 

(4) Where the military judge is not eligible to act because the military judge is not 

qualified under R.M.C. 502(c) or not detailed under R.M.C. 503(b). 

(5) Where the military judge, the military judge’s spouse, or a person within the third 

degree of relationship to either of them or a spouse of such person: 

(A) Is a party to the proceeding; 
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(B) Is known by the military judge to have an interest, financial or otherwise, that 

could be substantially affected by the outcome of the proceeding; or 

(C) Is to the military judge’s knowledge likely to be a material witness in the 

proceeding. 

Discussion

A military judge should inform himself or herself about his or her financial interests, and make a reasonable effort to 

inform himself or herself about the financial interests of his or her spouse and minor children living in his or her 

household. 

(c) Definitions. For the purposes of this rule the following words or phrases shall have the 

meaning indicated— 

(1) “Proceeding” includes pre-trial, trial, post-trial, appellate review, or other stages of 

litigation. 

(2) The “degree of relationship” is calculated according to the civil law system. 

Discussion

Relatives within the third degree of relationship are children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, parents, 

grandparents, great grandparents, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts, nephews, and nieces. 

(d) Procedure. 

(1) The military judge shall, upon motion of any party or sua sponte, decide whether the 

military judge is disqualified. 

Discussion

There is no peremptory challenge against a military judge. A military judge should carefully consider whether any 

of the grounds for disqualification in this rule exist in each case. The military judge should broadly construe grounds 

for challenge but should not step down from a case unnecessarily. 

Possible grounds for disqualification should be raised at the earliest reasonable opportunity. They may be raised at 

any time, and an earlier adverse ruling does not bar later consideration of the same issue, as, for example, when 

additional evidence is discovered. 

(2) Each party shall be permitted to question the military judge and to present evidence 

regarding a possible ground for disqualification before the military judge decides the matter. 

Discussion

Nothing in this rule prohibits the military judge from reasonably limiting the presentation of evidence, the scope of 

questioning, and argument on the subject so as to ensure that only matters material to the central issue of the military 

judge’s possible disqualification are considered, thereby, preventing the proceedings from becoming a forum for 

unfounded opinion, speculation, or innuendo. 
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(3) Except as provided under section (e) of this rule, if the military judge rules that the 

military judge is disqualified, the military judge shall recuse himself or herself. 

(e) Waiver. No military judge shall accept from the parties to the proceeding a waiver of any 

ground for disqualification enumerated in section (b) of this rule. Where the ground for 

disqualification arises only under section (a) of this rule, waiver may be accepted provided it is 

preceded by a full disclosure on the record of the basis for disqualification. 

Rule 903. 

Reserved.

Rule 904. Arraignment 

Arraignment shall be conducted in a military commission session and shall consist of reading the 

charges and specifications to the accused and calling on the accused to plead. The accused may 

waive the reading. 

Discussion

Arraignment is complete when the accused is called upon to plead; the entry of pleas is not part of the arraignment. 

Once the accused has been arraigned, no additional charges against that accused may be referred to that commission 

for trial with the previously referred charges, without the consent of the accused. See R.M.C. 601(e)(2). 

The defense should be asked whether it has any motions to make before pleas are entered. Some motions ordinarily 

must be made before a plea is entered. See R.M.C. 905(b). 

Rule 905. Motions generally 

(a) Definitions and form. A motion is an application to the military judge for particular relief. 

Motions may be oral or, at the discretion of the military judge, written. A motion shall state the 

grounds upon which it is made and shall set forth the ruling or relief sought. The substance of a 

motion, not its form or designation, shall control. 

Discussion

Motions may be motions to suppress (see R.M.C. 905(b)(3)); motions for appropriate relief (see R.M.C. 906); 

motions to dismiss (see R.M.C. 907); or motions for findings of not guilty (see R.M.C. 917). 

(b) Pre-trial motions. Any defense, objection, or request which is capable of determination 

without the trial of the general issue of guilt may be raised before trial. The following must be 

raised before a plea is entered: 

(1) Defenses or objections based on defects (other than jurisdictional defects) in the 

swearing, forwarding, investigation, or referral of charges; 
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Discussion

Such nonjurisdictional defects include unsworn charges and inadequate pre-trial advice. See R.M.C. 307; 401; 406–

407; 601–604. 

(2) Defenses or objections based on defects in the charges and specifications (other than 

any failure to show jurisdiction or to charge an offense, which objections shall be resolved by the 

military judge at any time during the pendency of the proceedings); 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 307; 906(b)(4). 

(3) Motions to suppress evidence; 

(4) Motions for discovery under R.M.C. 701 or for production of witnesses or evidence; 

or 

Discussion

See also R.M.C. 703; 1001(e). 

(5) Motions for severance of charges or accused. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 812; 906(b)(8) and (9).

(6) Objections based on denial of request for individual military counsel or for retention 

of detailed counsel when an individual military counsel has been granted. 

(c) Burden of proof. 

(1) Standard. Unless otherwise provided in this Manual, the burden of proof on any 

factual issue the resolution of which is necessary to decide a motion shall be by a preponderance 

of the evidence. 

Discussion

See Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 104(a) concerning the applicability of the Military Commission Rules of Evidence to 

certain preliminary questions. 

(2) Assignment. 

(A) Except as otherwise provided in this Manual the burden of persuasion on any 

factual issue the resolution of which is necessary to decide a motion shall be on the moving 

party. 
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Discussion

See, for example, paragraph (c)(2)(B) of this rule, R.M.C. 908, and Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 304(d) for provisions 

specifically assigning the burden of proof. 

(B) In the case of a motion to dismiss for lack of jurisdiction or lack of speedy 

trial under R.M.C. 707, the burden of persuasion shall be upon the prosecution. 

(d) Ruling on motions. A motion made before pleas are entered shall be determined before pleas 

are entered unless, if otherwise not prohibited by this Manual, the military judge for good cause 

orders that determination be deferred until trial of the general issue or after findings, but no such 

determination shall be deferred if a party’s right to review or appeal is adversely affected. Where 

factual issues are involved in determining a motion, the military judge shall state the essential 

findings on the record. 

Discussion

When trial cannot proceed further as the result of dismissal or other rulings on motions, the commission should 

adjourn and a record of the proceedings should be prepared for the convening authority. See R.M.C. 908(b)(4) 

regarding automatic stay of certain rulings and orders subject to appeal under that rule. Notwithstanding the 

dismissal of some specifications, trial may proceed in the normal manner as long as one or more charges and 

specifications remain. 

(e) Effect of failure to raise defenses or objections. Failure by a party to raise defenses or 

objections or to make motions or requests which must be made before pleas are entered under 

section (b) of this rule shall constitute waiver. The military judge for good cause shown may 

grant relief from the waiver. Other motions, requests, defenses, or objections, except lack of 

jurisdiction or failure of a charge to allege an offense, must be raised before the commission is 

adjourned for that case and, unless otherwise provided in this Manual, failure to do so shall 

constitute waiver. 

Discussion

See also R.M.C. 910(j) concerning matters waived by a plea of guilty. 

(f) Reconsideration. On request of any party or sua sponte, the military judge may, prior to 

authentication of the record of trial, reconsider any ruling, other than one amounting to a finding 

of not guilty, made by the military judge. 

Discussion

Section (f) permits the military judge to reconsider any ruling that affects the legal sufficiency of any finding of guilt 

or the sentence. See R.M.C. 917(d) for the standard to be used to determine the legal sufficiency of evidence. See

also R.M.C. 1102 concerning procedures for post-trial reconsideration. Different standards may apply depending on 

the nature of the ruling. 

(g) Effect of final determinations. Any matter put in issue and finally determined by a military 

commission, reviewing authority, or appellate court which had jurisdiction to determine the 
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matter may not be disputed by the United States in any other commission of the same accused, 

except that, when the offenses charged at one commission did not arise out of the same 

transaction as those charged at the commission at which the determination was made, a 

determination of law and the application of law to the facts may be disputed by the United States. 

This rule also shall apply to matters which were put in issue and finally determined in any other 

judicial proceeding in which the accused and the United States or a Federal governmental unit 

were parties. 

(h) Written motions. Written motions may be submitted to the military judge after referral and 

when appropriate they may be supported by affidavits, with service and opportunity to reply to 

the opposing party. Such motions may be disposed of before arraignment and without a session. 

The military judge may, in the judge’s discretion, grant the request of either party for an R.M.C. 

803 session to present oral argument or have an evidentiary hearing concerning the disposition of 

written motions. 

(i) Service. Written motions shall be served on all other parties. Unless otherwise directed by the 

military judge, the service shall be made upon counsel for each party. 

(j) Application to convening authority. Except as otherwise provided in this Manual, any matters 

which may be resolved upon motion without trial of the general issue of guilt may be submitted 

by a party to the convening authority before trial for decision. Submission of such matter to the 

convening authority is not, except as otherwise provided in this Manual, required, and is, in any 

event, without prejudice to the renewal of the issue by timely motion before the military judge. 

(k) Production of statements on motion to suppress. Except as provided in this section, R.M.C. 

914 shall apply at a hearing on a motion to suppress evidence under subsection (b)(3) of this rule. 

For purposes of this section, a law enforcement officer shall be deemed a witness called by the 

Government, and upon a claim of privilege the military judge shall excise portions of the 

statement containing privileged matter. 

Rule 906. Motions for appropriate relief 

(a) In general. A motion for appropriate relief is a request for a ruling to cure a defect which 

deprives a party of a right or hinders a party from preparing for trial or presenting its case. 

(b) Grounds for appropriate relief. The following may be requested by motion for appropriate 

relief. This list is not exclusive: 

(1) Continuances. A continuance may be granted only by the military judge. 

Discussion

The military judge should, upon a showing of reasonable cause, grant a continuance to any party for as long and as 

often as is just. Whether a request for a continuance should be granted is a matter within the discretion of the 

military judge. Reasons for a continuance may include: insufficient opportunity to prepare for trial; unavailability of 

an essential witness; the interest of Government in the order of trial of related cases; and illness of an accused, 

counsel, military judge, or member. (See also R.M.C. 602; 707; 803). 
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(2) Record of denial of individual military counsel or of denial of request to retain 

detailed counsel when a request for individual military counsel was granted. If a request for 

military counsel was denied, which denial was upheld on appeal (if available) or if a request to 

retain detailed counsel was denied when the accused is represented by individual military 

counsel, and if the accused so requests, the military judge shall ensure that a record of the matter 

is included in the record of trial, and may make findings. The trial counsel may request a 

continuance to inform the convening authority of those findings. The military judge may not 

dismiss the charges or otherwise effectively prevent further proceedings based on the issue. 

However, the military judge may grant reasonable continuances until the requested military 

counsel can be made available if the unavailability results from temporary conditions or if the 

decision of unavailability is in the process of review in administrative channels. 

(3) Correction of defects in the pre-trial advice. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 406. If the motion is granted, the military judge should ordinarily grant a continuance so the defect may 

be corrected. 

(4) Amendment of charges or specifications. A charge or specification may not be 

amended over the accused’s objection unless the amendment is minor within the meaning of 

R.M.C. 603(a). 

Discussion

See also R.M.C. 307. An amendment may be appropriate when a specification is unclear, redundant, inartfully 

drafted, misnames an accused, or incorrectly cites the offense under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code. A 

specification may be amended by striking surplusage, or substituting or adding new language. Surplusage may 

include irrelevant or redundant details or aggravating circumstances which are not necessary to enhance the 

maximum authorized punishment or to explain the essential facts of the offense. When a specification is amended 

after the accused has entered a plea to it, the accused should be asked to plead anew to the amended specification. A 

bill of particulars (see subsection (b)(6) of this rule) may also be used when a specification is indefinite or 

ambiguous. 

If a specification, although stating an offense, is so defective that the accused appears to have been misled, the 

accused should be given a continuance upon request, or, in an appropriate case (see R.M.C. 907(b)(3)), the 

specification may be dismissed. 

(5) Severance of a duplicitous specification into two or more specifications. 

Discussion

Each specification may state only one offense. R.M.C. 307(c)(4). A duplicitous specification is one which alleges 

two or more separate offenses. Lesser included offenses are not separate, nor is a continuing offense involving 

several separate acts. The sole remedy for a duplicitous specification is severance of the specification into two or 

more specifications, each of which alleges a separate offense contained in the duplicitous specification. However, if 

the duplicitousness is combined with or results in other defects, such as misleading the accused, other remedies may 

be appropriate. See subsection (b)(3) of this rule. See also R.M.C. 907(b)(3). 
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(6) Bill of particulars. A bill of particulars may be amended at any time, subject to such 

conditions as justice permits. 

Discussion

The purposes of a bill of particulars are to inform the accused of the nature of the charge with sufficient precision to 

enable the accused to prepare for trial, to avoid or minimize the danger of surprise at the time of trial, and to enable 

the accused to plead the acquittal or conviction in bar of another prosecution for the same offense when the 

specification itself is too vague and indefinite for such purposes. 

A bill of particulars should not be used to conduct discovery of the Government’s theory of a case, to force detailed 

disclosure of acts underlying a charge, or to restrict the Government’s proof at trial. A bill of particulars need not be 

sworn because it is not part of the specification. A bill of particulars cannot be used to repair a specification which is 

otherwise not legally sufficient. 

(7) Discovery and production of evidence witnesses. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 701 concerning discovery. See R.M.C. 703, 914 and 1001(e) concerning production of evidence and 

witnesses. 

(8) Severance of multiple accused, if it appears that an accused or the Government is 

prejudiced by a joint or common trial. In a common trial, a severance shall be granted whenever 

any accused, other than the moving accused, faces charges unrelated to those charged against the 

moving accused. 

Discussion

A motion for severance is a request that one or more accused against whom charges have been referred to a joint or 

common trial be tried separately. Such a request should be liberally considered in a common trial, and should be 

granted if good cause is shown. For example, a severance is ordinarily appropriate when: the moving party wishes to 

use the testimony of one or more of the coaccused or the spouse of a coaccused; a defense of a coaccused is 

antagonistic to the moving party; or evidence as to any other accused will improperly prejudice the moving accused. 

If a severance is granted by the military judge, the military judge will decide which accused will be tried first. See

R.M.C. 801(a)(1). In the case of joint charges, the military judge will direct an appropriate amendment of the 

charges and specifications. See also R.M.C. 307(c)(5); 601(e)(3); 604; 812. 

(9) Severance of offenses, but only to prevent manifest injustice. 

(10) Determination of multiplicity of offenses for sentencing purposes. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 1003 concerning determination of the maximum punishment. See also R.M.C. 907(b)(3)(B) concerning 

dismissal of charges on grounds of multiplicity. 

A ruling on this motion ordinarily should be deferred until after findings are entered. 

(11) Preliminary rulings on admissibility of evidence. 
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Discussion

See Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 104(c). A request for a preliminary ruling on admissibility is a request that certain matters 

which are ordinarily decided during trial of the general issue be resolved before they arise, outside the presence of 

members. The purpose of such a motion is to avoid the prejudice which may result from bringing inadmissible 

matters to the attention of court members. Whether to rule on an evidentiary question before it arises during trial is a 

matter within the discretion of the military judge. But see R.M.C. 905(b)(3) and (d); Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 304(d)(2). 

(12) Motions relating to mental capacity or responsibility of the accused. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 706, 909, and 916(k) regarding procedures and standards concerning the mental capacity or 

responsibility of the accused. 

Rule 907. Motions to dismiss 

(a) In general. A motion to dismiss is a request to terminate further proceedings to one or more 

charges and specifications on grounds capable of resolution without trial of the general issue of 

guilt.

(b) Grounds for dismissal. Grounds for dismissal include the following— 

(1) Nonwaivable grounds. A charge or specification shall be dismissed at any stage of the 

proceedings if: 

(A) The military commission lacks jurisdiction to try the accused for the offense; 

or 

(B) The specification fails to state an offense. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 307(c). 

(2) Waivable grounds. A charge or specification shall be dismissed upon motion made by 

the accused before the final adjournment of the military commission in that case if: 

(A) Dismissal is required under R.M.C. 707; 

(B) The accused has previously been tried by military commission or federal 

civilian court for the same offense, provided that: 

(i) No military commission proceeding is a trial in the sense of this rule 

unless presentation of evidence on the general issue of guilt has begun; 
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(ii) No military commission proceeding which has been terminated under 

R.M.C. 604(b) or R.M.C. 915 shall bar later prosecution for the same offense or offenses, if so 

provided in those rules; 

(iii) No military commission proceeding in which an accused has been 

found guilty of any charge or specification is a trial in the sense of this rule until the finding of 

guilty has become final after review of the case has been fully completed; and 

(iv) No military commission proceeding which lacked jurisdiction to try 

the accused for the offense is a trial in the sense of this rule. 

(C) Prosecution is barred by: 

(i) A pardon issued by the President; 

Discussion

A pardon may grant individual or general amnesty. 

(ii) Immunity from prosecution granted by a person authorized to do so; 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 704. 

(3) Permissible grounds. A specification may be dismissed upon timely motion by the 

accused if: 

(A) The specification is so defective that it substantially misled the accused, and

the military judge finds that, in the interest of justice, trial should proceed on remaining charges 

and specifications without undue delay; or 

(B) The specification is multiplicious with another specification, is unnecessary to 

enable the prosecution to meet the exigencies of proof through trial, review, and appellate action, 

and should be dismissed in the interest of justice. 

Discussion

A specification is multiplicious with another if it alleges the same offense, or an offense necessarily included in the 

other. A specification may also be multiplicious with another if they describe substantially the same misconduct in 

two different ways. See also R.M.C. 1003(b)(1)(C). 

Ordinarily, a specification should not be dismissed for multiplicity before trial unless it clearly alleges the same 

offense, or one necessarily included therein, as is alleged in another specification. It may be appropriate to dismiss 

the less serious of any multiplicious specifications after findings have been reached. Due consideration must be 

given, however, to possible post-trial or appellate action with regard to the remaining specification. 
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Rule 908. Appeal by the United States 

(a) In general. In trial by a military commission, the United States may not appeal an order or 

ruling that is, or amounts to, a finding of not guilty by the military judge or by the military 

commission with respect to a charge or specification. The United States may take an 

interlocutory appeal to the United States Court of Military Commission Review of any order or 

ruling of the military judge that: 

(1) terminates proceedings of the military commission with respect to a charge or 

specification; 

(2) excludes evidence that is substantial proof of a fact material in the proceeding; 

(3) relates to the closure of the proceedings from the public, or the exclusion of the 

accused from certain proceedings; or

(4) that, with respect to classified information—

(A) authorizes the disclosure of such information;

(B) imposes sanctions for nondisclosure of such information; or

(C) refuses a protective order sought by the United States to prevent the 

disclosure of such information.

(b) Procedure for appeals under subsection (a)(1), (a)(2), or (a)(3). 

(1) Delay. After an order or ruling which may be subject to an appeal by the United 

States, the military commission may not proceed, except as to matters unaffected by the ruling or 

order, if the trial counsel requests a delay to determine whether to file notice of appeal under this 

rule. Trial counsel is entitled to no more than five days under this subsection. 

(2) Decision to appeal. The decision whether to file notice of appeal under this rule shall 

be made within five days of the ruling or order to be appealed. If the Secretary so prescribes, the 

trial counsel shall not file notice of appeal unless authorized to do so by a person designated by 

the Secretary concerned. 

(3) Notice of appeal. If the United States elects to appeal, the trial counsel shall provide 

the military judge with written notice to this effect not later than five days after the ruling or 

order. Such notice shall identify the ruling or order to be appealed and the charges and 

specifications affected. Trial counsel shall certify that the appeal is not taken for the purpose of 

delay and (if the order or ruling appealed is one which excludes evidence) that the evidence 

excluded is substantial proof of a fact material in the proceeding. 

(4) Effect on the military commission. Upon written notice to the military judge under 

subsection (b)(3) of this rule, the ruling or order that is the subject of the appeal is automatically 
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stayed and no session of the military commission may proceed pending disposition by the Court

of Military Commission Review of the appeal, except that solely as to charges and specifications 

not affected by the ruling or order: 

(A) Motions may be litigated, in the discretion of the military judge, at any point 

in the proceedings; 

(B) When trial on the merits has not begun, 

(i) a severance may be granted upon request of all the parties; 

(ii) a severance may be granted upon request of the accused and when 

appropriate under R.M.C. 906(b)(9); or 

(C) When trial on the merits has begun but has not been completed, a party may, 

on that party’s request and in the discretion of the military judge, present further evidence on the 

merits. 

(5) Record. Upon written notice to the military judge under subsection (b)(3) of this rule, 

trial counsel shall cause a record of the proceedings to be prepared. Such record shall be 

verbatim and complete to the extent necessary to resolve the issues appealed. R.M.C. 1103 shall 

apply and the record shall be authenticated in accordance with R.M.C. 1104(a). The military 

judge or the United States Court of Military Commission Review may direct that additional parts 

of the proceeding be included in the record. R.M.C. 1104(f) shall not apply to such additions; 

(6) Forwarding. Upon written notice to the military judge under subsection (b)(3) of this 

rule, trial counsel shall promptly and by expeditious means forward the appeal to a representative 

of the Government designated by Secretary of Defense as Appellate Counsel for the United 

States. The matter forwarded shall include: a statement of the issues appealed; the record of the 

proceedings or, if preparation of the record has not been completed, a summary of the evidence; 

and such other matters as the Secretary may prescribe. The person designated by the Secretary of 

Defense shall promptly decide whether to file the appeal with the United States Court of Military 

Commission Review and notify the trial counsel of that decision. 

(7) Appeal filed. If the United States elects to file an appeal, it shall be filed directly with 

the United States Court of Military Commission Review, in accordance with the rules of that 

court. 

(8) Appeal not filed. If the United States elects not to file an appeal, trial counsel 

promptly shall notify the military judge and the other parties. 

(c) Procedure for appeals under subsection (a)(4).

(1) Prior to trial, trial counsel shall seek appeal within ten days after the ruling from 

which the appeal is made and the trial shall not commence, until the appeal is resolved. 
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Discussion

The procedures for appeals under subsection (a)(4) mirror the procedures for interlocutory appeals under the 

Classified Information Procedures Act contained in Title 18-Appendix § 7. 

(2) During Trial.

(A) Delay. After an order or ruling which may be subject to an appeal by the 

United States, the military commission may not proceed if the trial counsel requests a delay to 

determine whether to file notice of appeal under this rule. Trial counsel is entitled to no more 

than 72 hours under this subsection. 

(B) Decision to appeal. The decision whether to file notice of appeal under this 

rule shall be made within 72 hours of the ruling or order to be appealed. If the Secretary so 

prescribes, the trial counsel shall not file notice of appeal unless authorized to do so by a person 

designated by the Secretary concerned.

(C) Notice of appeal. If the United States elects to appeal, the trial counsel shall 

provide the military judge with written notice to this effect not later than 72 hours after the ruling 

or order. Such notice shall identify the ruling or order to be appealed Trial counsel shall certify 

that the appeal is not taken for the purpose of delay. 

(D) Effect on the military commission. The military judge shall adjourn the trial 

until the appeal is decided. 

(E) Record. Upon written notice to the military judge under subsection (c)(2)(C) 

of this rule, trial counsel, to the extent practicable, shall cause a record of the proceedings to be 

prepared. Such record shall be verbatim and complete to the extent necessary to resolve the 

issues appealed. R.M.C. 1103 shall apply and the record shall be authenticated in accordance 

with R.M.C. 1104(a). The military judge or the United States Court of Military Commission 

Review may direct that additional parts of the proceeding be included in the record. R.M.C. 

1104(f) shall not apply to such additions; 

(F) Forwarding. Upon written notice to the military judge under subsection 

(c)(2)(C) of this rule, trial counsel shall promptly and by expeditious means forward the appeal 

to a representative of the Government designated by Secretary of Defense as Appellate Counsel 

for the United States. The matter forwarded shall include: a statement of the issues appealed; the 

record of the proceedings or, if preparation of the record has not been completed, a summary of 

the evidence; and such other matters as the Secretary may prescribe. The person designated by 

the Secretary of Defense shall promptly decide whether to file the appeal with the United States 

Court of Military Commission Review and notify the trial counsel of that decision. 

(G) Appeal filed. If the United States elects to file an appeal, it shall be filed 

directly with the United States Court of Military Commission Review, in accordance with the 

rules of that court. 
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(H) Appeal not filed. If the United States elects not to file an appeal, trial counsel 

promptly shall notify the military judge and the other parties. 

(d) Appellate proceedings. Appeals taken under (a)(4) shall be expedited by the United States 

Court of Military Commission Review and shall have priority over all other proceedings. 

Appeals taken under (a)(1), (a)(2), or a(3) shall be expedited by the United States Court of 

Military Commission Review and shall have priority over all other proceedings with the 

exception of those brought under (a)(4). 

(1) Appellate counsel. The parties shall be represented before appellate courts in 

proceedings under this rule as provided in R.M.C. 1202. Appellate Government counsel shall 

diligently prosecute an appeal under this rule. Neither party has a right to oral argument under 

subsections (a)(1), (a)(2), or (a)(3) of this rule. 

(2) The United States Court of Military Commission Review. 

(A) In determining a government appeal, the United States Court of Military 

Commission Review may take action only with respect to matters of law for appeals 

taken under subsections (a)(1), (a)(2), or (a)(3). 

(B) If an appeal is taken during trial under subsection (a)(4), the United States 

Court of Military Commission Review: 

(i) Shall hear oral argument on such appeal within four days of the 

adjournment of the commission; 

(ii) May dispense with written briefs other than the supporting materials 

previously submitted to the military judge; 

(iii) Shall render its decision within four days of oral argument; and 

(iv) May dispense with the issuance of a written opinion in rendering its 

decision. 

(3) Action following decision of the United States Court of Military Commission Review. 

After the United States Court of Military Commission Review has decided any appeal, the 

accused may petition for review by the United States Court of Appeals for the District of 

Columbia Circuit or the United States may appeal an adverse ruling to the United States Court of 

Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. The parties shall be notified of the decision of the 

United States Court of Military Commission Review promptly. If the decision is adverse to the 

accused, the accused shall be notified of the decision and of the right to petition the United States 

Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit for review within 20 days in accordance 

with R.M.C. 1205. If the accused is notified orally on the record, trial counsel shall forward by 

expeditious means a certificate that the accused was so notified to the Secretary of Defense, who 

shall forward a copy to the clerk of the United States Court of Military Commission Review 

when required by the Court. If the decision by the United States Court of Military Commission 
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Review permits it, the military commission trial may proceed as to the affected charges and 

specifications pending further review by the United States Court of Appeals for the District of 

Columbia Circuit, unless either court orders the proceedings stayed. Unless the case is reviewed 

by the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, it shall be returned to 

the military judge or the convening authority for appropriate action in accordance with the 

decision of the Court. If the case is reviewed by the United States Court of Appeals for the 

District of Columbia Circuit, R.M.C. 1205 shall apply. 

(4) Notwithstanding any other provision of this rule, for appeal of a decision by the 

United States Court of Military Commission Review under this rule, appellate government 

counsel shall seek expedited review by the United States Court of Appeals for the District of 

Columbia Circuit and treat it as though it were an appeal under 18 U.S.C. app. 3 § 7(b).

Rule 909. Capacity of the accused to stand trial by military commission 

(a) In general. No person may be brought to trial by military commission if that person is 

presently suffering from a mental disease or defect rendering him or her mentally incompetent to 

the extent that he or she is unable to understand the nature of the proceedings against him or her 

or to conduct or cooperate intelligently in the defense of the case. 

Discussion

See also R.M.C. 916(k). 

(b) Presumption of capacity. A person is presumed to have the capacity to stand trial unless the 

contrary is established. 

(c) Determination before referral. If an inquiry pursuant to R.M.C. 706 conducted before referral 

concludes that an accused is suffering from a mental disease or defect that renders him or her 

mentally incompetent to stand trial, the convening authority before whom the charges are 

pending for disposition may disagree with the conclusion and take any action authorized under 

R.M.C. 401, including referral of the charges to trial. If that convening authority concurs with the 

conclusion, then he or she shall refer the matter to the Secretary of Defense or his designee. 

(d) Determination after referral. After referral, the military judge may conduct a hearing to 

determine the mental capacity of the accused, either sua sponte or upon request of either party. If 

an inquiry pursuant to R.M.C. 706 conducted before or after referral concludes that an accused is 

suffering from a mental disease or defect that renders him or her mentally incompetent to stand 

trial, the military judge shall conduct a hearing to determine the mental capacity of the accused. 

Any such hearing shall be conducted in accordance with section (e) of this rule. 

(e) Incompetence determination hearing. 

(1) Nature of issue. The mental capacity of the accused is an interlocutory question of 

fact. 
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(2) Standard. Trial may proceed unless it is established by a preponderance of the 

evidence that the accused is presently suffering from a mental disease or defect rendering him or 

her mentally incompetent to the extent that he or she is unable to understand the nature of the 

proceedings or to conduct or cooperate intelligently in the defense of the case. In making this 

determination, the military judge is not bound by the rules of evidence except with respect to 

privileges. 

(3) If the military judge finds the accused is incompetent to stand trial, the judge shall 

report this finding to the convening authority. 

(f) Hospitalization of the accused. An accused who is found incompetent to stand trial under this 

rule may be hospitalized or treated as the convening authority, in consultation with the 

commander who exercises control over the accused, may determine. If notified that the accused 

has recovered to such an extent that he or she is able to understand the nature of the proceedings 

and to conduct or cooperate intelligently in the defense of the case, then the convening authority 

may reconvene the commissions. If, at the end of the period of hospitalization, the accused’s 

mental condition has not so improved, the convening authority shall refer the matter to the 

Secretary of Defense or his designee. 

Rule 910. Pleas 

(a) Alternatives. 

(1) In general. An accused may plead as follows: not guilty; guilty; not guilty to an 

offense as charged, but guilty of a named lesser included offense; guilty with exceptions, with or 

without substitutions, not guilty of the exceptions, but guilty of the substitutions, if any. A plea 

of guilty may be received as to an offense for which the death penalty may be adjudged by the 

military commission.

Discussion

See paragraph 3, Part IV, concerning lesser included offenses. When the plea is to a named lesser included offense 

without the use of exceptions and substitutions, the defense counsel should provide a written revised specification 

accurately reflecting the plea and request that the revised specification be included in the record as an appellate 

exhibit. A plea of guilty to a lesser included offense does not bar the prosecution from proceeding on the offense as 

charged. See also section (g) of this rule. 

A plea of guilty does not prevent the introduction of evidence, either in support of the factual basis for the plea, or, 

after findings are entered, in aggravation. See R.M.C. 1001(b)(2).

(2) Conditional pleas. With the approval of the military judge and the consent of the 

Government, an accused may enter a conditional plea of guilty, reserving the right, on further 

review or appeal, to review of the adverse determination of any specified pre-trial motion. If the 

accused prevails on further review or appeal, the accused shall be allowed to withdraw the plea 

of guilty. The Secretary may prescribe who may consent for the Government; unless otherwise 

prescribed by the Secretary, the trial counsel may consent on behalf of the Government. 
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(b) Refusal to plead; irregular plea. If an accused fails or refuses to plead, or makes an irregular 

plea, the military judge shall enter a plea of not guilty for the accused. 

Discussion

An irregular plea includes pleas such as guilty without criminality or guilty to a charge but not guilty to all 

specifications thereunder. When a plea is ambiguous, the military judge should have it clarified before proceeding 

further. 

(c) Advice to accused. Before accepting a plea of guilty, the military judge shall address the 

accused personally and inform the accused of, and determine that the accused understands, the 

following: 

(1) The nature of the offense to which the plea is offered and the maximum possible 

penalty provided by law; 

Discussion

The elements of each offense to which the accused has pleaded guilty should be described to the accused. See also 

section (e) of this rule. 

(2) If the accused is not represented by counsel, that the accused has the right to be 

represented by counsel at every stage of the proceedings; 

(3) That the accused has the right to plead not guilty or to persist in that plea if already 

made, and that the accused has the right to be tried by a military commission, and that at such 

trial the accused has the right to confront and cross-examine witnesses who testify against the 

accused, and the right against self-incrimination; 

(4) That if the accused pleads guilty, there will not be a trial of any kind as to those 

offenses to which the accused has so pleaded, so that by pleading guilty the accused waives the 

rights described in subsection (c)(3) of this Rule; and 

(5) That if the accused pleads guilty, the military judge will question the accused about 

the offenses to which the accused has pleaded guilty, and, if the accused answers these questions 

under oath, on the record, and in the presence of counsel, the accused’s answers may later be 

used against the accused in a prosecution for perjury or false statement. 

(d) Ensuring that the plea is voluntary. The military judge shall not accept a plea of guilty 

without first, by addressing the accused personally, determining that the plea is voluntary and not 

the result of force or threats or of promises apart from a plea agreement under R.M.C. 705. The 

military judge shall also inquire whether the accused’s willingness to plead guilty results from 

prior discussions between the convening authority, a representative of the convening authority, 

or trial counsel, and the accused or defense counsel. 

(e) Determining accuracy of plea. The military judge shall not accept a plea of guilty without 

making such inquiry of the accused as shall satisfy the military judge that either there is a factual 
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basis for the plea or the accused voluntarily agrees that, having viewed the evidence the 

Government intends to introduce against him, the accused is personally convinced that the 

Government could prove the accused guilty of the offenses to which he is pleading guilty, 

beyond a reasonable doubt. After a plea of guilty has been entered by an accused to one or more 

offenses, the trial counsel may make an averment of facts, orally or in writing, or both, which 

facts are (1) susceptible of proof by competent evidence; and (2) sufficient to establish the guilt 

of the accused beyond a reasonable doubt. The accused shall be questioned under oath about the 

offenses and/or the Government’s averment of evidence, to ensure that there is a factual basis for 

the plea(s) or that the accused has voluntarily elected to plead guilty because he is convinced that 

the government could prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. 

Discussion

The inquiry required by United States v. Care, 40 C.M.R. 247 (C.M.A. 1969), pertaining to trials by courts-martial, 

is impracticable in military commissions and the constitutional and policy concerns raised in Care are inapposite. 

(f) Plea agreement inquiry. 

(1) In general. A plea agreement may not be accepted if it does not comply with R.M.C. 

705. 

(2) Notice. The parties shall inform the military judge if a plea agreement exists. 

(3) Disclosure. If a plea agreement exists, the military judge shall require disclosure of 

the entire agreement before the plea is accepted. 

(4) Inquiry. The military judge shall inquire to ensure: 

(A) That the accused understands the agreement; and 

(B) That the parties agree to the terms of the agreement. 

Discussion

If the plea agreement contains any unclear or ambiguous terms, the military judge should obtain clarification from 

the parties. If there is doubt about the accused’s understanding of any term in the agreement, the military judge 

should explain such term to the accused. 

(g) Findings. Findings based on a plea of guilty may be entered immediately upon acceptance of 

the plea at an R.M.C. 803 session unless: 

(1) Such action is not permitted elsewhere in this Manual; or 

(2) The plea is to a lesser included offense and the prosecution intends to proceed to trial 

on the offense as charged. 
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Discussion

If the accused has pleaded guilty to some offenses but not to others, the military judge should ordinarily defer 

informing the members of the offenses to which the accused has pleaded guilty until after findings on the remaining 

offenses have been entered. See R.M.C. 913(a) and R.M.C. 920(e), Discussion, paragraph 3. 

(h) Later action. 

(1) Withdrawal by the accused. If after the acceptance of the plea but before the sentence 

is announced the accused requests to withdraw a plea of guilty and substitute a plea of not guilty 

or a plea of guilty to a lesser included offense, the military judge may as a matter of discretion 

permit the accused to do so. 

(2) Statements by accused inconsistent with plea. If after findings but before the sentence 

is announced the accused makes a statement to the commission, in testimony or otherwise, or 

presents evidence which is inconsistent with a plea of guilty on which a finding is based, or if it 

appears that the accused has entered the plea of guilty through lack of understanding of its 

meaning and effect, the military judge shall inquire into the sufficiency of the plea. If, following 

such inquiry, it appears that the accused entered the plea improvidently or through lack of 

understanding of its meaning and effect a plea of not guilty shall be entered as to the affected 

charges and specifications and the military commission shall proceed as though the accused had 

pleaded not guilty. 

Discussion

When the accused withdraws a previously accepted plea for guilty or a plea of guilty is set aside, counsel should be 

given a reasonable time to prepare to proceed. A mistrial will ordinarily be necessary. 

(3) Pre-trial agreement inquiry. After sentence is announced the military judge shall 

confirm the parties’ understanding of the pre-trial agreement. If the military judge determines 

that the accused does not understand the material terms of the agreement, or that the parties 

disagree as to such terms, the military judge shall conform, with the consent of the Government, 

the agreement to the accused’s understanding or permit the accused to withdraw the plea. 

Discussion

See subsection (f)(3) of this rule. 

(i) Record of proceedings. A verbatim record of the guilty plea proceedings shall be made. 

(j) Waiver. Except as provided in subsection (a)(2) of this rule, a plea of guilty which results in a 

finding of guilty waives any objection, whether or not previously raised, insofar as the objection 

relates to the factual issue of guilt of the offense(s) to which the plea was made. 

Rule 911. Assembly of the military commission 

The military judge shall announce the assembly of the military commission. 
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Discussion

Assembly of the commission is significant because it marks the point after which substitution of the members may 

no longer take place without good cause (see R.M.C. 505; 902; 912). 

Rule 912. Challenge of selection of members; examination and challenges of members 

(a) Pre-trial matters. 

(1) Questionnaires. Before trial, the trial and defense counsel may submit to each primary 

and alternate member written questions approved by the military judge.

Discussion

Using questionnaires before trial may expedite voir dire and may permit more informed exercise of challenges. If 

the questionnaire is marked or admitted as an exhibit at the military commission it must be attached to or included in 

the record of trial. See R.M.C. 1103(a)(2)(B) and (C). 

(2) Other materials. A copy of any written materials considered by the convening 

authority in selecting the primary and alternate members detailed to the military commission 

shall be provided to any party upon request, except that such materials pertaining solely to 

persons who were not selected for detail as members need not be provided unless the military 

judge, for good cause, so directs. 

(3) Upon the request of either party, the military judge may issue protective orders 

sufficient to protect the safety of military members and their families. Such an order may strictly 

limit the disclosure of information including, but not limited to, addresses, names, ages, and 

locations of dependents. 

(b) Challenge of selection of members. 

(1) Motion. Before the examination of members under section (d) of this rule begins, or at 

the next session after a party discovered or could have discovered by the exercise of diligence, 

the grounds therefor, whichever is earlier, that party may move to stay the proceedings on the 

ground that members were selected improperly. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 502(a) and 503(a) concerning selection of members. Members are also improperly selected when, for 

example, a certain group or class is arbitrarily excluded from consideration as members. 

(2) Procedure. Upon a motion under subsection (b)(1) of this rule containing an offer of 

proof of matters which, if true, would constitute improper selection of members, the moving 

party shall be entitled to present evidence, including any written materials considered by the 

convening authority in selecting the members. Any other party may also present evidence on the 

matter. If the military judge determines that the members have been selected improperly, the 
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military judge shall stay any proceedings requiring the presence of members until members are 

properly selected. 

(3) Waiver. Failure to make a timely motion under this section shall waive the improper 

selection unless it constitutes a violation of R.M.C. 501(a), 502(a)(1), or 503(a). 

(c) Stating grounds for challenge. The trial counsel shall state any ground for challenge for cause 

against any member of which the trial counsel is aware. 

(d) Examination of members. The military judge may permit the parties to conduct the 

examination of members or may personally conduct the examination. In the latter event the 

military judge shall permit the parties to supplement the examination by such further inquiry as 

the military judge deems proper or the military judge shall submit to the members such 

additional questions by the parties as the military judge deems proper. A member may be 

questioned outside the presence of other members when the military judge so directs. 

Discussion

Examination of the members is called “voir dire.” If the members have not already been placed under oath for the 

purpose of voir dire (see R.M.C. 807(b)(2) Discussion (B)), they should be sworn before they are questioned. 

The opportunity for voir dire should be used to obtain information for the intelligent exercise of challenges; counsel 

should not purposely use voir dire to present factual matter which will not be admissible or to argue the case. 

The nature and scope of the examination of members is within the discretion of the military judge. Members may be 

questioned individually or collectively. Ordinarily, the military judge should permit counsel to personally question 

the members. Trial counsel ordinarily conducts an inquiry before the defense. Whether trial counsel will question all 

the members before the defense begins or whether some other procedure will be followed depends on the 

circumstances. For example, when members are questioned individually outside the presence of other members, 

each party would ordinarily complete questioning that member before another member is questioned. The military 

judge and each party may conduct additional questioning, after initial questioning by a party, as necessary. 

