The Court also has the responsibility of setting standards for the administration of military justice throughout the world, including the adjudication of all court-martial cases and their review by convening authorities and the Courts of Criminal Appeals within each of the Armed Forces. The principal means of carrying out these responsibilities is by setting forth the appropriate standards in decisions of the Court. The purpose of this position is to provide for a Commissioner to a Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces who has senior professional responsibility to act as legal counsel to the Judge relative to the most difficult, complex, and controversial cases and those which involve unique aspects of constitutional law and will have the greatest impact on the military justice system. Incumbent has the responsibility for preparing draft opinions for the Judge, as well as draft per curiam opinions and final disposition orders for consideration and acceptance by the Judge. The duties of this position require the highest level of trust and confidence by the Judge in the incumbent's ability and thoroughness in completing all cases assigned for action.
Specific duties are as outlined below.
Requires a Top Secret Clearance. Incumbent prepares for the Judge recommended dispositions of cases outlining the facts and applicable law, by either oral presentations, memoranda or briefing papers. Based on findings and conclusions reached in such comprehensive review, incumbent prepares formal draft opinions in accordance with guidelines provided by the Judge. Incumbent is required to undertake additional research, on own initiative and responsibility or as requested by the Judge, in order to develop controversial items, marshal additional facts, verify applicability of citations to the case under review, and broaden the base of precise references readily at hand for use of the Judge during the hearing or when drafting opinions. Experience in practicing law as demonstrated by at least one Year of experience shown must be at the GS-14 level or its equivalent, preferably on the legal staff of the Court or in the field of military law.