Source: http://uscode.house.gov/download/annualhistoricalarchives/XHTML/2004/2004usc10a.htm
Timestamp: 2017-12-17 02:04:20
Document Index: 432188417

Matched Legal Cases: ['§942', '§942', '§862', '§862', '§1651', '§862', '§944', '§942', '§942', '§942', '§862', '§862', '§862', '§867', '§862', '§867', '§862', '§867', '§867', '§867', '§862', '§867', '§862', '§862', '§862', '§866', '§862', '§866', '§867', '§859', '§862', '§867', '§862', '§862', '§867', '§401', '§924', '§869']

TITLE 10—APPENDIX
United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces Rules of Practice and Procedure
Courts of Criminal Appeals Rules of Practice and Procedure
(Effective July 1, 1983, as amended to January 3, 2005)
Oath of Judges.
Senior Judges.
Cases Involving Classified Information.
Qualifications to Practice.
Student Practice Rule.
Disbarment and Disciplinary Action.
Entry of Appearance and Withdrawal by Counsel.
Assignment of Counsel.
Methods of Appeal.
Form of Petition for Grant of Review.
Supplement to Petition for Grant of Review.
Certificate for Review.
Mandatory Review Case.
Form, Content, and Page Limitations.
When Briefs are Required.
Amicus Curiae Briefs.
Petition for Extraordinary Relief, Writ Appeal Petition, Answer, and Reply.
Form of Petition for Extraordinary Relief, Writ Appeal Petition, Answer, and Reply.
PETITIONS FOR NEW TRIAL
Filing, Notice, and Briefs.
Form of Petition for Reconsideration.
Suspension of Rules.
Filing of Record.
Use of Classified Information.
Filing of Pleadings.
Citations to Supplemental Authorities.
Printing, Copying and Style Requirements.
Service of Pleadings.
Photographing, Televising, Recording, or Broadcasting of Hearings.
Filing, Reproduction, and Distribution.
Entry of Judgment.
Issuance of Mandate.
Rules Advisory Committee.
Rule 1. Name
Section 941 of Title 10, United States Code, provides that the name of the Court is the “United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces.”
(As amended Oct. 12, 1994.)
Rule 2. Seal
The official seal of the court is as follows:
In front of a silver sword, point up, a gold and silver balance supporting a pair of silver scales, encircled by an open wreath of oak leaves, green with gold acorns; all on a grey-blue background and within a dark blue band edged in gold and inscribed “UNITED STATES COURT OF APPEALS FOR THE ARMED FORCES” in gold letters.
(As amended Jan. 4, 1995.)
Rule 3. Oath of Judges
Before undertaking the performance of the duties of his office, each Judge appointed to this Court shall take the oath or affirmation prescribed in Section 453 of Title 28, United States Code.
Rule 3A. Senior Judges
(a) With the Senior Judge's consent, and at the request of the Chief Judge, a Senior Judge may perform judicial duties with the Court if an active Judge of the Court is disabled or has recused himself or if there is a vacancy in an active judgeship on the Court. For the periods of time when performing judicial duties with the Court, a Senior Judge shall receive the same pay, per diem, and travel allowances as an active Judge; and the receipt of pay shall be in lieu of receipt of retired pay or annuity with respect to these same periods. The periods of performance of judicial duties by a Senior Judge shall be certified by the Chief Judge and recorded by the Clerk of Court. The Clerk of Court shall notify the appropriate official to make timely payments of pay and allowances with respect to periods of time when a Senior Judge is performing judicial duties with the Court and shall notify the Department of Defense Military Retirement Fund to make appropriate adjustments in the Senior Judge's retired pay or annuity. See Article 142(e)(2), Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), 10 USC §942(e)(2).
(b) In addition to the performance of judicial duties with the Court, a Senior Judge may, at the request of the Chief Judge and with the Senior Judge's consent, perform such other duties as the Chief Judge may request or the Court may direct. Such other duties may include, but are not limited to, service as a special master or as an adviser on Court operations, administration, and rules; representation of the Court at conferences, seminars, committee meetings or other official or professional functions; coordination of or assistance with conferences being conducted by the Court; and assistance in the compilation of history or archives of the Court. A Senior Judge shall not receive pay for the performance of such other duties with the Court but may be paid per diem and travel allowance to reimburse expenses incurred by the Senior Judge while performing such duties.