Ordinarily the members should be asked whether they are aware of any ground for challenge against them. This may 

expedite further questioning. The members should be cautioned, however, not to disclose information in the 

presence of other members which might disqualify them. 

(e) Evidence. Any party may present evidence relating to whether grounds for challenge exist 

against a member. 

(f) Challenges and removal for cause. 

(1) Grounds. A member shall be excused for cause whenever it appears that the member: 

(A) Is not competent to serve as a member under R.M.C. 502(a)(1); 

(B) Has not been properly detailed as a member of the military commission; 

(C) Is an accuser as to any offense charged; 
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(D) Will be a witness in the military commission; 

(E) Has acted as counsel for any party as to any offense charged; 

(F) Has investigated any offense charged; 

(G) Has acted in the same case as convening authority or as the legal advisor to 

the convening authority; 

(H) Will act in the same case as reviewing authority or as the legal advisor to the 

convening authority; 

(I) Has forwarded charges in any manner in the case with a personal 

recommendation as to disposition; 

(J) Upon a rehearing or new or other trial of the case, was a member of the 

military commission which heard the case before; 

(L) Is in arrest or confinement; 

(M) Has informed or expressed a definite opinion as to the guilt or innocence of 

the accused as to any offense charged; 

(N) Should not sit as a member in the interest of having the military commission 

free from substantial doubt as to legality, fairness, and impartiality. 

Discussion

Examples of matters which may be grounds for challenge under paragraph (N) are that the member: has a direct 

personal interest in the result of the trial; is closely related to the accused, a counsel, or a witness in the case; has 

participated as a member or counsel in the trial of a closely related case; has a decidedly friendly or hostile attitude 

toward a party; or has an inelastic opinion concerning an appropriate sentence for the offense charged. 

(2) When made. 

(A) Upon completion of examination. Upon completion of any examination under 

section (d) of this rule and the presentation of evidence, if any, on the matter, each party shall 

state any challenges for cause it elects to make. 

(B) Other times. A challenge for cause may be made at any other time during trial 

when it becomes apparent that a ground for challenge may exist. Such examination of the 

member and presentation of evidence as may be necessary may be made in order to resolve the 

matter. 

(3) Procedure. Each party shall be permitted to make challenges outside the presence of 

the members. The party making a challenge shall state the grounds for it. Ordinarily the trial 

counsel shall enter any challenges for cause before the defense counsel. The military judge shall 
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determine the relevance and validity of challenges for cause, and may not receive a challenge to 

more than one person at a time. The military judge shall rule finally on each challenge. When a 

challenge for cause is granted, the member concerned shall be excused. The burden of 

establishing that grounds for a challenge exist is upon the party making the challenge. A member 

successfully challenged shall be excused. 

(4) Waiver. The grounds for challenge in paragraph (f)(1)(A) of this rule may not be 

waived. Any other ground for challenge is waived if the party knew of or could have discovered 

by the exercise of diligence the ground for challenge and failed to raise it in a timely manner. 

Notwithstanding the absence of a challenge or waiver of a challenge by the parties, the military 

judge may, in the interest of justice, excuse a member against whom a challenge for cause would 

lie. When a challenge for cause has been denied, the successful use of a peremptory challenge by 

either party, excusing the challenged member from further participation in the military 

commission, shall preclude further consideration of the challenge of that excused member upon 

later review. Further, failure by the challenging party to exercise a peremptory challenge against 

any member shall constitute waiver of further consideration of the challenge upon later review. 

Discussion

See also Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 606 when a member may be a witness. 

(g) Peremptory challenges. 

(1) Procedure. Each party may challenge one member peremptorily. However, the 

military judge may, upon request, grant each party such additional peremptory challenges as may 

be required in the interests of justice. Any member so challenged shall be excused. No party 

may be required to exercise a peremptory challenge before the examination of members and 

determination of any challenges for cause has been completed. Ordinarily the trial counsel shall 

enter any peremptory challenge before the defense. Whenever additional members are detailed 

to a military commission and after any challenges for cause against such additional members are 

presented and decided, each of accused and trial counsel is entitled to one peremptory challenge 

against members not previously subject to peremptory challenge regardless of whether those 

parties utilized their peremptory challenge against the other remaining members. Upon a

determination by the military judge that the interests of justice would be served, additional 

peremptory challenges may be granted each party against the additional members. 

(2) Waiver. Failure to exercise a peremptory challenge when properly called upon to do 

so shall waive the right to make such a challenge. The military judge may, for good cause shown, 

grant relief from the waiver, but a peremptory challenge may not be made after the presentation 

of evidence before the members has begun. However, nothing in this subsection shall bar the 

exercise of a previously unexercised peremptory challenge against a member newly detailed 

under R.M.C. 505(c)(3), even if presentation of evidence on the merits has begun. 

(h) Definitions. 
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(1) Witness. For purposes of this rule, “witness” includes one who testifies at a 

commission and anyone whose declaration is received in evidence for any purpose, including 

written declarations made by affidavit or otherwise. 

Rule 913. Presentation of the case on the merits 

(a) Preliminary instructions. The military judge may give such preliminary instructions as may 

be appropriate. If mixed pleas have been entered, the military judge should ordinarily defer 

informing the members of the offenses to which the accused pleaded guilty until after the 

findings on the remaining contested offenses have been entered. 

(b) Opening statements. Each party may make one opening statement to the military commission 

before presentation of evidence has begun. The defense may elect to make its statement after the 

prosecution has rested, before the presentation of evidence for the defense. The military judge 

may, as a matter of discretion, permit the parties to address the military commission at other 

times. 

Discussion

Counsel should confine their remarks to evidence they expect to be offered which they believe in good faith will be 

available and admissible and a brief statement of the issues in the case. 

(c) Presentation of evidence. Each party shall have full opportunity to present evidence. 

(1) Order of presentation. Ordinarily the following sequence shall be followed: 

(A) Presentation of evidence for the prosecution; 

(B) Presentation of evidence for the defense; 

(C) Presentation of prosecution evidence in rebuttal; 

(D) Presentation of defense evidence in surrebuttal; 

(E) Additional rebuttal evidence in the discretion of the military judge; and 

(F) Presentation of evidence requested by the military judge or members. 

(2) Taking testimony. The testimony of witnesses shall be taken orally in open session, 

unless otherwise provided in this Manual. However, upon the request of either party, and if 

necessary to protect the safety of a witness, the military judge may permit a witness for either

party to testify under such circumstances as may assist in protecting the identity of that witness 

from public disclosure. Any measure approved by the military judge that restricts the public’s 
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ability to identify a witness shall be the subject of essential findings of fact and conclusions of 

law, appended by the military judge to the record of trial. 

Discussion

Each witness must testify under oath. See R.M.C. 807(b)(1)(B); Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 603. After a witness is sworn, 

the witness should be identified for the record. The party calling the witness conducts direct examination of the 

witness, followed by cross-examination of the witness by the opposing party. Redirect and re-cross-examination are 

conducted as necessary, followed by any questioning by the military judge and members. See Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 

611 and 614. 

All documentary and real evidence (except marks or wounds on a person’s body) should be marked for 

identification when first referred to in the proceedings and should be included in the record of trial whether admitted 

in evidence or not. See R.M.C. 1103(a)(2). “Real evidence” includes physical objects, such as clothing, weapons, 

and marks or wounds on a person’s body. If it is impracticable to attach an item of real evidence to the record, the 

item should be clearly and accurately described by testimony, photographs, or other means so that it may be 

considered on review. Similarly, when documentary evidence is used, if the document cannot be attached to the 

record (as in the case of an original official record or a large map), a legible copy or accurate extract should be 

included in the record. When a witness points to or otherwise refers to certain parts of a map, photograph, diagram, 

chart, or other exhibit, the place to which the witness pointed or referred should be clearly identified for the record, 

either by marking the exhibit or by an accurate description of the witness’ actions with regard to the exhibit. 

(3) Views and inspections. The military judge may, as a matter of discretion, permit the 

military commission to view or inspect premises or a place or an article or object. Such a view or 

inspection shall take place only in the presence of all parties, the members (if any), and the 

military judge. A person familiar with the scene may be designated by the military judge to 

escort the military commission. Such person shall perform the duties of escort under oath. The 

escort shall not testify, but may point out particular features prescribed by the military judge. 

Any statement made at the view or inspection by the escort, a party, the military judge, or any 

member shall be made part of the record. 

Discussion

A view or inspection should be permitted only in extraordinary circumstances. The fact that a view or inspection has 

been made does not necessarily preclude the introduction in evidence of photographs, diagrams, maps, or sketches 

of the place or item viewed, if these are otherwise admissible. 

(4) Evidence subject to exclusion. When offered evidence would be subject to exclusion 

upon objection, the military judge may, as a matter of discretion, bring the matter to the attention 

of the parties and may, in the interest of justice, exclude the evidence without an objection by a 

party. 

Discussion

The military judge should not exclude evidence which is not objected to by a party except in extraordinary 

circumstances. Counsel should be permitted to try the case and present the evidence without unnecessary 

interference by the military judge. See also Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 103. 

(5) Reopening case. The military judge may, as a matter of discretion, permit a party to 

reopen its case after it has rested. 
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Rule 914. Production of statements of witnesses 

(a) Motion for production. After a witness other than the accused has testified on direct

examination, the military judge, on motion of a party who did not call the witness, shall order the 

party who called the witness to produce, for examination and use by the moving party, any 

statement of the witness that relates to the subject matter concerning which the witness has 

testified, and that is: 

(1) In the case of a witness called by the trial counsel, known to trial counsel or, in the 

exercise of due diligence, may become known to trial counsel; or 

(2) In the case of a witness called by the defense, in the possession of the accused or 

defense counsel. 

Discussion

See also R.M.C. 701 (Discovery). Counsel should anticipate legitimate demands for statements under this and 

similar rules and avoid delays in the proceedings by voluntary disclosure before arraignment. 

As to procedures for certain government information as to which a privilege is asserted, see Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 

505; 506. 

(b) Production of entire statement. If the entire contents of the statement relate to the subject 

matter concerning which the witness has testified, the military judge shall order that the 

statement be delivered to the moving party. 

(c) Production of excised statement. If the party who called the witness claims that the statement 

contains matter that does not relate to the subject matter concerning which the witness has 

testified, the military judge shall order that it be delivered to the military judge. Upon inspection, 

the military judge shall excise the portions of the statement that do not relate to the subject 

matter concerning which the witness has testified, and shall order that the statement, with such 

material excised, be delivered to the moving party. Any portion of a statement that is withheld 

from an accused over objection shall be preserved by the trial counsel, and, in the event of a 

conviction, shall be made available to the reviewing authorities for the purpose of determining 

the correctness of the decision to excise the portion of the statement. 

(d) Recess for examination of the statement. Upon delivery of the statement to the moving party, 

the military judge may recess the trial for the examination of the statement and preparation for its 

use in the trial. 

(e) Remedy for failure to produce statement. If the other party elects not to comply with an order 

to deliver a statement to the moving party, the military judge shall order that the testimony of the 

witness be disregarded by the trier of fact and that the trial proceed, or, if it is the trial counsel 

who elects not to comply, shall declare a mistrial if required in the interest of justice. 

(f) Definition. As used in this rule, a “statement” of a witness means: 
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(1) A written statement made by the witness that is signed or otherwise adopted or 

approved by the witness; 

(2) A substantially verbatim recital or an oral statement made by the witness that is 

recorded contemporaneously with the making of the oral statement and contained in a 

stenolineart, mechanical, electrical, or other recording or a transcription thereof; or 

(3) A statement, however taken or recorded, or a transcription thereof, made by the 

witness to a Federal grand jury. 

Rule 914A. Use of remote live testimony of a witness whose presence at trial cannot be 

procured by legal process, or of a child, victim, or protected entity 

(a) General procedures. A witness whose presence at trial cannot be procured by legal process, a 

child, a victim, or a protected entity may be allowed to testify from an area outside the courtroom 

or from a remote location after the military judge has determined that the requirements of Mil. 

Comm. R. Evid. 611(d) have been satisfied. The procedure used to take such testimony will be 

determined by the military judge based upon the exigencies of the situation. At a minimum, the 

following procedures shall be observed: 

(1) The witness shall testify from a remote location outside the courtroom; 

(2) Attendance at the remote location shall be limited to the child, victim, protected

entity, or witness and, counsel for each side (not including an accused pro se), equipment 

operators, and other persons, such as an attendant for the child, whose presence is deemed 

necessary by the military judge; 

(3) Sufficient monitors shall be placed in the courtroom to allow viewing and hearing of 

the testimony by the military judge, the accused, the members, the court reporter and the public; 

(4) The voice of the military judge shall be transmitted into the remote location to allow 

control of the proceedings; and 

(5) The accused shall be permitted private, contemporaneous communication with his 

counsel. 

(b) Prohibitions. In case of a child victim, the procedures described above shall not be used 

where the accused elects to absent himself from the courtroom pursuant to R.M.C. 804(d). 

Rule 914B. 

Reserved.

Rule 915. Mistrial 
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(a) In general. The military judge may, as a matter of discretion, declare a mistrial when such 

action is manifestly necessary in the interest of justice because of circumstances arising during 

the proceedings which cast substantial doubt upon the fairness of the proceedings. A mistrial 

may be declared as to some or all charges, and as to the entire proceedings or as to only the 

proceedings after findings. 

(b) Procedure. On motion for a mistrial or when it otherwise appears that grounds for a mistrial 

may exist, the military judge shall inquire into the views of the parties on the matter and then 

decide the matter as an interlocutory question. 

(c) Effect of declaration of mistrial. 

(1) Withdrawal of charges. A declaration of a mistrial shall have the effect of 

withdrawing the affected charges and specifications from the military commission. 

Discussion

Upon declaration of a mistrial, the affected charges are returned to the convening authority, who may refer them 

anew or otherwise dispose of them. See R.M.C. 401; 407. 

(2) Further proceedings. A declaration of a mistrial shall not prevent trial by another 

military commission on the affected charges and specifications except when the mistrial was 

declared after jeopardy attached and before findings, and the declaration was: 

(A) An abuse of discretion and without the consent of the defense; or 

(B) The direct result of intentional prosecutorial misconduct designed to 

necessitate a mistrial. 

Rule 916. Defenses 

(a) In general. As used in this rule, “defenses” includes any special defense which, although not 

denying that the accused committed the objective acts constituting the offense charged, denies, 

wholly or partially, criminal responsibility for those acts. 

(b) Burden of proof. Except for the defense of lack of mental responsibility, the prosecution shall 

have the burden of proving beyond a reasonable doubt that the defense did not exist. The accused 

has the burden of proving the defense of lack of mental responsibility by clear and convincing 

evidence. 

(c) Justification. A death, injury, or other act caused or done in the proper performance of a legal 

duty is justified and not unlawful. A religious duty, whether actual or perceived, does not form 

the basis for the defense of justification. 

Discussion
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The duty may be imposed by statute, regulation, or order. For example, the use of force by a law enforcement officer 

when reasonably necessary in the proper execution of a lawful apprehension is justified because the duty to 

apprehend is imposed by lawful authority. Killing in compliance with the law of war is justified. 

(d) Obedience to orders. It is a defense to any offense that the accused was acting pursuant to 

orders unless the accused knew the orders to be unlawful or a person of ordinary sense and 

understanding would have known the orders to be unlawful. 

Discussion

The defense of obedience to orders is only available when the accused was acting pursuant to the orders of a 

responsible commander of the armed force to which he belonged and only if that armed force was commanded by a 

person responsible for his subordinates and possessed an internal disciplinary system to enforce compliance with the 

law of war. 

Ordinarily the lawfulness of an order is finally decided by the military judge. See R.M.C. 801(e). An exception 

might exist when the sole issue is whether the person who gave the order in fact occupied a certain position at the 

time. 

An act performed pursuant to a lawful order is justified. See section (c) of this rule. An act performed pursuant to an 

unlawful order is excused unless the accused knew it to be unlawful or a person of ordinary sense and understanding 

would have known it to be unlawful. 

(e) Self-defense. 

(1) Homicides. It is a defense to a homicide or an offense involving deadly force that the 

accused: 

(A) Apprehended, on reasonable grounds, that death or grievous bodily harm was 

about to be inflicted wrongfully on the accused; and 

(B) Believed that the force the accused used was necessary for protection against 

death or grievous bodily harm. 

Discussion

The words “involving deadly force” describes the factual circumstances of the case, not specific offenses. The test 

for the first element of self-defense is objective. Thus, the accused’s apprehension that death or grievous bodily 

harm was about to be inflicted wrongfully must have been one which a reasonable, prudent person would have held 

under the circumstances. Because this test is objective, such matters as intoxication or emotional instability of the 

accused are irrelevant. On the other hand, such matters as the relative height, weight, and general build of the 

accused and the alleged victim, and the possibility of safe retreat are ordinarily among the circumstances which 

should be considered in determining the reasonableness of the apprehension of death or grievous bodily harm. 

The test for the second element is entirely subjective. The accused is not objectively limited to the use of reasonable 

force. Accordingly, such matters as the accused’s emotional control, education, and intelligence are relevant in 

determining the accused’s actual belief as to the force necessary to repel the attack. See also Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 

404(a)(2) as to evidence concerning the character of the victim. 
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(2) Other offenses involving bodily injury. It is a defense to any offense involving the 

threat or infliction of bodily injury charged under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, 

that the accused: 

(A) Apprehended, upon reasonable grounds, that bodily harm was about to be 

inflicted wrongfully on the accused; and 

(B) Believed that the force that accused used was necessary for protection against 

bodily harm, provided that the force used by the accused was less than force reasonably likely to 

produce death or grievous bodily harm. 

Discussion

The principles in the discussion under subsection (e)(1) apply here. If, in using only such force as the accused was 

entitled to use under this aspect of self-defense, death or serious injury to the victim results, this aspect of selfdefense may operate in conjunction with the defense of accident (see section (f) of this rule) to excuse the accused’s 

acts. The death or serious injury must have been an unintended and unexpected result of the accused’s proper 

exercise of the right of self-defense. 

(3) Loss of right to self-defense. The right to self-defense is lost and the defenses 

described in subsections (e)(1), (2), and (3) of this rule shall not apply if the accused was an 

aggressor, engaged in mutual affray, or provoked the attack which gave rise to the apprehension, 

unless the accused had withdrawn in good faith after the aggression, mutual affray, or 

provocation and before the offense alleged occurred. Additionally, the right of self defense is 

not available if the accused’s act is a violation of the law of war. 

Discussion

A person does not become an aggressor or provocateur merely because that person approaches another to seek an 

interview, even if the approach is not made in a friendly manner. For example, one may approach another and 

demand an explanation of offensive words or redress of a complaint. If the approach is made in a nonviolent 

manner, the right to self-defense is not lost. 

A mutual affray occurs when private parties engage in a consensual fight on equal terms. Combat between two 

parties in the context of an armed conflict is not a mutual affray. 

Failure to retreat, when retreat is possible, does not deprive the accused of the right to self-defense if the accused 

was lawfully present. The availability of avenues of retreat is one factor that may be considered in addressing the 

reasonableness of the accused’s apprehension of bodily harm and the sincerity of the accused’s belief that the force 

used was necessary for self-protection. 

The “accused’s act” refers to the actus reus of the charged offense. 

(4) Defense of another. The principles of self-defense under subsection (e)(1) through (4) 

of this rule apply to defense of another. It is a defense to any homicide, attempted homicide, or 

any offense threatening or inflicting bodily injury that the accused acted reasonably in defense of 

another, against an immediate and unlawful use of force, provided that the accused may not use

more force than the person defended was lawfully entitled to use under the circumstances. 

Discussion
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The accused acts at the accused’s peril when defending another. Thus, if the accused goes to the aid of an apparent 

assault victim, the accused is guilty of any offense threatening or inflicting bodily injury the accused commits on the 

apparent assailant if, unbeknownst to the accused, the apparent victim was in fact the aggressor and not entitled to 

use self-defense. 

(f) Accident. A death, injury, or other event which occurs as the unintentional and unexpected 

result of doing a lawful act in a lawful manner is an accident and excusable. 

Discussion

The defense of accident is not available when the act which caused the death, injury, or event was a negligent act. 

(g) Entrapment. It is a defense that the criminal design or suggestion to commit the offense 

originated in the Government and the accused had no predisposition to commit the offense. 

Discussion

The “Government” includes agents of the Government and persons cooperating with them (for example, 

informants). The fact that persons acting for the Government merely afford opportunities or facilities for the 

commission of the offense does not constitute entrapment. Entrapment occurs only when the criminal conduct is the 

product of the creative activity of law enforcement officials. 

When the defense of entrapment is raised, evidence of uncharged misconduct by the accused of a nature similar to 

that charged is admissible to show predisposition. See Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 404(b). 

(h) Coercion or duress. It is a defense to any offense except killing an innocent person that the 

accused’s participation in the offense was caused by a reasonable apprehension that the accused 

or another innocent person would be immediately killed or would immediately suffer serious 

bodily injury if the accused did not commit the act. The apprehension must reasonably continue 

throughout the commission of the act. If the accused has any reasonable opportunity to avoid 

committing the act without subjecting the accused or another innocent person to the harm 

threatened, this defense shall not apply. 

(i) Inability. It is a defense to refusal or failure to perform a duty that the accused was, through 

no fault of the accused, not physically or financially able to perform the duty. 

Discussion

The test of inability is objective in nature. The accused’s opinion that a physical impairment prevented performance 

of the duty will not suffice unless the opinion is reasonable under all the circumstances. 

(j) Ignorance or mistake of fact. It is a defense to an offense that the accused held, as a result of 

ignorance or mistake, an incorrect belief of the true circumstances such that, if the circumstances 

were as the accused believed them, the accused would not be guilty of the offense. If the 

ignorance or mistake goes to an element requiring premeditation, specific intent, willfulness, or 

knowledge of a particular fact, the ignorance or mistake need only have existed in the mind of 

the accused. If the ignorance or mistake goes to any other element requiring only general intent 

or knowledge, the ignorance or mistake must have existed in the mind of the accused and must 
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have been reasonable under all the circumstances. However, if the accused’s knowledge or intent 

is immaterial as to an element, then ignorance or mistake is not a defense. 

(k) Lack of mental responsibility. 

(1) Lack of mental responsibility. It is an affirmative defense to any offense that, at the 

time of the commission of the acts constituting the offense, the accused, as a result of a severe 

mental disease or defect, was unable to appreciate the nature and quality or the wrongfulness of 

his or her acts. Mental disease or defect does not otherwise constitute a defense. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 706 concerning sanity inquiries; R.M.C. 909 concerning the capacity of the accused to stand trial; and 

R.M.C. 1102A concerning any post-trial hearing for an accused found not guilty by reason of lack of mental 

responsibility. 

(2) Partial mental responsibility. A mental condition not amounting to a lack of mental 

responsibility under subsection (k)(1) of this rule is not an affirmative defense. 

Discussion

Evidence of a mental condition not amounting to a lack of mental responsibility may be admissible as to whether the 

accused entertained a state of mind necessary to be proven as an element of the offense. The defense must notify the 

trial counsel before the beginning of trial on the merits if the defense intends to introduce expert testimony as to the 

accused’s mental condition. See R.M.C. 701(b)(2)(B). 

(3) Procedure. 

(A) Presumption. The accused is presumed to have been mentally responsible at 

the time of the alleged offense. This presumption continues until the accused establishes, by clear 

and convincing evidence, that he or she was not mentally responsible at the time of the alleged 

offense. 

Discussion

The accused is presumed to be mentally responsible, and this presumption continues throughout the proceedings 

unless the finder of fact determines that the accused has proven lack of mental responsibility by clear and 

convincing evidence. See section (b) of this rule. 

(B) Inquiry. If a question is raised concerning the mental responsibility of the 

accused, the military judge shall rule finally whether to direct an inquiry under R.M.C. 706. 

(l) Not defenses generally. 

(1) Ignorance or mistake of law. Ignorance or mistake of law ordinarily is not a defense. 
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(2) Voluntary intoxication. Voluntary intoxication, whether caused by alcohol or drugs, is 

not a defense. However, evidence of any degree of voluntary intoxication may be introduced for 

the purpose of raising a reasonable doubt as to the existence of actual knowledge, specific intent, 

willfulness, or a premeditated design to kill, if actual knowledge, specific intent, willfulness, or 

premeditated design to kill is an element of the offense. 

Rule 917. Motion for a finding of not guilty 

(a) In general. The military judge, on motion by the accused or sua sponte, shall enter a finding 

of not guilty of one or more offenses charged after the evidence on either side is closed and 

before findings on the general issue of guilt are announced if the evidence is insufficient to 

sustain a conviction of the offense affected. If a motion for a finding of not guilty at the close of 

the prosecution’s case is denied, the defense may offer evidence on that offense without having 

reserved the right to do so. 

(b) Form of motion. The motion shall specifically indicate wherein the evidence is insufficient. 

(c) Procedure. Before ruling on a motion for a finding of not guilty, whether made by counsel or 

sua sponte, the military judge shall give each party an opportunity to be heard on the matter. 

Discussion

The military judge ordinarily should permit the trial counsel to reopen the case as to the insufficiency specified in 

the motion. 

(d) Standard. A motion for a finding of not guilty shall be granted only in the absence of some 

evidence which, together with all reasonable inferences and applicable presumptions, could 

reasonably tend to establish every essential element of an offense charged. The evidence shall be 

viewed in the light most favorable to the prosecution, without an evaluation of the credibility of 

witnesses. 

(e) Motion as to greater offense. A motion for a finding of not guilty may be granted as to part of 

a specification and, if appropriate, the corresponding charge, as long as a lesser offense charged 

is alleged in the portion of the specification as to which the motion is not granted. In such cases, 

the military judge shall announce that a finding of not guilty has been granted as to specified 

language in the specification and, if appropriate, corresponding charge. The military judge shall 

instruct the members accordingly, so that any findings later announced will not be inconsistent 

with the granting of the motion. 

(f) Effect of ruling. A ruling granting a motion for a finding of not guilty is final when announced 

and may not be reconsidered. Such a ruling is a finding of not guilty of the affected specification, 

or affected portion thereof, and, when appropriate, of the corresponding charge. A ruling denying 

a motion for a finding of not guilty may be reconsidered at any time prior to authentication of the 

record of trial. 

(g) Effect of denial on review. If all the evidence admitted before findings, regardless by whom 

offered, is sufficient to sustain findings of guilty, the findings need not be set aside upon review 
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solely because the motion for finding of not guilty should have been granted upon the state of the 

evidence when it was made. 

Rule 918. Findings 

(a) General findings. The general findings of a military commission state whether the accused is 

guilty of each offense charged. If two or more accused are tried together, separate findings as to 

each shall be made. 

(1) As to a specification. General findings as to a specification may be: guilty; not guilty 

of an offense as charged, but guilty of a named lesser included offense; guilty with exceptions, 

with or without substitutions, not guilty of the exceptions, but guilty of the substitutions, if any; 

not guilty by reason of lack of mental responsibility; or, not guilty. Exceptions and substitutions 

may not be used to substantially change the nature of the offense or to increase the seriousness of 

the offense or the maximum punishment for it. 

Discussion

Exceptions and substitutions. One or more words or figures may be excepted from a specification and, when 

necessary, others substituted, if the remaining language of the specification, with or without substitutions, states an 

offense by the accused which is punishable by military commission. Changing the date or place of the offense may, 

but does not necessarily, change the nature or identity of an offense. 

If A and B are jointly accused and A is convicted but B is acquitted of the offense charged, A should be found guilty 

by excepting the name of B from the specification as well as any other words indicating the offense was a joint one. 

Lesser included offenses. If the evidence fails to prove the offense charged but does prove an offense necessarily 

included in the offense charged, the factfinder may find the accused not guilty of the offense charged but guilty of a 

named lesser offense, which is included in the offense charged, without the use of exceptions and substitutions. 

Ordinarily an attempt is a lesser included offense even if the evidence establishes that the offense charged was 

consummated. See Part IV Punitive Articles, Paragraph 4 concerning lesser included offenses. 

Offenses arising from the same act or transaction. The accused may be found guilty of two or more offenses arising 

from the same act or transaction, whether or not the offenses are separately punishable. But see R.M.C. 906(b)(10); 

907(b)(3)(B); 1003(b)(1)(C). 

(2) As to a charge. General findings as to a charge may be: guilty; not guilty, but guilty of 

a violation of section ______; not guilty by reason of lack of mental responsibility; or not guilty. 

Discussion

Where there are two or more specifications under one charge, conviction of any of those specifications requires a 

finding of guilty of the corresponding charge. Under such circumstances any findings of not guilty as to the other 

specifications do not affect that charge. If the accused is found guilty of one specification and of a lesser included 

offense prohibited by a different section as to another specification under the same charge, the findings as to the 
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corresponding charge should be: Of the Charge as the specification 1: Guilty; as to specification 2; not guilty, but 

guilty of a violation of section _______. 

A military commission may not find an offense as a violation under which it was not charged solely for the purpose 

of increasing the authorized punishment. 

(b) Basis of findings. Findings may be based on direct or circumstantial evidence. Only matters 

properly before the military commission on the merits of the case may be considered. A finding 

of guilty of any offense may be reached only when the factfinder is satisfied that guilt has been 

proved beyond a reasonable doubt. 

Rule 919. Argument by counsel on findings 

(a) In general. After the closing of evidence, trial counsel shall be permitted to open the 

argument. The defense counsel shall be permitted to reply. Trial counsel shall then be permitted 

to reply in rebuttal. 

(b) Contents. Arguments may properly include reasonable comment on the evidence in the case, 

including inferences to be drawn therefrom, in support of a party’s theory of the case. 

Discussion

The military judge may exercise reasonable control over argument. See R.M.C. 801(a)(3). 

Argument may include comment about the testimony, conduct, motives, interests, and biases of witnesses to the 

extent supported by the evidence. Counsel should not express a personal belief or opinion as to the truth or falsity of 

any testimony or evidence or the guilt or innocence of the accused, nor should counsel make arguments calculated to 

inflame passions or prejudices. In argument counsel may treat the testimony of witnesses as conclusively 

establishing the facts related by the witnesses. Counsel may not cite legal authorities or the facts of other cases when 

arguing to members on findings. 

Trial counsel may not comment on the accused’s exercise of the right against self-incrimination or the right to 

counsel. See Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 512. Trial counsel may not argue that the prosecution’s evidence is unrebutted if 

the only rebuttal could come from the accused. When the accused is on trial for several offenses and testifies only as 

to some of the offenses, trial counsel may not comment on the accused’s failure to testify as to the others. When the 

accused testifies on the merits regarding an offense charged, trial counsel may comment on the accused’s failure in 

that testimony to deny or explain specific incriminating facts that the evidence for the prosecution tends to establish 

regarding that offense. Trial counsel may not comment on the failure of the defense to call witnesses or upon the 

probable effect of the military commission’s findings on the relations between the military and civilian 

communities. 

The rebuttal argument of trial counsel is generally limited to matters argued by the defense. If trial counsel is 

permitted to introduce new matter in closing argument, the defense should be allowed to reply in rebuttal. However, 

this will not preclude trial counsel from presenting a final argument. 

(c) Waiver of objection to improper argument. Failure to object to improper argument before the 

military judge begins to instruct members on findings shall constitute waiver of the objection. 

Discussion
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If an objection that an argument is improper is sustained, the military judge should immediately instruct the 

members that the argument was improper and that they must disregard it. In extraordinary cases improper argument 

may require a mistrial. See R.M.C. 915. The military judge should be alert to improper argument and take 

appropriate action when necessary. 

Rule 920. Instructions on findings 

(a) In general. The military judge shall give the members appropriate instructions on findings. 

Discussion

Instructions consist of a statement of the issues in the case and an explanation of the legal standards and procedural 

requirements by which the members will determine findings. Instructions should be tailored to fit the circumstances 

of the case, and should fairly and adequately cover the issues presented. 

(b) When given. Instructions on findings shall be given before or after arguments by counsel, or 

at both times, and before the members close to deliberate on findings, but the military judge may, 

upon request of the members, any party, or sua sponte, give additional instructions at a later time. 

Discussion

After members have reached a finding on a specification, instructions may not be given on an offense included 

therein which was not described in an earlier instruction unless the finding is illegal. This is true even if the finding 

has not been announced. When instructions are to be given is a matter within the sole discretion of the military trial 

judge. 

(c) Requests for instructions. At the close of the evidence or at such other time as the military 

judge may permit, any party may request that the military judge instruct the members on the law 

as set forth in the request. The military judge may require the requested instruction to be written. 

Each party shall be given the opportunity to be heard on any proposed instruction on findings 

before it is given. The military judge shall inform the parties of the proposed action on such 

requests before their closing arguments. 

Discussion

Requests for and objections to instructions should be resolved at an R.M.C. 803 session. If an issue has been raised, 

ordinarily the military judge must instruct on the issue when requested to do so. The military judge is not required to 

give the specific instruction requested by counsel, however, as long as the issue is adequately covered in the 

instructions. 

The military judge should not identify the source of any instruction when addressing the members. All written 

requests for instructions should be marked as appellate exhibits, whether or not they are given. 

(d) How given. Instructions on findings shall be given orally on the record in the presence of all 

parties and the members. Written copies of the instructions, or, unless a party objects, portions of 

them, may also be given to the members for their use during deliberations. 

(e) Required instructions. Instructions on findings shall include: 
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(1) A description of the elements of each offense charged, unless findings on such 

offenses are unnecessary because they have been entered pursuant to a plea of guilty; 

(2) A description of the elements of each lesser included offense in issue; 

(3) A description of any special defense under R.M.C. 916 in issue; 

(4) A direction that only matters properly before the military commission may be 

considered; 

(5) A charge that—

(A) The accused must be presumed to be innocent until the accused’s guilt is 

established by legal and competent evidence beyond a reasonable doubt; 

(B) In the case being considered, if there is a reasonable doubt as to the guilt of 

the accused, the doubt must be resolved in favor of the accused and the accused must be 

acquitted; 

(C) If, when a lesser included offense is in issue, there is a reasonable doubt as to 

the degree of guilt of the accused, the finding must be in a lower degree as to which there is not 

reasonable doubt; and 

(D) The burden of proof to establish the guilt of the accused beyond a reasonable 

doubt is upon the Government. [When the issue of lack of mental responsibility is raised, add: 

The burden of proving the defense of lack of mental responsibility by clear and convincing 

evidence is upon the accused.] 

(6) Directions on the procedures under R.M.C. 921 for deliberations and voting; and 

(7) Such other explanations, descriptions, or directions as may be necessary and which 

are properly requested by a party or which the military judge determines, sua sponte, should be 

given. 

Discussion

A matter is “in issue” when some evidence, without regard to its source or credibility, has been admitted upon which 

members might rely if they choose. An instruction on a lesser included offense is proper when an element from the 

charged offense which distinguishes that offense from the lesser offense is in dispute. 

Matters which may be the subject of instruction in appropriate cases include: the limited purpose for which evidence 

was admitted (regardless of whether such evidence was offered by the prosecution of defense) (see Mil. Comm. R. 

Evid. 105); the effect of character evidence (see Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 404; 405); the effect of judicial notice (see

Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 201, 201A); the weight to be given a pre-trial statement (see Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 304(d)); the 

effect of stipulations (see R.M.C. 811); that, when a guilty plea to a lesser included offense has been accepted, the 

members should accept as proved the matters admitted by the plea, but must determine whether the remaining 

elements are established; that a plea of guilty to one offense may not be the basis for inferring the existence of a fact 
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or element of another offense; the absence of the accused from trial should not be held against the accused; and that 

no adverse inferences may be drawn from an accused’s failure to testify (see Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 301(g)). 

The military judge may summarize and comment upon evidence in the case in instructions. In doing so, the military 

judge should present an accurate, fair, and dispassionate statement of what the evidence shows; not depart from an 

impartial role; not assume as true the existence or nonexistence of a fact in issue when the evidence is conflicting or 

disputed, or when there is no evidence to support the matter; and make clear that the members must exercise their 

independent judgment as to the facts. 

(f) Waiver. Failure to object to an instruction or to omission of an instruction before the members 

close to deliberate constitutes waiver of the objection in the absence of plain error. The military 

judge may require the party objecting to specify of what respect the instructions given were 

improper. The parties shall be given the opportunity to be heard on any objection outside the 

presence of the members. 

Rule 921. Deliberations and voting on findings 

(a) In general. After the military judge instructs the members on findings, the members shall 

deliberate and vote in a closed session. Only the members shall be present during deliberations 

and voting. Superiority in rank shall not be used in any manner in an attempt to control the 

independence of members in the exercise of their judgment. 

(b) Deliberations. Deliberations properly include full and free discussion of the merits of the 

case. Unless otherwise directed by the military judge, members may take with them in 

deliberations their notes, if any, any exhibits admitted in evidence, and any written instructions. 

Members may request that the military commission be reopened and that portions of the record 

be read to them or additional evidence introduced. The military judge may, in the exercise of 

discretion, grant such request. 

(c) Voting. 

(1) Secret ballot. Voting on the findings for each charge and specification shall be by 

secret written ballot. All members present shall vote. 

(2) Numbers of votes required to convict. A finding of guilty results only if at least twothirds of the members present vote for a finding of guilty. 

Discussion

In computing the number of votes required to convict, any fraction of a vote is rounded up to the next whole 

number. For example, if there are five members, the concurrence of at least four would be required to convict. The 

military judge should instruct the members on the specific number of votes required to convict. A conviction of a 

capital offense may be achieved by a vote of at least two thirds of the members present. However, only a unanimous 

vote by a panel of at least 12 members (except as provided in R.M.C. 501(a)(3)) or a guilty plea that was accepted 

and not withdrawn prior to the capital presentence proceeding will establish the prerequisite for a capital presentence 

proceeding. See R.M.C. 922(b)(2). The accused may still withdraw a guilty plea after the commencement of the 

capital presentence proceeding, prior to the announcement of the sentence. See R.M.C. 910(h)(1).
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(3) Acquittal. If fewer than two-thirds of the members present vote for a finding of 

guilty—or, when the death penalty is mandatory, if fewer than all the members present vote for a 

finding of guilty— a finding of not guilty has resulted as to the charge or specification on which 

the vote was taken. 

(4) Not guilty by reason of lack of mental responsibility. When the defense of lack of 

mental responsibility is in issue under R.M.C. 916(k)(1), the members shall first vote on whether 

the prosecution has proven the elements of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. If at least 

two-thirds of the members present (all members for offenses where the death penalty is sought) 

vote for a finding of guilty, then the members shall vote on whether the accused has proven lack 

of mental responsibility. If a majority of the members present concur that the accused has proven 

lack of mental responsibility by clear and convincing evidence, a finding of not guilty by reason 

of lack of mental responsibility results. If the vote on lack of mental responsibility does not result 

in a finding of not guilty by reason of lack of mental responsibility, then the defense of lack of 

mental responsibility has been rejected and the finding of guilty stands. 

Discussion

If lack of mental responsibility is in issue with regard to more than one specification, the members should determine 

the issue of lack of mental responsibility on each specification separately. 

(5) Included offenses. Members shall not vote on a lesser included offense unless a 

finding of not guilty of the offense charged has been reached. If a finding of not guilty of an 

offense charged has been reached the members shall vote on each included offense on which 

they have been instructed, in order of severity beginning with the most severe. The members 

shall continue the vote on each included offense on which they have been instructed until a 

finding of guilty results or findings of not guilty have been reached as to each such offense. 

(6) Procedure for voting. 

(A) Order. Each specification shall be voted on separately before the 

corresponding charge. The order of voting on several specifications under a charge or on several 

charges shall be determined by the president unless a majority of the members object. 

(B) Counting votes. The junior member shall collect the ballots and count the 

votes. The president shall check the count and inform the other members of the result. 

Discussion

Once findings have been reached, they may be reconsidered only in accordance with R.M.C. 924. 

(d) Action after findings are reached. After members have reached findings on each charge and 

specification before them, the military commission shall be opened and the president shall 

inform the military judge that findings have been reached. The military judge may, in the 

presence of the parties, examine any writing which the president intends to read to announce the 

findings and may assist the members in putting the findings in proper form. Neither that writing 
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nor any oral or written clarification or discussion concerning it shall constitute announcement of 

the findings. 

Discussion

Ordinarily a findings worksheet should be provided to the members as an aid to putting the findings in proper form. 

If the military judge examines any writing by the members or otherwise assists them to put findings in proper form, 

this must be done in an open session and counsel should be given the opportunity to examine such a writing and to 

be heard on any instructions the military judge may give. The president should not disclose any specific number of 

votes for or against any finding. 

Rule 922. Announcement of findings 

(a) In general. Findings shall be announced in the presence of all parties promptly after they 

have been determined. 

(b) Findings by members. The president shall announce the findings by the members. 

(1) If a finding is based on a plea of guilty, the president shall so state. 

(2) In a capital case, if a finding of guilty is unanimous with respect to a capital offense, 

the president shall so state. This provision shall not apply during reconsideration under R.M.C. 

924(a) of a finding of guilty previously announced in open court unless the prior finding was 

announced as unanimous. 

Discussion

If the findings announced are ambiguous, the military judge should seek clarification. See also R.M.C. 924. A nonunanimous finding of guilty as to a capital offense may be reconsidered, but not for the purpose of rendering a 

unanimous verdict in order to authorize a capital sentencing proceeding. The president shall not make a statement 

regarding unanimity with respect to reconsideration of findings as to an offense in which the prior findings were not 

unanimous. 

(c) Findings by military judge in the event of a guilty plea. The military judge shall announce the 

findings of guilt unless the plea is to a lesser included offense and the prosecution intends to 

proceed to trial on the offense charged. 

Discussion

A finding of guilty made by a military judge after accepting a plea of guilty, including a finding of guilty made with 

respect to a charge or specification that was referred capital, may be entered by the military judge immediately 

without a vote by the members. See 10 U.S.C. § 949i(b) as amended by Section 1030(b) of the National Defense 

Authorization Act of Fiscal Year 2012 (Public Law 112-81 (enacted Dec. 31, 2011)); see also R.M.C. 1004(a)(2).
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(d) Erroneous announcement. If an error was made in the announcement of the findings of the 

military commission, the error may be corrected by a new announcement in accordance with this 

rule. The error must be discovered and the new announcement made before the final 

adjournment of the military commission in the case. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 1102 concerning the action to be taken if the error in the announcement is discovered after final 

adjournment. 

(e) Polling prohibited. Except as provided in Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 606, members may not be 

questioned about their deliberations and voting. 

Rule 923. Impeachment of findings 

Findings which are proper on their face may be impeached only when extraneous prejudicial 

information was improperly brought to the attention of a member, outside influence was 

improperly brought to bear upon any member, or unlawful command influence was brought to 

bear upon any member. 

Discussion

Deliberations of the members ordinarily are not subject to disclosure. See Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 606. Unsound 

reasoning by a member, misconception of the evidence, or misapplication of the law is not a proper basis for 

challenging the findings. However, when a showing of a ground for impeaching the verdict has been made, 

members may be questioned about such a ground. The military judge determines, as an interlocutory matter, whether 

such an inquiry will be conducted and whether a finding has been impeached. 

Rule 924. Reconsideration of findings 

(a) Time for reconsideration. Members may reconsider any finding reached by them before such 

finding is announced in open session. 

(b) Procedure. Any member may propose that a finding be reconsidered. If such a proposal is 

made in a timely manner the question whether to reconsider shall be determined in closed 

session by secret written ballot. Any finding of not guilty shall be reconsidered if a majority vote 

for reconsideration. Any finding of guilty shall be reconsidered if more than one-third of the 

members vote for reconsideration. When the death penalty is mandatory, a request by any 

member for reconsideration of a guilty finding requires reconsideration. Any finding of not 

guilty by reason of lack of mental responsibility shall be reconsidered on the issue of the finding 

of guilty of the elements if more than one-third of the members vote for reconsideration, and on 

the issue of mental responsibility if a majority vote for reconsideration. If a vote to reconsider a 

finding succeeds, the procedures in R.M.C. 921 shall apply 

Discussion
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After the initial secret ballot vote on a finding in closed session, no other vote may be taken on that finding unless a 

vote to reconsider succeeds. 
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CHAPTER X. SENTENCING

Rule 1001. Presentencing procedure 

(a) In general.

(1) Advice and inquiry. The military judge shall personally inform the accused of the 

right to present matters in extenuation and mitigation, including the right to make a sworn or 

unsworn statement or to remain silent, and shall ask whether the accused chooses to exercise 

those rights. 

(2) Procedure. After findings of guilty have been announced, the prosecution and defense 

may present matters pursuant to this rule to aid the commission members in determining an 

appropriate sentence. Such matters shall ordinarily be presented in the following sequence— 

(A) Presentation by trial counsel of evidence of prior convictions in any 

jurisdiction, evidence of rehabilitative potential, and evidence of aggravation. 

(B) Presentation by the defense of evidence in extenuation or mitigation or both. 

(C) Rebuttal. 

(D) Argument by the trial counsel on sentence. 

(E) Argument by the defense counsel on sentence. 

(F) Rebuttal arguments in the discretion of the military judge. 

(3) Adjudging sentence. A sentence shall be adjudged in all cases without unreasonable 

delay. 

(b) Matter to be presented by the prosecution.

(1) Evidence of prior convictions of the accused. 

(A) In general. The trial counsel may introduce evidence of military or civilian 

convictions, foreign or domestic, of the accused. For purposes of this rule, there is a “conviction” 

in a military case when a sentence has been adjudged. In a civilian case, a “conviction” includes 

any disposition following an initial judicial determination or assumption of guilt, such as when 

guilt has been established by guilty plea, trial, or plea of nolo contendere, regardless of the 

subsequent disposition, sentencing procedure, or final judgment. However, a “civilian 

conviction” does not include a diversion from the judicial process without a finding or admission 

of guilt; expunged convictions; juvenile adjudications; minor traffic violations;; or convictions 

reversed, vacated, invalidated or pardoned because of errors of law or because of subsequently 

discovered evidence exonerating the accused.
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(B) Pendency of appeal. The pendency of an appeal therefrom does not render 

evidence of a conviction inadmissible. Evidence of the pendency of an appeal is admissible. 

(C) Method of proof. Previous convictions may be proved by any evidence 

admissible under the Military Commission Rules of Evidence. 

(2) Evidence in aggravation. The trial counsel may present evidence as to any 

aggravating circumstances directly relating to or resulting from the offenses of which the 

accused has been found guilty. Evidence in aggravation includes, but is not limited to, evidence 

of financial, social, psychological, and medical impact on or cost to any person or entity who 

was the victim of an offense committed by the accused. In addition, evidence in aggravation may 

include evidence that the accused intentionally selected any victim or any property as the object 

of the offense because of the actual or perceived race, gender, color, religion, national origin, 

ethnicity, disability, or sexual orientation of any person or that any offense of which the accused 

has been convicted comprises a violation of the law of war. 

(c) Matter to be presented by the defense. 

(1) In general. The defense may present matters in rebuttal of any material presented by 

the prosecution and may present matters in extenuation and mitigation regardless of whether the 

defense offered evidence before findings. 

(A) Matter in extenuation. Matter in extenuation of an offense serves to explain 

the circumstances surrounding the commission of an offense, including those reasons for 

committing the offense that do not constitute a legal justification or excuse. 

(B) Matter in mitigation. Matter in mitigation of an offense is introduced to lessen 

the punishment to be adjudged by the military commission, or to furnish grounds for a 

recommendation of clemency. 

Discussion

While no credit is given for pretrial detention, the defense may raise the nature and length of pretrial detention as a 

matter in mitigation.

(2) Statement by the accused.

(A) In general. The accused may testify, make an unsworn statement, or both in 

extenuation, in mitigation or to rebut matters presented by the prosecution, or for all three 

purposes whether or not the accused testified prior to findings. The accused may limit such 

testimony or statement to any one or more of the specifications of which the accused has been 

found guilty. This subsection does not permit the filing of an affidavit of the accused. 

(B) Testimony of the accused. The accused may give sworn oral testimony under 

this paragraph and shall be subject to cross-examination concerning it by the trial counsel or 

examination on it by the military commission, or both. 
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(C) Unsworn statement. The accused may make an unsworn statement and may 

not be cross-examined by the trial counsel upon it or examined upon it by the military 

commission. The prosecution may, however, rebut any statements of facts therein. The unsworn 

statement may be oral, written, or both, and may be made by the accused, by counsel, or both. 

(3) Rules of evidence relaxed. The military judge may, with respect to matters in 

extenuation or mitigation or both, relax the rules of evidence. This may include admitting letters, 

affidavits, and other writings of similar authenticity and reliability. 

(d) Rebuttal and surrebuttal. The prosecution may rebut matters presented by the defense. The 

defense in surrebuttal may then rebut any rebuttal offered by the prosecution. Rebuttal and 

surrebuttal may continue, in the discretion of the military judge. If the Military Commission 

Rules of Evidence were relaxed under subsection (c)(3) of this rule, they may be relaxed during 

rebuttal and surrebuttal to the same degree. 

(e) Production of witnesses. 

(1) In general. During the presentence proceedings, the military judge may permit greater 

latitude than on the merits to receive information by means other than testimony presented 

through the personal appearance of witnesses. Whether a witness shall be produced to testify 

during presentence proceedings is a matter within the discretion of the military judge, subject to 

the limitations in R.M.C. 703(c), (e), and (f). 

(2) Limitations. A witness may be produced to testify during presentence proceedings 

through subpoena or travel orders at Government expense only if—

(A) The testimony expected to be offered by the witness is necessary for 

consideration of a matter of substantial significance to a determination of an appropriate 

sentence, including evidence necessary to resolve an alleged inaccuracy or dispute as to a 

material fact; 

(B) The weight or credibility of the testimony is of substantial significance to the 

determination of an appropriate sentence; 

(C) The other party refuses to enter into a stipulation of fact containing the 

matters to which the witness is expected to testify, except in an extraordinary case when such a 

stipulation of fact would be an insufficient substitute for the testimony; 

(D) Other forms of evidence, such as oral depositions, written interrogatories, 

telephonic testimony, two-way video teleconference or other similar technology, or former 

testimony would not be sufficient to meet the needs of the military commission in the 

determination of an appropriate sentence; and 

(E) The significance of the personal appearance of the witness to the 

determination of an appropriate sentence, when balanced against the practical difficulties of 

producing the witness, favors production of the witness. Factors to be considered include the 
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costs of producing the witness, the timing of the request for production of the witness, the 

potential delay in the presentencing proceeding that may be caused by the production of the 

witness, and the likelihood of significant interference with intelligence activities, military 

operations or deployments, mission accomplishment, or essential training. 

(f) Additional matters to be considered. In addition to matters introduced under this rule, the 

military commission may consider— 

(1) That a plea of guilty is a mitigating factor; and 

(2) Any evidence properly introduced on the merits before findings, including: 

(A) Evidence of other offenses or acts of misconduct even if introduced for a 

limited purpose; and 

(B) Evidence relating to any mental impairment or deficiency of the accused. 

(g) Detention. The physical custody of alien enemy belligerents captured during hostilities does 

not constitute pretrial confinement for purposes of sentencing and the military judge shall not 

grant credit for pretrial detention.

(h) Argument. After introduction of matters relating to sentence under this rule, counsel for the 

prosecution and defense may argue for an appropriate sentence. Trial counsel may not in 

argument purport to speak for the convening authority or any higher authority, or refer to the 

views of such authorities. Trial counsel may, however, recommend a specific lawful sentence 

and may also refer to generally accepted sentencing philosophies, including rehabilitation of the 

accused, general deterrence, specific deterrence of misconduct by the accused, and social 

retribution. Failure to object to improper argument before the military judge begins to instruct 

the members on sentencing shall constitute waiver of the objection. 

Rule 1002. Sentence determination 

Subject to limitations in this Manual, or when appropriate, the limitations in the law of war, the 

sentence to be adjudged is a matter within the discretion of the military commission. Except as 

instructed by the military judge, a military commission may adjudge any punishment authorized 

in this Manual, including the maximum punishment or any lesser punishment, or may adjudge a 

sentence of no punishment. 

Rule 1003. Punishments 

(a) In general. Subject to the limitations in this Manual, the punishments authorized in this rule 

may be adjudged in the case of any person found guilty of an offense by a military commission. 

Only the following punishments may be adjudged: 

(1) Fine. Any military commission may adjudge a fine. In order to enforce collection, a 

fine may be accompanied by a provision in the sentence that, in the event the fine is not paid, the 
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person fined shall, in addition to any period of confinement adjudged, be further confined until a 

fixed period considered an equivalent punishment to the fine has expired. 

(2) Confinement. The place of confinement shall not be designated by the military 

commission. A military commission shall not adjudge a sentence to solitary confinement or to 

hard labor without confinement. The place of confinement will be determined by appropriate 

authority.

Discussion

See 10 U.S.C. § 949u.

(3) Death. Death may be adjudged only in accordance with R.M.C. 1004. 

(b) Limits on punishments. 

(1) Based on offenses. 

(A) Offenses listed in Part IV; maximum confinement. The maximum authorized 

period of confinement is set forth for each offense listed in Part IV of this Manual. This 

limitation is for each separate offense, not for each charge. 

(B) Offenses not listed in Part IV. For an offense not listed in Part IV of this 

Manual which is included in or closely related to an offense listed therein the maximum 

punishment shall be that of the offense listed; however if an offense not listed is included in a 

listed offense, and is closely related to another or is equally closely related to two or more listed 

offenses, the maximum punishment shall be the same as the least severe of the listed offenses. 

For an offense under the law of war not listed in Part IV of this Manual, nor included in or 

closely related to an offense listed therein, a military commission may adjudge any punishment 

not prohibited by the law of war.

(C) Multiplicity. When the accused is found guilty of two or more offenses, the 

maximum authorized punishment may be imposed for each separate offense. Offenses are not 

separate if each does not require proof of an element not required to prove the other. If the 

offenses are not separate, the maximum punishment for those offenses shall be the maximum 

authorized punishment for the offense carrying the greatest maximum punishment. 

(2) Cruel or unusual punishments prohibited. Punishment by flogging, or by branding, 

marking, or tattooing on the body, or any other cruel or unusual punishment, may not be 

adjudged by a military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, or 

inflicted under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, upon any person subject to that 

chapter. The use of irons, single or double, except for the purpose of safe custody, is prohibited 

under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code.
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Rule 1004. Capital cases 

(a) In general. Death may be adjudged only when: 

(1) Death is expressly authorized under Part IV of chapter 47A of title 10, United States 

Code, and this Manual for an offense of which the accused has been found guilty or is authorized 

under the law of war for an offense of which the accused has been found guilty under the law of 

war; and 

(2) The accused was convicted of such an offense by the concurrence of all the members, 

with not less than twelve (except as provided in Rule 501(a)(3)), of the military commission 

present at the time the vote was taken or a guilty plea for such an offense was accepted in 

accordance with R.M.C. 910 and not withdrawn prior to announcement of the sentence; and 

(3) The requirements of sections (b) and (c) of this rule have been met. 

(b) Procedure. In addition to the provisions in R.M.C. 1001, the following procedures shall 

apply in capital cases—

(1) Notice. Before arraignment, trial counsel shall give the defense written notice of 

which aggravating factors under section (c) of this rule the prosecution intends to prove. Failure 

to provide timely notice under this subsection of any aggravating factors under section (c) of this 

Rule shall not bar later notice and proof of such additional aggravating factors unless the accused 

demonstrates specific prejudice from such failure and that a continuance or a recess is not an 

adequate remedy. 

(2) Evidence of aggravating factors. Trial counsel may present evidence in accordance 

with R.M.C. 1001(b)(2) tending to establish one or more of the aggravating factors in section (c) 

of this rule. 

(3) Evidence in extenuation and mitigation. The accused shall be given broad latitude to 

present evidence in extenuation and mitigation. 

(4) Necessary findings. Death may not be adjudged unless— 

(A) The members find that at least one of the aggravating factors under section (c) 

existed; 

(B) Notice of such factor was provided in accordance with subsection (1) of this 

section and all members concur in the finding with respect to such factor; and 

(C) All members concur that any extenuating or mitigating circumstances are 

substantially outweighed by any aggravating circumstances admissible under R.M.C. 1001(b)(2), 

including the factors under section (c) of this rule. 
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(5) Basis for findings. The findings in subsection (b)(4) of this rule may be based on 

evidence introduced before or after findings, or both. 

(6) Instructions. In addition to the instructions required under R.M.C. 1005, the military 

judge shall instruct the members of such aggravating factors under section (c) of this rule as may 

be in issue in the case, and on the requirements and procedures under subsections (b)(4), (5), (7), 

and (8) of this rule. The military judge shall instruct the members that they must consider all 

evidence in extenuation and mitigation before they may adjudge death. 

(7) Voting. In closed session, before voting on a sentence, the members shall vote by 

secret written ballot separately on each aggravating factor under section (c) of this rule on which 

they have been instructed. Death may not be adjudged unless all members concur in a finding of 

the existence of at least one such aggravating factor. After voting on all the aggravating factors 

on which they have been instructed, the members shall vote on a sentence in accordance with 

R.M.C. 1006.

(8) Announcement. If death is adjudged, the president shall, in addition to complying with 

R.M.C. 1007, announce which aggravating factors under section (c) of this rule were found by 

the members. 

(c) Aggravating factors. Death may be adjudged only if the members find, beyond a reasonable 

doubt, one or more of the following aggravating factors: 

(1) That the offense was committed in such a way or under circumstances that the life of 

one or more persons other than the victim was unlawfully and substantially endangered; 

(2) That the offense resulted in the death of more than one person;

(3) That the offense was committed for the purpose of receiving money or a thing of 

value; 

(4) That the accused procured another by means of compulsion, torture, mutilation, or 

cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment to commit the offense; 

(5) That the crime was preceded by the intentional infliction of substantial physical harm 

or prolonged, substantial mental or physical pain and suffering to the victim or to another person. 

For purposes of this subsection, “substantial physical harm” means fractures or dislocated bones, 

deep cuts, torn members of the body, serious damage to internal organs, or other serious bodily 

injuries. The term “substantial physical harm” does not mean minor injuries, such as a black eye 

or bloody nose. The term “substantial mental or physical pain or suffering” is accorded its 

common meaning and includes torture. 

(6) That the accused has been found guilty in the same case of another capital crime; 

(7) That the victim was under the age of 15; 
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(8) That the victim was a protected person or that the offense was committed in such a 

way or under circumstances that the life of one or more protected persons other than the victim 

was unlawfully and substantially endangered, except that this factor shall not apply to a violation 

of Offenses 1 (Murder of Protected Persons) and 9 (Using Protected Persons as a Shield); 

(9) That the offense was committed—

(A) through the employment of a substance or a weapon that releases a substance 

and that such substance causes death or serious damage to health in the ordinary course of events 

through its asphyxiation, poisonous, or bacteriological properties, except that this factor shall not 

apply to a violation of Offense 8 (Employing Poison or Similar Weapon); or 

(B) through the employment of a weapon that causes unnecessary suffering in 

violation of the law of war; 

(10) That the offense was committed through the use of treachery or perfidy, except that 

this factor shall not apply to a violation of Offense 17 (Treachery or Perfidy); 

(11) That the offense was committed with the intent to intimidate or terrorize the civilian 

population, except that this factor shall not apply to a violation of Offense 24 (Terrorism); 

(12) That the offense was committed while the accused intentionally targeted a protected 

place; 

(d) Other penalties. Except for a violation of Article 106 of the Uniform Code of Military 

Justice, when death is an authorized punishment for an offense, all other punishments authorized 

under R.M.C. 1003 are also authorized for that offense, including confinement for life, and may 

be adjudged in lieu of the death penalty. 

Rule 1005. Instructions on sentence 

(a) In general. The military judge shall give the members appropriate instructions on sentence. 

(b) When given. Instructions on sentence shall be given after arguments by counsel and before 

the members close to deliberate on sentence, but the military judge may, upon request of the 

members, any party, or sua sponte, give additional instructions at a later time. 

(c) Requests for instructions. After presentation of matters relating to sentence or at such other 

time as the military judge may permit, any party may request that the military judge instruct the 

members on the law as set forth in the request. The military judge may require the requested 

instruction to be written. Each party shall be given the opportunity to be heard on any proposed 

instruction on sentence before it is given. The military judge shall inform the parties of the 

proposed action on such requests before their closing arguments on sentence. 
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(d) How given. Instructions on sentence shall be given orally on the record in the presence of all 

parties and the members. Written copies of the instructions, or unless a party objects, portions of 

them, may also be given to the members for their use during deliberations. 

(e) Required instructions. Instructions on sentence shall include: 

(1) A statement of the maximum authorized punishment that may be adjudged and of the 

mandatory punishment, if any; 

(2) A statement of the procedures for deliberation and voting on the sentence set out in 

R.M.C. 1006; 

(3) A statement informing the members that they are solely responsible for selecting an 

appropriate sentence and may not rely on the possibility of any mitigating action by the 

convening or higher authority; and 

(4) A statement that the members should consider all matters in extenuation, mitigation, 

and aggravation, whether introduced before or after findings, and matters introduced under 

R.M.C. 1001(b)(1). 

(f) Waiver. Failure to object to an instruction or to omission of an instruction before the members 

close to deliberate on the sentence constitutes waiver of the objection in the absence of plain 

error. The military judge may require the party objecting to specify in what respect the 

instructions were improper. The parties shall be given the opportunity to be heard on any 

objection outside the presence of the members. 

Rule 1006. Deliberations and voting on sentence 

(a) In general. The primary members shall deliberate and vote after the military judge instructs 

the members on sentence. Only the primary members shall be present during deliberations and 

voting. Superiority in rank shall not be used in any manner to control the independence of 

members in the exercise of their judgment. 

(b) Alternate Members. If a primary member is excused from service on the commission during 

sentencing deliberations causing the number of primary members to fall below the required 

amount, an alternate member, if available, shall replace the excused primary member and 

deliberations will start anew. The primary members present for a vote on a sentence need not be 

the same primary members who voted on the conviction if the requirements of Rule 505(c)(2) 

are satisfied. 

(c) Deliberations. Deliberations may properly include full and free discussion of the sentence to 

be imposed in the case. Unless otherwise directed by the military judge, primary members may 

take with them in deliberations their notes, if any, any exhibits admitted in evidence, and any 

written instructions. Primary members may request that the military commission be reopened 

and that portions of the record be read to them or additional evidence introduced. The military 

judge may, in the exercise of discretion, grant such requests. 
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(d) Proposal of sentences. Any primary member may propose a sentence. Each proposal shall be 

in writing and shall contain the complete sentence proposed. The junior member shall collect the 

proposed sentences and submit them to the president. 

(e) Voting. 

(1) Duty of members. Each primary member has the duty to vote for a proper sentence for 

the offenses of which the military commission found the accused guilty, regardless of the 

member’s vote or opinion as to the guilt of the accused. 

(2) Secret ballot. Proposed sentences shall be voted on by secret written ballot. 

(3) Procedure. 

(A) Order. All primary members shall vote on each proposed sentence in its 

entirety beginning with the least severe and continuing, as necessary, with the next least severe, 

until a sentence is adopted by the concurrence of the number of members required under 

subsection (d)(4) of this rule. The process of proposing sentences and voting on them may be 

repeated as necessary until a sentence is adopted. 

(B) Counting votes. The junior member shall collect the ballots and count the 

votes. The president shall check the count and inform the other members of the result. 

(4) Number of votes required. 

(A) Death. A sentence which includes death may be adjudged only if all primary 

members present vote for that sentence. 

(B) Confinement for life, or more than 10 years. A sentence that includes 

confinement for life, or more than 10 years may be adjudged only if at least three-fourths of the 

primary members present vote for that sentence. 

(C) Other. A sentence other than those described in paragraphs (d)(4)(A) or (B) of 

this rule may be adjudged only if at least two-thirds of the primary members present vote for that 

sentence. 

(5) Mandatory sentence. When a mandatory punishment is prescribed the primary 

members shall vote on a sentence in accordance with this rule.

(6) Effect of failure to agree. If the required number of primary members do not agree on 

a sentence after a reasonable effort to do so, a mistrial may be declared as to the sentence and the 

case shall be returned to the convening authority, who may order a rehearing on sentence only or 

order that a sentence of no punishment be imposed. 
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(f) Action after a sentence is reached. After the primary members have agreed upon a sentence, 

the military commission shall be opened and the president shall inform the military judge that a 

sentence has been reached. The military judge may, in the presence of the parties, examine any 

writing which the president intends to read to announce the sentence and may assist the members 

in putting the sentence in proper form. Neither that writing nor any oral or written clarification or 

discussion concerning it shall constitute announcement of the sentence. 

Discussion

Ordinarily a sentence worksheet should be provided to the primary members as an aid to putting the sentence in 

proper form. If a sentence worksheet has been provided, the military judge should examine it before the president 

announces the sentence. If the military judge intends to instruct the members after such examination, counsel should 

be permitted to examine the worksheet and to be heard on any instructions the military judge may give. The 

president should not disclose any specific number of votes for or against any sentence. If the sentence is ambiguous 

or apparently illegal, see R.M.C. 1009(c). 

Rule 1007. Announcement of sentence 

(a) In general. The sentence shall be announced by the president, in the presence of all parties, 

promptly after it has been determined. 

(b) Erroneous announcement. If the announced sentence is not the one actually determined by 

the military commission, the error may be corrected by a new announcement made before the 

record of trial is authenticated and forwarded to the convening authority. This action shall not 

constitute reconsideration of the sentence. If the military commission has been adjourned before 

the error is discovered, the military judge may call the military commission into session to 

correct the announcement. 

(c) Polling prohibited. Except as provided in Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 606, members may not 

otherwise be questioned about their deliberations and voting. 

Rule 1008. Impeachment of sentence 

A sentence which is proper on its face may be impeached only when extraneous prejudicial 

information was improperly brought to the attention of a member, outside influence was 

improperly brought to bear upon any member, or unlawful command influence was brought to 

bear upon any member. 

Rule 1009. Reconsideration of sentence 

(a) Reconsideration. Subject to this rule, a sentence may be reconsidered at any time before such 

sentence is announced in open session of the court. 

(b) Exception. If the sentence announced in open session exceeds the maximum permissible 

punishment for the offense, the sentence may be reconsidered after announcement in accordance 

with section (e) of this rule. 
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(c) Clarification of sentence. A sentence may be clarified at any time prior to action of the 

convening authority on the case. When an adjudged sentence appears ambiguous, the military 

judge shall bring the matter to the attention of the members if the matter is discovered before the 

military commission is adjourned. If the matter is discovered after adjournment, the military 

judge may call a session for clarification by the members who adjudged the sentence as soon as 

practical after the ambiguity is discovered. 

(d) Action by the convening authority. When a sentence adjudged by the military commission is 

ambiguous, the convening authority may return the matter to the military commission for 

clarification. When a sentence adjudged by the military commission is apparently illegal, the 

convening authority may return the matter to the military commission for reconsideration or may 

approve a sentence no more severe than the legal, unambiguous portions of the adjudged 

sentence. 

(e) Reconsideration procedure. Any member of the military commission may propose that a 

sentence reached by the members be reconsidered. 

(1) Instructions. When a sentence has been reached by members and reconsideration has 

been initiated, the military judge shall instruct the members on the procedure for reconsideration. 

(2) Voting. The members shall vote by secret written ballot in closed session whether to 

reconsider a sentence already reached by them. 

(3) Number of votes required. 

(A) With a view to increasing. Subject to section (b) of this rule, members may 

reconsider a sentence with a view of increasing it only if at least a majority vote for 

reconsideration. 

(B) With a view to decreasing. Members may reconsider a sentence with a view to 

decreasing it only if: 

(i) In the case of a sentence which includes death, at least one member 

votes to reconsider; 

(ii) In the case of a sentence which includes confinement for life, or more 

than 10 years, more than one-fourth of the members vote to reconsider; or; 

(iii) In the case of any other sentence, more than one-third of the members 

vote to reconsider. 

(4) Successful vote. If a vote to reconsider a sentence succeeds, the procedures in R.M.C. 

1006 shall apply. 

Rule 1010. Notice concerning post-trial and appellate rights 
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(a) In each military commission, prior to adjournment, the military judge shall ensure that the 

defense counsel has informed the accused orally and in writing of: 

(1) The right to submit matters to the convening authority to consider before taking 

action; 

(2) The right to appellate review, as applicable, and the effect of waiver or withdrawal of 

such right; 

(3) The right to the advice and assistance of counsel in the exercise of the foregoing 

rights or any decision to waive them. 

(b) The written advice to the accused concerning post-trial and appellate rights shall be signed by 

the accused and the defense counsel and inserted in the record of trial as an appellate exhibit. 

Discussion

The post-trial duties of the defense counsel concerning the appellate rights of the accused are set forth in paragraph 

(E)(iv) of the Discussion accompanying R.M.C. 502(d)(7). The defense counsel shall explain the appellate rights to 

the accused and prepare the written document of such advisement prior to or during trial. 

Rule 1011. Adjournment 

The military judge may adjourn the military commission at the end of the trial of an accused or 

proceed to trial of other cases referred to that military commission. Such an adjournment may be 

for a definite or indefinite period. 
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CHAPTER XI. POST-TRIAL PROCEDURE

Rule 1101. Report of result of trial; post-trial restraint; deferment of confinement and fine 

(a) Report of the result of trial. After final adjournment of the military commission in a case, the 

trial counsel shall promptly notify the convening authority or the convening authority’s designee, 

the commander who currently exercises control of the accused, and, if appropriate, the officer in 

charge of the confinement facility, of the findings and sentence. 

(b) Post-trial confinement.

(1) In general. An accused may be placed in post-trial confinement if the sentence 

adjudged by the military commission includes death or confinement. 

(2) Who may order confinement. Unless limited by superior authority, a commander who 

exercises control of the accused may order the accused into post-trial confinement when posttrial 

confinement is authorized under subsection (b)(1) of this rule. A commander or other official 

authorized to order post-trial confinement under this subsection may delegate this authority to 

the trial counsel. 

(3) Confinement or detention on other grounds. Nothing in this rule shall prohibit 

confinement or detention of a person after a military commission on proper grounds other than 

the offenses for which the accused was tried at the military commission. 

Discussion

This section acknowledges that even in the face of an acquittal, continued detention may be authorized by statute, 

such as the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force, as informed by the laws of war. 

(c) Deferment of confinement or fine.

(1) In general. Deferment of a sentence to confinement or fine is a postponement of the 

imposition of a component of the sentence. A deferment may be approved by the authority in (2) 

below, with or without request from an accused. Any accused may, by written application, at 

any time after the adjournment of the military commission, request deferment of a fine or a 

sentence to confinement that has not been ordered executed. 

(2) Who may defer. 

(A) The convening authority, if at the time of deferment the accused is subject to 

the military commission jurisdiction of the convening authority; 

(B) If the accused is no longer in the convening authority’s jurisdiction, a general 

or flag officer in command, whose subordinate organization exercises control over the accused; 

or 
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(C) If the accused is no longer under the jurisdiction or control of any convening 

authority or military commander, any official so empowered by the Secretary of Defense, the 

Attorney General of the United States (if appropriate), or their designee. 

(3) Action on deferment request. The authority acting on the deferment request may, in 

that authority’s discretion, defer imposition of a fine or service of a sentence to confinement. The 

accused shall have the burden of showing that the interests of the accused and the community in 

deferral outweigh the community’s interests in imposition of the punishment on its effective 

date. Factors that the authority acting on a deferment request may consider in determining 

whether to grant the deferment request include, where applicable: the probability of the 

accused’s flight; the probability of the accused’s commission of other offenses, intimidation of 

witnesses, or interference with the administration of justice; the nature of the offenses (including 

the effect on the victim) of which the accused was convicted; the sentence adjudged; and the 

accused’s character, mental condition, medical fitness, and family situation. The decision of the 

authority acting on the deferment request shall be subject to judicial review only for abuse of 

discretion. The action of the authority acting on the deferment request shall be in writing and a 

copy shall be provided to the accused. 

(4) Orders. The action granting deferment shall be reported in the convening authority’s 

action under R.M.C. 1107 and shall include the date of the action on the request when it occurs 

prior to or concurrently with the action. Action granting deferment after the convening 

authority’s action under R.M.C. 1107 shall be reported in writing and included in the record of 

trial. 

(5) Restraint when deferment is granted. When a sentence to confinement is deferred, no 

form of restraint or other limitation on the accused’s liberty may be ordered as a substitute form 

of punishment. An accused may, however, consistent with subsection (b)(3) of this rule, be 

detained or confined for any other proper reason, including when the accused is otherwise 

detained pursuant to his status as an enemy belligerent. 

(6) End of deferment. Deferment of a sentence to a fine or confinement ends when: 

(A) The convening authority takes action under R.M.C. 1107, unless the 

convening authority specifies in the action that imposition of a fine or service of confinement 

after the action is deferred; 

(B) The fine is suspended (but only as to deferment of the fine and not as to any 

confinement); 

(C) The deferment expires by its own terms; or 

(D) The deferment is otherwise rescinded in accordance with subsection (c)(7) of 

this rule. Deferment of confinement may not continue after the conviction is final under R.M.C. 

1209. 
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(7) Rescission of deferment. 

(A) Who may rescind. The authority who granted the deferment or, if the accused 

is no longer subject to that authority’s jurisdiction, the appropriate official described in (c)(2)(B) 

or (C) of this rule, may rescind the deferment. 

(B) Action. A deferment may be rescinded when, in the sole discretion of the 

official acting on the rescission, additional information is presented, which considered with all 

other information in the case, constitutes grounds for such action. The accused shall promptly be 

informed of the basis for the rescission and of the right to submit written matters in the accused’s 

behalf and to request that the rescission be reconsidered. However, the accused may be required 

to serve the sentence to confinement or pay the fine pending this action. 

(C) Execution. When deferment of confinement is rescinded after the convening 

authority’s action under R.M.C. 1107, the confinement may be ordered executed. However, no 

such order to rescind a deferment of confinement may be issued within 7 days of notice of the 

rescission of a deferment of confinement to the accused under paragraph (c)(7)(B) of this rule, to 

afford the accused an opportunity to respond. The authority rescinding the deferment may extend 

this period for good cause shown. The accused shall be credited with any confinement actually 

served during this period. 

(D) Orders. Rescission of a deferment before or concurrently with the initial 

action in the case shall be reported in the action under R.M.C. 1107, which action shall include 

the dates of the granting of the deferment and the rescission. Rescission of a deferment of 

confinement after the convening authority’s action shall be made in writing and appended to the 

record of trial. 

Rule 1102. Post-trial sessions 

(a) In general. Post-trial sessions may be proceedings in revision or R.M.C. 803 sessions. Such 

sessions may be directed by the military judge or the convening authority in accordance with this 

rule. 

(b) Purpose. 

(1) Proceedings in revision. Proceedings in revision may be ordered, in the sole 

discretion of the convening authority, to correct an apparent error, omission, or improper or 

inconsistent action by the military commission, which can be rectified by reopening the 

proceedings without material prejudice to the accused. 

(2) Sessions without members. A session under R.M.C. 803 may be called by the military 

judge or directed by the convening authority under this rule for the purpose of inquiring into, 

and, when appropriate, resolving any matter which arises after trial and which substantially 

affects the legal sufficiency of any findings of guilty or the sentence. The session may be called 

or ordered upon motion of either party or sua sponte, to reconsider any trial ruling that 

substantially affects the legal sufficiency of any findings of guilty or the sentence. 
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(c) Matters not subject to post-trial sessions. Post-trial session may not be directed: 

(1) For reconsideration of a finding of not guilty of any specification, or a ruling which 

amounts to a finding of not guilty; 

(2) For reconsideration of a finding of not guilty of any charge, unless the record shows a 

finding of guilty under a specification laid under that charge, which sufficiently alleges a 

violation of an offense made punishable under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code; or 

(3) For increasing the severity of the sentence unless the sentence prescribed for the 

offense is mandatory. 

(d) When directed. The military judge may direct a post-trial R.M.C. 803 session any time before 

the record is authenticated. The convening authority may direct a post-trial session any time 

before the convening authority takes initial action on the case or at such later time as the 

convening authority is authorized to do so by a reviewing authority. 

(e) Procedure. 

(1) Personnel. The requirements of R.M.C. 505 and 805 shall apply at post-trial sessions 

except that—

(A) If the matter subject to a proceeding in revision requires the presence of 

members: 

(i) The absence of any members does not invalidate the proceedings if at 

least three members are present; and 

(ii) A different military judge may be detailed, subject to R.M.C. 502(c) 

and 902, if the military judge who presided at the earlier proceedings is not reasonably available. 

(B) For a post-trial session without members, a different military judge may be 

detailed, subject to R.M.C. 502(c) and 902, for good cause. 

(2) Action. The military judge shall take such action as may be appropriate, including 

appropriate instructions when members are present. The members may deliberate in closed 

session, if necessary, to determine what corrective action, if any, to take. 

(3) Record. Subject to Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505 and 506, and R.M.C. 806, all post-trial 

sessions, except any deliberations by the members, shall be held in open session. The record of 

the post-trial sessions shall be prepared, authenticated, and served in accordance with R.M.C. 

1103 and 1104 and shall be included in the record of the prior proceedings. 
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Rule 1102A. Post-trial hearing for person found not guilty by reason of lack of mental 

responsibility 

(a) In general. The military judge shall conduct a hearing not later than 40 days following the 

finding that an accused is not guilty by reason of a lack of mental responsibility. 

(b) Psychiatric or psychological examination and report. Prior to the hearing, the military judge 

or convening authority shall order a psychiatric or psychological examination of the accused, 

with the resulting psychiatric or psychological report transmitted to the military judge for use in 

the post-trial hearing. 

(c) Post-trial hearing. 

(1) The accused shall be represented by defense counsel and shall have the opportunity to 

testify, present evidence, call witnesses on his or her behalf, and to confront and cross-examine 

witnesses who appear at the hearing. 

(2) The military judge is not bound by the rules of evidence except with respect to 

privileges. 

(3) An accused found not guilty by reason of a lack of mental responsibility of: 

(A) an offense involving death or serious bodily injury to another; or 

(B) a grave breach under the law of war; 

(C) serious damage to the property of another; or 

(D) involving a substantial risk of such injury or damage, 

has the burden of proving by clear and convincing evidence that his release or detention under 

less than the most stringent and controlled circumstances would not create a substantial risk of 

bodily injury to another person or serious damage to property of another due to a present mental 

disease or defect. With respect to any other offense, the accused has the burden of such proof by 

a preponderance of the evidence. 

(4) After the hearing, the military judge shall report his findings to the convening 

authority and the commander of the facility in which the accused is then confined. 

Rule 1103. Preparation of record of trial 

(a) In general. The convening authority shall prepare and maintain a complete record of trial in 

each trial by military commission. 
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(b) Contents. 

(1) In general. The record of trial in each military commission shall be separate, 

complete, and independent of any other document. The record may be in written or electronic 

form. It will include a verbatim transcript of all sessions except sessions closed for deliberations 

and voting. 

(2) Other matters. A complete record shall include: 

(A) The original charge sheet or a duplicate; 

(B) A copy of the convening document and any amending documents; 

(C) The original dated, signed action by the convening authority; and 

(D) Exhibits, or, with the permission of the military judge, copies, photographs, or 

descriptions; 

(E) If the trial was a rehearing or new or other trial of the case, the record of the 

former hearing(s); and 

(F) Written special findings, if any, by the military judge. 

(3) Exhibits or, with the permission of the military judge, copies, photographs, or 

descriptions of any exhibits which were marked for and referred to on the record but not received 

in evidence; 

(4) Any matter filed by the accused under R.M.C. 1105, or any written waiver of the right 

to submit such matter; 

(5) Any deferment request and the action on it; 

(6) Explanation for any substitute authentication under R.M.C. 1104; 

(7) Explanation for any failure to serve the record of trial on the accused under R.M.C. 

1104; 

(8) The post-trial recommendation of the legal advisor and proof of service on defense 

counsel in accordance with R.M.C. 1106; 

(9) Any response by defense counsel to the post-trial review; 

(10) Recommendations and other papers relative to clemency; 

(11) Any statement why it is impracticable for the convening authority to act; 
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(12) Conditions of suspension, if any, and proof of service on probationer under R.M.C. 

1108; 

(13) Any waiver or withdrawal of appellate review under R.M.C. 1110; and 

(14) Records of any proceedings in connection with vacation of suspension under R.M.C. 

1109. 

Discussion

Where appropriate, and as provided in regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense, copies other than the 

complete record of the proceedings and testimony of a military commission may contain an index of classified 

materials in lieu of classified materials that are part of the record of proceedings.

(c) Copies of the record of trial. The convening authority shall cause to be prepared an original 

and four copies of the record of trial. A superior competent authority may direct that additional 

copies of the record of trial be prepared. 