(c) Whether in the performance of judicial duties or other duties, a Senior Judge shall be provided such administrative and secretarial assistance, office space, and access to the Courthouse, other public buildings, court files, and related information, as the Chief Judge considers appropriate for the performance of those duties by the Senior Judge.
(d) The title of Senior Judge may not be used in any way for personal gain or in connection with any business activity, advertisement, or solicitation of funds. However, the title of a Senior Judge may be referred to in any professional biography or listing and may be used in connection with any judicial or other duties that the Chief Judge requests the Senior Judge to perform.
(e) No Senior Judge of the Court may engage in the practice of law in connection with any matter that involves an investigation or trial for any matter arising under the Uniform Code of Military Justice or appellate review of any court-martial proceeding by a Court of Criminal Appeals, the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, or the Supreme Court of the United States.
(f) These rules shall apply to “senior judges” as defined by Article 142(e)(1), UCMJ, 10 USC 942(e)(1) and are promulgated pursuant to Article 142(e)(5), UCMJ, 10 USC §942(e)(5).
(Added Sept. 29, 1990, eff. Oct. 1, 1990; amended Oct. 12, 1994.)
Rule 4. Jurisdiction
(a) The jurisdiction of the Court is as follows:
(1) Death sentences. Cases in which the sentence, as affirmed by a Court of Criminal Appeals, extends to death. See Rule 18(a)(3);
(2) Certified by a Judge Advocate General. Cases reviewed by a Court of Criminal Appeals, including decisions on appeal by the United States under Article 62, UCMJ, 10 USC §862 (1983), or on application for extraordinary relief filed therein, which a Judge Advocate General forwards by certificate for review to the Court. See Rule 18(a)(2);
(3) Petitions by the accused. Cases reviewed by a Court of Criminal Appeals, including decisions on appeal by the United States under Article 62, UCMJ, 10 USC §862 (1983), in which, upon petition of the accused and on good cause shown, the Court has granted review. See Rule 18(a)(1).
(b) Extraordinary Writs. (1) The Court may, in its discretion, entertain original petitions for extraordinary relief including, but not limited to, writs of mandamus, writs of prohibition, writs of habeas corpus, and writs of error coram nobis. See 28 USC §1651(a) and Rules 18(b), 27(a), and 28. Absent good cause, no such petition shall be filed unless relief has first been sought in the appropriate Court of Criminal Appeals. Original writs are rarely granted.
(2) The Court may, in its discretion, entertain a writ appeal petition to review a decision of a Court of Criminal Appeals on a petition for extraordinary relief. See Rules 18(a)(4), 19(e), 27(b), and 28.
(c) Rules Not to Affect Jurisdiction. These Rules shall not be construed to extend or to limit the jurisdiction of the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces as established by law.
(As amended July 19, 1984, eff. Aug. 1, 1984; Oct. 1, 1987; Oct. 12, 1994; Nov. 1, 1995, eff. Nov. 15, 1995.)
Rule 5. Scope of Review
The Court acts only with respect to the findings and sentence as approved by reviewing authorities, and as affirmed or set aside as incorrect in law by a Court of Criminal Appeals, except insofar as it may take action on a certificate for review or a petition for review of a decision by a Court of Criminal Appeals on appeal by the United States under Article 62, UCMJ, 10 USC §862 (1983), or to grant extraordinary relief in aid of its jurisdiction, including the exercise of its supervisory powers over the administration of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. The Court may specify or act on any issue concerning a matter of law which materially affects the rights of the parties.
(As amended Oct. 1, 1987; Oct. 12, 1994.)
Rule 6. Quorum
(a) A majority of the judges in regular active service authorized to constitute the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces shall constitute a quorum. The concurrence of the majority of such judges, whether present and voting or voting telephonically or electronically, shall be required for a final resolution of any matter before the Court, subject to subsections (b), (c), and (d). In the event there are fewer than three active judges, such active judges shall constitute a quorum. See Article 144, UCMJ, 10 USC §944.