(d) Security classification. If the record of trial contains matter which must be or is classified 

under applicable security regulations, the trial counsel shall cause a proper security classification 

to be assigned to the record of trial and on each page thereof on which classified material 

appears. 

(e) Examination and correction before authentication. The trial counsel shall examine the record 

of trial before authentication and cause those changes to be made which are necessary to report 

the proceedings accurately. The trial counsel shall not change the record after authentication. 

(f) Examination by defense counsel. Except when unreasonable delay will result, subject to 

review of that determination by the military judge, prior to authentication, the trial counsel shall 

permit the defense counsel to examine the record before authentication. 

(g) Videotape and similar records. 

(1) Recording proceedings. If authorized by regulations of the Secretary of Defense, 

proceedings may be recorded by videotape, audiotape, or similar material from which sound and 

visual images may be reproduced to accurately depict the entire military commission. Such 

means of recording may be used in lieu of recording by a qualified court reporter, when one is 

required, subject to this rule. 

(2) Preparation of written record. When the military commission or any part of it is 

recorded by videotape, audiotape, or similar material, a written transcript shall be prepared in 

accordance with this rule and R.M.C. 1104 before the record is forwarded. 

(3) Military exigency. If military exigency prevents preparation of a written transcript or 

summary, as required, and when the military commission has been recorded by videotape, 

audiotape, or similar material under subsection (f)(1) of this rule, the videotape, audiotape, or 

similar material, together with the matters in paragraph (a)(2)(B) of this rule shall be 
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authenticated and forwarded in accordance with R.M.C. 1104, provided that in such case the 

convening authority shall cause to be attached to the record a statement of the reasons why a 

written record could not be prepared, and provided further that in such case the defense counsel 

shall be given reasonable opportunity to listen to or to view and listen to the recording whenever 

defense counsel is otherwise entitled to examine the record under these rules. 

(4) Further review. Before review by the United States Court of Military Commission 

Review of a case in which the record includes an authenticated recording prepared under 

subsection (f)(3) of this rule, a complete written transcript shall be prepared and certified as 

accurate by the military judge. The authenticated recording shall be retained for examination by 

appellate authorities. 

(5) Accused’s copy. When a record includes an authenticated recording under subsection 

(f)(3) of this rule, the Government shall, in order to comply with R.M.C. 1104(b): 

(A) Provide the accused with a duplicate copy of the videotape, audiotape, or 

similar matter and copies of any written contents of and attachments to the record, and give the 

accused reasonable opportunity to use such viewing equipment as is necessary to listen to or 

view and listen to the recording; or 

(B) With the written consent of the accused, defer service of the record until a 

written record is prepared under subsection (4) of this rule. 

Rule 1104. Records of trial: Authentication; service; loss; correction; forwarding 

(a) Authentication. A record of trial by military commission shall be authenticated by the 

signature of the military judge who presided over the portion of the proceedings that he or she is 

authenticating. If any military judge is unavailable to authenticate a record because of the 

military judge’s death, disability, or absence, the trial counsel present at the end of the 

proceedings shall authenticate the record of trial. If the trial counsel cannot authenticate the 

record of trial because of the trial counsel’s death, disability, or absence, a member of the 

commission or court reporter shall authenticate the record of trial. Authentication is an attestation 

that the record accurately reports the proceedings. No person may be required to authenticate a 

record of trial if that person is not satisfied that it accurately reports the proceedings. 

(b) Service. The trial counsel shall cause a copy of the record of trial to be served on the accused 

as soon as the record of trial is authenticated. The trial counsel shall cause the accused’s receipt 

for the copy of the record of trial to be attached to the original record of trial. If it is 

impracticable to secure a receipt from the accused before the original record of trial is forwarded 

to the convening authority, the trial counsel shall prepare a certificate indicating that a copy of 

the record of trial has been transmitted to the accused, including the means of transmission and 

the address, and cause the certificate to be attached to the original record of trial. In such a case 

the accused’s receipt shall be forwarded to the convening authority as soon as it is obtained. 

(c) Substitute service. If it is impracticable to serve the record of trial on the accused because of 

the transfer of the accused to a distant place, the unauthorized absence of the accused, or military 
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exigency, or if the accused so requests on the record at the military commission or in writing, the 

accused’s copy of the record shall be forwarded to the accused’s defense counsel, if any. Trial 

counsel shall attach a statement to the record explaining why the accused was not served 

personally. If the accused has more than one counsel, R.M.C. 1106(e)(2) shall apply. If the 

accused has no counsel and if the accused cannot be located, the trial counsel shall prepare an 

explanation for the failure to serve the record. The explanation and the accused’s copy of the 

record shall be forwarded with the original record. The accused shall be provided with a copy of 

the record as soon as practicable. Defense counsel shall have access to the unredacted record, as 

provided in regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense. 

(d) Information subject to Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505 and 506. 

(A) Forwarding to convening authority. If the copy of the record of trial prepared 

for the accused contains classified or government information, the trial counsel, unless directed 

otherwise by the convening authority, shall forward the accused’s copy to the convening 

authority, before it is served on the accused. 

(B) Responsibility of the convening authority. The convening authority shall: 

(i) cause any classified or government information to be redacted from the 

accused’s copy of the record of trial; 

(ii) cause a certificate indicating that classified or government information 

has been deleted or withdrawn to be attached to the record of trial; and 

(iii) cause the redacted copy of the record of trial and the attached 

certificate regarding classified or government information to be served on the accused as 

provided in this rule except that the accused’s receipt shall show that the accused has received an 

redacted copy of the record of trial. 

(C) Contents of certificate. The certificate regarding redacted classified or 

government information shall indicate: 

(i) that the original record of trial may be inspected in the Office of 

Military Commissions under such regulations as the Secretary of Defense may prescribe; 

(ii) the pages of the record of trial from which matter has been deleted; 

(iii) the pages of the record of trial which have been entirely deleted; and 

(iv) the exhibits which have been withdrawn. 

(e) Loss of record. If the authenticated record of trial is lost or destroyed, the trial counsel shall, 

if practicable, cause another record of trial to be prepared for authentication. The new record of 

trial shall become the record of trial in the case if the requirements of R.M.C. 1103 and this rule 

are met. 
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(f) Correction of record after authentication; certificate of correction. 

(1) In general. A record of trial found to be incomplete or defective after authentication 

may be corrected to make it accurate. A record of trial may be returned to the convening 

authority by superior competent authority for correction under this rule. 

(2) Procedure. An authenticated record of trial believed to be incomplete or defective 

may be returned to the military judge for a certificate of correction. The military judge shall give 

notice of the proposed correction to all parties and permit them to examine and respond to the 

proposed correction before authenticating the certificate of correction. All parties shall be given 

reasonable access to any original reporter’s notes or tapes of the proceedings. 

(3) Authentication of certificate of correction; service on the accused. The certificate of 

correction shall be authenticated as provided in section (a) of this rule and a copy served on the 

accused as provided in section (b) of this rule. The certificate of correction and the accused’s 

receipt for the certificate of correction shall be attached to each copy of the record of trial 

required to be prepared under R.M.C. 1103. 

(g) Forwarding. After every military commission, including a rehearing and new and other trials, 

the authenticated record shall be forwarded to the convening authority for initial review and 

action. The convening authority shall refer the record to the legal advisor for recommendation 

under R.M.C. 1106 before the convening authority takes action. 

Rule 1105. Matters submitted by the accused 

(a) In general. After a sentence is adjudged, the accused may submit to the convening authority 

any matters that may reasonably tend to affect the convening authority’s decision whether to 

disapprove any findings of guilty or to approve the sentence. The convening authority is only 

required to consider written submissions. Submissions are not subject to the Military 

Commission Rules of Evidence and may include: 

(1) Allegations of errors affecting the legality of the findings or sentence; 

(2) Portions or summaries of the record and copies of documentary evidence offered or 

introduced at trial; 

(3) Matters in mitigation which were not available for consideration at the military 

commission; and 

(4) Clemency recommendations by any member, the military judge, or any other person. 

The defense may ask any person for such a recommendation. 

(b) Time periods. The accused may submit matters within the later of 20 days after a copy of the 

authenticated record of trial or, if applicable, the recommendation of the legal advisor, or an 

addendum to the recommendation containing new matter is served on the accused. If, within the 

20-day period, the accused shows that additional time is required for the accused to submit such 
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matters, the convening authority or that authority’s legal advisor may, for good cause, extend the 

20-day period for not more than 20 additional days; however, only the convening authority may 

deny a request for such an extension. A post-trial session under R.M.C. 1102 shall have no effect 

on the running of any time period in this rule, except when such session results in the 

announcement of a new sentence, in which case the period shall run from that announcement. 

(c) Good cause. For purposes of this rule, good cause for an extension ordinarily does not 

include the need for securing matters which could reasonably have been presented at the military 

commission. 

(d) Waiver. 

(1) Failure to submit matters. Failure to submit matters within the time prescribed by this 

rule shall be deemed a waiver of the right to submit such matters. 

(2) Submission of matters. Submission of any matters under this rule shall be deemed a 

waiver of the right to submit additional matters unless the right to submit additional matters 

within the prescribed time limits is expressly reserved in writing. 

(3) Written waiver. The accused may expressly waive, in writing, the right to submit 

matters under this rule. Once filed, such waiver may not be revoked. 

(4) Absence of accused. If, as a result of the unauthorized absence of the accused, the 

record cannot be served on the accused in accordance with R.M.C. 1104 and if the accused has 

no counsel to receive the record, the accused shall be deemed to have waived the right to submit 

matters under this rule within the time limit which begins upon service on the accused of the 

record of trial. 

Discussion

The accused is not required to raise objections to the trial proceedings in order to preserve them for later review. 

Rule 1106. Recommendation of the legal advisor 

(a) In general. Before the convening authority takes action under R.M.C. 1107 on a record of 

trial by military commission the convening authority’s legal advisor shall forward to the 

convening authority a recommendation under this rule. 

(b) Disqualification. No person who has acted as member, military judge, trial counsel, assistant 

trial counsel, defense counsel, or associate or assistant defense counsel, or investigating officer in 

any case may later act as a legal advisor to any reviewing or convening authority in the same 

case. 

Discussion

The legal advisor may also be ineligible when, for example, the legal advisor: served as the defense counsel in a 

companion case; testified as to a contested matter (unless the testimony is clearly uncontroverted); has other than an 
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official interest in the same case; or must review that officer’s own pretrial action (such as the pretrial advice) when 

the sufficiency or correctness of the earlier action has been placed in issue. 

(c) Form and content of recommendation. 

(1) The purpose of the recommendation of the legal advisor is to assist the convening 

authority to decide what action to take on the sentence in the exercise of command prerogative. 

The legal advisor shall use the record of trial in the preparation of the recommendation. 

(2) Form. The recommendation of the legal officer shall be a concise written 

communication. 

(3) Required contents. Except as provided in section (d) of this rule, the recommendation 

of the legal advisor shall include concise information as to: 

(A) The findings and sentence adjudged by the military commission; 

(B) A recommendation for clemency by the military commission, made in 

conjunction with the announced sentence; 

(C) A statement of the nature and duration of the accused’s detention prior to trial; 

(D) If there is a pretrial agreement, a statement of any action the convening 

authority is obligated to take under the agreement or a statement of the reasons why the 

convening authority is not obligated to take specific action under the agreement; and 

(E) A specific recommendation as to the action to be taken by the convening 

authority on the sentence. 

(4) Legal errors. The legal advisor is not required to examine the record for legal errors. 

However, if a claim of legal error is raised in the matters submitted under R.M.C. 1105, the legal 

advisor shall state whether, in the legal advisor’s opinion, corrective action on the findings or 

sentence should be taken. The response may consist of a statement of agreement or disagreement 

with the matter raised by the accused. An analysis or rationale for the legal advisor’s statement, 

if any, concerning legal errors is not required. 

(5) Optional matters. The recommendation of the legal advisor may include, in addition 

to matters included under subsections (c)(3) and (4) of this rule, any additional matters deemed 

appropriate by the legal advisor. Such matter may include matters outside the record. 

(6) Effect of error. In case of error in the recommendation not otherwise waived under 

subsection (e)(6) of this rule, appropriate corrective action shall be taken by appellate authorities 

without returning the case for further action by a convening authority. 

(d) No findings of guilty; findings of not guilty by reason of lack of mental responsibility. If the 

proceedings resulted in an acquittal or in a finding of not guilty by reason of lack of mental 

responsibility of all charges and specifications, or if, after the trial began, the proceedings were 
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terminated without findings and no further action is contemplated, a recommendation under this 

rule is not required. 

(e) Service of recommendation on defense counsel and accused; defense response. 

(1) Service of recommendation on defense counsel and accused. Before forwarding the 

recommendation and the record of trial to the convening authority for action under R.M.C. 1107, 

the legal advisor shall cause a copy of the recommendation to be served on counsel for the 

accused. A separate copy will be served on the accused. If it is impracticable to serve the 

recommendation on the accused for reasons including but not limited to the transfer of the 

accused to a distant place, the unauthorized absence of the accused, or military exigency, or if 

the accused so requests on the record at the military commission or in writing, the accused’s 

copy shall be forwarded to the accused’s defense counsel. A statement shall be attached to the 

record explaining why the accused was not served personally.

(2) Counsel for the accused. The accused may, at trial or in writing to the legal advisor 

before the recommendation has been served under this rule, designate which counsel (detailed or 

civilian) will be served with the recommendation. In the absence of such designation, the legal 

advisor shall cause the recommendation to be served in the following order of precedence, as 

applicable, on: (1) civilian counsel or (2) detailed defense counsel. If the accused has not 

retained civilian counsel and the detailed defense counsel has been relieved or is not reasonably 

available to represent the accused, substitute military counsel to represent the accused shall be 

detailed by an appropriate authority. Substitute counsel shall attempt to enter into an attorneyclient relationship with the accused before examining the recommendation and preparing any 

response. 

(3) Record of trial. The legal advisor shall, upon request of counsel for the accused 

served with the recommendation, provide that counsel with a copy of the record of trial for use 

while preparing the response to the recommendation. 

(4) Response. Counsel for the accused may submit, in writing, corrections or rebuttal to 

any matter in the recommendation believed to be erroneous, inadequate, or misleading, and may 

comment on any other matter. 

(5) Time period. Counsel for the accused shall be given 20 days from service of the 

record of trial under R.M.C. 1104(b) or receipt of the recommendation, whichever is later, in 

which to submit comments on the recommendation. The convening authority may, for good 

cause, extend the period in which comments may be submitted for up to 20 additional days. 

(6) Waiver. Failure of counsel for the accused to comment on any matter in the 

recommendation or matters attached to the recommendation in a timely manner shall waive later 

claim of error with regard to such matter in the absence of plain error. 

(7) New matter in addendum to recommendation. The legal advisor may supplement the 

recommendation after the accused and counsel for the accused have been served with the 

recommendation and given an opportunity to comment. When new matter is introduced after the 
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accused and counsel for the accused have examined the recommendation, however, the accused 

and counsel for the accused must be served with the new matter and given 20 days from service 

of the addendum in which to submit comments. Substitute service of the accused’s copy of the 

addendum upon counsel for the accused is permitted in accordance with the procedures outlined 

in subsection (e)(1) of this rule. 

Rule 1107. Action by convening authority 

(a) Who may take action. The convening authority shall take action on the sentence and, in the 

discretion of the convening authority, the findings, unless it is impracticable. If it is 

impracticable for the convening authority to act, the convening authority shall, forward the case 

to an official designated by the Secretary of Defense for action under this rule. 

(b) General considerations. 

(1) Discretion of convening authority. The action to be taken on the findings and sentence 

is within the sole discretion of the convening authority. Determining what action to take on the 

findings and sentence of a military commission is a matter of prerogative. The convening 

authority is not required to review the case for legal errors or for factual sufficiency. 

(2) When action may be taken. The convening authority may take action only after the 

accused has submitted matters, the applicable time periods under R.M.C. 1105(b) have expired, 

or the accused has waived the right to present matters under R.M.C. 1105(d), whichever is 

earlier, subject to regulations of the Secretary of Defense. 

(3) Matters considered. 

(A) Required matters. Before taking action, the convening authority shall 

consider: 

(i) The result of trial; 

(ii) The recommendation of the legal advisor under R.M.C. 1106, if 

applicable; and

(iii) Any matters submitted by the accused under R.M.C. 1105 or, if 

applicable, R.M.C. 1106(e). 

(B) Additional matters. Before taking action the convening authority may 

consider: 

(i) The record of trial; 

(ii) Any relevant records pertaining to the accused; and 
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(iii) Such other matters as the convening authority deems appropriate. 

However, if the convening authority considers matters adverse to the accused from outside the 

record, with knowledge of which the accused is not chargeable, the accused shall be notified and 

given an opportunity to rebut. 

(4) When proceedings resulted in finding of not guilty or not guilty by reason of lack of 

mental responsibility, or there was a ruling amounting to a finding of not guilty. The convening 

authority shall not take action disapproving a finding of not guilty, a finding of not guilty by 

reason of lack of mental responsibility, or a ruling amounting to a finding of not guilty. When an 

accused is found not guilty by reason of lack of mental responsibility, the convening authority, 

however, may commit the accused to a suitable facility or otherwise make provisions for 

appropriate treatment of the accused, pending a hearing and disposition in accordance with 

R.M.C. 1102A. 

(5) Action when accused lacks mental capacity. The convening authority may not 

approve a sentence while the accused lacks mental capacity to understand and to conduct or 

cooperate intelligently in the post-trial proceedings. In the absence of substantial evidence to the 

contrary, the accused is presumed to have the capacity to understand and to conduct or cooperate 

intelligently in the post-trial proceedings. If a substantial question is raised as to the requisite 

mental capacity of the accused, the convening authority may direct an examination of the

accused in accordance with R.M.C. 706 before deciding whether the accused lacks mental 

capacity, but the examination may be limited to determining the accused’s present capacity to 

understand and cooperate in the post-trial proceedings. The convening authority may approve the 

sentence unless it is established, by a preponderance of the evidence—including matters outside 

the record of trial—that the accused does not have the requisite mental capacity. Nothing in this 

subsection shall prohibit the convening authority from disapproving the findings of guilty and 

sentence. 

(c) Action on findings. Action on the findings is not required. However, the convening authority 

may, in the convening authority’s sole discretion: 

(1) Change a finding of guilty to a charge or specification to a finding of guilty to an 

offense that is a lesser included offense of the offense stated in the charge or specification; or 

(2) Set aside any finding of guilty and—

(A) Dismiss the specification and, if appropriate, the charge, or 

(B) Direct a rehearing in accordance with section (e) of this rule. 

Discussion

The convening authority may for any reason or no reason disapprove a finding of guilty or approve a finding of 

guilty only of a lesser offense. However, see section (e) of this rule if a rehearing is ordered. The convening 

authority is not required to review the findings for legal or factual sufficiency and is not required to explain a 

decision to order or not to order a rehearing, except as provided in section (e) of this rule. The power to order a 
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rehearing, or to take other corrective action on the findings, is designed solely to provide an expeditious means to 

correct errors that are identified in the course of exercising discretion under the rule. 

(d) Action on the sentence. 

(1) In general. The convening authority may for any or no reason disapprove a legal 

sentence in whole or in part, mitigate the sentence, and change a punishment to one of a different 

nature as long as the severity of the punishment is not increased. The convening or higher 

authority may not increase the punishment imposed by a military commission. The approval or 

disapproval shall be explicitly stated. 

(2) Determining what sentence should be approved. The convening authority shall 

approve that sentence which is warranted by the circumstances of the offense and appropriate for 

the accused. When the military commission has adjudged a punishment pursuant to a pretrial 

agreement, the convening authority may nevertheless approve a lesser sentence. 

(3) Deferring service of a sentence to confinement. In a case in which the accused who 

was in the custody of a foreign country is temporarily transferred to the U.S. for trial by military 

commission and then returned to that or another foreign country under the authority of a mutual 

agreement or treaty, the convening authority may defer the confinement adjudged by the military 

commission until after the accused has been permanently released to U.S. custody. The 

convening authority may defer the confinement without the consent of the accused.

(e) Ordering rehearing. 

(1) In general. A rehearing may be ordered by the convening authority if the convening 

authority disapproves the findings and sentence and states the reasons for disapproval of the 

findings. If the convening authority disapproves the finding and sentence and does not order a 

rehearing, the convening authority shall dismiss the charges. A rehearing as to the findings may 

not be ordered by the convening authority when there is a lack of sufficient evidence in the 

record to support the findings. A rehearing as to the sentence may be ordered by the convening 

authority if the convening authority disapproves the sentence.

Discussion

See R.M.C. 810(a)(1) regarding the limitations on the scope of rehearings.

(2) Limitation: Lack of sufficient evidence. A rehearing may not be ordered as to findings 

of guilty when there is a lack of sufficient evidence in the record to support the findings of guilty 

of the offense charged or of any lesser included offense. A rehearing may be ordered, however, if 

the proof of guilt consisted of inadmissible evidence for which there is available an admissible 

substitute. A rehearing may be ordered as to any lesser offense included in an offense of which 

the accused was found guilty, provided there is sufficient evidence in the record to support the 

lesser included offense. 

(3) Rehearing on sentence only. A rehearing on sentence only shall be referred to the 

same type of military commission that made the original findings, provided however that the 
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convening authority may elect to refer to a noncapital military commission the rehearing on 

sentence only of a case previously tried before a capital military commission. This latter referral 

precludes death as an authorized punishment. If the convening authority determines a rehearing 

on sentence is impracticable, the convening authority may approve a sentence of no punishment 

without conducting a rehearing. 

(f) Contents of action and related matters. 

(1) In general. The convening authority shall state in writing and insert in the record of 

trial the convening authority’s decision as to the sentence, whether any findings of guilty are 

disapproved, and orders as to further disposition. The action shall be signed personally by the 

convening authority. 

(2) Modification of initial action. The convening authority may recall and modify any 

action taken by that convening authority at any time before it has been published or before the 

accused has been officially notified. 

(3) Findings of guilty. If any findings of guilty are disapproved, the action shall so state. 

If a rehearing is not ordered, the affected charges and specifications shall be dismissed by the 

convening authority in the action. If a rehearing or other trial is directed, the reasons for the 

disapproval shall be set forth in the action. 

(4) Action on sentence. 

(A) In general. The action shall state whether the sentence adjudged by the 

military commission is approved. If only part of the sentence is approved, the action shall state 

which parts are approved. A rehearing may not be directed if any sentence is approved. 

(B) Execution; suspension. The action shall indicate, when appropriate, whether 

an approved sentence is to be executed or whether the execution of all or any part of the sentence 

is to be suspended. No reasons need be stated. 

(C) Place of confinement. If the convening authority orders a sentence of 

confinement into execution, the convening authority shall designate the place of confinement in 

the action, unless otherwise prescribed by the Secretary of Defense or the Attorney General of 

the United States. 

(5) Action on rehearing or new or other trial. 

(A) Rehearing or other trial. In acting on a rehearing or other trial the convening 

authority shall be subject to the sentence limitations prescribed in R.M.C. 810(d). Except when 

a rehearing or other trial is combined with a trial on additional offenses and except as otherwise 

provided in R.M.C. 810(d), if any part of the original sentence was suspended and the suspension 

was not properly vacated before the order directing the rehearing, the convening authority shall 

take the necessary suspension action to prevent an increase in the same type of punishment as 

was previously suspended. The convening authority may approve a sentence adjudged upon a 
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rehearing or other trial regardless whether any kind or amount of the punishment adjudged at the 

former trial has been served or executed. However, in computing the term or amount of 

punishment to be actually served or executed under the new sentence, the accused shall be 

credited with any kind or amount of the former sentence included within the new sentence that 

was served or executed before the time it was disapproved or set aside. The convening authority 

shall, if any part of a sentence adjudged upon a rehearing or other trial is approved, direct in the 

action that any part or amount of the former sentence served or executed between the date it was 

adjudged and the date it was disapproved or set aside shall be credited to the accused. If, in the 

action on the record of a rehearing, the convening authority disapproves the findings of guilty of 

all charges and specifications which were tried at the former hearing and that part of the sentence 

which was based on these findings, the convening authority shall, unless a further rehearing is 

ordered, provide in the action that all rights, privileges, and property affected by any executed 

portion of the sentence adjudged at the former hearing shall be restored. The convening authority 

shall take the same restorative action if a military commission at a rehearing acquits the accused 

of all charges and specifications which were tried at the former hearing. 

(B) New trial. The action of the convening authority on a new trial shall, insofar 

as practicable, conform to the rules prescribed for rehearings and other trials in paragraph 

(f)(5)(A) of this rule. 

(g) Incomplete, ambiguous, or erroneous action. When the action of the convening or of a higher 

authority is incomplete, ambiguous, or contains clerical error, the authority who took the 

incomplete, ambiguous, or erroneous action may be instructed by superior authority to withdraw 

the original action and substitute a corrected action. 

(h) Service on accused. A copy of the convening authority’s action shall be served on the 

accused or on defense counsel. If the action is served on defense counsel, defense counsel shall, 

by expeditious means, provide the accused with a copy. 

Rule 1108. Suspension of execution of sentence; remission 

(a) In general. Suspension of a sentence grants the accused a probationary period during which 

the suspended part of an approved sentence is not executed, and upon the accused’s successful 

completion of which the suspended part of the sentence shall be remitted. Remission cancels the 

unexecuted part of a sentence to which it applies. 

(b) Who may suspend and remit. The Secretary of Defense or the convening authority (if other 

than the Secretary) may, after approving the sentence, suspend the execution of all or any part of 

the sentence of a military commission, except for a sentence of death. 

(c) Conditions of suspension. The authority who suspends the execution of the sentence of a 

military commission shall: 

(1) Specify in writing the conditions of the suspension; 

(2) Cause a copy of the conditions of the suspension to be served on the accused; and 
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(3) Cause a receipt to be secured from the accused for service of the conditions of the 

suspension. 

Unless otherwise stated, an action suspending a sentence includes as a condition that the accused 

not commit any further offense subject to chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code. 

(d) Limitations on suspension. Suspension shall be for a stated period or until the occurrence of 

an anticipated future event. The convening authority shall provide in the action that unless the 

suspension is sooner vacated, the expiration of the period of suspension shall remit the 

suspended portion of the sentence. An appropriate authority may, before the expiration of the 

period of suspension, remit any part of the sentence, including a part which has been suspended; 

reduce the period of suspension; or, subject to R.M.C. 1109, vacate the suspension in whole or in 

part. 

(e) Termination of suspension by remission. Expiration of the period provided in the action 

suspending a sentence or part of a sentence shall remit the suspended portion unless the 

suspension is sooner vacated. Death or action that terminates status as a person subject to chapter 

47A of title 10, United States Code, shall result in remission of the suspended portion of the 

sentence. 

Rule 1109. Vacation of suspension of sentence 

(a) In general. Suspension of execution of the sentence of a military commission may be vacated 

for violation of the conditions of the suspension as provided in this rule. 

(b) Timeliness. 

(1) Violation of conditions. Vacation shall be based on a violation of the conditions of 

suspension which occurs within the period of suspension. 

(2) Vacation proceedings. Vacation proceedings under this rule shall be completed within 

a reasonable time. 

(3) Order vacating the suspension. The order vacating the suspension shall be issued 

before the expiration of the period of suspension. 

Rule 1110. Waiver or withdrawal of appellate review 

(a) In general. After any military commission, except one in which the approved sentence 

includes death, the accused may waive or withdraw appellate review. 

(b) Right to counsel. 

(1) In general. The accused shall have the right to consult with counsel qualified under 

R.M.C. 502(d)(1) before submitting a waiver or withdrawal of appellate review. 
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(2) Waiver. 

(A) Counsel who represented the accused at the military commission. The 

accused may consult with any civilian or detailed counsel who represented the accused at the 

military commission concerning whether to waive appellate review unless such counsel has been 

excused under R.M.C. 505(d)(2)(B). 

(B) Associate appellate counsel. If counsel who represented the accused at the 

military commission has not been excused but is not available to consult with the accused, 

because of military exigency, separation from the service, or other reasons, associate defense 

counsel shall be detailed to the accused upon request by the accused. Such counsel shall 

communicate with counsel who represented the accused at the military commission, and shall 

advise the accused concerning whether to waive appellate review. 

(C) Substitute counsel. If counsel who represented the accused at the military 

commission has been excused under R.M.C. 505(d), substitute defense counsel shall be detailed 

to advise the accused concerning waiver of appellate rights. 

(3) Withdrawal. 

(A) Appellate defense counsel. If the accused is represented by appellate defense 

counsel, the accused shall have the right to consult with such counsel concerning whether to 

withdraw the appeal. 

(B) Associate appellate defense counsel. If the accused is represented by appellate 

defense counsel, and such counsel is not immediately available to consult with the accused, 

because of physical separation or other reasons, associate appellate defense counsel shall be 

detailed to the accused, upon request by the accused. Such counsel shall communicate with 

appellate defense counsel and shall advise the accused whether to withdraw the appeal. 

(C) No counsel. If appellate defense counsel has not been assigned to the accused, 

defense counsel shall be detailed for the accused. Such counsel shall advise the accused 

concerning whether to withdraw the appeal. If practicable, counsel who represented the accused 

at the military commission shall be detailed. 

(4) Civilian counsel. Whether or not the accused was represented by civilian counsel at 

the military commission, the accused may consult with civilian counsel, at no expense to the 

United States, concerning whether to waive or withdraw appellate review. 

(5) Record of trial. Any defense counsel with whom the accused consults under this rule 

shall be given reasonable opportunity to examine the record of trial. 

(6) Consult. The right to consult with counsel, as used in this rule, does not require 

communication in the presence of one another. 
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(c) Compulsion, coercion, inducement prohibited. No person may compel, coerce, or induce an 

accused by force, promises of clemency, or otherwise to waive or withdraw appellate review. 

(d ) Form of waiver or withdrawal. A waiver or withdrawal of appellate review shall: 

(1) Be written; 

(2) State that the accused and defense counsel have discussed the accused’s right to 

appellate review and the effect of waiver or withdrawal of appellate review and that the accused 

understands these matters; 

(3) State that the waiver or withdrawal is submitted voluntarily; and 

(4) Be signed by the accused and by defense counsel. 

(e) To whom submitted. 

(1) Waiver. A waiver of appellate review shall be filed with the convening authority. The 

waiver shall be attached to the record of trial. 

(2) Withdrawal. A withdrawal of appellate review may be filed with the convening 

authority and shall be attached to the record of trial. 

(f) Time limit. 

(1) Waiver. The accused may sign a waiver of appellate review at any time after the 

sentence is announced. The waiver must be filed, if at all, within 10 days after notice of the 

action is served on the accused or on defense counsel under 10 U.S.C. §950b(c)(4) as 

implemented by R.M.C. 1107(h). Upon written application of the accused, the convening 

authority may extend this period for good cause, by not more than 30 days. 

(2) Withdrawal. Except in a case in which the sentence includes death, the accused may 

file a withdrawal from appellate review at any time before such review is completed. 

(g) Effect of waiver or withdrawal. A waiver or withdrawal of appellate review under this rule 

shall bar review by the United States Court of Military Commission Review. Once submitted, a 

waiver or withdrawal in compliance with this rule may not be revoked. 

Rule 1111. Disposition of the record of trial after action 

In all cases where there is a finding of guilt approved by the convening authority, except where 

appellate review has been waived pursuant to R.M.C. 1110, the convening authority shall send 

each record of trial and the convening authority’s action directly to the United States Court of 

Military Commission Review. Two additional copies of the record of trial shall accompany the 

original record. 
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Rule 1112. 

Reserved.

Rule 1113. Execution of sentences 

(a) In general. No sentence of a military commission may be executed unless it has been 

approved by the convening authority. 

Discussion

See R.M.C. 1113(d) for the effective date of confinement.

(b) Punishments which the convening authority may order executed in the initial action. Except 

as provided in section (c) of this rule, the convening authority may order all or part of the 

sentence of a military commission executed when the convening authority takes initial action 

under R.M.C. 1107. 

(c) A punishment of death may be ordered executed only by the President. In such a case, the 

President may commute, remit, or suspend the sentence, or any part thereof, as he sees fit.

(1) Final judgment.

(A) If the sentence of a military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, United 

States Code, extends to death, the sentence may not be executed until there is a final judgment as 

to the legality of the proceedings (and with respect to death, approval under subparagraph (b) of 

this rule).

(B) A judgment as to legality of proceedings is final for purposes of subparagraph 

(c)(1)(A) of this rule when review is completed in accordance with the judgment of the United 

States Court of Military Commission Review and—

(i) the time for the accused to file a petition for review by the United 

States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit has expired, the accused has not 

filed a timely petition for such review, and the case is not otherwise under review by the Court of 

Appeals; or

(ii) review is completed in accordance with the judgment of the United 

States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit and—

(a) a petition for a writ of certiorari is not timely filed;

(b) such a petition is denied by the Supreme Court; or

(c) review is otherwise completed in accordance with the judgment 

of the Supreme Court.
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(2) Manner carried out. A sentence to death which has been finally ordered executed 

shall be carried out in the manner prescribed by the Secretary.

(3) Action when accused lacks mental capacity. An accused lacking the mental capacity 

to understand the punishment to be suffered or the reason for imposition of the death sentence 

may not be put to death during any period when such incapacity exists. The accused is presumed 

to have such mental capacity. If a substantial question is raised as to whether the accused lacks 

capacity, the convening authority shall order a hearing on the question. A military judge, counsel 

for the government, and counsel for the accused shall be detailed. The convening authority shall 

direct an examination of the accused in accordance with R.M.C. 706, but the examination may 

be limited to determining whether the accused understands the punishment to be suffered and the 

reason therefore. The military judge shall consider all evidence presented, including evidence 

provided by the accused. The accused has the burden of proving such lack of capacity by a 

preponderance of the evidence. The military judge shall make findings of fact, which will then 

be forwarded to the convening authority ordering the hearing. If the accused is found to lack 

capacity, the convening authority shall stay the execution until the accused regains appropriate 

capacity. 

(d) Confinement. 

(1) Effective date of confinement. Any period of confinement included in the sentence of 

a military commission begins to run from the date the sentence is adjudged, but the following 

shall be excluded in computing the service of the term of confinement: 

(A) Periods during which the sentence to confinement is suspended or deferred; 

(B) Periods during which the accused is in custody of civilian or foreign 

authorities after the convening authority, pursuant to chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, 

has deferred the service of a sentence to confinement. 

(C) Periods during which the accused has escaped or is erroneously released from 

confinement through misrepresentation or fraud on the part of the prisoner, or is erroneously 

released from confinement upon the prisoner’s petition for writ of habeas corpus under a court 

order which is later reversed; and 

(D) Periods during which another sentence by military commission to 

confinement is being served. When a prisoner serving a military commission sentence to 

confinement is later convicted by a military commission of another offense and sentenced to 

confinement, the later sentence interrupts the running of the earlier sentence. Any unremitted 

remaining portion of the earlier sentence will be served after the later sentence is fully executed. 

(2) Place of confinement. The authority who orders a sentence to confinement into 

execution shall designate the place of confinement under regulations prescribed by the Secretary 

of Defense or as directed by the Attorney General of the United States. 
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(3) Confinement in lieu of fine. Confinement may not be executed for failure to pay a fine 

if the accused demonstrates that the accused has made good faith efforts to pay but cannot 

because of indigency, unless the authority considering imposition of confinement determines 

after giving the accused notice and opportunity to be heard, that there is no other punishment 

adequate to meet the Government’s interest in appropriate punishment. 
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CHAPTER XII. APPEALS AND REVIEW

Rule 1201. The United States Court of Military Commission Review; Chief Judge

(a) In general. There is a court of record known as the “United States Court of Military 

Commission Review.” 

(b) Composition of the court. The United States Court of Military Commission Review shall be 

composed of one or more panels, including at least three judges on the Court, who shall sit as 

panels or as a whole, to review each case submitted to them under chapter 47A of title 10, United 

States Code, and this Manual. 

(1) The Secretary of Defense may assign appellate military judges to the United States 

Court of Military Commission Review. Each Judge Advocate General shall nominate appellate 

military judges, meeting the qualifications of 10 U.S.C. § 948j(b), for duty as appellate military 

judges on the United States Court of Military Commission Review in accordance with Secretary 

of Defense regulations. 

(2) The President may appoint, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, 

additional judges to the United States Court of Military Commission Review.

(3) The Secretary of Defense shall designate, from those judges on the Court, a Chief 

Judge of the United States Court of Military Commission Review. 

(4) No person may serve as a judge on the Court in any case in which that person acted as 

a military judge, counsel, or reviewing official.

(5) The Chief Judge shall assign judges of the United States Court of Military 

Commission Review to panels of at least three, and not more than five, judges. Each panel must 

include at least three judges. 

(6) In consultation with the other judges of the United States Court of Military 

Commission Review, and subject to the review and approval of the Secretary of Defense, the 

Chief Judge shall prescribe procedures for appellate review by the United States Court of 

Military Commission Review. 

(c) Cases reviewed by the United States Court of Military Commission Review. The United 

States Court of Military Commission Review shall review all cases and matters referred to it 

under R.M.C. 908 and 1111. The Chief Judge shall promulgate regulations permitting both 

parties to submit written briefs and other pertinent materials to the United States Court of 

Military Commission Review. 

(d) Action on cases reviewed by the United States Court of Military Commission Review. 

(1) Except in those cases in which appellate review has been waived or withdrawn 

pursuant to R.M.C. 1110, the findings and sentence of each case as approved by the convening 
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authority shall be reviewed by the United States Court of Military Commission Review. The 

Court may affirm only such findings of guilty, and the sentence or such part or amount of the 

sentence, as the Court finds correct in law and fact and determines, on the basis of the entire 

record, should be approved. In considering the record, the Court may weigh the evidence, judge 

the credibility of witnesses, and determine controverted questions of fact, recognizing that the 

military commission saw and heard the witnesses. If the Court sets aside the findings and 

sentence, the Court may, except where the setting aside is based on lack of sufficient evidence in 

the record to support the findings, order a rehearing. If the Court sets aside the findings or 

sentence and does not order a rehearing, it shall order that the charges be dismissed.

(2) Lesser included offense. Any reviewing authority with the power to approve or affirm 

a finding of guilty by a military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, 

may approve or affirm, instead, so much of the finding as includes a lesser included offense.

(3) Action when accused lacks mental capacity. An appellate authority may not affirm the 

proceedings while the accused lacks mental capacity to understand and to conduct or cooperate 

intelligently in the appellate proceedings. In the absence of substantial evidence to the contrary, 

the accused is presumed to have the capacity to understand and to conduct or cooperate 

intelligently in the appellate proceedings. If a substantial question is raised as to the requisite 

mental capacity of the accused, the United States Court of Military Commission Review may 

direct that the record be forwarded to an appropriate authority for an examination of the accused 

in accordance with R.M.C. 706, but the examination may be limited to determining the accused’s 

present capacity to understand and cooperate in the appellate proceedings. Unless it is 

established, by a preponderance of the evidence—including matters outside the record of trial—

that the accused does not have the requisite mental capacity, the proceedings shall not be further 

stayed and the case will be returned to the United States Court of Military Commission Review 

for action under this Rule. Nothing in this subsection shall prohibit any appellate authority from 

making a determination in favor of the accused which will result in the setting aside of a 

conviction. 

(e) Notification to accused. 

(1) Notification of decision. The accused shall be notified of the decision of the United 

States Court of Military Commission Review. 

(2) Notification of right to petition the United States Court of Appeals for the District of 

Columbia Circuit. The accused shall be provided with a copy of the decision of the United States 

Court of Military Commission Review bearing an endorsement notifying the accused of this 

right. The endorsement shall inform the accused that such a petition: 

(A) May be filed only within 20 days from the time the accused was in fact 

notified of the decision of the United States Court of Military Commission Review; and 

(B) Must be filed directly with the United States Court of Appeals for the District

of Columbia Circuit. 
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Rule 1202. Appellate counsel 

(a) Appointment. The Secretary of Defense shall, by regulation, establish procedures for the 

appointment of appellate counsel for the United States and for the accused in military 

commissions. Appellate counsel shall meet the qualifications of counsel before appearing before 

military commissions.

(b) Representation of United States. Appellate counsel appointed under subsection (a)—

(1) shall represent the United States in any appeal or review proceeding under chapter 

47A of title 10, United States Code, before the United States Court of Military Commission 

Review; and

(2) may, when requested to do so by the Attorney General in a case arising under chapter 

47A of title 10, United States Code, represent the United States before the United States Court of 

Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit or the Supreme Court.

(c) Representation of the accused. The accused shall be represented by appellate counsel 

appointed under subsection (a) before the United States Court of Military Commission Review, 

the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, and the Supreme Court, 

and by civilian counsel if retained by the accused. Any such civilian counsel shall meet the 

qualifications under R.M.C. 502 for civilian counsel appearing before military commissions and 

shall be subject to the requirements of R.M.C. 502(d).

Rule 1203. 

Reserved.

Rule 1204. 

Reserved.

Rule 1205. Further review 

(a) Petition to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit by the 

Accused. The accused may petition for review of the decision of the United States Court of 

Military Commission Review if such petition is filed within 20 days after the date on which—

(1) written notice of the final decision of the United States Court of Military Commission 

Review is served on the accused or on defense counsel, whichever is earlier; or

(2) the accused submits, in the form prescribed by R.M.C. 1110, a written notice waiving 

the right of the accused to review by the United States Court of Military Commissions Review.

(b) Petition to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit by the 

Government. The government may petition for review of the decision of the United States Court 
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of Military Commission Review if such petition is filed within 20 days after the date on which 

written notice of the final decision of the United States Court of Military Commission Review is 

served on the government. 

Discussion

See 10 U.S.C. § 950g(a) and (c) as amended by Section 1034(d) of the 2012 National Defense Authorization Act of 

Fiscal Year 2012 (Public Law 112-81 (enacted Dec. 31, 2011)).

(c) Review by the Supreme Court. Under 28 U.S.C. § 1254, decisions of the United States Court 

of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit may be reviewed by the Supreme Court by writ 

of certiorari. 

Rule 1206. 

Reserved.

Rule 1207. Sentences requiring approval by the President 

(a) No part of a military commission sentence extending to death may be executed until 

approved by the President. 

(b) Sentence commuted by the President. When the President has commuted a death sentence to a 

lesser punishment, the Secretary of Defense may remit or suspend any remaining part or amount 

of the unexecuted portion of the sentence. 

Rule 1208. 

Reserved.

Rule 1209. Finality of military commissions. 

A military commission conviction is final when review is completed by the United States Court 

of Military Commission Review and: 

(a) a petition for review is not timely filed with or is denied by the United States Court of 

Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit; or 

(b) the conviction is affirmed by the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia 

Circuit and a writ of certiorari is not timely filed with or is denied by the United States Supreme 

Court; or 

(c) the conviction is affirmed by the United States Supreme Court. 
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Discussion

In accordance with 10 U.S.C. § 950j, orders publishing the proceedings of military commissions are binding upon 

all departments, courts, agencies, and officers of the United States, subject only to action by the Secretary of 

Defense or the convening authority as provided in 10 U.S.C. § 950i(c) and the authority of the President.

Rule 1210. New trial

(a) In general. At any time within two years after approval by the convening authority of a 

military commission sentence, the accused may petition the convening authority for a new trial 

on the ground of newly discovered evidence or fraud on the military commission. A petition may 

not be submitted after the death of the accused. A petition for a new trial of the facts may not be 

submitted on the basis of newly discovered evidence when the accused was found guilty of the 

relevant offense pursuant to a guilty plea. 

(b) Who may petition. A petition for a new trial may be submitted by the accused personally, or 

by accused’s counsel. 

(c) Form of petition. A petition for a new trial shall be written and shall be signed under oath or 

affirmation by the accused, by a person possessing the power of attorney of the accused for that 

purpose, or by a person with the authorization of an appropriate court to sign the petition as the 

representative of the accused. The petition shall contain the following information, or an 

explanation why such matters are not included: 

(1) The name and address or current location of the accused; 

(2) The date and location of the trial; 

(3) The sentence or a description thereof as approved or affirmed, with any later

reduction thereof by clemency or otherwise; 

(4) A brief description of any finding or sentence believed to be unjust; 

(5) A full statement of the newly discovered evidence or fraud on the military 

commission which is relied upon for the remedy sought; 

(6) Affidavits or other statements pertinent to the matters in subsection (c)(4) of this rule; 

and 

(7) The affidavit or other statement of each person whom the accused expects to present 

as a witness in the event of a new trial. Each such affidavit should set forth briefly the relevant 

facts within the personal knowledge of the witness. 

(d) Effect of petition. The submission of a petition for a new trial does not stay the execution of a 

sentence, except a sentence of death. 
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(e) Who may act on petition. The convening authority may consider and grant a petition for new 

trial, in his discretion. If the convening authority declines to consider or grant a petition for new 

trial, he shall refer the petition to the United States Court of Military Commission Review for 

action. 

(f) Grounds for new trial. 

(1) In general. A new trial may be granted only on grounds of newly discovered evidence 

or fraud on the military commission. 

(2) Newly discovered evidence. A new trial shall not be granted on the grounds of newly 

discovered evidence unless the petition shows that: 

(A) The evidence was discovered after the trial; 

(B) The evidence is not such that it would have been discovered by the accused at 

the time of trial in the exercise of due diligence; and 

(C) The newly discovered evidence, if considered by a military commission in the 

light of all other pertinent evidence, would probably produce a substantially more favorable 

result for the accused. 

(3) Fraud on the military commission. No fraud on the military commission warrants a 

new trial unless it had a substantial contributing effect on a finding of guilty or the sentence 

adjudged. 

Discussion

Examples of fraud on a military commission which may warrant granting a new trial are: confessed or proved 

perjury in testimony or forgery of documentary evidence which clearly had a substantial contributing effect on a 

finding of guilty and without which there probably would not have been a finding of guilty of the offense; willful 

concealment by the prosecution from the defense of evidence favorable to the defense which, if presented to the 

military commission, would probably have resulted in a finding of not guilty; and willful concealment of a material 

ground for challenge of the military judge or any member or of the disqualification of counsel or the convening 

authority, when the basis for challenge or disqualification was not known to the defense at the time of trial, see

R.M.C. 912. 

(g) Action on the petition. The authority considering the petition may cause such additional 

investigation to be made and such additional information to be secured as that authority believes 

appropriate. Upon written request, and in its discretion, the authority considering the petition 

may accept and consider legal briefs on the matter. 

(h) Action when new trial is granted. 

(1) Charges at new trial. At a new trial, the accused may not be tried for any offense of 

which the accused was found not guilty or upon which the accused was not tried at the earlier 

military commission. 
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(2) Action by convening authority. The convening authority’s action on the record of a 

new trial is subject to the same rules and regulations as in other military commissions under 

chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, and this Manual. 

(3) Records of trial and orders. The record of a new trial and pertinent orders shall be 

governed by the rules pertinent to original trials under chapter 47A of title 10, United States 

Code, and this Manual. 

(i) Number of petitions under this rule. Once a petition for new trial has been granted by any 

authority or denied by the United States Court of Military Commission Review, no new or 

additional petition pertaining to the same trial by military commission, and filed by the accused 

or any representative of the accused, may be considered or granted by any authority under 

chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, or this Manual. 
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CHAPTER XIII.

Reserved.
III-1

PART III

MILITARY COMMISSION RULES OF EVIDENCE

SECTION I

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Rule 101. Scope 

(a) Applicability. These rules apply in trials by military commissions convened pursuant chapter 

47A of title 10, United States Code. 

(b) Secondary sources. If not otherwise prescribed in this Manual or these rules, and insofar as 

practicable and consistent with military and intelligence activities, and not inconsistent with or 

contrary to chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, or this Manual, military commissions 

shall consider: 

(1) First, the Military Rules of Evidence (“Mil. R. Evid.”), as applied in trials by courtsmartial under 10 U.S.C. Chapter 47; 

(2) Second, the rules of evidence generally recognized in the trial of criminal cases in the 

United States district courts; and 

(3) Third, when not inconsistent with subsections (b)(1) and (b)(2), the rules of evidence 

at common law. 

Rule 102. Purpose and construction 

The rules for military commissions set forth in chapter 47A, title 10, United States Code, and this 

Manual are based upon the rules for trial by general courts-martial under chapter 47 of title 10 

(the Uniform Code of Military Justice). Chapter 47 of title 10 does not, by its terms, apply to trial 

by military commission except as specifically provided therein or in chapter 47A of title 10, and 

many of the provisions of chapter 47 of title 10 are by their terms inapplicable to military 

commissions. The judicial construction and application of chapter 47 of title 10, while 

instructive, is therefore not of its own force binding on military commissions established under 

chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code. These rules shall be construed to secure fairness in 

administration, elimination of unjustifiable expense and delay, the protection of national security, 

and promotion of growth and development of the law of evidence to the end that the truth may be 

ascertained and proceedings justly determined. 

Rule 103. Ruling on evidence 

(a) Effect of erroneous ruling. Error may not be predicated upon a ruling that admits or excludes 

evidence unless the ruling materially prejudices a substantial right of a party; and 
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(1) Objection. In case the ruling is one admitting evidence, a timely objection appears of 

record, stating the specific ground of objection, if the specific ground was not apparent from the 

context; or 

(2) Offer of proof. In case the ruling is one excluding evidence, the substance of the 

evidence was made known to the military judge by offer or was apparent from the context within 

which questions were asked. Once the military judge makes a definitive ruling on the record 

admitting or excluding evidence, either at or before trial, a party need not renew an objection or 

offer of proof to preserve a claim or error for appeal. 

(b) Record of offer and ruling. The military judge may add any other or further statement which 

shows the character of the evidence, the form in which it was offered, the objection made, and 

the ruling thereon. The military judge may direct the making of an offer in question and answer 

form. 

(c) Hearing of members. During military commissions, proceedings shall be conducted, to the 

extent practicable, so as to prevent inadmissible evidence from being suggested to the members 

by any means, such as making statements or offers of proof or asking questions in the hearing of 

the members. 

(d) Plain error. Nothing in this rule precludes taking notice of plain errors that materially 

prejudice substantial rights although they were not brought to the attention of the military judge. 

Rule 104. Preliminary questions 

(a) Questions of admissibility and procedure generally. Preliminary questions concerning the 

qualification of a person to be a witness, the existence of a privilege, the admissibility of 

evidence, an application for a continuance, whether to protect the identity of a witness, whether 

to afford protective testimonial procedures to a victim or child witness, or the availability of a 

witness to testify either at the site of trial or a remote site, shall be determined by the military 

judge. In making these determinations the military judge is not bound by the rules of evidence, 

except those with respect to privileges. 

(b) Probative value conditioned on fact. When the probative value of evidence depends upon 

the fulfillment of a condition of fact, the military judge shall admit the evidence upon, or subject 

to, the introduction of evidence sufficient to support a finding of the fulfillment of the condition. 

A ruling on the sufficiency of evidence to support a finding of fulfillment of a condition of fact is 

the sole responsibility of the military judge, except where these rules or this Manual provide 

expressly to the contrary. If either party represents to the military judge that fulfillment of the 

condition may require consideration of classified evidence, the military judge will proceed 

pursuant to Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505. 

(c) Hearing of members. Hearings on the admissibility of statements of an accused shall in all 

cases be conducted out of the hearing of the members. Hearings on other preliminary matters 

shall be so conducted when the interests of justice require or, when an accused is a witness, if the 

accused so requests. 
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(d) Testimony by accused. The accused does not, by testifying upon a preliminary matter, 

become subject to cross-examination as to other issues in the case. 

(e) Weight and credibility. This rule does not limit the right of a party to introduce before the 

members evidence probative of weight or credibility. 

(f) Statements of the accused. A statement of the accused that is otherwise admissible shall not 

be excluded from trial by military commission on grounds of alleged coercion or compulsory 

self-incrimination so long as the evidence complies with the provisions of Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 

301 and 304.

Rule 105. Limited admissibility 

When evidence which is admissible as to one party or for one purpose but not admissible as to 

another party or for another purpose is admitted, the military judge, upon request, shall restrict 

the evidence to its proper scope and instruct the members accordingly. 

Rule 106. Remainder of or related writings or recorded statements

When a writing or recorded statement or part thereof is introduced by a party, an adverse party 

may require that party at that time to introduce any other part or any other writing or recorded 

statement which ought in fairness to be considered contemporaneously with it, consistent with 

Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505. 
III-4

SECTION II 

JUDICIAL NOTICE

Rule 201. Judicial notice of adjudicative facts 

(a) Scope of rule. This rule governs only judicial notice of adjudicative facts. 

(b) Kinds of facts. A judicially noticed fact must be one not subject to reasonable dispute in that 

it is either (1) generally known universally, locally, or in the area pertinent to the event or (2) 

capable of accurate and ready determination by resort to sources whose accuracy cannot 

reasonably be questioned. 

(c) When discretionary. The military judge may take judicial notice, whether requested or not. 

The parties shall be informed in open court when, without being requested, the military judge 

takes judicial notice of an adjudicative fact essential to establishing an element of the case. 

(d) When mandatory. The military judge shall take judicial notice if requested by a party and 

supplied with the necessary information. 

(e) Opportunity to be heard. A party is entitled upon timely request to an opportunity to be 

heard as to the propriety of taking judicial notice and the tenor of the matter noticed. In the 

absence of prior notification, the request may be made after judicial notice has been taken. 

(f) Time of taking notice. Judicial notice may be taken at any stage of the proceeding. 

(g) Instructing members. The military judge shall instruct the members that they may, but are 

not required to, accept as conclusive any factual matter judicially noticed. 

Rule 201A. Judicial notice of law 

(a) Domestic law. The military judge may take judicial notice of domestic law. Insofar as a 

domestic law is a fact that is of consequence to the determination of the action, the procedural 

requirements of Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 201—except Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 201(g)—apply. 

(b) Foreign law. A party who intends to raise an issue concerning the law of a foreign country, 

the law of an international forum, or the international law of war shall give reasonable written 

notice. The military judge, in determining such law, may consider any relevant material or 

source, including testimony of lay and expert witnesses, whether or not submitted by a party or 

admissible under these rules. Such a determination shall be treated as a ruling on a question of 

law. 
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SECTION III

RULES RELATED TO SELF-INCRIMINATION AND CERTAIN OTHER 

STATEMENTS

Rule 301. Privilege concerning compulsory self-incrimination 

(a) General rule. No person shall be required to testify against himself at a proceeding of a 

military commission under these rules. The privileges against self-incrimination provided by the 

Fifth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States and Article 31, to the extent that either 

may be invoked in proceedings before military commissions, are applicable only to evidence of a 

testimonial or communicative nature. The privilege most beneficial to the individual asserting 

the privilege shall be applied. 

Discussion

At a minimum, alien unprivileged enemy belligerents have a statutory privilege against self incrimination under 10 

U.S.C. § 948r (b). Other witnesses, such as United States citizens, may invoke privileges under the U.S. 

Constitution or Article 31 of the U.C.M.J., to the extent they apply. 

(b) Standing. 

(1) In general. Any privilege a witness may have to refuse to respond to a potentially 

incriminating question is a personal one that the witness may exercise or waive at the discretion 

of the witness.

(2) Judicial advice. If a witness who is apparently uninformed of the privileges under this 

rule appears likely to incriminate himself or herself, the military judge should advise the witness 

of the right to decline to make any answer that might tend to incriminate the witness and that any 

self-incriminating answer the witness might make can later be used as evidence against the 

witness. Counsel for any party or for the witness may request the military judge to so advise a 

witness provided that such a request is made out of the hearing of the witness and the members. 

Failure to so advise a witness does not make the testimony of the witness inadmissible. 

(c) Exercise of the privilege. If a witness states that the answer to a question may tend to 

incriminate him or her, the witness may not be required to answer unless: (1) facts and 

circumstances are such that no answer the witness might make to the question could have the 

effect of tending to incriminate the witness, or (2) the witness has, with respect to the question, 

waived the privilege against self-incrimination, or (3) the relevant privilege against selfincrimination does not apply. A witness may not assert the privilege if the witness is not subject 

to criminal penalty as a result of an answer by reason of immunity, running of a statute of 

limitations, or similar reason. 

(1) Immunity generally. In evaluating the sufficiency of a grant of immunity to overcome 

the privilege exerted by a witness, the military judge shall ensure that the immunity is granted by 

an appropriate authority and that the grant provides, at least, that neither the testimony of the 

witness nor any evidence obtained from that testimony may be used against the witness at any 
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subsequent trial other than in a prosecution for perjury, false swearing, the making of a false 

official statement, or failure to comply with an order to testify after the military judge has ruled 

that the privilege may not be asserted by reason of immunity. 

(2) Notification of immunity or leniency. When a prosecution witness before a military 

commission has been granted immunity or leniency in exchange for testimony, the grant shall be 

reduced to writing and shall be served on the accused prior to arraignment or within a reasonable 

time before the witness testifies. If notification is not made as required by this rule, the military 

judge may grant a continuance until notification is made, prohibit or strike the testimony of the 

witness, or enter such other order as may be required in the interests of justice. 

(d) Waiver by a witness. A witness who answers a question without having asserted a privilege 

against self-incrimination and thereby admits a self-incriminating fact may be required to 

disclose all information relevant to that fact except when there is a real danger of further selfincrimination. This limited waiver of the privilege applies only at the trial in which the answer is 

given and does not extend to a rehearing or new or other trial, and is subject to Mil. Comm. R. 

Evid. 608(b). 

(e) Waiver by the accused. When an accused testifies voluntarily as a witness, the accused 

thereby waives the privilege against self-incrimination with respect to the matters concerning 

which he or she so testifies. If the accused is on trial for two or more offenses and on direct 

examination testifies concerning the issue of guilt or innocence as to only one or some of the 

offenses, the accused may not be cross-examined as to guilt or innocence with respect to the 

other offenses unless the cross-examination is relevant to an offense concerning which the 

accused has testified. 

(f) Effect of claiming the privilege.

(1) Generally. The fact that a witness has asserted the privilege against self-incrimination 

in refusing to answer a question cannot be considered as raising any inference unfavorable to 

either the accused or the government. 

(2) On cross-examination. If a witness asserts the privilege against self-incrimination on 

cross-examination, the military judge, upon motion, may strike the direct testimony of the 

witness in whole or in part, unless the matters to which the witness refuses to testify are purely 

collateral. 

(g) Instructions. When the accused does not testify at trial, defense counsel may request that the 

members of the commission be instructed to disregard that fact and not to draw any adverse 

inference from it. Defense counsel may request that the members not be so instructed. Defense 

counsel’s election shall be binding upon the military judge except that the military judge may 

give the instruction when the instruction is necessary in the interests of justice. 

Discussion

Under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, an alien unprivileged enemy belligerent’s privilege against selfincrimination is limited to his testimony before a military commission. See 10 U.S.C. § 948r(b). 
III-7

Rule 302. Privilege concerning mental examination of an accused 

(a) General rule. The accused has a privilege to prevent any statement made by the accused at a 

mental examination ordered under R.M.C. 706 from being received into evidence against the 

accused on the issue of guilt or innocence or during sentencing proceedings. 

(b) Exceptions. 

(1) There is no privilege under this rule when the accused first introduces into evidence 

such statements. 

(2) An expert witness for the prosecution may testify as to the reasons for the expert’s 

conclusions and the reasons therefore as to the mental state of the accused if expert testimony 

offered by the defense as to the mental condition of the accused has been received in evidence, 

but such testimony may not extend to statements of the accused except as provided in subsection 

(1). 

(c) Release of evidence. If the defense offers expert testimony concerning the mental condition of 

the accused, the military judge, upon motion, shall order the release to the prosecution of the full 

contents, other than any statements made by the accused, of any report prepared pursuant to 

R.M.C. 706. If the defense offers statements made by the accused at such examination, the 

military judge may upon motion order the disclosure of such statements made by the accused and 

contained in the report as may be necessary in the interests of justice. 

(d) Noncompliance by the accused. The military judge may prohibit an accused who refuses to 

cooperate in a mental examination authorized under R.M.C. 706 from presenting any expert 

medical testimony as to any issue that would have been the subject of the mental examination. 

(e) Procedure. The privilege in this rule may be claimed by the accused only under the 

procedure set forth in Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 304 for an objection or a motion to suppress. 

Rule 303. Degrading questions 

No person may be compelled to make a statement or produce evidence before any military 

commission if the statement or evidence is not material to the issue and may tend to degrade that 

person. 

Rule 304. Confessions, admissions, and other statements 

(a) General Rules

(1) Exclusion of Statements Obtained by Torture or Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading 

Treatment. No statement, obtained by the use of torture, or by cruel, inhuman, or degrading 

treatment (as defined by section 1003 of the Detainee Treatment Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 

2000dd)), whether or not under color of law, shall be admissible in a trial by military 
III-8

commission, except against a person accused of torture or such treatment as evidence that the 

statement was made.

(2) Other Statements of the Accused. A statement of the accused may be admitted in 

evidence in a military commission only if the military judge finds—

(A) that the totality of the circumstances renders the statement reliable and 

possessing sufficient probative value; and

(B) that—

(i) the statement was made incident to lawful conduct during military 

operations at the point of capture or during closely related active combat engagement, and the 

interests of justice would best be served by admission of the statement into evidence; or

(ii) the statement was voluntarily given.

(3) Statements from persons other than the accused allegedly produced by coercion. 

When the degree of coercion inherent in the production of a statement from a person other than 

the accused offered by either party is disputed, such statement may only be admitted if the 

military judge finds that—

(A) the totality of the circumstances renders the statement reliable and possessing 

sufficient probative value; 

(B) the interests of justice would best be served by admission of the statement into 

evidence; and 

(C) the statement was not obtained through the use of torture or cruel, inhuman, 

or degrading treatment as defined in section 1003(d) of the Detainee Treatment Act, Pub. L. 109-

148 (2005) (codified at 42 U.S.C. 2000dd(d)). 

(4) Determination of Voluntariness. In determining for purposes of (a)(2)(B)(ii) whether 

a statement was voluntarily given, the military judge shall consider the totality of the 

circumstances, including, as appropriate, the following:

(A) the details of the taking of the statement, accounting for the circumstances of 

the conduct of military and intelligence operations during hostilities;

(B) the characteristics of the accused, such as military training, age, and education 

level; and

(C) the lapse of time, change of place, or change in identity of the questioners 

between the statement sought to be admitted and any prior questioning of the accused.

(5) Derivative Evidence. 
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(A) Evidence Derived from Statements Obtained by Torture or Cruel, Inhuman, 

or Degrading Treatment. Evidence derived from a statement that would be excluded under 

section (a)(1) of this rule may not be received in evidence against an accused who made the 

statement if the accused makes a timely motion to suppress or an objection, unless the military 

judge determines by a preponderance of the evidence that—

(i) the evidence would have been obtained even if the statement had not 

been made; or

(ii) use of such evidence would otherwise be consistent with the interests 

of justice.

(B) Evidence Derived from Other Excludable Statements of the Accused. 

Evidence derived from a statement that would be excluded under section (a)(2) of this rule may 

not be received in evidence against an accused who made the statement if the accused makes a 

timely motion to suppress or an objection, unless the military judge determines by a 

preponderance of the evidence that—

(i) the totality of the circumstances renders the evidence reliable and 

possessing sufficient probative value; and 

(ii) use of such evidence would be consistent with the interests of justice.

Discussion

Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 304(a)(5) distinguishes between evidence derived from statements obtained by torture or cruel, 

inhuman, or degrading treatment (subsection (a)(5)(A)) and evidence derived from other excludable statements of 

the accused (subsection (a)(5)(B)). Both subsections incorporate an “interests of justice” standard that provides the 

military judge with some discretion in determining whether a particular piece of derivative evidence is admissible. 

The intention of Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 304(a)(5) is that the “interests of justice” standard generally will restrict the 

admission of evidence derived from statements obtained by torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment (other 

than where the evidence would have been obtained even if the statement had not been made). The admission of 

evidence derived from a statement that was made incident to lawful conduct during military or intelligence 

operations and that would not be excluded under section (a)(1) of this rule generally should be regarded as 

consistent with the interests of justice for purposes of section (a)(5)(B) of this rule.

(b) Definitions. As used in these rules: 

(1) Confession. A “confession” is an acknowledgment of guilt. 

(2) Admission. An “admission” is a self-incriminating statement falling short of an 

acknowledgment of guilt, even if it was intended by its maker to be exculpatory. 

(3) Torture. For the purpose of determining whether a statement must be excluded under 

section (a) of this rule, “torture” is defined as an act specifically intended to inflict severe 

physical or mental pain or suffering (other than pain or suffering incident to lawful sanctions) 
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upon another person within the actor’s custody or physical control. “Severe mental pain or 

suffering” is defined as the prolonged mental harm caused by or resulting from:

(A) the intentional infliction or threatened infliction of severe physical pain or 

suffering; 

(B) the administration or application, or threatened administration or application, 

of mind-altering substances or other procedures calculated to disrupt profoundly the senses or the 

personality; 

(C) the threat of imminent death; or 

(D) the threat that another person will imminently be subjected to death, severe 

physical pain or suffering, or the administration or application of mind-altering substances or 

other procedures calculated to disrupt profoundly the senses or personality.

Discussion

See 18 U.S.C. § 2340. 

(4) Cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. The term “cruel, inhuman, or degrading 

treatment or punishment” means the cruel, unusual, and inhumane treatment or punishment 

prohibited by the Fifth, Eighth, and Fourteenth Amendments to the Constitution of the United 

States, as defined in the United States Reservations, Declarations and Understandings to the 

United Nations Convention Against Torture and Other Forms of Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading 

Treatment or Punishment done at New York, December 10, 1984, without geographical 

limitation. 

(c) Procedure. 

(1) Disclosure. Subject to the requirements of Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505 and 506 as 

applicable, prior to arraignment, the prosecution shall disclose to the defense the contents of all 

relevant statements, oral, written, or recorded, made or adopted by the accused, that are within 

the possession, custody or control of the Government; the existence of which is known or by the 

exercise of due diligence may become known to trial counsel, and are material to the preparation 

of the defense under R.M.C. 701 or are intended for use by trial counsel as evidence in the 

prosecution case-in-chief at trial. 

(2) Motions and objections. 

(A) Motions to suppress or objections under this rule to statements that have been 

disclosed shall be made by the defense prior to submission of a plea. In the absence of such 

motion or objection, the defense may not raise the issue at a later time except as permitted by the 

military judge for good cause shown. Failure to so move or object constitutes a waiver of the 

objection. 
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(B) If the prosecution intends to offer against the accused a statement made by the 

accused that was not disclosed prior to arraignment, the prosecution shall provide timely notice 

to the military judge and to counsel for the accused. The defense may enter an objection at that 

time and the military judge may make such orders as are required in the interests of justice. 

(3) Specificity. The military judge may require the defense to specify, to the extent 

practicable, the grounds upon which the defense moves to suppress or object to evidence. If 

defense counsel, despite the exercise of due diligence, has been unable to interview adequately 

those persons involved in the taking of a statement or otherwise to obtain information necessary 

to specify the grounds for a motion to suppress, the military judge may, subject to the 

requirements and protections of Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505 and 506 as applicable, make any order 

required in the interests of justice, including authorization for the defense to make a general 

motion to suppress or general objection. 

Discussion

Where a party moves to suppress or object to evidence under section (a)(3) on the ground that the degree of coercion 

is disputed, the military judge may require the party to state with specificity the grounds for the motion or objection 

before requiring the party proposing the evidence to introduce evidence in support. See, e.g., United States v. Jones, 

14 M.J. 700, 701 (N-M. C.M.R. 1982). 

(4) Rulings. A motion to suppress or an objection to evidence made prior to plea shall be 

ruled upon prior to plea unless the military judge, for good cause, orders that it be deferred for 

determination at trial, but no such determination shall be deferred if a party’s right to appeal the 

ruling is affected adversely. Where factual issues are involved in ruling upon such motion or 

objection, the military judge shall state essential findings of fact on the record. 

(5) Effect of guilty plea. Except as otherwise expressly provided in R.M.C. 910(a)(2), a 

plea of guilty to an offense that results in a finding of guilty waives all privileges against selfincrimination and all motions and objections under this rule with respect to that offense 

regardless of whether raised prior to plea. 

(d) Burden of proof. When an appropriate motion or objection has been made by the defense 

under this rule, the prosecution has the burden of establishing the admissibility of the evidence. 

When a specific motion or objection has been required under subsection (c)(3), the burden on the 

prosecution extends only to the grounds upon which the defense moved to suppress or object to 

the evidence. 

(1) In general. The military judge must find by a preponderance of the evidence that a 

statement by the accused comports with the requirements of this rule before it may be received 

into evidence. 

(2) Weight of the evidence. If a statement is admitted into evidence, the military judge 

shall permit the defense to present relevant evidence with respect to the voluntariness of the 

statement and shall instruct the members to give such weight to the statement as it deserves 

under all the circumstances. 
III-12

(e) Defense evidence. The defense may present matters relevant to the admissibility of any 

statement as to which there has been an objection or motion to suppress under this rule. An 

accused may testify for the limited purpose of denying that the accused made the statement or 

that, under the circumstances, the statement is admissible under this rule. Prior to the 

introduction of such testimony by the accused, the defense shall inform the military judge that 

the testimony is offered under this section. When the accused testifies under this section, the 

accused may be cross-examined only as to the matter on which he or she testifies. Nothing said 

by the accused on either direct or cross-examination may be used against the accused for any 

purpose other than in a prosecution for perjury, false swearing, or the making of a false official 

statement. 

(f) Miscellaneous. 

(1) Oral statements. An oral confession or admission of the accused may be proved by 

the testimony of anyone who heard the accused make it, even if it was reduced to writing and the 

writing is not accounted for. 

(2) Completeness. If only part of an alleged admission or confession is introduced against 

the accused, the defense, by cross-examination or otherwise, may introduce the remaining 

portions of the statement, consistent with the provisions of Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505 and 506 as 

applicable. 

(3) Impeachment. Statements of the accused that would be excluded under this rule may 

not be used to impeach by contradiction the in-court testimony of the accused. 

Rule 305.

Reserved.

Rule 306.

Reserved.

Rule 311.

Reserved.

Rule 312.

Reserved.

Rule 313.

Reserved.
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Rule 314.

Reserved.

Rule 315.

Reserved.

Rule 316.

Reserved.

Rule 317.

Reserved.

Rule 321.

Reserved.
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SECTION IV

PROBATIVE EVIDENCE AND ITS LIMITS

Rule 401. Scope of probative evidence in military commissions 

Evidence has “probative value to a reasonable person” when a reasonable person would regard 

the evidence as making the existence of any fact that is of consequence to a determination of the 

commission action more probable or less probable than it would be without the evidence. 

Rule 402. Evidence having “probative value to a reasonable person” generally admissible 

All evidence having probative value to a reasonable person is admissible, except as otherwise 

provided by these rules, this Manual, or any Act of Congress applicable to trials by military 

commissions. Evidence that does not have probative value to a reasonable person is not 

admissible. 

Rule 403. Exclusion of probative evidence on grounds of prejudice, confusion, or waste of 

time 

The military judge shall exclude any evidence the probative value of which is substantially 

outweighed: (1) by the danger of unfair prejudice, confusion of the issues, or misleading the 

commission; or (2) by considerations of undue delay, waste of time, or needless presentation of 

cumulative evidence. 

Rule 404. Character evidence not admissible to prove conduct; exceptions; other crimes 

(a) Character evidence generally. Evidence of a person’s character or a trait of character is not 

admissible for the purpose of proving action in conformity therewith on a particular occasion, 

except: 

(1) Character of the accused. Evidence of a pertinent trait of character offered by an 

accused, or by the prosecution to rebut the same, or if evidence of a pertinent trait of character of 

the alleged victim of the crime is offered by an accused and admitted under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 

404(a)(2), evidence of the same trait of character, if relevant, of the accused offered by the 

prosecution; 

(2) Character of the alleged victim. Evidence of a pertinent trait of character of the 

alleged victim of the crime offered by an accused, or by the prosecution to rebut the same, or 

evidence of a character trait of peacefulness of the alleged victim offered by the prosecution in a 

homicide or assault case to rebut evidence that the alleged victim was an aggressor; 

(3) Character of witness. Evidence of the character of a witness, as provided in Mil. 

Comm. R. Evid. 607, 608, and 609. 
III-15

(b) Other crimes, wrongs, or acts. Evidence of other crimes, wrongs, or acts is not admissible to 

prove the character of a person in order to show action in conformity therewith. It may, however, 

be admissible for other purposes, such as proof of motive, opportunity, intent, preparation, plan, 

knowledge, identity, or absence of mistake or accident, provided, that upon request by the 

accused, the prosecution shall provide reasonable notice in advance of trial, or during trial if the 

military judge excuses pretrial notice on good cause shown, of the general nature of any such

evidence it intends to introduce at trial. 

Rule 405. Methods of proving character 

(a) Reputation or opinion. In all cases in which evidence of character or a trait of character of a 

person is admissible, proof may be made by testimony as to reputation or by testimony in the 

form of an opinion. On cross-examination, inquiry is allowable into relevant specific instances of 

conduct. 

(b) Specific instances of conduct. In cases in which character or a trait of character of a person is 

an essential element of an offense or defense, proof may also be made of specific instances of the 

person’s conduct. 

(c) Affidavits. The defense may introduce affidavits or other written statements of persons other 

than the accused concerning the character of the accused. If the defense introduces affidavits or 

other written statements under this section, the prosecution may, in rebuttal, also introduce 

affidavits or other written statements regarding the character of the accused. Evidence of this 

type may be introduced by the defense or prosecution only if, aside from being contained in an 

affidavit or other written statement, it would otherwise be admissible under these rules. 

(d) Definitions. “Reputation” means the estimation in which a person generally is held in the 

community in which the person lives or pursues a business or profession. “Community” 

includes, but is not limited to, a town, city, tribal area, and as to the armed forces also includes 

post, camp, ship, station, or other military organization regardless of size. 

Rule 406. Habit; routine practice 

Evidence of the habit of a person or of the routine practice of an organization, whether 

corroborated or not and regardless of the presence of eyewitnesses, is relevant to prove that the 

conduct of the person or organization on a particular occasion was in conformity with the habit 

or routine practice. 

Rule 407.

Reserved.

Rule 408.

Reserved.
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Rule 409.

Reserved.

Rule 410. Inadmissibility of pleas, plea discussions, and related statements 

(a) In general. Except as otherwise provided in this rule, evidence of the following is not 

admissible in any military commission proceeding against the accused who made the plea or was 

a participant in the plea discussions: 

(1) a plea of guilty that was later withdrawn; 

(2) any statement made in the course of any judicial inquiry regarding the foregoing 

pleas; or 

(3) any statement made in the course of plea discussions with the convening authority, 

legal advisor, trial counsel or other counsel for the Government which do not result in a plea of 

guilty or which result in a plea of guilty later withdrawn. However, such a statement is 

admissible (A) in any proceeding wherein another statement made in the course of the same plea 

or plea discussions has been introduced and the statement ought in fairness be considered 

contemporaneously with it, or (B) in a military commission proceedings for perjury or false 

statement if the statement was made by the accused under oath, on the record and in the presence 

of counsel. 

(b) Definitions. A “statement made in the course of plea discussions” includes a statement made 

by the accused solely for the purpose of requesting disposition under any authorized alternative 

procedure for release from United States custody or other action in lieu of trial by military 

commission; “on the record” includes the written statement submitted by the accused in 

furtherance of such request. 

Rule 411.

Reserved.

Rule 412. Nonconsensual sexual offenses; relevance of victim’s behavior or sexual 

predisposition 

(a) Evidence generally inadmissible. The following evidence is not admissible in any proceeding 

involving alleged sexual misconduct, except as provided in sections (b) and (c): 

(1) Evidence offered to prove that any alleged victim engaged in other sexual behavior. 

(2) Evidence offered to prove any alleged victim’s sexual predisposition. 

(b) Exceptions. In a proceeding under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, the following 

evidence is admissible, if otherwise admissible under these rules: 
III-17

(1) evidence of specific instances of sexual behavior by the alleged victim offered to 

prove that a person other than the accused was the source of semen, injury, or other physical 

evidence; 

(2) evidence of specific instances of sexual behavior by the alleged victim with respect to 

the person accused of the sexual misconduct offered by the accused to prove consent or by the 

prosecution; and 

(3) evidence the exclusion of which would adversely affect the integrity or fairness of the 

proceeding. 

Discussion

Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 412(b)(3) departs from Mil. R. Evid. 412(b)(3) insofar as the constitutional standard reflected 

in the latter does not apply here. Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 412(b)(3) nonetheless permits the military judge to ensure 

that evidence is admitted where the exclusion would adversely affect the integrity or fairness of the proceeding. 

(c) Procedure to determine admissibility.

(1) A party intending to offer evidence under section (b) must— 

(A) file a written motion at least 5 days prior to entry of pleas specifically 

describing the evidence and stating the purpose for which it is offered unless the military judge, 

for good cause shown, requires a different time for filing or permits filing during trial; and 

(B) serve the motion on the opposing party and the military judge and notify the 

alleged victim or, when appropriate, the alleged victim’s guardian or representative. 

(2) Before admitting evidence under this rule, the military judge must conduct a hearing, 

which shall be closed. At this hearing, the parties may call witnesses, including the alleged 

victim, and offer probative evidence. The victim must be afforded a reasonable opportunity to 

attend and be heard. In a case before a military commission, the military judge shall conduct the 

hearing outside the presence of the members pursuant to R.M.C. 803. The motion, related papers, 

and the record of the hearing must be sealed and remain under seal unless the commission or a 

superior court orders otherwise. 

(3) If the military judge determines on the basis of the hearing described in subsection (2) 

of this section that the probative value of the evidence that the accused seeks to offer outweighs 

the danger of unfair prejudice, such evidence shall be admissible in the trial to the extent an order 

made by the military judge specifies evidence that may be offered and areas with respect to 

which the alleged victim may be examined or cross-examined. 

(d) For purposes of this rule, the term “sexual behavior” includes any sexual behavior not 

encompassed by the alleged offense. The term “sexual predisposition” refers to an alleged 

victim’s mode of dress, speech, or lifestyle that does not directly refer to sexual activities or 

thoughts but that may have a sexual connotation for the members. 
III-18

(e) A “nonconsensual sexual offense” is a sexual offense in which consent by the victim is an 

affirmative defense or in which the lack of consent is an element of the offense. This term 

includes rape, sexual assault, sexual abuse, and attempts to commit such offenses. 

Rule 413. Evidence of similar crimes in sexual assault cases 

(a) In a military commission in which the accused is charged with an offense of sexual assault, 

evidence of the accused’s commission of one or more offenses of sexual assault is admissible 

and may be considered for its bearing on any matter to which it has probative value to a 

reasonable person. 

(b) In a trial by military commission in which the Government intends to offer evidence under 

this rule, the Government shall disclose the evidence to the accused, including statements of 

witnesses or a summary of the substance of any testimony that is expected to be offered, at least 

20 days before the scheduled date of trial, or at such later time as the military judge may allow 

for good cause. 

(c) This rule shall not be construed to limit the admission or consideration of evidence under any 

other rule. 

(d) For purposes of this rule, “offenses of sexual assault” means an offense punishable under 

titles 10 or 18 of the United States Code, or any similar offense arising under the laws of any 

nation or under international law or the law of war that involved— 

(1) any sexual act or sexual contact, without consent, proscribed by the law applicable to 

the site of that act or contact; 

(2) contact, without consent of the victim, between any part of the accused’s body, or an 

object held or controlled by the accused, and the genitals or anus of another person; 

(3) contact, without consent of the victim, between the genitals or anus of the accused 

and any part of another person’s body; 

(4) deriving sexual pleasure or gratification from the infliction of death, bodily injury, or 

physical pain on another person; or 

(5) an attempt or conspiracy to engage in conduct described in subsections (1) through 

(4). 

(e) For purposes of this rule, the term “sexual act” means: 

(1) contact between the penis and the vulva or the penis and the anus, and for purposes of 

this rule, contact occurs upon penetration, however slight, of the penis into the vulva or anus; 

(2) contact between the mouth and the penis, the mouth and the vulva, or the mouth and 

the anus; 
III-19

(3) the penetration, however slight, of the anal or genital opening of another by a hand or 

finger or by any object, with an intent to abuse, humiliate, harass, degrade, or arouse or gratify 

the sexual desire of any person; or 

(4) the intentional touching, not through the clothing, of the genitalia of another person 

who has not attained the age of 16 years, with an intent to abuse, humiliate, harass, degrade, or 

arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person. 

(f) For purposes of this rule, the term “sexual contact” means the intentional touching, either 

directly or through clothing, of the genitalia, anus, groin, breast, inner thigh, or buttocks of any 

person with an intent to abuse, humiliate, harass, degrade, or arouse or gratify the sexual desire 

of any person. 

Rule 414.