(b) The Chief Judge, or the judge performing the duties of the Chief Judge, shall have the authority to issue temporary orders or stays pending the convening of a quorum. See Rules 15(f) and 27(a)(4).
(c) If no judge is present, the Clerk may adjourn the Court from day to day. See Rule 9(d).
(d) In the event a senior judge is recalled under Article 142(e), UCMJ, 10 USC §942(e), or an Article III judge is designated under Article 142(f), UCMJ, 10 USC §942(f), to sit on the Court, such judge shall be deemed to be a judge in regular active service under this rule with respect to those matters over which that judge has been recalled or designated to serve. To the extent that a judge in regular active service has been replaced under any circumstance set forth in Article 142(e)(1)(A)(i), (ii), or (iii), 10 USC §942(e)(1)(A)(i), (ii), or (iii), that judge shall not be included in the constitution of a quorum under this rule.
(Interim change May 11, 1994; amended Oct. 12, 1994; Nov. 1, 1995, eff. Nov. 15, 1995.)
Rule 7. Process
All process of the Court, except mandates, shall be in the name of the United States and shall contain the names and the military rank or civilian office, if any, of the parties.
Rule 8. Parties
(a) The title of any case filed with the Court shall contain the name, military rank and service number of an accused and, where appropriate, the official military or civilian title of any named party who is an agent or officer of the United States acting in such official capacity. In the case of an appeal taken by the United States under Article 62, UCMJ, 10 USC §862 (1983), the appeal shall be docketed under the same title given to the action in the court-martial with the accused and the United States denominated as the sole parties therein.
(b) The party petitioning for grant of review of a decision of a Court of Criminal Appeals, whether from a decision on appeal by the United States under Article 62, UCMJ, 10 USC §862 (1983), or from a decision affecting the findings or sentence or both of a court-martial, or from a decision on application for extraordinary relief, will be deemed to be the appellant. Other named parties will be deemed to be appellees.
(c) When a certificate for review is filed by a Judge Advocate General, the party prevailing below on the certified issues will be deemed to be the appellee. The other party will be deemed to be the appellant.
(d) When a mandatory review case is filed, the accused therein will be deemed to be the appellant. The other party will be deemed to be the appellee.
(e) If a petition for grant of review or a certificate for review is filed after an action has been docketed in the same case, the party on whose behalf relief is sought in the second action will be deemed to be the appellant or cross-appellant, depending on whether such party has been deemed to be the appellant or appellee in the first action. The other party in the second action will be deemed to be the appellee or cross-appellee in a similar manner.
(f) The party or parties filing a petition for extraordinary relief with the Court will be deemed the petitioner or petitioners. All parties to the proceeding below other than the petitioner or petitioners will be deemed respondents for all purposes.
(As amended Oct. 1, 1987; Feb. 27, 1991; Oct. 12, 1994; Mar. 26, 1998, eff. May 1, 1998.)
Rule 9. Clerk
(a) Location of office. The Clerk's office shall be located in the courthouse at 450 E Street, Northwest, Washington, D.C. 20442.
(b) Oath of office. Before entering upon the execution of his office, the Clerk shall take the oath or affirmation prescribed in Section 951 of Title 28, United States Code.
(c) Custodian of records. The Clerk shall serve as custodian of the records of the Court and shall not permit any documents relative to a case to be taken from the courthouse except by order of a judge of the Court. However, after final action on a case in which documents containing classified information have been filed with the Court under Rule 35A, the Clerk shall, as Court Security Officer, consult with the originating armed service to determine the appropriate disposition of such documents. See Rule 12.
(d) Disposition of procedural matters. Notwithstanding the provisions of Rule 6, the Clerk, on behalf of the Court, may entertain and act on any motion seeking an enlargement of time not to exceed 30 days, leave to withdraw as counsel, or permission to file pleadings, or other papers relative to a matter pending before the Court, provided such motion is not opposed and such action does not substantially affect the rights of the parties or the ultimate decision in the case. The order of the Clerk shall be deemed the order of the Court.
(e) Hours. The Clerk's office shall be open for the filing of pleadings and other papers from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day except Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, or as otherwise ordered by the Court. See Rule 36(a).