Reserved.
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SECTION V

PRIVILEGES

Rule 501. General rule 

(a) A person may not claim a privilege with respect to any matter except as required by or 

provided for in: 

(1) The Constitution of the United States, as applicable; 

(2) An Act of Congress applicable to trials by military commissions; 

(3) These rules or this Manual; or 

(4) The principles of common law generally recognized in the trial of criminal cases in 

the United States district courts pursuant to Rule 501 of the Federal Rules of Evidence, insofar as 

the application of such principles in trials by military commissions is practicable and not 

contrary to or inconsistent with chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, these rules, or this 

Manual. 

(b) A claim of privilege includes, but is not limited to, the assertion by any person of a privilege 

to: 

(1) Refuse to be a witness; 

(2) Refuse to disclose any matter; 

(3) Refuse to produce any object or writing; or 

(4) Prevent another from being a witness or disclosing any matter or producing any object 

or writing. 

(c) The term “person” includes an appropriate representative of the Federal Government, a State, 

or political subsection thereof, or any other entity claiming to be the holder of a privilege. 

(d) Notwithstanding any other provision of these rules, information not otherwise privileged does 

not become privileged on the basis that it was acquired by a medical officer or civilian physician 

in a professional capacity.

Rule 502. Lawyer-client privilege 

(a) General rule of privilege. A client has a privilege to refuse to disclose and to prevent any 

other person from disclosing confidential communications made for the purpose of facilitating 

the rendition of professional legal services to the client, (1) between the client or the client’s 

representative and the lawyer or the lawyer’s representative, (2) between the lawyer and the 
III-21

lawyer’s representative, (3) by the client or the client’s lawyer to a lawyer representing another 

in a matter of common interest, (4) between representatives of the client or between the client 

and a representative of the client, or (5) between lawyers representing the client. 

(b) Definitions. As used in this rule: 

(1) A “client” is a person, public officer, corporation, association, organization, or other 

entity, either public or private, who receives professional legal services from a lawyer, or who 

consults a lawyer with a view to obtaining professional legal services from the lawyer. 

(2) A “lawyer” is a person authorized, or reasonably believed by the client to be 

authorized, to practice law; or a member of the armed forces detailed, assigned, or otherwise 

provided to represent a person in a military commission case or military proceeding. The term 

“lawyer” does not include a member of the armed forces serving in a capacity other than as a 

judge advocate, legal officer, or law specialist, unless the member: 

(A) is detailed, assigned, or otherwise provided to represent a person in a military 

commission case or in any military investigation or proceeding; 

(B) is authorized by the armed forces, or reasonably believed by the client to be 

authorized, to render professional legal services to members of the armed forces; or

(C) is authorized to practice law and renders professional legal services during 

off-duty employment. 

(3) A “representative” of a lawyer is a person employed by or assigned to assist a lawyer 

in providing professional legal services. 

(4) A communication is “confidential” if not intended to be disclosed to third persons 

other than those to whom disclosure is in furtherance of the rendition of professional legal 

services to the client or those reasonably necessary for the transmission of the communication. 

(c) Who may claim the privilege. The privilege may be claimed by the client, the guardian or 

conservator of the client, the personal representative of a deceased client, or the successor, 

trustee, or similar representative of a corporation, association, or other organization, whether or 

not in existence. The lawyer or the lawyer’s representative who received the communication may 

claim the privilege on behalf of the client. The authority of the lawyer to do so is presumed in the 

absence of evidence to the contrary. 

(d) Exceptions. There is no privilege under this rule under the following circumstances: 

(1) Crime or fraud. If the communication clearly contemplated the future commission of 

a fraud or crime or if services of the lawyer were sought or obtained to enable or aid anyone to 

commit or plan to commit what the client knew or reasonably should have known to be a crime 

or fraud; 
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(2) Claimants through same deceased client. As to a communication relevant to an issue 

between parties who claim through the same deceased client, regardless of whether the claims 

are by testate or intestate succession or by inter vivos transaction; 

(3) Breach of duty by lawyer or client. As to a communication relevant to an issue of 

breach of duty by the lawyer to the client or by the client to the lawyer; 

(4) Document attested by lawyer. As to a communication relevant to an issue concerning 

an attested document to which the lawyer is an attesting witness; or 

(5) Joint clients. As to a communication relevant to a matter of common interest between 

two or more clients if the communication was made by any of them to a lawyer retained or 

consulted in common, when offered in an action between any of the clients. 

Rule 503. Communications to clergy 

(a) General rule of privilege. A person has a privilege to refuse to disclose and to prevent another 

from disclosing a confidential communication by the person to a clergyman or to a clergyman’s 

assistant, if such communication is made either as a formal act of religion or as a matter of 

conscience. 

(b) Definitions. As used in this rule: 

(1) A “clergyman” is a minister, priest, rabbi, chaplain, or other similar functionary of a 

religious organization, or an individual reasonably believed to be so by the person consulting the 

clergyman. 

(2) A communication is “confidential” if made to a clergyman in the clergyman’s 

capacity as a spiritual adviser or to a clergyman’s assistant in the assistant’s official capacity and 

is not intended to be disclosed to third persons other than those to whom disclosure is in 

furtherance of the purpose of the communication or to those reasonably necessary for the 

transmission of the communication. 

(c) Who may claim the privilege. The privilege may be claimed by the person, by the guardian, 

or conservator, or by a personal representative if the person is deceased. The clergyman or 

clergyman’s assistant who received the communication may claim the privilege on behalf of the 

person. The authority of the clergyman or clergyman’s assistant to do so is presumed in the 

absence of evidence to the contrary. 

(d) Exceptions. There is no privilege under this rule if the communication clearly contemplated 

the future commission of a fraud or crime, including concealment or asportation of evidence of a 

past crime, or if the consultation of the clergyman was sought or obtained to enable or aid 

anyone to commit or plan to commit what the maker of the communication knew or reasonably 

should have known to be a crime or fraud. 
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Rule 504. Husband-wife privilege 

(a) Spousal incapacity. A person has a privilege to refuse to testify against his or her spouse. 

(b) Confidential communication made during marriage.

(1) General rule of privilege. A person has a privilege during and after the marital 

relationship to refuse to disclose, and to prevent another from disclosing, any confidential 

communication made to the spouse of the person while they were husband and wife and not 

separated as provided by law. 

(2) Definition. A communication is “confidential” if made privately by any person to the 

spouse of the person and is not intended to be disclosed to third persons other than those 

reasonably necessary for transmission of the communication. 

(3) Who may claim the privilege. The privilege may be claimed by the spouse who made 

the communication or by the other spouse on his or her behalf. The authority of the latter spouse 

to do so is presumed in the absence of evidence of a waiver. The privilege will not prevent 

disclosure of the communication at the request of the spouse to whom the communication was 

made if that spouse is an accused regardless of whether the spouse who made the communication 

objects to its disclosure. 

(c) Exceptions. 

(1) Spousal incapacity only. There is no privilege under section (a) when, at the time the 

testimony of one of the parties to the marriage is to be introduced in evidence against the other 

party, the parties are divorced or the marriage has been annulled. 

(2) Spousal incapacity and confidential communications. There is no privilege under 

sections (a) or (b): 

(A) In proceedings in which one spouse is charged with a crime against the person 

or property of the other spouse or a child of either, or with a crime against the person or property 

of a third person committed in the course of committing a crime against the other spouse; or 

(B) When the marital relationship was entered into with no intention of the parties 

to live together as spouses, but only for the purpose of using the purported marital relationship as 

a sham, and with respect to the privilege in section (a), the relationship remains a sham at the 

time the testimony or statement of one of the parties is to be introduced against the other; or with 

respect to the privilege in section (b), the relationship was a sham at the time of the 

communication. 

(3) Criminal activities. There is no privilege under this rule if the communication clearly 

contemplated the future commission of a fraud or crime, including concealment or asportation of 

evidence of a past crime, or if the communication with the spouse was sought or obtained to 
III-24

enable or aid anyone to commit or plan to commit what the maker of the communication knew or 

reasonably should have known to be a crime or fraud. 

Rule 505. Classified information 

(a) Protection of classified information: applicability of rule:

(1) General Rule of Privilege. Classified information shall be protected and is privileged 

from disclosure if disclosure would be detrimental to the national security. Under no 

circumstances may a military judge order the release of classified information to any person not 

authorized to receive such information. This rule applies to all stages of the proceedings. 

Discussion

This Manual contains numerous explicit cross-references to Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505. The omission of such a 

cross-reference, however, should not be interpreted to prejudice the applicability Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505, which 

applies to all stages of the proceedings.

(2) Access to Evidence. Any information admitted into evidence pursuant to any rule, 

procedure, or order by the military judge shall be provided to the accused.

(3) Declassification. Trial counsel shall work with the original classification authorities 

for evidence that may be used at trial to ensure that such evidence is declassified to the 

maximum extent possible, consistent with the requirements of national security. A decision not 

to declassify evidence under this section shall not be subject to review by a military commission 

or upon appeal.

(4) Construction of Provisions. The judicial construction of the Classified Information 

Procedures Act (18 U.S.C. App.) shall be authoritative in the interpretation of this rule, except to 

the extent that such construction is inconsistent with the specific requirements of this rule.

(b) Definitions. As used in this rule: 

(1) Classified information. “Classified information” means any information or material 

that has been determined by the United States Government pursuant to an executive order, 

statute, or regulation, to require protection against unauthorized disclosure for reasons of national 

security, and any restricted data, as defined in 42 U.S.C. § 2014(y). 

(2) National security. “National security” means the national defense and foreign 

relations of the United States. 

(c) Who may claim the privilege. The privilege may be claimed by the head of the executive or 

military department or government agency concerned based on a finding that the information is 

properly classified and that disclosure would be detrimental to the national security. A person 

who may claim the privilege may authorize a representative, witness or trial counsel to claim the 

privilege. The authority of the representative, witness or trial counsel to do so is presumed in the 

absence of evidence to the contrary. 
III-25

Discussion

Upon delegation of the authority, the representative of the agency head exercises the authority to claim the privilege 

as if the agency head were making the claim personally and need not consult with the agency head prior to making 

the claim. The delegation of the authority can involve authorization for the representative to act in a single instance 

or by provision of blanket authorization on behalf of the agency head. This serves to resolve any question on the 

permissible scope of the delegation authority in favor of a broad interpretation of that delegation authority. 

(d) Pretrial conference.

(1) Motion. At any time after service of charges, any party may move for a pretrial 

conference to consider matters relating to classified information that may arise in connection 

with the prosecution.

(2) Conference. Following a motion under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(d)(1), or sua 

sponte, the military judge shall promptly hold a pretrial conference. Upon request by either party, 

the court shall hold such conference ex parte to the extent necessary to protect classified 

information from disclosure, in accordance with the practice of the Federal courts under the 

Classified Information Procedures Act (18 U.S.C. App.).

(3) Matters To Be Established at Pretrial Conference.

(A) Timing Of Subsequent Actions. At the pretrial conference, the military judge 

shall establish the timing of:

(i) requests for discovery;

(ii) the provision of notice required under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(g) 

section of title 10; and

(iii) the initiation of the procedure established by Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 

505(h).

(B) Other Matters. At the pretrial conference, the military judge may also 

consider any matter:

(i) which relates to classified information; or

(ii) which may promote a fair and expeditious trial.

(4) Effect of Admissions by Accused at Pretrial Conference. No admission made by the 

accused or by any counsel for the accused at a pretrial conference under this section may be used 

against the accused unless the admission is in writing and is signed by the accused and by the 

counsel for the accused.

(e) Protective Orders. Upon motion of the trial counsel, the military judge shall issue an order to 

protect against the disclosure of any classified information that has been disclosed by the United 
III-26

States to any accused or counsel, regardless of the means by which the accused or counsel 

obtained the classified information, in any military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, 

United States Code, or that has otherwise been provided to, or obtained by, any such accused in 

any such military commission. 

(1) Terms. The terms of any such protective order may include, among other things, 

provisions: 

(A) Prohibiting the disclosure of the information except as authorized by the 

military judge; 

(B) Requiring storage of material in a manner appropriate for the level of 

classification assigned to the documents to be disclosed; 

(C) Requiring controlled access to the material during normal business hours and 

at other times upon reasonable notice; 

(D) Ordering all persons requiring security clearances to cooperate with 

investigatory personnel in any investigations which are necessary to obtain a security clearance;

(E) Requiring the maintenance of logs regarding access by all persons authorized 

by the military judge to have access to the classified information in connection with the 

preparation of the defense; 

(F) Regulating the making and handling of notes taken from material containing 

classified information; or 

(G) Requesting the convening authority to authorize the assignment of 

government security personnel and the provision of government storage facilities.

(2) Additional protective orders. At the request of the government the military judge shall 

enter such additional protective orders as are necessary for the protection of national security 

information to include protective orders limiting the scope of direct examination and cross 

examination of witnesses.

(f) Discovery of, and access to, classified information by the accused.

(1) Limitations on Discovery or Access by the Accused

(A) Declarations by the United States of damage to national security. In any 

case before a military commission in which the United States seeks to delete, withhold, or 

otherwise obtain other relief with respect to the discovery of or access to any classified

information, the trial counsel shall submit a declaration invoking the United States' classified 

information privilege and setting forth the damage to the national security that the discovery of 

or access to such information reasonably could be expected to cause. The declaration shall be 

signed by a knowledgeable United States official possessing authority to classify information.
III-27

(B) Standard for authorization of discovery or access. Upon the submission of a 

declaration under paragraph (1), the military judge may not authorize the discovery of or access 

to such classified information unless the military judge determines that such classified 

information would be noncumulative, relevant, and helpful to a legally cognizable defense, 

rebuttal of the prosecution's case, or to sentencing, in accordance with standards generally 

applicable to discovery of or access to classified information in Federal criminal cases. If the 

discovery of or access to such classified information is authorized, it shall be addressed in 

accordance with the requirements of subsection Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(f)(2).

(2) Discovery of Classified Information

(A) Substitutions And Other Relief. The military judge, in assessing the accused's 

discovery of or access to classified information under this section, may authorize the United 

States:

(i) to delete or withhold specified items of classified information;

(ii) to substitute a summary for classified information; or

(iii) to substitute a statement admitting relevant facts that the classified 

information or material would tend to prove.

(B) Ex Parte Presentations. The military judge shall permit the trial counsel to 

make a request for an authorization under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(f)(2)(A) in the form of an ex 

parte presentation to the extent necessary to protect classified information, in accordance with 

the practice of the Federal courts under the Classified Information Procedures Act (18 U.S.C. 

App.). If the military judge enters an order granting relief following such an ex parte showing, 

the entire presentation (including the text of any written submission, verbatim transcript of the ex 

parte oral conference or hearing, and any exhibits received by the court as part of the ex parte 

presentation) shall be sealed and preserved in the records of the military commission to be made 

available to the appellate court in the event of an appeal.

(C) Action By Military Judge. The military judge shall grant the request of the 

trial counsel to substitute a summary or to substitute a statement admitting relevant facts, or to 

provide other relief in accordance with paragraph (1), if the military judge finds that the 

summary, statement, or other relief would provide the accused with substantially the same ability 

to make a defense as would discovery of or access to the specific classified information.

(3) Reconsideration. An order of a military judge authorizing a request of the trial 

counsel to substitute, summarize, withhold, or prevent access to classified information under this 

section is not subject to a motion for reconsideration by the accused, if such order was entered 

pursuant to an ex parte showing under this section.

Discussion

When conducting a review pursuant to Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(f), the military judge does not conduct a de novo

review of the classification. Rather, the military judge should verify that appropriate officials within the agency 
III-28

concerned conducted an authorized review in accordance with governing regulations. The review is to verify the 

existence of a legal basis for the invocation of the privilege, not to review the factual accuracy of the agency 

assertion. This initial review by the trial judge is not for the purpose of conducting a de novo review of the propriety 

of a given classification decision. All that must be determined is that the material in question has been classified by 

the proper authorities in accordance with the appropriate regulations. See Brockway v. Department of the Air Force,

518 F.2d 1184 (8th Cir. 1975).

(g) Notice by accused of intention to disclose classified information.

(1) Notice by Accused. 

(A) Notification of Trial Counsel And Military Judge. If an accused reasonably 

expects to disclose, or to cause the disclosure of, classified information in any manner in 

connection with any trial or pretrial proceeding involving the prosecution of such accused, the 

accused shall, within the time specified by the military judge or, where no time is specified, 

within 30 days before trial, notify the trial counsel and the military judge in writing. Such notice 

shall include a brief description of the classified information. Whenever the accused learns of 

additional classified information the accused reasonably expects to disclose, or to cause the 

disclosure of, at any such proceeding, the accused shall notify trial counsel and the military judge 

in writing as soon as possible thereafter and shall include a brief description of the classified 

information.

(B) Limitation On Disclosure By Accused. No accused shall disclose, or cause the 

disclosure of, any information known or believed to be classified in connection with a trial or 

pretrial proceeding until:

(i) notice has been given under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(g)(1)(A); and

(ii) the United States has been afforded a reasonable opportunity to seek a 

determination pursuant to the procedure set forth in Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(h) and the time for 

the United States to appeal such determination under Rule for Military Commission 908e has 

expired or any appeal under that section by the United States is decided.

(2) Failure To Comply. If the accused fails to comply with the requirements of Mil. 

Comm. R. Evid. 505(g) (1), the military judge:

(A) may preclude disclosure of any classified information not made the subject of 

notification; and

(B) may prohibit the examination by the accused of any witness with respect to 

any such information

Discussion

Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(g)(1)(A) requires an accused who reasonably intends to disclose (or cause the disclosure 

of) classified information to provide timely pretrial written notice of his intention to the Court and the Government. 

Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(g)(1)(A) expressly requires that such notice "include a brief description of the classified 

information," and the leading case interpreting the corresponding section under the Classified Information 
III-29

Procedures Act (18 U.S.C. App.) holds that such notice “must be particularized, setting forth specifically the 

classified information which the defendant reasonably believes to be necessary to his defense.” United States v. 

Collins, 720 F.2d 1195, 1199 (11th Cir. 1983) (emphasis added); see also United States v. Smith, 780 F.2d 1102, 

1105 (4th Cir. 1985) (en banc). This requirement applies both to documentary exhibits and to oral testimony, 

whether it is anticipated to be brought out on direct or on cross-examination. See, e.g., United States v. Collins, 

supra, (testimony); United States v. Wilson, 750 F.2d 7 (2d Cir. 1984) (same). 

If an accused fails to provide a sufficiently detailed notice far enough in advance of trial to permit the 

implementation the procedures under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505, section 5(g)(2) provides for preclusion. See United 

States v. Badia, 827 F.2d 1458, 1465 (11th Cir. 1987). Similarly, if the accused attempts to disclose at trial classified 

information which is not described in the accused’s Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(g)(1)(A) notice, preclusion is the 

appropriate remedy prescribed by Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(g)(2) of the statute. See United States v. Smith, supra, 

780 F.2d at 1105 ("An accused is forbidden from disclosing any such information absent the giving of notice"). 

(h) Procedure for cases involving classified information.

(1) Motion for Hearing.

(A) Request For Hearing. Within the time specified by the military judge for the 

filing of a motion under this section, either party may request the military judge to conduct a 

hearing to make all determinations concerning the use, relevance, or admissibility of classified 

information that would otherwise be made during the trial or pretrial proceeding.

(B) Conduct Of Hearing. Upon a request by either party under Mil. Comm. R. 

Evid. 505(h)(1)(A), the military judge shall conduct such a hearing and shall rule prior to 

conducting any further proceedings.

(C) In Camera Hearing Upon Declaration To Court By Appropriate Official Of 

Risk Of Disclosure Of Classified Information. Any hearing held pursuant to this subsection (or 

any portion of such hearing specified in the request of a knowledgeable United States official) 

shall be held in camera if a knowledgeable United States official possessing authority to classify 

information submits to the military judge a declaration that a public proceeding may result in the 

disclosure of classified information. Classified information is not subject to disclosure under this 

section unless the information is relevant and necessary to an element of the offense or a legally 

cognizable defense and is otherwise admissible in evidence.

(D) Military Judge To Make Determinations In Writing. As to each item of 

classified information, the military judge shall set forth in writing the basis for the determination.

Discussion

Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505, like the Classified Information Procedures Act (18 U.S.C. App.), does not change the 

"generally applicable evidentiary rules of admissibility," United States v. Wilson, supra 750 F.2d at 9, but rather 

alters the timing of rulings as to admissibility to require them to be made before the trial. Accord, United States v. 

Smith, supra, 780 F.2d at 1106. At the Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(h) hearing, the court is to hear the arguments of 

counsel, and then rule whether the classified information identified by the defense is relevant under the standards of 

Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 401. United States v. Smith, supra, 780 F.2d at 1106. The court's inquiry does not end there, 

for under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 402, not all relevant evidence is admissible at trial. The Court therefore must also 

determine whether the evidence is cumulative, prejudicial, confusing, or misleading," United States v. Wilson, 

supra, 750 F.2d at 9, so that it should be excluded under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 403. At the conclusion of the section 
III-30

Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(h) hearing, the court must state in writing the reasons for its determination as to each item 

of classified information. Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(h)(1)(D). 

(2) Notice and Use of Classified Information by the Government.

(A) Notice To Accused. Before any hearing is conducted pursuant to a request by 

the trial counsel under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(h)(1), trial counsel shall provide the accused 

with notice of the classified information that is at issue. Such notice shall identify the specific 

classified information at issue whenever that information previously has been made available to 

the accused by the United States. When the United States has not previously made the 

information available to the accused in connection with the case the information may be 

described by generic category, in such forms as the military judge may approve, rather than by 

identification of the specific information of concern to the United States.

(B) Order By Military Judge Upon Request Of Accused. Whenever the trial 

counsel requests a hearing under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505 (h), the military judge, upon request 

of the accused, may order the trial counsel to provide the accused, prior to trial, such details as to 

the portion of the charge or specification at issue in the hearing as are needed to give the accused 

fair notice to prepare for the hearing.

(3) Substitutions.

(A) In Camera Pretrial Hearing. Upon request of the trial counsel pursuant to the 

Military Commission Rules of Evidence, and in accordance with the security procedures 

established by the military judge, the military judge shall conduct a classified in camera pretrial 

hearing concerning the admissibility of classified information. The court shall hold such 

conference ex parte to the extent necessary to protect classified information from disclosure, in 

accordance with the practice of the Federal courts under the Classified Information Procedures 

Act (18 U.S.C. App.).

(B) Protection Of Sources, Methods, And Activities By Which Evidence Acquired. 

When trial counsel seeks to introduce evidence and the Executive branch has classified the 

sources, methods, or activities by which the United States acquired the evidence, the military 

judge shall permit trial counsel to introduce the evidence, including a substituted evidentiary 

foundation pursuant to the procedures described in Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(h)(4), while 

protecting from disclosure information identifying those sources, methods, or activities if

(i) the evidence is otherwise admissible; and

(ii) the military judge finds that

(a) the evidence is reliable; and

(b) the redaction is consistent with affording the accused a fair 

trial.

(4) Alternative Procedure for Disclosure of Classified Information.
III-31

(A) Motion By The United States. Upon any determination by the military judge 

authorizing the disclosure of specific classified information under the procedures established by 

this section, the trial counsel may move that, in lieu of the disclosure of such specific classified 

information, the military judge order:

(i) the substitution for such classified information of a statement admitting 

relevant facts that the specific classified information would tend to prove;

(ii) the substitution for such classified information of a summary of the 

specific classified information; or

(iii) any other procedure or redaction limiting the disclosure of specific 

classified information.

(B) Action On Motion. The military judge shall grant such a motion of the trial 

counsel if the military judge finds that the statement, summary, or other procedure or redaction 

will provide the accused with substantially the same ability to make his defense as would 

disclosure of the specific classified information.

(C) Hearing On Motion. The military judge shall hold a hearing on any motion 

under this subsection. Any such hearing shall be held in camera at the request of a 

knowledgeable United States official possessing authority to classify information.

(D) Submission Of Statement Of Damage To National Security If Disclosure 

Ordered. The trial counsel may, in connection with a motion under Rule 505(h)(4)(A), submit to 

the military judge a declaration signed by a knowledgeable United States official possessing 

authority to classify information certifying that disclosure of classified information would cause 

identifiable damage to the national security of the United States and explaining the basis for the 

classification of such information. If so requested by the trial counsel, the military judge shall 

examine such declaration during an ex parte presentation.

Discussion

If the military judge rules any classified information to be admissible, Rule 505(h)(4) permits the United States to 

propose unclassified "substitutes" for that information. Specifically, the United States may move to substitute either 

(1) a statement admitting relevant facts that the classified information would tend to prove or (2) a summary of the 

classified information instead of the classified information itself. See United States v. Smith, supra, 780 F.2d at 1105 

(approving similar provision in CIPA, 18 U.S.C. App. III). In many cases, the United States will propose a redacted 

version of a classified document as a substitution for the original, having deleted only non-relevant classified 

information. 

(5) Sealing of Records of in Camera Hearings. If at the close of an in camera hearing 

under this section (or any portion of a hearing under this section that is held in camera), the 

military judge determines that the classified information at issue may not be disclosed or elicited 

at the trial or pretrial proceeding, the record of such in camera hearing shall be sealed and 

preserved for use in the event of an appeal. The accused may seek reconsideration of the military 

judge's determination prior to or during trial.
III-32

(6) Prohibition on Disclosure of Classified Information by the Accused; Relief for 

Accused When the United States Opposes Disclosure.

(A) Order To Prevent Disclosure By Accused. Whenever the military judge 

denies a motion by the trial counsel that the judge issue an order under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 

505(h)(1), (3), or (4) and the trial counsel files with the military judge a declaration signed by a 

knowledgeable United States official possessing authority to classify information objecting to 

disclosure of the classified information at issue, the military judge shall order that the accused 

not disclose or cause the disclosure of such information.

(B) Result Of Order Under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(h)(6)(A). Whenever an 

accused is prevented by an order under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(h)(6)(A) from disclosing or 

causing the disclosure of classified information, the military judge shall dismiss the case; except 

that, when the military judge determines that the interests of justice would not be served by 

dismissal of the case, the military judge shall order such other action, in lieu of dismissing the 

charge or specification, as the military judge determines is appropriate. Such action may include, 

but need not be limited to, the following:

(i) Dismissing specified charges or specifications.

(ii) Finding against the United States on any issue as to which the 

excluded classified information relates.

(iii) Striking or precluding all or part of the testimony of a witness.

(C) Time For The United States To Seek Interlocutory Appeal. An order under 

Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(h)(6)(B) shall not take effect until the military judge has afforded the 

United States:

(i) an opportunity to appeal such order under section R.M.C. 908; and

(ii) an opportunity thereafter to withdraw its objection to the disclosure of 

the classified information at issue.

Discussion

If the military judge will not accept a substitution proposed by the government, an interlocutory appeal may lie 

under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(h)(6)(C). If the issue is resolved against the United States, and classified 

information is thereby subject to a disclosure order by the military judge, the trial counsel must immediately notify 

the agency head exercising the authority to claim the privilege. Thereafter, the agency head, or his delegee, may file 

an affidavit effectively prohibiting the use of the contested classified information. If that is done, the military judge 

may impose sanctions against the United States, which may include striking all or part of a witness' testimony, 

resolving an issue of fact against the United States, or dismissing part or all of the indictment. See Mil. Comm. R. 

Evid. 505(h)(6)(B). The purpose of the relevance hearings under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(h)(1) and the substitution 

practice under Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(h)(4) however, is to avoid the necessity for these sanctions.
III-33

(7) Reciprocity.

(A) Disclosure of Rebuttal Information. Whenever the military judge determines 

that classified information may be disclosed in connection with a trial or pretrial proceeding, the 

military judge shall, unless the interests of fairness do not so require, order the United States to 

provide the accused with the information it expects to use to rebut the classified information. The 

military judge may place the United States under a continuing duty to disclose such rebuttal 

information.

(B) Sanction For Failure To Comply. If the United States fails to comply with its 

obligation under this subsection, the military judge—

(i) may exclude any evidence not made the subject of a required 

disclosure; and

(ii) may prohibit the examination by the United States of any witness with 

respect to such information.

Discussion

When conducting a review pursuant to Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(h) the military judge does not conduct a de novo

review of the classification of sources, methods, or activities information in its original form or as it might possibly 

be reconstituted in a summarized form. Rather, the military judge should verify that appropriate officials within the 

agency concerned conducted an authorized review in accordance with governing regulations and determined that 

such a disclosure of information, in either original or summarized form would or would not be detrimental to 

national security. The review is to verify the existence of a legal basis for the agency official’s determination that 

the information is classified and that no summary of such information can be provided consistent with national 

security. This initial review by the trial judge is not for the purpose of conducting a de novo review of the propriety 

agency official’s determination(s). All that must be determined is that the material in question has been classified by 

the proper authorities in accordance with the appropriate regulations. See Brockway v. Department of the Air Force,

518 F.2d 1184 (8th Cir. 1975). 

(i) Introduction of classified information into evidence.

(1) Preservation of Classification Status. Writings, recordings, and photographs 

containing classified information may be admitted into evidence in proceedings of military 

commissions under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, without change in their 

classification status.

(2) Precautions by Military Judges.

(A) Precautions In Admitting Classified Information Into Evidence. The military 

judge in a trial by military commission, in order to prevent unnecessary disclosure of classified 

information, may order admission into evidence of only part of a writing, recording, or 

photograph, or may order admission into evidence of the whole writing, recording, or photograph 

with excision of some or all of the classified information contained therein, unless the whole 

ought in fairness be considered.
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(B) Classified Information Kept Under Seal. The military judge shall allow 

classified information offered or accepted into evidence to remain under seal during the trial, 

even if such evidence is disclosed in the military commission, and may, upon motion by the 

United States, seal exhibits containing classified information for any period after trial as 

necessary to prevent a disclosure of classified information when a knowledgeable United States 

official possessing authority to classify information submits to the military judge a declaration 

setting forth the damage to the national security that the disclosure of such information 

reasonably could be expected to cause.

(3) Taking of Testimony.

(A) Objection By Trial Counsel. During the examination of a witness, trial 

counsel may object to any question or line of inquiry that may require the witness to disclose 

classified information not previously found to be admissible.

(B) Action By Military Judge. Following an objection under Mil. Comm. R. 

Evid. 505(i)(3), the military judge shall take such suitable action to determine whether the 

response is admissible as will safeguard against the compromise of any classified information. 

Such action may include requiring trial counsel to provide the military judge with a proffer of the 

witness' response to the question or line of inquiry and requiring the accused to provide the 

military judge with a proffer of the nature of the information sought to be elicited by the accused. 

Upon request, the military judge may accept an ex parte proffer by trial counsel to the extent 

necessary to protect classified information from disclosure, in accordance with the practice of the 

Federal courts under the Classified Information Procedures Act (18 U.S.C. App.).

(4) Disclosure at Trial of Certain Statements Previously Made by a Witness-

(A) Motion For Production Of Statements In Possession Of The United States. 

After a witness called by the trial counsel has testified on direct examination, the military judge, 

on motion of the accused, may order production of statements of the witness in the possession of 

the United States which relate to the subject matter as to which the witness has testified. This 

paragraph does not preclude discovery or assertion of a privilege otherwise authorized.

(B) Invocation Of Privilege By The United States. If the United States invokes a 

privilege, the trial counsel may provide the prior statements of the witness to the military judge 

during an ex parte presentation to the extent necessary to protect classified information from 

disclosure, in accordance with the practice of the Federal courts under the Classified Information 

Procedures Act (18 U.S.C. App.).

(C) Action By Military Judge On Motion. If the military judge finds that 

disclosure of any portion of the statement identified by the United States as classified would be 

detrimental to the national security in the degree to warrant classification under the applicable 

Executive Order, statute, or regulation, that such portion of the statement is consistent with the 

testimony of the witness, and that the disclosure of such portion is not necessary to afford the 

accused a fair trial, the military judge shall excise that portion from the statement. If the military 

judge finds that such portion of the statement is inconsistent with the testimony of the witness or 
III-35

that its disclosure is necessary to afford the accused a fair trial, the military judge, shall, upon the 

request of the trial counsel, review alternatives to disclosure in accordance with Mil. Comm. R. 

Evid. 505(h)(4).

Discussion

Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(i)(1) provides that "writings, recordings, and photographs containing classified 

information may be admitted into evidence without change in their classification status." This provision simply 

recognizes that classification is an executive, not a judicial, function. Thus, Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(i)(1) implicitly 

allows the classifying agency, upon completion of the trial, to decide whether the information has been so 

compromised during trial that it could no longer be regarded as classified. 

In order to prevent "unnecessary disclosure" of classified information, Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(i)(2) permits the 

military judge to order admission into evidence of only a part of a writing, recording, or photograph. Alternatively, 

the military judge may order into evidence the whole writing, recordings, or photograph with excision of all or part 

of the classified information contained therein.. 

Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505(i)(4) provides a procedure to address the problem presented during a pretrial or trial 

proceeding when the accused's counsel asks a question or embarks on a line of inquiry that would require the 

witness to disclose classified information not previously found by the court to be admissible. Upon the government's 

objection to such a question, the court is required to take suitable action to avoid the improper disclosure of 

classified information. 

Rule 506. Government information other than classified information 

(a) General rule of privilege. Except where disclosure is required by an Act of Congress, 

government information is privileged from disclosure if disclosure would be detrimental to the 

public interest. 

(b) Scope. “Government information” includes official communication and documents and other 

non-classified information within the custody or control of the Federal Government. 

(c) Who may claim the privilege. The privilege may be claimed by the head of the executive or 

military department or government agency concerned. The privilege for records and information 

of the Inspector General of the executive or military department or government agency 

concerned may be claimed by the immediate superior of the inspector general officer responsible 

for creation of the records or information, the Inspector General, or any other superior authority. 

A person who may claim the privilege may authorize a witness or the trial counsel to claim the 

privilege on his or her behalf. The authority of a witness or the trial counsel to do so is presumed 

in the absence of evidence to the contrary. 

(d) Action prior to referral of charges. Prior to referral of charges, the Government shall respond 

in writing to a request for government information if the privilege in this rule is claimed for such 

information. The Government shall: 

(1) delete specified items of government information claimed to be privileged from 

documents made available to the defense; 

(2) substitute a portion or summary of the information for such documents; 
III-36

(3) substitute a statement admitting relevant facts that the government information would 

tend to prove; 

(4) provide the document subject to conditions similar to those set forth in section (g) of 

this rule; or 

(5) withhold disclosure if actions under subsections (1) through (4) cannot be taken 

without causing identifiable damage to the public interest. 

(e) Pretrial session. At any time after referral of charges and prior to arraignment, any party may 

move for a session under R.M.C. 803 to consider matters relating to government information that 

may arise in connection with the trial. Following such motion, or sua sponte, the military judge 

promptly shall hold a pretrial session under R.M.C. 803 to establish the timing of requests for 

discovery, the provision of notice under section (h), and the initiation of the procedure under 

section (i). In addition, the military judge may consider any other matters that relate to 

government information or that may promote a fair and expeditious trial. 

(f) Action after motion for disclosure of information. After referral of charges, if the defense 

moves for disclosure of government information for which a claim of privilege has been made 

under this rule, the matter shall be reported to the convening authority. The convening authority 

may: 

(1) institute action to obtain the information for use by the military judge in making a 

determination under section (i); 

(2) dismiss the charges; 

(3) dismiss the charges or specifications or both to which the information relates; or 

(4) take other action as may be required in the interests of justice. If, after a reasonable 

period of time, the information is not provided to the military judge, the military judge shall 

dismiss the charges or specifications or both to which the information relates. 

(g) Disclosure of government information to the defense. If the Government agrees to disclose 

government information to the defense subsequent to a claim of privilege under this rule, the 

military judge, at the request of the Government, shall enter an appropriate protective order to 

guard against the compromise of the information disclosed to the defense. The terms of any such 

protective order may include provisions: 

(1) Prohibiting the disclosure of the information except as authorized by the military 

judge; 

(2) Requiring storage of the material in a manner appropriate for the nature of the 

material to be disclosed; upon reasonable notice; 
III-37

(3) Requiring controlled access to the material during normal business hours and at other 

times upon reasonable notice; 

(4) Requiring the maintenance of logs recording access by persons authorized by the 

military judge to have access to the government information in connection with the preparation 

of the defense; 

(5) Regulating the making and handling of notes taken from material containing 

government information; or 

(6) Requesting the convening authority to authorize the assignment of government 

security personnel and the provision of government storage facilities. 

(h) Prohibition against disclosure. The defense may not disclose any information known or 

believed to be subject to a claim of privilege under this rule unless the military judge authorizes 

such disclosure. 

(i) In camera proceedings. 

(1) Definition. For the purpose of this section, an “in camera proceeding” is a session 

under R.M.C. 803 from which the public is excluded. 

(2) Motion for in camera proceeding. Within the time specified by the military judge for 

the filing of a motion under this rule, the Government may move for an in camera proceeding 

concerning the use at any proceeding of any government information that may be subject to a 

claim of privilege. Thereafter, either prior to or during trial, the military judge for good cause 

shown or otherwise upon a claim of privilege may grant the Government leave to move for an in 

camera proceeding concerning the use of additional government information. 

(3) Demonstration of public interest nature of the information. In order to obtain an in 

camera proceeding under this rule, the Government shall demonstrate, through the submission of 

affidavits and information for examination only by the military judge, that disclosure of the 

information reasonably could be expected to cause identifiable damage to the public interest. 

(4) In camera proceeding. 

(A) Finding of identifiable damage. Upon finding that the disclosure of some or 

all of the information submitted by the Government under subsection (i)(3) reasonably could be 

expected to cause identifiable damage to the public interest, the military judge shall conduct an 

in camera proceeding. 

(B) Disclosure of the information to the defense. Subject to paragraph (F), below, 

the Government shall disclose government information for which a claim of privilege has been 

made to the defense, for the limited purpose of litigating, in camera, the admissibility of the 

information at trial. The military judge shall enter an appropriate protective order to the defense 

and all other appropriate trial participants concerning the disclosure of the information according 
III-38

to section (g), above. The defense shall not disclose any information provided under this section 

unless, and until, such information has been admitted into evidence by the military judge. In the 

in camera proceeding, both parties shall have the opportunity to brief and argue the admissibility 

of the government information at trial. 

(C) Standard. Government information is subject to disclosure at the military 

commission proceeding under this section if the party making the request demonstrates a specific 

need for information containing evidence that is relevant to the guilt or innocence or to 

punishment of the accused, and is otherwise admissible in the military commission proceeding. 

(D) Ruling. No information may be disclosed at the military commission 

proceeding or otherwise unless the military judge makes a written determination that the 

information is subject to disclosure under the standard set forth in paragraph (C), above. The 

military judge will specify in writing any information that he or she determines is subject to 

disclosure. The record of the in camera proceeding shall be sealed and attached to the record of 

trial as an appellate exhibit. The defense may seek reconsideration of the determination prior to 

or during trial.

(E) Alternatives to full disclosure. If the military judge makes a determination 

under this paragraph that the information is subject to disclosure, or if the Government elects not 

to contest the relevance, necessity, and admissibility of the government information, the 

Government may proffer a statement admitting for purposes of the military commission any 

relevant facts such information would tend to prove or may submit a portion or summary to be 

used in lieu of the information. The military judge shall order that such statement, portion, 

summary, or some other form of information which the military judge finds to be consistent with 

the interests of justice, be used by the defense in place of the government information, unless the 

military judge finds that use of the government information itself is necessary to afford the 

accused a fair trial. 

(F) Sanctions. Government information may not be disclosed over the 

Government’s objection. If the Government continues to object to disclosure of the information 

following rulings by the military judge, the military judge shall issue any order that the interests 

of justice require. Such an order may include: 

(i) striking or precluding all or part of the testimony of a witness; 

(ii) declaring a mistrial; 

(iii) finding against the Government on any issue as to which the evidence 

is relevant and necessary to the defense; 

(iv) dismissing the charges, with or without prejudice; or 

(v) dismissing the charges or specifications or both to which the 

information relates. 
III-39

(j) Appeals of orders and rulings. The Government may appeal an order or ruling of the military 

judge that terminates the proceedings with respect to a charge or specification, directs the 

disclosure of government information, or imposes sanctions for nondisclosure of government 

information. The Government may also appeal an order or ruling in which the military judge 

refuses to issue a protective order sought by the United States to prevent the disclosure of 

government information, or to enforce such an order previously issued by appropriate authority. 

The Government may not appeal an order or ruling that is, or amounts to, a finding of not guilty 

with respect to the charge or specification. 

(k) Introduction of government information subject to a claim of privilege. 

(1) Precautions by military judge. In order to prevent unnecessary disclosure of 

government information after there has been a claim of privilege under this rule, the military 

judge may order admission into evidence of only part of a writing, recording, or photograph or 

may order admission into evidence of the whole writing, recording, or photograph with excision 

of some or all of the government information contained therein. 

(2) Contents of writing, recording, or photograph. The military judge may permit proof 

of the contents of a writing, recording, or photograph that contains government information that 

is the subject of a claim of privilege under this rule without requiring introduction into evidence 

of the original or a duplicate. 

(3) Taking of testimony. During examination of a witness, the prosecution may object to 

any question or line of inquiry that may require the witness to disclose governmental information 

not previously found relevant and necessary to the defense if such information has been or is 

reasonably likely to be the subject of a claim of privilege under this rule. Following such an 

objection, the military judge shall take such suitable action to determine whether the response is 

admissible as will safeguard against the compromise of any government information. Such 

action may include requiring the Government to provide the military judge with a proffer of the 

witness’ response to the question or line of inquiry and requiring the defense to provide the 

military judge with a proffer of the nature of the information the defense seeks to elicit. 

(l) Procedures to safeguard against compromise of government information disclosed to military 

commissions. The Secretary of Defense may prescribe procedures for protection against the 

compromise of government information submitted to military commissions and appellate 

authorities after a claim of privilege. 

Rule 506A. Privilege for ICRC communications in the possession of the government 

(a) General rule of privilege. The commission shall recognize as privileged, and not subject to

public disclosure, including by way of testimony of any present or past official or employee of 

the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) or the US government, any information, 

documents or other evidence in the possession of the government which came into the possession 

of the government in the course, or as a consequence of, the performance by the ICRC of its 

functions under the Statutes of the International Committee of the Red Cross and Red Crescent 

Movement (the “ICRC communications”), unless:
III-40

(1) The ICRC consents in writing to such disclosure, or otherwise has waived 

this privilege; 

(2) Such information, documents or other evidence is contained in public 

statements and documents of the ICRC, other than those made public without the consent of the 

ICRC; or, 

(3) The information, documents or other evidence has been made public by other 

official, authorized means.

(b) Assertion of privilege. This privilege may be asserted by either the ICRC or by the head of 

the executive or military department or government agency concerned in consultation with the 

ICRC. Nothing in this rule shall affect the admissibility of the same evidence obtained from a 

source other than ICRC and its officials or employees when such evidence has also been 

acquired by this source independently of ICRC and its officials or employees.

(c) Procedure to determine discoverability of ICRC communications. Notwithstanding the 

above, ICRC communications may be discoverable to the defense only if:

(1) The defendant files a motion describing the evidence sought, and the purpose 

for which the evidence is sought;

(2) In addition to filing pursuant to the rules of the commission, the filing is 

served on the ICRC, 1100 Connecticut Avenue NW, Suite 500, Washington, D.C. 20036, or on 

such other address as the ICRC may provide in writing to the Office of Military Commissions; 

and,

(3) One of the following two conditions is met:

(A) The ICRC waives its privilege as to the requested privileged ICRC 

communications via written filing to the commission after having had the opportunity to seek 

additional information from the accused, in which case trial counsel may represent to the 

commission that the ICRC has executed a limited waiver of its privilege; or 

(B) If either the ICRC or a designee of the head of the executive or 

military department or agency concerned, in consultation with the ICRC, does not waive the 

ICRC’s privilege, the following procedures are followed:

i. The accused must provide: 

(a) A general description of the evidence sought, including 

an explanation of how it is believed to be relevant and necessary; 
III-41

(b) A good faith representation that the requested privileged 

ICRC communications would yield evidence that is relevant, necessary, and non-cumulative or 

otherwise must be produced pursuant to 10 U.S.C. §949j and R.M.C. 701(e) and 703(f);

(c) A good faith representation that the ICRC 

communications sought are not merely cumulative of other information available or obtainable 

by other non-privileged sources; and, 

(d) A good faith representation that the defendant made 

reasonable efforts to obtain the same or substantially similar information through non-privileged 

sources.

ii. The military judge shall order a member of the prosecution 

who is not directly involved in the prosecution of the particular case to identify items that are 

relevant, necessary, and non-cumulative or otherwise required to be disclosed under 10 U.S.C. § 

949j and R.M.C. 701(e) and 703(f). 

(d) Procedure for disclosing privileged ICRC communications to the Defense. Upon the 

identification of any items of privileged ICRC communications that correspond to evidence 

meeting the conditions described in (c)(4), the designated prosecutor shall consult with a 

representative of the ICRC. 

(1) If the ICRC consents to disclosure in its entirety, the designated prosecutor 

may disclose such ICRC communications to the defense.

(2) If the ICRC does not consent to disclosure in its entirety, the designated trial 

counsel may submit such privileged ICRC communications to the military judge for ex parte, in 

camera inspection. Accompanying the submission may be any proposal for (1) the deletion of 

specified items of the privileged ICRC communications; (2) the substitution of a summary of the 

privileged ICRC communications; or (3) the substitution of a statement admitting the facts that 

the privileged ICRC communications would tend to establish. The designated prosecutor’s 

submission shall be served on the ICRC, which shall be given the opportunity to submit a

statement or oral presentation during ex parte, in camera review addressing the potential damage 

the ICRC’s capacity to carry out its functions and role that would result from disclosure of the 

privileged ICRC communications. The military judge shall then undertake an ex parte, in 

camera inspection of the privileged communications, any proposed deletion or substitution by 

the designated prosecutor, and the ICRC’s response. During review, the military judge should 

bear in mind the operational impact disclosure will have on the ICRC’s capacity to carry out its 

functions and role; however, the military judge shall grant any proposal for substitution or 

deletion only in so far as the military judge finds the relief sought would provide the accused 

with substantially the same ability to make a defense as would discovery or access to the specific 

privileged ICRC communications. 

(e) Issuance of protective order as to privileged ICRC communications. If the ICRC agrees to 

disclose the ICRC communications, or if the military judge orders disclosure to the parties 

subsequent to a claim of privilege under this rule, the military judge, at the request of the trial 
III-42

counsel in consultation with a designee of the head of the executive or military department or 

agency concerned, shall enter an appropriate protective order to prohibit the further 

dissemination of the ICRC communications disclosed. At a minimum, such protective order 

shall ensure that names and other identifying information of ICRC employees and other 

individuals identified in the information are redacted unless extraordinary circumstances 

otherwise require.

(f) Introduction of ICRC communications subject to a claim of privilege. 

(1) Prior to the introduction or use during pretrial proceedings or trial of any 

ICRC communications subject to a claim of privilege under this Rule:

(A) The accused must provide notice to the military judge and to the 

opposing party, and to the ICRC of the privileged ICRC communications it intends to introduce 

at trial; and

(B) The trial counsel shall provide notice as to which, if any, of the 

identified privileged ICRC communications, or in the event of approved substitutions or 

deletions, it will contest the admissibility thereof. 

(2) Thereafter the trial counsel may move for an in camera proceeding 

concerning the use at any proceeding of any ICRC communications that may be privileged under 

this Rule. 

(3) Standard. ICRC communications are subject to disclosure by the military 

judge at the military commission proceeding under this section if the party making the request 

demonstrates that the requested ICRC communications in the redacted or substituted form 

constitute evidence that is otherwise admissible at trial, while bearing in mind the operational 

impact disclosure will have on the ICRC’s capacity to carry out its functions and role. 

(4) Upon motion by the trial counsel, the military judge may, consistent with 

constitutional standards and R.M.C. 806(b)(2), approve alternatives to the introduction of 

privileged ICRC communications as described in section (d)(2) above and shall order closure to 

the public of the portion of the proceedings during which privileged ICRC communications are 

discussed unless extraordinary circumstances otherwise require. 

(5) The military judge shall, in accordance with standards permitting the sealing 

of records and closure of proceedings, issue an appropriate order prohibiting public disclosure of 

any ICRC documents or other information and the portion of the proceedings in which the ICRC 

communications were discussed. 

(g) This rule is without prejudice to the rights, privileges and immunities the ICRC enjoys under 

U.S. domestic law, including the International Organizations Immunities Act (22 U.S.C. §288), 

or international law. Disclosure under this Rule is limited to the specific proceeding in which it 

is invoked. 

(h) Effective Date. This rule shall apply only in military commission cases with charges referred

on or after the effective date of this revision. 
III-43

Rule 507. Identity of informants 

(a) Rule of privilege. The United States has a privilege to refuse to disclose the identity of an 

informant. 

(1) An “informant” is a person who has furnished information relating to or assisting in 

an investigation of a possible violation of law to a person whose official duties include the 

discovery, investigation, or prosecution of crime, for the United States government or a foreign 

government. 

(2) Unless otherwise privileged under these rules, the communications of an informant 

are not privileged except to the extent necessary to prevent the disclosure of the informant’s 

identity. 

(b) Who may claim the privilege. The privilege may be claimed by an appropriate representative 

of the United States, including the trial counsel, if authorized to do so. 

(c) Exceptions. 

(1) Voluntary disclosures; informant as witness. No privilege exists under this rule: (A) 

if the identity of the informant has been disclosed to those who would have cause to resent the 

communication by a holder of the privilege or by the informant’s own action; (B) if the 

informant appears as a witness for the prosecution; or (C) if the government introduces a 

statement by the informant on the merits. 

(2) Testimony on the issue of guilt or innocence. If a claim of privilege has been made 

under this rule, the military judge shall, upon motion by the defense, determine whether 

disclosure of the identity of the informant is necessary to the accused’s defense on the issue of 

guilt or innocence. Whether such a necessity exists will depend on the particular circumstances 

of each case, taking into consideration the offense charged, the possible defense, the possible 

significance of the informant’s testimony, and other relevant factors. If it appears from the 

evidence in the case or from other showing by a party that an informant may be able to give 

testimony necessary to the accused’s defense on the issue of guilt or innocence, the military 

judge may make any order required by the interests of justice. 

(3) Fair trial considerations. If the military judge determines that extending the privilege, 

in part or in full, would adversely affect the integrity or fairness of the proceedings, the military 

judge may decline to extend the privilege, in part or in full, to the claimant or may issue any 

order required in the interests of justice. 

(d) Procedures. If a claim of privilege has been made under this rule, the military judge may 

make any order required by the interests of justice. If the military judge determines that 

disclosure of the identity of the informant is required under the standards set forth in this rule, 

and the prosecution elects not to disclose the identity of the informant, the matter shall be 

reported to the convening authority. The convening authority may institute action to secure 

disclosure of the identity of the informant, terminate the proceedings, or take such other action as 
III-44

may be appropriate under the circumstances. If, after a reasonable period of time disclosure is 

not made, the military judge, sua sponte or upon motion of either counsel and after a hearing if 

requested by either party, may dismiss the charge or specifications or both to which the 

information regarding the informant would relate if the military judge determines that further 

proceedings would materially prejudice a substantial right of the accused. 

Rule 508. Political vote 

A person has a privilege to refuse to disclose the tenor of the person’s vote at a political election 

conducted by secret ballot unless the vote was cast illegally. 

Rule 509. Deliberations of courts, juries, and military commissions 

Except as provided in Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 606, the deliberations of courts, grand and petit 

juries, and military commissions are privileged to the extent that such matters are privileged in 

trial of criminal cases in the United States district courts, but the results of the deliberations are 

not privileged. 

Rule 510. Waiver of privilege by voluntary disclosure 

(a) A person upon whom these rules confer a privilege against disclosure of a confidential matter 

or communication waives the privilege if the person or the person’s predecessor while holder of 

the privilege voluntarily discloses or consents to disclosure of any significant part of the matter 

or communication under such circumstances that it would be inappropriate to allow the claim of 

privilege. This rule does not apply if the disclosure is itself a privileged communication. 

(b) Unless testifying voluntarily concerning a privileged matter or communication, an accused 

who testifies in his or her own behalf or a person who testifies under a grant or promise of 

immunity does not, merely by reason of testifying, waive a privilege to which he or she may be 

entitled pertaining to the confidential matter or communication. 

Rule 511. Privileged matter disclosed under compulsion or without opportunity to claim 

privilege 

(a) Evidence of a statement or other disclosure of privileged matter is not admissible against the 

holder of the privilege if disclosure was compelled erroneously or was made without an 

opportunity for the holder of the privilege to claim the privilege. 

(b) The telephonic transmission of information otherwise privileged under these rules does not 

affect its privileged character. Use of electronic means of communication other than the 

telephone for transmission of information otherwise privileged under these rules does not affect 

the privileged character of such information if use of such means of communication is necessary 

in furtherance of the communication. 

Rule 512. Comment upon or inference from claim of privilege; instruction 
III-45

(a) Comment or inference not permitted.

(1) The claim of privilege by the accused whether in the present proceeding or upon a 

prior occasion is not a proper subject of comment by the military judge or counsel for any party. 

No inference may be drawn therefrom. 

(2) The claim of a privilege by a person other than the accused whether in the present 

proceeding or upon a prior occasion normally is not a proper subject of comment by the military 

judge or counsel for any party. An adverse inference may not be drawn therefrom except when 

determined by the military judge to be required by the interests of justice. 

(b) Claiming privilege without knowledge of members. In a trial before a military commission, 

proceedings shall be conducted, to the extent practicable, so as to facilitate the making of claims

of privilege without the knowledge of the members. 

(c) Instruction. Upon request, any party against whom the members might draw an adverse 

inference from a claim of privilege is entitled to an instruction that no inference may be drawn 

therefrom except as provided in subsection (a)(2). 

Rule 513. Psychotherapist-patient privilege 

(a) General rule of privilege. A patient has a privilege to refuse to disclose and to prevent any 

other person from disclosing a confidential communication made between the patient and a 

psychotherapist or an assistant to the psychotherapist, in a case arising under the U.C.M.J. or 

chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, if such communication was made for the purpose of 

facilitating diagnosis or treatment of the patient’s mental or emotional condition. 

(b) Definitions. As used in this rule of evidence: 

(1) A “patient” is a person who consults with or is examined or interviewed by a 

psychotherapist for purposes of advice, diagnosis, or treatment of a mental or emotional 

condition. 

(2) A “psychotherapist” is a psychiatrist, clinical psychologist, or clinical social worker 

who is licensed in any state, territory, possession, the District of Columbia or Puerto Rico to 

perform professional services as such, or who holds credentials to provide such services from 

any military health care facility, or is a person reasonably believed by the patient to have such 

license or credentials. 

(3) An “assistant to a psychotherapist” is a person directed by or assigned to assist a 

psychotherapist in providing professional services, or is reasonably believed by the patient to be 

such. 

(4) A communication is “confidential” if not intended to be disclosed to third persons 

other than those to whom disclosure is in furtherance of the rendition of professional services to 

the patient or those reasonably necessary for such transmission of the communication. 
III-46

(5) “Evidence of a patient’s records or communications” is testimony of a 

psychotherapist, or assistant to the same, or patient records that pertain to communications by a 

patient to a psychotherapist, or assistant to the same for the purposes of diagnosis or treatment of 

the patient’s mental or emotional condition. 

(c) Who may claim the privilege. The privilege may be claimed by the patient or the guardian or 

conservator of the patient. A person who may claim the privilege may authorize trial counsel or 

defense counsel to claim the privilege on his or her behalf. The psychotherapist or assistant to the 

psychotherapist who received the communication may claim the privilege on behalf of the 

patient. The authority of such a psychotherapist, assistant, guardian, or conservator to so assert 

the privilege is presumed in the absence of evidence to the contrary. 

(d) Exceptions. There is no privilege under this rule: 

(1) when the patient is dead; 

(2) when the communication is evidence of spouse abuse, child abuse, or neglect or in a 

proceeding in which one spouse is charged with a crime against the person of the other spouse or 

a child of either spouse; 

(3) when federal law, state law, or service regulation imposes a duty to report information 

contained in a communication; 

(4) when a psychotherapist or assistant to a psychotherapist believes that a patient’s 

mental or emotional condition makes the patient a danger to any person, including the patient; 

(5) if the communication clearly contemplated the future commission of a fraud or crime 

or if the services of the psychotherapist are sought or obtained to enable or aid anyone to commit 

or plan to commit what the patient knew or reasonably should have known to be a crime or 

fraud; 

(6) when necessary to ensure the safety and security of military personnel, military 

dependents, military property, classified information, or the accomplishment of a military 

mission; 

(7) when an accused offers statements or other evidence concerning his mental condition 

in defense, extenuation, or mitigation, under circumstances not covered by R.M.C. 706 or Mil. 

Comm. R. Evid. 302. In such situations, the military judge may, upon motion, order disclosure of 

any statement made by the accused to a psychotherapist as may be necessary in the interests of 

justice; or 

(8) when admission or disclosure of a communication is required to avoid an adverse 

effect on the integrity or fairness of the proceeding. 

(e) Procedure to determine admissibility of patient records or communications.
III-47

(1) In any case in which the production or admission of records or communications of a 

patient other than the accused is a matter in dispute, a party may seek an interlocutory ruling by 

the military judge. In order to obtain such a ruling, the party shall:

(A) file a written motion at least 5 days prior to entry of pleas specifically 

describing the evidence and stating the purpose for which it is sought or offered, or objected to, 

unless the military judge, for good cause shown, requires a different time for filing or permits 

filing during trial; and 

(B) serve the motion on the opposing party, the military judge and, if practical, 

notify the patient or the patient’s guardian, conservator, or representative that the motion has 

been filed and that the patient has an opportunity to be heard as set forth in subsection (e)(2). 

(2) Before ordering the production or admission of evidence of a patient’s records or 

communication, the military judge shall conduct a hearing. Upon the motion of counsel for either 

party and upon good cause shown, the military judge may order the hearing closed. At the 

hearing, the parties may call witnesses, including the patient, and offer other relevant evidence. 

The patient shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity to attend the hearing and be heard at the 

patient’s own expense unless the patient has been otherwise subpoenaed or ordered to appear at 

the hearing. However, the proceedings shall not be unduly delayed for this purpose. In a case 

before a military commission composed of military judge and members, the military judge shall 

conduct the hearing outside the presence of the members. 

(3) The military judge shall examine the evidence or a proffer thereof in camera, if such 

examination is necessary to rule on the motion. 

(4) To prevent unnecessary disclosure of evidence of a patient’s records or 

communications, the military judge may issue protective orders or may admit only portions of 

the evidence. 

(5) The motion, related papers, and the record of the hearing shall be sealed and shall 

remain under seal unless the military judge or an appellate court orders otherwise. 
III-48

SECTION VI 

WITNESSES

Rule 601. General rule of competency 

Every person is competent to be a witness, except as otherwise provided in these rules. 

Rule 602. Lack of personal knowledge 

A witness may not testify to a matter unless evidence is introduced sufficient to support a finding 

that the witness has personal knowledge of the matter. Evidence to prove personal knowledge 

may, but need not, consist of the testimony of the witness. This rule is subject to the provisions 

of Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 703, relating to opinion testimony by expert witnesses.

Rule 603. Oath or affirmation 

Before testifying, every witness shall be required to declare that the witness will testify 

truthfully, by oath or affirmation administered in a form calculated to awaken the witness’ 

conscience and impress the witness’ mind with the duty to do so. 

Rule 604. Interpreters 

An interpreter is subject to the provisions of these rules relating to qualifications as an expert and 

the administration of an oath or affirmation that the interpreter will make a true translation. 

Rule 605. Competency of military judge as witness 

(a) The military judge presiding at the military commission may not testify in that military 

commission as a witness. No objection need be made to preserve the point. 

(b) This rule does not preclude the military judge from placing on the record matters concerning 

docketing of the case. 

Rule 606. Competency of military commission member as witness 

(a) At the military commission. A member of the military commission may not testify as a 

witness before the other members in the trial of the case in which the member is sitting. If the 

member is called to testify, the opposing party shall be afforded an opportunity to object out of 

the presence of the members. 

(b) Inquiry into validity of findings or sentence. Upon an inquiry into the validity of the findings 

or sentence, a member may not testify as to any matter or statement occurring during the course 

of the deliberations of the members of the military commission or, to the effect of anything upon 

the member’s or any other member’s mind or emotions as influencing the member to assent to or 

dissent from the findings or sentence or concerning the member’s mental process in connection 
III-49

therewith, except that a member may testify on the question whether extraneous prejudicial 

information was improperly brought to the attention of the members of the military commission, 

whether any outside influence was improperly brought to bear upon any member, or whether 

there was unlawful command influence. Nor may the member’s affidavit or evidence of any 

statement by the member concerning a matter about which the member would be precluded from 

testifying be received for these purposes. 

Rule 607. Who may impeach 

The credibility of a witness may be attacked by any party, including the party calling the witness. 

Rule 608. Evidence of character, conduct, and bias of witness 

(a) Opinion and reputation evidence of character. The credibility of a witness may be attacked or 

supported by evidence in the form of opinion or reputation, but subject to these limitations: (1) 

the evidence may refer only to character for truthfulness or untruthfulness, and (2) evidence of 

truthful character is admissible only after the character of the witness for truthfulness has been 

attacked by opinion or reputation evidence or otherwise. 

(b) Specific instances of conduct. Specific instances of the conduct of a witness, for the purpose 

of attacking or supporting the witness’ character for truthfulness, other than conviction of crime 

as provided in Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 609, may not be proved by extrinsic evidence. They may, 

however, in the discretion of the military judge, if probative of truthfulness or untruthfulness, be 

inquired into on cross-examination of the witness (1) concerning character of the witness for 

truthfulness or untruthfulness, or (2) concerning the character for truthfulness or untruthfulness 

of another witness as to which character the witness being cross-examined has testified. The 

giving of testimony, whether by an accused or by another witness, does not operate as a waiver 

of the privilege against self-incrimination when examined with respect to matters that relate only 

to character for truthfulness. 

(c) Evidence of bias. Bias, prejudice, or any motive to misrepresent may be shown to impeach 

the witness either by examination of the witness or by evidence otherwise adduced. 

Rule 609. Impeachment by evidence of conviction of crime 

(a) General rule. For the purpose of attacking the credibility of a witness, (1) evidence that a 

witness other than the accused has been convicted of a crime shall be admitted, subject to Mil. 

Comm. R. Evid. 403, if the crime was punishable by death, dishonorable discharge, or 

imprisonment in excess of one year under the law under which the witness was convicted, and 

evidence that an accused has been convicted of such a crime shall be admitted if the military 

judge determines that the probative value of admitting this evidence outweighs its prejudicial 

effect to the accused; and (2) evidence that any witness has been convicted of a crime shall be 

admitted if it involved dishonesty or false statement, regardless of the punishment. In 

determining whether a crime tried by court-martial was punishable by death, dishonorable 

discharge, or imprisonment in excess of one year, the maximum punishment prescribed by the 
III-50

President under Article 56 of the U.C.M.J., at the time of the conviction applies without regard to 

whether the case was tried by general, special, or summary court-martial. 

(b) Time limit. Evidence of a conviction under this rule is not admissible if a period of more than 

ten years has elapsed since the date of the conviction or of the release of the witness from the 

confinement imposed for that conviction, whichever is the later date, unless the military judge 

determines, in the interests of justice, that the probative value of the conviction supported by 

specific facts and circumstances substantially outweighs its prejudicial effect. However, evidence 

of a conviction more than ten years old as calculated herein, is not admissible unless the 

proponent gives to the adverse party sufficient advance written notice of intent to use such 

evidence to provide the adverse party with a fair opportunity to contest the use of such evidence. 

(c) Effect of pardon, annulment, or certificate of rehabilitation. Evidence of a conviction is not 

admissible under this rule if (1) the conviction has been the subject of a pardon, annulment, 

certificate of rehabilitation, or other equivalent procedure based on a finding of the rehabilitation 

of the person convicted, and that person has not been convicted of a subsequent crime which was 

punishable by death, dishonorable discharge, or imprisonment in excess of one year, or (2) the 

conviction has been the subject of a pardon, annulment, or other equivalent procedure based on a 

finding of innocence. 

(d) Juvenile adjudications. Evidence of juvenile adjudications is generally not admissible under 

this rule. The military judge, however, may allow evidence of a juvenile adjudication of a 

witness other than the accused if conviction of the offense would be admissible to attack the 

credibility of an adult and the military judge is satisfied that admission in evidence is necessary 

for a fair determination of the issue of guilt or innocence. 

(e) Pendency of appeal. The pendency of an appeal therefrom does not render evidence of a 

conviction inadmissible except that a conviction by summary court-martial or special courtmartial without a military judge may not be used for purposes of impeachment until review has 

been completed pursuant to Article 64 or Article 66 of the U.C.M.J., if applicable. Evidence of 

the pendency of an appeal is admissible. 

(f) Definition. For purposes of this rule, there is a “conviction” in a trial by court-martial or a 

military commission when a sentence has been adjudged. 

Rule 610. Religious beliefs or opinions 

Evidence of the beliefs or opinions of a witness on matters of religion is not admissible for the 

purpose of showing that by reason of their nature the credibility of the witness is impaired or 

enhanced. 

Rule 611. Mode and order of interrogation and presentation 

(a) Control by the military judge. The military judge shall exercise reasonable control over the 

mode and order of interrogating witnesses and presenting evidence so as to (1) make the 
III-51

interrogation and presentation effective for the ascertainment of the truth; (2) avoid needless 

consumption of time; and (3) protect witnesses from harassment or undue embarrassment. 

(b) Scope of cross-examination. Cross-examination should be limited to the subject matter of the 

direct examination and matters affecting the credibility of the witness. The military judge may, in 

the exercise of discretion, permit inquiry into additional matters as if on direct examination, 

consistent with Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505. 

(c) Leading questions. Leading questions should not be used on the direct examination of a 

witness except as may be necessary to develop the testimony of the witness. Ordinarily leading 

questions should be permitted on cross-examination. When a party calls a hostile witness or a 

witness identified with an adverse party, interrogation may be by leading questions. 

(d) Alternative forms of testimony of a child, victim, protected entity, or witness whose presence 

at trial cannot be procured by legal process. 

(1) In a case involving a child witness, the military judge shall, subject to the 

requirements below, allow the child or victim to testify from an area outside the courtroom as 

prescribed in R.M.C. 914A. 

(A) The term “child” means a person who is under the age of 16 at the time of his 

or her testimony. The term victim is defined as a person who has suffered a direct physical, 

emotional, or pecuniary harm or loss as a result of the commission of an offense as defined in the 

Act, the law of war, or under this Manual. 

(B) The military judge will permit remote testimony by a child witness upon a 

finding that the child or victim is unable to testify in open court in the presence of the accused, 

for any of the following reasons: 

(i) The child is unable to testify because of fear; 

(ii) There is substantial likelihood, established by expert testimony, that 

the child would suffer emotional trauma from testifying; 

(iii) The child suffers from a mental or other infirmity; or 

(iv) Conduct by an accused or defense counsel causes the child or victim 

to be unable to testify or to continue testifying. Such conduct may include pretrial statements or 

actions calculated to, or having a reasonable likelihood of tending to, threaten or otherwise 

intimidate the child or victim, or any member of the child’s immediate family. 

(2) In a case involving a person whose identity or name and appearance is classified, 

privileged, or otherwise protected from disclosure under any Act of Congress, this Manual, or 

these Rules, the military judge may, subject to the provisions of Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505, 506, 

and 507, allow the witness to be identified by a pseudonym during all commissions sessions, and 

to testify from behind a protective screen (out of the view of the accused and counsel, but within 
III-52

view of the military judge and the members) or from a screened area outside the courtroom, 

consistent with R.M.C. 914A, but the military judge may extend that area worldwide. 

(3) If the presence at trial of any relevant and necessary civilian witness cannot be 

obtained by the process described in R.M.C. 703, the military judge may, subject to the 

requirements below, permit the witness to testify by two-way video feed from a remote location. 

The party requesting remote testimony by a witness must establish by a preponderance of the 

evidence that: 

(A) either the witness was served with process and offered sufficient logistical 

support to effect travel to the trial site, reasonable attempts at such service and offer were made, 

or military and intelligence or security imperatives would prevent the witness from physically 

appearing before the commission; and 

(B) the witness declined to travel to the trial site, could not effectively be served,

or was unavailable because of military and intelligence or security imperatives, as described in 

paragraph (A); and 

(C) remote testimony of the witness would better serve the confrontation interests 

of the opposing party and ends of justice than any alternative form of testimony and 

confrontation available to the commission. 

(4) In applying the provisions of this rule, the military judge may decline to extend any 

protective measure under this rule to any witness if the judge determines that applying the 

protective measure, as requested, would adversely affect the integrity or fairness of the 

proceedings. 

Rule 612. Writing used to refresh memory

If a witness uses a writing to refresh his or her memory for the purpose of testifying, either (1) 

while testifying, or (2) before testifying, if the military judge determines it is necessary in the 

interests of justice, an adverse party is entitled to have the writing produced at the hearing, to 

inspect it, to cross-examine the witness thereon, and to introduce in evidence those portions 

which relate to the testimony of the witness. If it is claimed that the writing contains privileged 

information or matters not related to the subject matter of the testimony, the military judge shall 

examine the writing in camera, excise any privileged information or portions not so related, and 

order delivery of the remainder to the party entitled thereto. Any portion withheld over 

objections shall be attached to the record of trial as an appellate exhibit. If a writing is not 

produced or delivered pursuant to order under this rule, the military judge shall make any order 

justice requires, except that when the prosecution elects not to comply, the order shall be one 

striking the testimony or, if in the discretion of the military judge it is determined that the 

interests of justice so require, declaring a mistrial. This rule does not preclude disclosure of 

information required to be disclosed under other provisions of these rules or this Manual. 
III-53

Rule 613. Prior statements of witnesses 

(a) Examining witness concerning prior statement. In examining a witness concerning a prior 

statement made by the witness, whether written or not, the statement need not be shown nor its 

contents disclosed to him at that time, but on request the same shall be shown or disclosed to 

opposing counsel. 

(b) Extrinsic evidence of prior inconsistent statement of witness. Extrinsic evidence of a prior 

inconsistent statement by a witness is not admissible unless the witness is afforded an 

opportunity to explain or deny the same and the opposite party is afforded an opportunity to 

interrogate the witness thereon, or the interests of justice otherwise require. This provision does 

not apply to admissions of a party-opponent as defined in Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 801(d)(2). 

Rule 614. Calling and interrogation of witnesses by the military commission 

(a) Calling by the military commission. The military judge may, sua sponte, or at the request of 

the members or the suggestion of a party, call witnesses, and all parties are entitled to crossexamine witnesses thus called. When the members wish to call or recall a witness, the military 

judge shall determine, after hearing the position of the parties on the question, whether it is 

appropriate to do so under these rules or this Manual. 

(b) Interrogation by the military commission. The military judge or members may interrogate 

witnesses, whether called by the military judge, the members, or a party. Members shall submit 

their questions to the military judge in writing so that a ruling may be made on the propriety of 

the questions or the course of questioning and so that questions may be asked on behalf of the 

military commission by the military judge in a form acceptable to the military judge. When a 

witness who has not testified previously is called by the military judge or the members, the 

military judge may conduct the direct examination or may assign the responsibility to counsel for 

any party. 

(c) Objections. Objections to the calling of witnesses by the military judge or the 

members or to the interrogation by the military judge or the members may be made at the time or 

at the next available opportunity when the members are not present.

Rule 615. Exclusion of witnesses 

At the request of the prosecution or defense the military judge shall order witnesses excluded so 

that they cannot hear the testimony of other witnesses, and the military judge may make the 

order sua sponte. This rule does not authorize exclusion of (1) the accused, or (2) a member of 

an armed service or an employee of the United States designated as representative of the United 

States by the trial counsel, or (3) a person whose presence is shown by a party to be essential to 

the presentation of the party’s case, or (4) a person authorized by statute to be present at military 

commissions, or (5) any victim of an offense from the trial of an accused for that offense on the 

grounds that such victim may testify or present any information in relation to the sentence or that 

offense during the presentencing proceedings.
III-54

SECTION VII

OPINIONS AND EXPERT TESTIMONY

Rule 701. Opinion testimony by lay witnesses 

The military judge shall permit testimony from any witness whose opinion, whether lay or 

expert, would have probative value to a reasonable person. If the witness is not testifying as an 

expert, the witness’ testimony in the form of opinions or inferences is limited to those opinions 

or inferences that are (a) rationally based on the perception of the witness, (b) helpful to a clear 

understanding of the witness’ testimony or the determination of a fact in issue, and (c) not based 

in scientific, technical, or other specialized knowledge within the scope of Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 

702. 

Rule 702. Testimony by experts 

If scientific, technical, or other specialized knowledge will assist the trier of fact to understand 

the evidence or to determine a fact in issue, a witness qualified as an expert by knowledge, skill, 

experience, training, or education may testify thereto in the form of an opinion or otherwise if (1) 

the testimony is based upon sufficient facts or data, (2) the testimony is the product of reliable 

principles and methods, and (3) the witness has applied the principles and methods reliably to the 

facts of the case. 

Rule 703. Bases of opinion testimony by experts 

The facts or data in the particular case upon which an expert bases an opinion or inference may 

be those perceived by or made known to the expert, at or before the hearing. If of a type 

reasonably relied upon by experts in the particular field in forming opinions or inferences upon 

the subject, the facts or data need not be admissible in evidence in order for the opinion or 

inference to be admitted. Facts or data that are otherwise inadmissible shall not be disclosed to 

the members by the proponent of the opinion or inference unless the military judge determines 

that their probative value in assisting the members to evaluate the expert’s opinion substantially 

outweighs their prejudicial effect. 

Rule 704. Opinion on ultimate issue 

Testimony in the form of an opinion or inference otherwise admissible is not objectionable 

because it embraces an ultimate issue to be decided by the trier of fact. 

Rule 705. Disclosure of facts or data underlying expert opinion 

The expert may testify in terms of opinion or inference and give the expert’s reasons therefor 

without prior disclosure of the underlying facts or data, unless the military judge requires 

otherwise. The expert may in any event be required to disclose the underlying facts or data on 

cross-examination.
III-55

Rule 706. Experts appointed by the military commission 

(a) Appointment and compensation. The trial counsel, the defense counsel, and the military 

commission have reasonable opportunity to obtain expert witnesses. The employment and 

compensation of expert witnesses is governed by R.M.C. 703. 

(b) Disclosure of employment. In the exercise of discretion, the military judge may authorize 

disclosure to the members of the fact that the military judge called an expert witness. 

(c) Accused’s experts of own selection. Nothing in this rule limits the accused in calling expert 

witnesses of the accused’s own selection and at the accused’s own expense. 

Rule 707. Polygraph examinations 

(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the results of a polygraph examination, the 

opinion of a polygraph examiner, or any reference to an offer to take, failure to take, or taking of 

a polygraph examination, shall not be admitted into evidence. 

(b) Nothing in this section is intended to exclude from evidence statements made during a 

polygraph examination which are otherwise admissible. 
III-56

SECTION VIII

HEARSAY

Rule 801. Definitions 

The following definitions apply under this rule: 

(a) Statement. A “statement” is (1) an oral or written assertion or (2) nonverbal conduct of a 

person, if it is intended by the person as an assertion. 

(b) Declarant. A “declarant” is a person who makes a statement. 

(c) Hearsay. “Hearsay” is a statement, other than the one made by the declarant while testifying 

at the trial or hearing, offered in evidence to prove the truth of the matter asserted. 

(d) Statements which are not hearsay. A statement is not hearsay if: 

(1) Prior statement by witness. The declarant testifies at the trial or hearing and is subject 

to cross-examination concerning the statement, and the statement is (A) inconsistent with the 

declarant’s testimony, and was given under oath subject to the penalty of perjury at a trial, 

hearing, or other proceeding, or in a deposition, or (B) consistent with the declarant’s testimony 

and is offered to rebut an express or implied charge against the declarant of recent fabrication or 

improper influence or motive, or (C) one of identification of a person made after perceiving the 

person; or 

(2) Admission by party-opponent. The statement is offered against a party and is (A) the 

party’s own statement in either the party’s individual or representative capacity, or (B) a 

statement of which the party has manifested the party’s adoption or belief in its truth, or (C) a 

statement by a person authorized by the party to make a statement concerning the subject, or (D) 

a statement by the party’s agent or servant concerning a matter within the scope of the agency or 

employment of the agent or servant, made during the existence of the relationship, or (E) a 

statement by a co-conspirator of a party during the course and in furtherance of the conspiracy. 

The contents of the statement shall be considered but are not alone sufficient to establish the 

declarant’s authority under paragraph (C), the agency or employment relationship and the scope 

thereof under paragraph (D), or the existence of the conspiracy and the participation therein of 

the declarant and the party against whom the statement is offered under paragraph (E). 

Rule 802. Reserved.

Rule 803. Admissibility of hearsay 

(a) Hearsay evidence may be admitted in trials by military commission if the evidence would be 

admitted under the rules of evidence applicable in trial by general courts-martial, and the 

evidence would otherwise be admissible under these Rules or this Manual.
III-57

(b) Hearsay evidence not otherwise admissible under the rules of evidence applicable in trial by 

general courts-martial may be admitted in a trial by military commission only if—

(1) the proponent of the evidence makes known to the adverse party, sufficiently in 

advance to provide the adverse party with a fair opportunity to meet the evidence, the 

proponent's intention to offer the evidence, and the particulars of the evidence (including 

information on the circumstances under which the evidence was obtained); and

(2) the military judge, after taking into account all of the circumstances surrounding the 

taking of the statement, including the degree to which the statement is corroborated, the indicia 

of reliability within the statement itself, and whether the will of the declarant was overborne, 

determines that—

(A) the statement is offered as evidence of a material fact;

(B) the statement is probative for which it is offered;

(C) direct testimony from the witness is not available as a practical matter, taking 

into consideration the physical location of the witness, the unique circumstances of military and 

intelligence operations during hostilities, and the adverse impacts on military or intelligence 

operations that would likely result from the production of the witnesses; and

(D) the general purposes of the rules of evidence and the interests of justice will 

best be served by admission of the statement into evidence.

(c) The disclosure of information under this section is subject to the requirements and limitations 

applicable to the disclosure of classified information in Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 505 and 506 as 

applicable. 

Rule 804.

Reserved.

Rule 805. Hearsay within hearsay

Hearsay included within hearsay is not excluded under the hearsay rule if each part of the 

combined statements would be admissible in a military commission convened under chapter 47A 

of Title 10. 

Rule 806.

Reserved.
III-58

Rule 807. Attacking and supporting credibility of declarant 

When a hearsay statement, or a statement defined in Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 801(d)(2)(C), (D), or 

(E), has been admitted in evidence, the credibility of the declarant may be attacked, and if 

attacked may be supported, by any evidence which would be admissible for those purposes if 

declarant had testified as a witness. Evidence of a statement or conduct by the declarant at any 

time, inconsistent with the declarant’s hearsay statement, is not subject to any requirement that 

the declarant may have been afforded an opportunity to deny or explain. If the party against 

whom a hearsay statement has been admitted calls the declarant as a witness, the party is entitled 

to examine the declarant on the statement as if under cross-examination. 
III-59

SECTION IX

AUTHENTICATION AND IDENTIFICATION

Rule 901. Requirement of authentication or identification 

Evidence shall be admitted as authentic if:—

(a) the military judge determines that there is sufficient basis to find that the evidence is what it 

is claimed to be; and 

(b) the military judge instructs the members that they may consider any issue as to authentication 

or identification of evidence in determining the weight, if any, to be given to the evidence. 

Discussion

Mil. Comm. R. Evid. 901 tracks 10 U.S.C. 949a(b)(3)(C)

Rule 902.

Reserved.

Rule 903.

Reserved.
III-60

SECTION X

Reserved.
III-61

SECTION XI

Reserved.
IV-1

PART IV—CRIMES AND ELEMENTS

Elements of offenses for cases triable by military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, 

United States Code, may be prescribed by the Secretary of Defense. Such procedures may not be 

contrary to or inconsistent with chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code.

1. Definitions; construction of certain offenses; common circumstances 

(a) Definitions. In this Part: 

(1) Military objective. The term ‘military objective’ means— 

(A) combatants; and 

(B) those objects during hostilities—

(i) which, by their nature, location, purpose, or use, effectively contribute 

to the opposing force’s war-fighting or war-sustaining capability; and 

(ii) the total or partial destruction, capture, or neutralization of which 

would constitute a definite military advantage to the attacker under the circumstances at the time 

of the attack. 

(2) Protected person. The term ‘protected person’ means any person entitled to protection 

under one or more of the Geneva Conventions, including— 

(A) civilians not taking an active part in hostilities; 

(B) military personnel placed out of combat by sickness, wounds, or detention; 

and 

(C) military medical or religious personnel. 