(As amended Mar. 31, 1994; Jan. 20, 1999, eff. Feb. 1, 1999; Sept. 20, 1999, eff. Oct. 1, 1999.)
Rule 10. Docket
(a) Maintenance of docket. The Clerk shall maintain:
(1) a regular docket for cases subject to mandatory review, petitions to review convictions or sentences affirmed by a Court of Criminal Appeals, and certificates for review of final decisions in a Court of Criminal Appeals;
(2) a miscellaneous docket for petitions for grant of review and certificates for review of decisions by a Court of Criminal Appeals on appeal by the United States under Article 62, UCMJ, 10 USC §862 (1983), petitions for extraordinary relief, writ appeal petitions, and certificates for review of decisions on application for extraordinary relief in a Court of Criminal Appeals; and
(3) a special docket of the matters arising under Rule 15 concerning complaints of unprofessional conduct against a member of the Bar of this Court.
The receipt of all pleadings or other papers filed, and any action by the Court relative to a case, will be entered in the appropriate docket. Entries in each docket will show the date, the nature of each pleading or other paper filed, and the substance of any action by the Court. From time to time, the Clerk shall, under the general direction of the Court, determine the appropriate manner for keeping and preserving the dockets.
(b) Docket number. In a mandatory review case, a docket number will be assigned upon receipt of the record from the Judge Advocate General. In all other cases, a docket number will be assigned upon receipt of the initial pleading. All pleadings or other papers subsequently filed in the case will bear the assigned docket number.
(c) Notice of docketing. The Clerk shall notify the appropriate Judge Advocate General and all parties of the receipt and docketing of a case and the docket number assigned. In the case of a petition for extraordinary relief, the Clerk shall also notify all named respondents of the petition's receipt and docketing.
(d) Entry of judgment. The Clerk shall prepare, sign, date and enter the judgment immediately upon the filing of the opinion of the Court. If a judgment is rendered without an opinion, the Clerk shall prepare, sign, date and enter such judgment in an order following instruction from the Court. The Clerk shall, on the date a judgment is entered, distribute to all parties and the Judge Advocate General of the service in which the case arose a copy of the judgment and opinion, if any, or of the order if no opinion was written. See Rule 43.
(As amended Oct. 1, 1987; Oct. 12, 1994; Mar. 26, 1998, eff. May 1, 1998.)
Rule 11. Calendar
(a) The Clerk shall prepare a calendar, consisting of the cases that have become or will be available for hearing, which shall be arranged in the first instance in the chronological order in which petitions for grant of review have been granted or certified questions and mandatory appeals have been filed with the Court. The arrangement of cases on the calendar shall be subject to modification in light of the availability of pleadings, extensions of time to file briefs, and orders to advance or specially set cases for hearing.
(b) The Clerk shall periodically publish hearing lists in advance of each Court session for the convenience of counsel and the information of the public.
(c) The Clerk shall advise counsel when they are required to be present in Court. See Rule 40(b)(1).
(d) Cases may be advanced or postponed by order of the Court, upon motion duly made showing good cause therefor, or on the Court's own motion. See Rule 40(b).
(e) Two or more cases involving the same question may, on the Court's own order or by special permission, be heard together as one case or on such terms as may be prescribed.
Rule 12. Cases Involving Classified Information
(a) Court Security Officer. The Clerk shall serve as the Court Security Officer for the purposes of providing for the protection of classified information, and may designate such assistants as are appropriate for such purposes.
(b) Classified documents. Documents containing classified information will be stored and safeguarded by the Court Security Officer in accordance with the Department of Defense Information Security Program Regulation (DOD Regulation 5200.1–R) or the Security Procedures Established by the Chief Justice of the United States pursuant to Pub. L. 96–456, 94 Stat. 2025, as appropriate. See Rules 9(c) and 35A.
(c) Security clearances. Security clearances for personnel on the staff of the Court will be obtained by the Court Security Officer in accordance with the Department of Defense Information Security Program Regulation.
(As amended Jan. 20, 1999, eff. Feb. 1, 1999.)
(a) No attorney shall practice before this Court unless the attorney has been admitted to the bar of this Court or is appearing pro hac vice by leave of the Court. See Rule 38(b).