(3) Protected property. The term ‘protected property’ means any property specifically 

protected by the law of war (including buildings dedicated to religion, education, art, science or 

charitable purposes, historic monuments, hospitals, and places where the sick and wounded are 

collected), if such property is not being used for military purposes or is not otherwise a military 

objective. Such term includes objects properly identified by one of the distinctive emblems of the 

Geneva Conventions, but does not include civilian property that is a military objective. 

(b) Construction of certain offenses. The intent required for offenses under paragraphs (1), (2), 

(3), (4), and (12) of section 950t of title 10 precludes the applicability of such offense with 

regard to collateral damage or to death, damage, or injury incident to a lawful attack.
IV-2

(c) Common circumstances. An offense specified in this Part is triable by military commission 

under chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, only if the offense is committed in the context 

of and associated with hostilities.

(d) Effect. The provisions of this Part codify offenses that have traditionally been triable by 

military commission. This Part does not establish new crimes that did not exist before the date 

of the enactment of subchapter VIII of chapter 47 of title 10, United States Code, as amended by 

the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010, but rather codifies those crimes for 

trial by military commission. Because the provisions of this Part codify offenses that have 

traditionally been triable by military commission, this Part does not preclude trial for offenses 

that occurred before the date of the enactment of subchapter VIII of chapter 47 of title 10, United 

States Code, as so amended.

2. Principals 

a. Text. “Any person punishable under this chapter who— 

(1) commits an offense punishable by this chapter, or aids, abets, counsels, commands, or 

procures its commission; 

(2) causes an act to be done which if directly performed by him would be punishable by 

this chapter; or 

(3) is a superior commander who, with regard to acts punishable under this chapter, 

knew, had reason to know, or should have known, that a subordinate was about to commit such 

acts or had done so and who failed to take the necessary and reasonable measures to prevent such 

acts or to punish the perpetrators thereof is a principal.”

3. Accessory after the fact 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who, knowing that an offense punishable by this 

chapter has been committed, receives, comforts, or assists the offender in order to hinder or 

prevent his apprehension, trial, or punishment shall be punished as a military commission under 

this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) That an offense punishable by chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, was 

committed by a certain person; 

(2) That the accused knew that this person had committed such an offense; 

(3) That thereafter the accused received, comforted, or assisted the offender; and 

(4) That the accused did so for the purpose of hindering or preventing the apprehension, 

trial, or punishment of the offender. 
IV-3

c. Maximum punishment. Any person subject to chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, 

who is found guilty as an accessory after the fact to an offense punishable by that chapter, shall 

be subject to the maximum punishment authorized for the principal offense, except that in no 

case shall the death penalty nor more than one-half of the maximum confinement authorized for 

that offense be adjudged, nor shall the period of confinement exceed 10 years in any case, 

including offenses for which life imprisonment may be adjudged. 

4. Conviction of lesser included offense 

a. Text. “An accused may be found guilty of an offense necessarily included in the offense 

charged or of an attempt to commit either the offense charged or an attempt to commit either the 

offense charged or an offense necessarily included therein.” 

5. Crimes triable by military commission 

The following offenses shall be triable by military commission under chapter 47A of title 10, 

United States Code, at any time.

(1) MURDER OF PROTECTED PERSONS. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who intentionally kills one or more protected 

persons shall be punished by death or such other punishment as a military commission under this 

chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused without justification or excuse, intentionally and unlawfully kills a 

protected person; 

(2) The accused knew or should have known of the factual circumstances that established 

that person’s protected status; and 

(3) The killing took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Comment. The intent required for this offense precludes its applicability with regard to 

collateral damage or death, damage, or injury incident to a lawful attack.

d. Maximum punishment. Death. 

(2) ATTACKING CIVILIANS. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who intentionally engages in an attack upon a 

civilian population as such, or individual civilians not taking active part in hostilities, shall be 

punished, if death results to one or more of the victims, by death or such other punishment as a 

military commission under this chapter may direct, and, if death does not result to any of the 
IV-4

victims, by such punishment, other than death, as a military commission under this chapter may 

direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused engaged in an attack; 

(2) The object of the attack was a civilian population as such, or individual civilians not 

taking direct or active part in hostilities; 

(3) The accused intended the civilian population as such, or individual civilians not 

taking direct or active part in hostilities, to be an object of the attack; 

(4) The accused knew or should have known of the factual circumstances that established 

the civilian status; and 

(5) The attack took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Comment. The intent required for this offense precludes its applicability with regard to 

collateral damage or death, damage, or injury incident to a lawful attack. 

d. Maximum punishment. Death, if the death of any person occurs as a result of the attack on 

civilians. Otherwise, confinement for life. 

(3) ATTACKING CIVILIAN OBJECTS. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who intentionally engages in an attack upon a 

civilian object that is not a military objective shall be punished as a military commission under 

this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused engaged in an attack; 

(2) The object of the attack was civilian property, that is, property that was not a military 

objective; 

(3) The accused intended such civilian property to be an object of the attack; 

(4) The accused knew or should have known that such property was not a military 

objective; and 

(5) The attack took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Comment. The intent required for this offense precludes its applicability with regard to 

collateral damage or death, damage, or injury incident to a lawful attack. 
IV-5

d. Maximum punishment. Confinement for 20 years. 

(4) ATTACKING PROTECTED PROPERTY. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who intentionally engages in an attack upon 

protected property shall be punished as a military commission under this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused engaged in an attack; 

(2) The object of the attack was protected property; 

(3) The accused intended such protected property to be an object of the attack; 

(4) The accused knew or should have known of the factual circumstances that established 

the property’s protected status; and 

(5) The attack took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Comment. The intent required for this offense precludes its applicability with regard to 

collateral damage or death, damage, or injury incident to a lawful attack. 

d. Maximum punishment. Confinement for 20 years. 

(5) PILLAGING. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who intentionally and in the absence of military 

necessity appropriates or seizes property for private or personal use, without the consent of a 

person with authority to permit such appropriation or seizure, shall be punished as a military 

commission under this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused appropriated or seized certain property; 

(2) The accused intended to appropriate or seize such property for private or personal use; 

(3) The appropriation or seizure was without the consent of the owner of the property or 

other person with authority to permit such appropriation or seizure; and 

(4) The appropriation or seizure took place in the context of and was associated with 

hostilities. 

c. Maximum punishment. Confinement for 20 years. 
IV-6

(6) DENYING QUARTER. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who, with effective command or control over 

subordinate groups, declares, orders, or otherwise indicates to those groups that there shall be no 

survivors or surrender accepted, with the intent to threaten an adversary or to conduct hostilities 

such that there would be no survivors or surrender accepted, shall be punished as a military 

commission under this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused declared, ordered, or otherwise indicated that there shall be no survivors 

or surrender accepted; 

(2) The accused thereby intended to threaten an adversary or to conduct hostilities such 

that there would be no survivors or surrender accepted; 

(3) It was foreseeable that circumstances would be such that a practicable and reasonable 

ability to accept surrender would exist; 

(4) The accused was in a position of effective command or control over the subordinate 

forces to which the declaration or order was directed; and 

(5) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Maximum punishment. Confinement for life. 

(7) TAKING HOSTAGES. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who, having knowingly seized or detained one or 

more persons, threatens to kill, injure, or continue to detain such person or persons with the 

intent of compelling any nation, person other than the hostage, or group of persons to act or 

refrain from acting as an explicit or implicit condition for the safety or release of such person or 

persons, shall be punished, if death results to one or more of the victims, by death or such other 

punishment as a military commission under this chapter may direct, and, if death does not result 

to any of the victims, by such punishment, other than death, as a military commission under this 

chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused seized, detained, or held hostage one or more persons; 

(2) The accused threatened to kill, injure, or continue to detain such person or persons; 

(3) The accused intended to compel a State, an international organization, a natural or 

legal person, or a group of persons, to act or refrain from acting as an explicit or implicit 

condition for the safety or release of such person; and 
IV-7

(4) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Maximum punishment. Death, if the death of any person occurs as a result of the hostage 

taking. Otherwise, confinement for life. 

(8) EMPLOYING POISON OR SIMILAR WEAPONS. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who intentionally, as a method of warfare, employs 

a substance or weapon that releases a substance that causes death or serious and lasting damage 

to health in the ordinary course of events, through its asphyxiating, bacteriological, or toxic 

properties, shall be punished, if death results to one or more of the victims, by death or such 

other punishment as a military commission under this chapter may direct, and, if death does not 

result to any of the victims, by such punishment, other than death, as a military commission 

under this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused intentionally employed a substance or a weapon that releases a substance 

as a result of its employment; 

(2) The substance was such that causes death or serious damage to health in the ordinary 

course of events through its asphyxiating, poisonous, bacteriological properties; 

(3) The accused employed the substance or weapon with the intent of utilizing such 

asphyxiating, poisonous, bacteriological properties as a method of warfare; 

(4) The accused knew or should have known of the nature of the substance or weapon 

employed; and 

(5) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Comment. 

(1) The “death or serious damage to health” required of the offense must be a direct result 

of the substance’s effect or effects on the human body (e.g., asphyxiation caused by the depletion 

of atmospheric oxygen secondary to a chemical or other reaction would not give rise to this 

offense). 

(2) The clause “serious damage to health” does not include temporary incapacitation or 

sensory irritation. 

(3) The use of the “substance or weapon” at issue must be proscribed under the law of 

armed conflict. It may include chemical or biological agents. 
IV-8

(4) The specific intent element for this offense precludes liability for mere knowledge of 

potential collateral consequences (e.g., mere knowledge of a secondary asphyxiating or toxic 

effect would be insufficient to complete the offense). 

d. Maximum punishment. Death, if the death of any person occurs as a result of the employment 

of the substance or weapon. Otherwise, confinement for life. 

(9) USING PROTECTED PERSONS AS A SHIELD. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who positions, or otherwise takes advantage of, a 

protected person with the intent to shield a military objective from attack, or to shield, favor, or 

impede military operations, shall be punished, if death results to one or more of the victims, by 

death or such other punishment as a military commission under this chapter may direct, and, if 

death does not result to any of the victims, by such punishment, other than death, as a military 

commission under this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused positioned or took advantage of the location of a protected person; 

(2) The accused did so with the intent to shield a military objective from attack or to 

shield, favor, or impede military operations; and 

(3) The act took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Maximum punishment. Death, if the death of any person occurs as a result of the use of a 

protected person as a shield. Otherwise, confinement for life. 

(10) USING PROTECTED PROPERTY AS A SHIELD. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who positions, or otherwise takes advantage of the 

location of, protected property with the intent to shield a military objective from attack, or to 

shield, favor, or impede military operations, shall be punished as a military commission under 

this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused positioned or otherwise took advantage of the location of protected 

property; 

(2) The accused did so with the intent to shield a military objective from attack, or to 

shield, favor, or impede military operations; and 

(3) The act took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Maximum punishment. Confinement for life. 
IV-9

(11) TORTURE. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who commits an act specifically intended to inflict 

severe physical or mental pain or suffering (other than pain or suffering incidental to lawful 

sanctions) upon another person within his custody or physical control for the purpose of 

obtaining information or a confession, punishment, intimidation, coercion, or any reason based 

on discrimination of any kind, shall be punished, if death results to one or more of the victims, 

by death or such other punishment as a military commission under this chapter may direct, and, 

if death does not result to any of the victims, by such punishment, other than death, as a military 

commission under this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused inflicted severe physical or mental pain or suffering upon one or more 

persons; 

(2) The accused did so for the purpose of obtaining information or a confession, 

punishment, intimidation, coercion, or any reason based on discrimination of any kind; 

(3) The accused intended to inflict such severe physical or mental pain or suffering; 

(4) The infliction of pain or suffering was not incidental to lawful sanctions; 

(5) Such person or persons were in the custody or under the control of the accused at the

time of the alleged offense; and 

(6) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Explanation. 

(1) This offense does not include pain or suffering arising only from, inherent in, or 

incidental to, lawfully imposed sanctions or punishments. This offense does not include the 

incidental infliction of pain or suffering associated with the lawful conduct of hostilities. 

(2) Severe “mental pain or suffering” is the prolonged mental harm caused by or resulting 

from: 

(a) the intentional infliction or threatened infliction of severe physical pain or 

suffering; 

(b) the administration or application, or threatened administration or application, 

of mind-altering substances or other procedures calculated to disrupt profoundly the senses or the 

personality; 

(c) the threat of imminent death; or 
IV-10

(d) the threat that another person will imminently be subjected to death, severe 

physical pain or suffering, or the administration or application of mind-altering substances or 

other procedures calculated to disrupt profoundly the senses or personality. 

(3) “Prolonged mental harm” is a harm of some sustained duration, though not 

necessarily permanent in nature, such as a clinically identifiable mental disorder. 

(4) Element (b)(4) of this offense does not require a particular formal relationship 

between the accused and the victim. Rather, it precludes prosecution for pain or suffering 

consequent to a lawful military attack. 

d. Maximum punishment. Death, if the death of any person occurs as a result of the torture. 

Otherwise, confinement for life. 

(12) CRUEL OR INHUMAN TREATMENT. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who subjects another person in their custody or 

under their physical control, regardless of nationality or physical location, to cruel or inhuman 

treatment that constitutes a grave breach of common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions shall 

be punished, if death results to the victim, by death or such other punishment as a military 

commission under this chapter may direct, and, if death does not result to the victim, by such 

punishment, other than death, as a military commission under this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused wrongfully and unlawfully subjected another person or persons to cruel 

or inhuman treatment; 

(2) The accused intended to subject another person or persons to cruel or inhuman 

treatment; 

(3) The subjection of such person or persons to cruel or inhuman treatment was a grave 

breach of common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions;

(4) The subjection of such cruel or inhuman treatment was not incidental to lawful 

sanctions; 

(5) Such person or persons were in the custody or under the control of the accused at the 

time of the alleged offense; and 

(6) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Comment. The intent required for this offense precludes its applicability with regard to 

collateral damage or death, damage, or injury incident to a lawful attack. 
IV-11

d. Maximum punishment. Death, if the death of any person occurs as a result of the cruel or 

inhuman treatment. Otherwise, confinement for life. 

(13) INTENTIONALLY CAUSING SERIOUS BODILY INJURY. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who intentionally causes serious bodily injury to one 

or more persons, including privileged belligerents, in violation of the law of war shall be 

punished, if death results to one or more of the victims, by death or such other punishment as a 

military commission under this chapter may direct, and, if death does not result to any of the 

victims, by such punishment, other than death, as a military commission under this chapter may 

direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused caused serious injury to the body or health of one or more persons; 

(2) The accused intended to inflict such serious injury upon the person or persons; 

(3) The injury was done with unlawful force or violence; 

(4) The serious bodily injury inflicted by the accused was in violation of the law of war; 

and 

(5) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Definition. SERIOUS BODILY INJURY DEFINED.— the term ‘serious bodily injury’ means 

bodily injury which involves— 

(1) a substantial risk of death; 

(2) extreme physical pain; 

(3) protracted and obvious disfigurement; or 

(4) protracted loss or impairment of the function of a bodily member, organ, or mental 

faculty. 

d. Comment. For purposes of offenses (13), (15), (16), and (27) in Part IV of this Manual 

(corresponding to offenses enumerated in paragraphs (13), (15), (16), and (27) of § 950t of title 

10, United States Code), an accused may be convicted in a military commission for these 

offenses if the commission finds that the accused employed a means (e.g., poison gas) or method 

(e.g., perfidy) prohibited by the law of war; intentionally attacked a “protected person” or 

“protected property” under the law of war; or engaged in conduct traditionally triable by military 

commission (e.g., spying; murder committed while the accused did not meet the requirements of 

privileged belligerency) even if such conduct does not violate the international law of war. 
IV-12

e. Maximum punishment. Death, if the death of any person occurs as a result of the serious 

bodily injury. Otherwise, 20 years confinement. 

(14) MUTILATING OR MAIMING. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who intentionally injures one or more protected 

persons by disfiguring the person or persons by any mutilation of the person or persons, or by 

permanently disabling any member, limb, or organ of the body of the person or persons, without 

any legitimate medical or dental purpose, shall be punished, if death results to one or more of the 

victims, by death or such other punishment as a military commission under this chapter may 

direct, and, if death does not result to any of the victims, by such punishment, other than death, 

as a military commission under this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused injured one or more persons by permanently disfiguring the person or 

persons or by permanently disabling any member, limb, or organ of the body of the person or 

persons; 

(2) The accused intended to subject such person or persons to such mutilation; 

(3) The person or persons was or were protected persons; 

(4) The injuries were done with unlawful force and violence; 

(5) The conduct caused the death or seriously damaged or endangered the physical health 

or mental health or physical appearance of such person or persons; 

(6) The injuries did not have any legitimate medical or dental purpose; and 

(7) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Comment. It is mutilation or maiming to put out a person’s eye, to cut off a hand, foot, or 

finger, or to knock out a tooth, as these injuries destroy or disable those members or organs. It is 

also mutilation or maiming to injure an internal organ so as to seriously diminish the physical 

vigor of a person. Likewise, it is mutilation or maiming to cut off an ear or to scar a face with 

acid, as these injuries seriously disfigure a person. A disfigurement need not mutilate any entire 

member to come within the article, or be of any particular type, but must be such as to impair 

perceptibly and materially the victim’s comeliness. The disfigurement, diminishment of vigor, 

or destruction or disablement of any member or organ must be a serious injury of a substantially 

permanent nature. However, the offense is complete if such an injury is inflicted even though 

there is a possibility that the victim may eventually recover the use of the member or organ, or 

that the disfigurement may be cured by surgery. 

d. Maximum Punishment. Death, if the death of any person occurs as a result of the mutilation or 

maiming. Otherwise, confinement for 20 years. 
IV-13

(15) MURDER IN VIOLATION OF THE LAW OF WAR. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who intentionally kills one or more persons, 

including privileged belligerents, in violation of the law of war shall be punished by death or 

such other punishment as a military commission under this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) One or more persons are dead; 

(2) The death of the persons resulted from the act or omission of the accused; 

(3) The killing was unlawful; 

(4) The accused intended to kill the person or persons; 

(5) The killing was in violation of the law of war; and 

(6) The killing took place in the context of and was associated with an hostilities. 

c. Comment. For purposes of offenses (13), (15), (16), and (27) in Part IV of this Manual 

(corresponding to offenses enumerated in paragraphs (13), (15), (16), and (27) of § 950t of title 

10, United States Code), an accused may be convicted in a military commission for these 

offenses if the commission finds that the accused employed a means (e.g., poison gas) or method 

(e.g., perfidy) prohibited by the law of war; intentionally attacked a “protected person” or 

“protected property” under the law of war; or engaged in conduct traditionally triable by military 

commission (e.g., spying; murder committed while the accused did not meet the requirements of 

privileged belligerency) even if such conduct does not violate the international law of war. 

d. Maximum punishment. Death. 

(16) DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY IN VIOLATION OF THE LAW OF WAR. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who intentionally destroys property belonging to 

another person in violation of the law of war shall be punished as a military commission under 

this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused destroyed property; 

(2) The property belonged to another person; 

(3) The accused destroyed the property without that person’s consent; 

(4) The accused intended to destroy such property; 
IV-14

(5) The destruction of the property was in violation of the law of war; and 

(6) The destruction took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Comment. For purposes of offenses (13), (15), (16), and (27) in Part IV of this Manual 

(corresponding to offenses enumerated in paragraphs (13), (15), (16), and (27) of § 950t of title 

10, United States Code), an accused may be convicted in a military commission for these 

offenses if the commission finds that the accused employed a means (e.g., poison gas) or method 

(e.g., perfidy) prohibited by the law of war; intentionally attacked a “protected person” or 

“protected property” under the law of war; or engaged in conduct traditionally triable by military 

commission (e.g., spying; murder committed while the accused did not meet the requirements of 

privileged belligerency) even if such conduct does not violate the international law of war.

d. Maximum punishment. Confinement for 10 years. 

(17) USING TREACHERY OR PERFIDY. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who, after inviting the confidence or belief of one or 

more persons that they were entitled to, or obliged to accord, protection under the law of war, 

intentionally makes use of that confidence or belief in killing, injuring, or capturing such person 

or persons shall be punished, if death results to one or more of the victims, by death or such other 

punishment as a military commission under this chapter may direct, and, if death does not result 

to any of the victims, by such punishment, other than death, as a military commission under this 

chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused invited the confidence or belief of one or more persons that they were 

entitled, or obliged to accord, protection under the law of war; 

(2) The accused intended to betray that confidence or belief; 

(3) The accused killed, injured or captured one or more persons; 

(4) The accused made use of that confidence or belief in killing, injuring or capturing 

such person or persons; and 

(5) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Comment. 

(1) Ruses of war are legitimate so long as they do not involve treachery or perfidy on the 

part of the belligerent resorting to them. They are, however, forbidden if they contravene any 

generally accepted rule. 
IV-15

(2) The line of demarcation between legitimate ruses and forbidden acts of perfidy is 

sometimes indistinct, but the following examples indicate the correct principles. It would be an 

improper practice to secure an advantage of the enemy by deliberate lying or misleading conduct 

which involves a breach of faith, or when there is a moral obligation to speak the truth. For 

example, it is improper to feign surrender so as to secure an advantage over the opposing 

belligerent thereby. So similarly, to broadcast to the enemy that an armistice had been agreed 

upon when such is not the case would be treacherous. On the other hand, it is a perfectly proper 

ruse to summon a force to surrender on the ground that it is surrounded and thereby induce such 

surrender with a small force. 

(3) Treacherous or perfidious conduct in war is forbidden because it destroys the basis for 

a restoration of peace short of the complete annihilation of one belligerent by the other. 

(4) One may commit an act of treachery or perfidy by, for example, feigning an intent to 

negotiate under a flag of truce or a surrender or feigning incapacitation by wounds or sickness or 

feigning a civilian, non-combatant status or feigning a protected status by the use of signs, 

emblems, or uniforms of the United Nations or a neutral State or a State not party to the conflict. 

d. Maximum punishment. Death, if the death of any person occurs as a result of the improper use 

of the treachery or perfidy. Otherwise, confinement for life. 

(18) IMPROPERLY USING A FLAG OF TRUCE. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who uses a flag of truce to feign an intention to 

negotiate, surrender, or otherwise suspend hostilities when there is no such intention shall be 

punished as a military commission under this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused used a flag of truce; 

(2) The accused made such use of the flag in order to feign an intention to negotiate, 

surrender, or otherwise suspend hostilities; 

(3) The accused had no intention to negotiate, surrender, or otherwise suspend hostilities; 

and 

(4) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Maximum punishment. Confinement for 20 years. 

(19) IMPROPERLY USING A DISTINCTIVE EMBLEM. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who intentionally uses a distinctive emblem 

recognized by the law of war for combatant purposes in a manner prohibited by the law of war 

shall be punished as a military commission under this chapter may direct.” 
IV-16

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused used a distinctive emblem recognized by the law of war for combatant 

purposes; 

(2) The accused used the distinctive emblem in a manner prohibited by the law of war; 

(3) The accused knew or should have known of the prohibited nature of such use; and 

(4) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Comment. 

(1) “Combatant purposes,” means purposes directly related to hostilities and does not 

include medical, religious, or similar activities. 

(2) The use of the emblem of the Red Cross and other equivalent insignia must be limited 

to the indication or protection of medical units and establishments, the personnel and material 

protected by the Geneva Convention for the Amelioration of the Condition of the Wounded and 

Sick in Armed Forces of the Field and other similar conventions. The following are examples of 

the improper use of the emblem: using a hospital or other building accorded such protection as 

an observation post or military office or depot; firing from a building or tent displaying the 

emblem of the Red Cross; using a hospital train or airplane to facilitate the escape of combatants; 

displaying the emblem on vehicles containing ammunition or other non-medical stores; and in 

general using it for cloaking acts of hostility. 

d. Maximum punishment. Confinement for 20 years. 

(20) INTENTIONALLY MISTREATING A DEAD BODY. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who intentionally mistreats the body of a dead 

person, without justification by legitimate military necessary, shall be punished as a military 

commission under this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused mistreated or otherwise violated the dignity of the body of a dead person; 

(2) The accused’s actions were not justified by legitimate military necessity; 

(3) The accused intended to mistreat or violate the dignity of such body; and 

(4) This act took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 
IV-17

c. Comment. 

(1) This offense is designed to criminalize only the most serious conduct. 

(2) To mistreat or otherwise violate the dignity of the body of a dead person requires 

severe physical desecrations, such as dismemberment, sexual or other defilement, or mutilation 

of dead bodies, especially if publicly displayed, that, as a result, do not respect the remains of the 

deceased; it does not include photography of a corpse unaccompanied by acts of severe 

disrespect.

(3) The term “necessary” as used in this section means “necessity.” 

d. Maximum punishment. Confinement for 20 years. 

(21) RAPE. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who forcibly or with coercion or threat of force 

wrongfully invades the body of a person by penetrating, however slightly, the anal or genital 

opening of the victim with any part of the body of the accused, or with any foreign object, shall 

be punished as a military commission under this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused wrongfully invaded the body of a person by conduct resulting in 

penetration, however slight, of any part of the body of the victim or of the accused, with a sexual 

organ, or of the anal or genital opening of the victim with any object or any other part of the 

body; 

(2) The invasion was committed by force, threat of force or coercion or against a person 

incapable of giving consent; and 

(3) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Comment. 

(1) This offense recognizes that consensual conduct does not give rise to this offense. 

(2) It is understood that a person may be incapable of giving consent if affected by 

natural, induced, or age-related incapacity. 

(3) The concept of “invasion” is linked to the inherent wrongfulness requirement. In this 

case, for example, a legitimate body cavity search could not give rise to this offense. 

(4) The concept of “invasion” is gender neutral. 

d. Maximum punishment. Confinement for life. 
IV-18

(22) SEXUAL ASSAULT OR ABUSE. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who forcibly or with coercion or threat of force 

engages in sexual contact with one or more persons, or causes one or more persons to engage in 

sexual contact, shall be punished as a military commission under this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused wrongfully engaged in sexual contact with one or more persons or 

wrongfully caused one or more persons to engage in sexual contact; 

(2) The sexual contact was committed by force, threat of force or coercion or against a 

person incapable of giving consent; and 

(3) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Comment. Sexual assault or abuse is defined as intentional sexual contact, characterized by 

use of force, physical threat of force or abuse of authority or when the victim does not or cannot 

consent. Sexual assault includes rape, nonconsensual sodomy (oral or anal sex), indecent assault 

(unwanted, inappropriate sexual contact or fondling), or attempts to commit these acts. Sexual 

assault can occur without regard to gender or spousal relationship or age of victim.

d. Maximum punishment. Confinement for life. 

(23) HIJACKING OR HAZARDING A VESSEL OR AIRCRAFT. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who intentionally seizes, exercises unauthorized 

control over, or endangers the safe navigation of a vessel or aircraft that is not a legitimate 

military objective shall be punished, if death results to one or more of the victims, by death or 

such other punishment as a military commission under this chapter may direct, and, if death does 

not result to any of the victims, by such punishment, other than death, as a military commission 

under this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused seized, exercised control over, or endangered the safe navigation of a 

vessel, or an aircraft; 

(2) The accused intended to seize, exercise control over, or endanger the safe navigation 

of such vessel or aircraft; 

(3) The vessel or aircraft was not a legitimate military objective; and 

(4) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 
IV-19

c. Comment. 

(1) General. A seizure, exercise of control, or endangerment required by military 

necessity, or against a lawful military objective undertaken by military forces of a State in the 

exercise of their official duties would not satisfy the wrongfulness requirement for this crime. 

(2) Hazard. “Hazard” means to put in danger of loss or injury. Actual damage to, or loss 

of, a vessel or aircraft by collision, stranding, running upon a shoal or a rock, or by any other 

cause, is conclusive evidence that the vessel or aircraft was hazarded but not of the fact of 

culpability on the part of any particular person. Hazarding a vessel or aircraft includes shooting 

at it with missiles, firearms, laser devices, or attacking it with other instruments intended to 

endanger the safe navigation of the vessel or aircraft. 

d. Maximum punishment. Death, if the death of any person occurs as a result of the hijacking or 

hazarding of a vessel or aircraft. Otherwise, confinement for life. 

(24) TERRORISM. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who intentionally kills or inflicts great bodily harm 

on one or more protected persons, or intentionally engages in an act that evinces a wanton 

disregard for human life, in a manner calculated to influence or affect the conduct of government 

or civilian population by intimidation or coercion, or to retaliate against government conduct, 

shall be punished, if death results to one or more of the victims, by death or such other 

punishment as a military commission under this chapter may direct, and, if death does not result 

to any of the victims, by such punishment, other than death, as a military commission under this 

chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused intentionally killed or inflicted great bodily harm on one or more 

protected persons or engaged in an act that evinced a wanton disregard for human life; 

(2) The accused did so in a manner calculated to influence or affect the conduct of 

government or civilian population by intimidation or coercion, or to retaliate against government 

conduct; and 

(3) The killing, harm or wanton disregard for human life took place in the context of and 

was associated with hostilities. 

c. Comment. 

(1) This offense includes the concept of causing death or bodily harm, even if indirectly. 

(2) The requirement that the conduct be wrongful for this crime necessitates that the 

conduct establishing this offense not constitute an attack against a lawful military objective 

undertaken by military forces of a State in the exercise of their official duties. 
IV-20

d. Maximum Punishment. Death, if the death of any person occurs as a result of the terrorist act. 

Otherwise, confinement for life. 

(25) PROVIDING MATERIAL SUPPORT FOR TERRORISM. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who provides material support or resources,

knowing or intending that they are to be used in preparation for, or in carrying out, an act of 

terrorism (as set forth in paragraph (24) of this section), or who intentionally provides material 

support or resources to an international terrorist organization engaged in hostilities against the 

United States, knowing that such organization has engaged or engages in terrorism (as so set 

forth), shall be punished as a military commission under this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. The elements of this offense can be met either by meeting (i) all of the elements in 

A, or (ii) all of the elements in B, or (iii) all of the elements in both A and B: 

A. (1) The accused provided material support or resources to be used in preparation for, 

or in carrying out, an act of terrorism (as set forth in paragraph (24)); 

(2) The accused knew or intended that the material support or resources were to be used 

for those purposes; and 

(3) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with an hostilities. 

B. (1) The accused provided material support or resources to an international terrorist 

organization engaged in hostilities against the United States; 

(2) The accused intended to provide such material support or resources to such an 

international terrorist organization; 

(3) The accused knew that such organization has engaged or engages in terrorism; and 

(4) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Definition. “Material support or resources” means any property, tangible or intangible, or 

service, including currency or monetary instruments or financial securities, financial services, 

lodging, training, expert advice or assistance, safehouses, false documentation or identification, 

communications equipment, facilities, weapons, lethal substances, explosives, personnel (one or 

more individuals who may be or include oneself), and transportation, except medicine or 

religious materials. 

d. Maximum punishment. Confinement for life. 

(26) WRONGFULLY AIDING THE ENEMY. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who, in breach of an allegiance or duty to the United 

States, knowingly and intentionally aids an enemy of the United States, or one of the co-
IV-21

belligerents of the enemy, shall be punished as a military commission under this chapter may 

direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused aided the enemy; 

(2) The accused intended to aid the enemy; 

(3) At the time of the accused’s actions, the accused had an allegiance or duty to the 

United States; and

(4) The accused’s acts and intentions, taken together, comprised a breach of the accused’s 

allegiance or duty to the United States; and

(5) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Comment. 

(1) The means the accused can use to aid the enemy include but are not limited to: 

providing arms, ammunition, supplies, money, other items or services to the enemy; harboring or 

protecting the enemy; or giving intelligence or other information to the enemy. 

(2) The requirement that conduct be wrongful for the crime necessitates that the accused 

act without proper authority. For example, furnishing unprivileged enemy belligerents detained 

during hostilities with subsistence quarters in accordance with applicable orders or policy is not 

aiding the enemy. 

(3) The requirement that conduct be wrongful for this crime necessitates that the accused 

owe allegiance or some duty to the United States of America. For example, citizenship, resident 

alien status, or a contractual relationship in or with the United States is sufficient to satisfy this 

requirement so long as the relationship existed at a time relevant to the offense alleged. 

d. Maximum punishment. Confinement for life. 

(27) SPYING. 

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who, in violation of the law of war and with intent or 

reason to believe that it is to be used to the injury of the United States or to the advantage of a 

foreign power, collects or attempts to collect information by clandestine means or while acting 

under false pretenses, for the purpose of conveying such information to an enemy of the United 

States, or one of the co-belligerents of the enemy, shall be punished by death or such other 

punishment as a military commission under this chapter may direct.” 
IV-22

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused collected or attempted to collect certain information by clandestine 

means or while acting under false pretenses; 

(2) The accused intended or had reason to believe the information collected would be 

used to injure the United States or to provide an advantage to a foreign power; 

(3) The accused intended to convey such information to an enemy of the United States or 

one of the co-belligerents of the enemy; 

(4) The conduct was in violation of the law of war; and

(5) The conduct took place in the context of and was associated with hostilities. 

c. Comment. For purposes of offenses (13), (15), (16), and (27) in Part IV of this Manual 

(corresponding to offenses enumerated in paragraphs (13), (15), (16), and (27) of § 950t of title 

10, United States Code), an accused may be convicted in a military commission for these 

offenses if the commission finds that the accused employed a means (e.g., poison gas) or method 

(e.g., perfidy) prohibited by the law of war; intentionally attacked a “protected person” or 

“protected property” under the law of war; or engaged in conduct traditionally triable by military 

commission (e.g., spying; murder committed while the accused did not meet the requirements of 

privileged belligerency) even if such conduct does not violate the international law of war.

d. Maximum punishment. Death. 

(28) ATTEMPTS.

a. Text. “(a) IN GENERAL.—Any person subject to this chapter who attempts to commit any 

offense punishable by this chapter shall be punished as a military commission under this chapter 

may direct. 

(b) SCOPE OF OFFENSE.—An act, done with specific intent to commit an offense under 

chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, amounting to more than mere preparation and 

tending, even though failing, to effect its commission, is an attempt to commit that offense. 

(c) EFFECT OF CONSUMMATION.—Any person subject to this chapter may be convicted of 

an attempt to commit an offense although it appears on the trial that the offense was 

consummated.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) That the accused did a certain overt act; 

(2) That the act was done with the specific intent to commit a certain offense under 

chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code; 
IV-23

(3) That the act amounted to more than mere preparation; and

(4) That the act apparently tended to effect the commission of the intended offense. 

c. Maximum punishment. Any person subject to chapter 47A of title 10, United States Code, 

who is found guilty of an attempt to commit any offense punishable by that chapter shall be 

subject to the same maximum punishment authorized for the commission of the offense 

attempted, except that in no case shall the death penalty be adjudged; and in no case, other than 

attempted murder, shall confinement exceeding 20 years be adjudged. 

(29) CONSPIRACY.

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who conspires to commit one or more substantive 

offenses triable by military commission under this chapter, and who knowingly does any overt 

act to effect the object of the conspiracy, shall be punished, if death results to one or more of the 

victims, by death or such other punishment as a military commission under this chapter may 

direct, and, if death does not result to any of the victims, by such punishment, other than death, 

as a military commission under this chapter may direct.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused entered into an agreement with one or more persons to commit one or 

more substantive offenses triable by military commission or otherwise joined an enterprise of 

persons who shared a common criminal purpose that involved, at least in part, the commission or 

intended commission of one or more substantive offenses triable by military commission; 

(2) The accused knew the unlawful purpose of the agreement or the common criminal 

purpose of the enterprise and joined willfully, that is, with the intent to further the unlawful 

purpose; and 

(3) The accused knowingly committed an overt act in order to accomplish some objective 

or purpose of the agreement or enterprise. 

c. Comment. 

(1) Two or more persons are required in order to have a conspiracy. Knowledge of the 

identity of co-conspirators and their particular connection with the agreement or enterprise need 

not be established. A person may be guilty of conspiracy although incapable of committing the 

intended offense. The joining of another conspirator after the conspiracy has been established 

does not create a new conspiracy or affect the status of the other conspirators. The agreement or 

common criminal purpose in a conspiracy need not be in any particular form or manifested in 

any formal words. 

(2) The agreement or enterprise must, at least in part, involve the commission or intended 

commission of one or more substantive offenses triable by military commission. A single 

conspiracy may embrace multiple criminal objectives. The agreement need not include 
IV-24

knowledge that any relevant offense is in fact “triable by military commission.” Although the 

accused must be subject to the MCA, other co-conspirators need not be. 

(3) The overt act must be done by the accused, and it must be done to effectuate the 

object of the conspiracy or in furtherance of the common criminal purpose. The accused need 

not have entered the agreement or criminal enterprise at the time of the overt act. 

(4) The overt act need not be in itself criminal, but it must advance the purpose of the 

conspiracy. Although committing the intended offense may constitute the overt act, it is not 

essential that the object offense be committed. It is not essential that any substantive offense, 

including the object offense, be committed. 

(5) Each conspirator is liable for all offenses committed pursuant to or in furtherance of 

the conspiracy by any of the co-conspirators, after such conspirator has joined the conspiracy and 

while the conspiracy continues and such conspirator remains a party to it. 

(6) A party to the conspiracy who withdraws from or abandons the agreement or 

enterprise before the commission of an overt act by any conspirator is not guilty of conspiracy. 

An effective withdrawal or abandonment must consist of affirmative conduct that is wholly 

inconsistent with adherence to the unlawful agreement or common criminal purpose and that 

shows that the party has severed all connection with the conspiracy. A conspirator who 

effectively withdraws from or abandons the conspiracy after the performance of an overt act 

by one of the conspirators remains guilty of conspiracy and of any offenses committed pursuant 

to the conspiracy up to the time of the withdrawal or abandonment. The withdrawal of a 

conspirator from the conspiracy does not affect the status of the remaining members. 

(7) That the object of the conspiracy was impossible to effect is not a defense to this 

offense. 

(8) Conspiracy to commit an offense is a separate and distinct offense from any offense 

committed pursuant to or in furtherance of the conspiracy, and both the conspiracy and any 

related offense may be charged, tried, and punished separately. Conspiracy should be charged 

separately from the related substantive offense. It is not a lesser-included offense of the 

substantive offense. 

d. Maximum punishment. Death, if the death of any person occurs as a result of the conspiracy or 

joint enterprise. Otherwise, confinement for life. 

(30) SOLICITATION.

a. Text. “Any person subject to this chapter who solicits or advises another or others to commit 

one or more substantive offenses triable by military commission under this chapter shall, if the 

offense solicited or advised is attempted or committed, be punished with the punishment 

provided for the commission of the offense, but, if the offense solicited or advised is not 

committed or attempted, he shall be punished as a military commission under this chapter may 

direct.” 
IV-25

b. Elements. 

(1) That the accused wrongfully solicited, ordered, induced, or advised a person or 

persons to commit a substantive offense triable by military commission; and 

(2) That the accused intended that the offense actually be committed. 

c. Maximum punishment. Confinement for 10 years. 

(31) CONTEMPT.

a. Text. “A military commission under this chapter may punish for contempt any person who 

uses any menacing word, sign, or gesture in its presence, or who disturbs its proceedings by any 

riot or disorder.”

(32) PERJURY AND OBSTRUCTION OF JUSTICE. 

(a) Perjury and false testimony 

a. Text. “A military commission under this chapter may try offenses and impose such 

punishment as the military commission may direct for perjury, false testimony, or obstruction of 

justice related to military commission.” 

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused testified at a military commission, testified in proceedings ancillary to a 

military commission, or provided information in a writing executed under an oath to tell the truth 

or a declaration acknowledging the applicability of penalties of perjury in connection with such 

proceedings; 

(2) Such testimony or information was material; 

(3) Such testimony or information was false; 

(4) The accused knew such testimony or information to be false. 

c. Maximum punishment. Confinement for 5 years. 

(b) Obstruction of Justice

a. Text. “A military commission under this chapter may try offenses and impose such punishment 

as the military commission may direct for perjury, false testimony, or obstruction of justice 

related to military commission.” 
IV-26

b. Elements. 

(1) The accused did an act; 

(2) The accused intended to influence, impede, or otherwise obstruct the due 

administration of justice; and 

(3) The accused did such act in the case of a certain person against whom the accused had 

reason to believe: 

(A) there were or would be proceedings before a military commission; or 

(B) there was an ongoing investigation of offenses triable by military commission. 

c. Maximum punishment. Confinement for 5 years.