(b) It shall be a requisite to the admission of attorneys to the Bar of this Court that they be a member of the Bar of a Federal court or of the highest court of a State, Territory, Commonwealth, or Possession, and that their private and professional character shall appear to be good.
(c) Each applicant shall file with the Clerk an application for admission on the form prescribed by the Court, together with an application fee in an amount prescribed by Court order and a certificate from the presiding judge, clerk, or other appropriate officer of a court specified in (b) above, or from any other appropriate official from the Bar of such court, that the applicant is a member of the Bar in good standing and that such applicant's private and professional character appear to be good. The certificate of good standing must be an original and must be dated within one year of the date of the application.
(d) If the documents submitted demonstrate that the applicant possesses the necessary qualifications, the Clerk shall so notify the applicant and he or she may be admitted without appearing in Court by subscribing a written oath or affirmation. However, if the applicant so elects, the admission may be on oral motion by a member of the Bar of this Court in open court. Upon admission, the Clerk shall issue to the attorney a wallet-size admission card and a large certificate of admission suitable for framing.
(e) Each applicant shall take or subscribe the following oath or affirmation:
(f) Admissions will be granted on motion of the Court or upon oral motion by a person admitted to practice before the Court. Special admissions may be held by order of the Court.
(As amended July 16, 1990, eff. Aug. 15, 1990; Aug. 15, 1991, eff. Oct. 1, 1991; Oct. 22, 2001, eff. Nov. 1, 2001.)
Rule 13A. Student Practice Rule
(a) Appearance by Law Student. With leave of this Court, an eligible law student acting under a supervising attorney may appear in a particular case, except a case in which any party is under or is potentially subject to a sentence of death, on behalf of any party, including the United States, provided that the student and supervising attorney comply with the provisions of this rule.
(b) Eligibility of Student. To be eligible to appear and participate in any case, a law student must:
(1) be a student in good standing in a law school approved by the American Bar Association, or be a recent graduate of such school awaiting the result of a state bar examination;
(2) have completed legal studies amounting to at least four semesters, or the equivalent if the school is on some basis other than a 3 year, 6 semester basis;
(3) have completed and received a passing grade in courses in criminal procedure and criminal law;
(4) neither ask for nor receive any compensation or remuneration of any kind from the person on whose behalf the services are rendered; and
(5) be familiar with the Uniform Code of Military Justice and the rules of this Court.
(c) Supervising Attorney Requirements. A supervising attorney must:
(1) be an attorney of record in the case;
(2) be a member in good standing of the bar of this Court;
(3) have been admitted to practice for a minimum of two years and have appeared and argued in at least one case before this Court or appeared and argued in at least three cases before state or Federal appellate courts;
(4) not supervise more than five (5) students at any one time;
(5) appear with the student in any oral presentations before this Court;
(6) read, approve and sign all documents filed with this Court;
(7) assume personal professional responsibility for the student's work in matters before this Court;
(8) be responsible to supplement the oral or written work of the student as necessary to ensure proper representation of the client;
(9) guide and assist the student in preparation to the extent necessary or appropriate under the circumstances;
(10) be available to consult with the client; and
(11) neither ask for nor receive any compensation or remuneration of any kind from the person on whose behalf the services are rendered.
(d) Authorization and Certification. (1) The party on whose behalf the student appears must consent to the representation by that student in writing.
(2) The supervising attorney must indicate in writing approval of the appearance by the law student and consent to supervise the law student.
(3) The law student must be certified by the dean of the student's law school as being of good character and competent legal ability.
(4) Before commencing student representation in any case under this rule, the supervising attorney shall file a motion for leave to allow student representation in such case. The motion should put forth that the provisions of this rule have been met and that in counsel's view the case is an appropriate one for student representation. The written consent, approval and certification referred to above shall be attached to the motion. A copy of the motion shall be served on opposing counsel, but no answer will be allowed except with leave of the Court. Once these documents are filed, the Court will decide, using its discretion on a case-by-case basis, whether to allow the student representation.
(e) Activities. Upon fulfilling the requirements of this rule, the student may enter an appearance in a case and:
(1) assist in the preparation of briefs and other documents to be filed in this Court, but such briefs or documents must also be signed by the supervising attorney;
(2) participate in oral argument, but only in the presence of the supervising attorney; and
(3) take part in other activities in connection with the case, subject to the direction of the supervising attorney.
(f) Termination. The dean's certification of the student:
(1) shall remain in effect, unless sooner withdrawn, until the publication of the results of the first bar examination taken by such student following the student's graduation. For any student who passes that examination the certification shall continue in effect until the date the student is admitted to the bar;
(2) may be withdrawn by the Court at any time; and
(3) may be withdrawn by the dean at any time.
(g) Exceptions. (1) This rule does not apply to an appearance or an oral argument by a law student on behalf of an amicus curiae.
(2) Nothing in this rule shall preclude the Government or any agency, firm, or organization from compensating a law student for services rendered under such rule.
(3) The Court retains the authority, on good cause shown, to establish exceptions to these procedures in any case. See Rule 33.
(Added Nov. 1, 1995, eff. Nov. 15, 1995.)
Rule 14. Honorary Membership
Honorary membership in the Bar of the Court may be granted from time to time to distinguished members of the legal profession of other nations who are knowledgeable in the fields of military justice or the law of war. A candidate for honorary membership will be presented at the Bar in person after the nomination has previously been approved by the Court. A certificate of honorary membership in the Bar will be presented to the person so honored.
Rule 15. Disbarment and Disciplinary Action
(a) The Model Rules of Professional Conduct of the American Bar Association are hereby adopted as the rules of conduct for members of the Bar of this Court. To the extent that these rules are inconsistent with applicable service rules of professional conduct, the conduct of judge advocates will be reviewed under the rules of their service. To the extent that these rules are inconsistent with the rules of professional conduct which apply in the location where a civilian member of the bar maintains a principal office, the conduct of civilian counsel will be reviewed under the rules of their licensing jurisdiction.
(b) Whenever a member of the Bar of this Court has been disbarred or suspended from practice in any court of record, the Court will enter an order suspending that member from practice before this Court and affording the member an opportunity to show cause, within 30 days, why a disbarment order should not be entered. Upon response, or if no response is timely filed, the Court will enter an appropriate order.
(c) If it appears that a member of the Bar of this Court has engaged in conduct unbecoming a member of the Bar, or failed to comply with this Rule or any other Rule or order of the Court, the Court may enter an order affording the member an opportunity to show cause, within 30 days, why disciplinary action should not be taken. If the member, in responding to the show cause order, raises material questions of fact, the Court may appoint a special master who shall hold a hearing and prepare proposed findings of fact and recommendations. After affording the member of the bar a reasonable opportunity to prepare written objections to the proposed findings of fact and recommendations, the proposed findings and recommendations, together with any written objections thereto, shall be submitted to the Court. Upon due consideration thereof, the Court may take such disciplinary action as it deems appropriate against the member of the Bar.
(As amended July 16, 1990, eff. Aug. 15, 1990; Mar. 26, 1998, eff. May 1, 1998; July 27, 2004, eff. Oct. 1, 2004.)
Rule 16. Entry of Appearance and Withdrawal by Counsel
(a) Counsel shall enter an appearance in writing before participating in the representation of a party to an action before the Court; however, the filing of any pleading or other paper relative to a case which contains the signature of counsel shall constitute such an entry of appearance. See Rules 13(a) and 38.
(b) Leave to withdraw by any counsel who has entered an appearance under subsection (a) must be requested by motion in accordance with Rule 30. A motion by an appellate defense counsel must indicate the reasons for the withdrawal and the provisions which have been made for continued representation of the accused. A copy of a motion filed by an appellate defense counsel shall be delivered or mailed to the accused by the moving counsel.
Rule 17. Assignment of Counsel
Upon receipt of a notice of the docketing of a case issued under Rule 10(c), the appropriate Judge Advocate General shall designate appellate military counsel to represent the parties, unless such counsel have previously been designated. In a case involving a petition for extraordinary relief wherein an accused has been denominated as the real party in interest by a filing party or has been so designated by the Court, the Judge Advocate General shall also designate appellate military counsel to represent such accused.
Rule 18. Methods of Appeal
(a) The Court will entertain the following appeals:
(1) Cases under Article 67(a)(3). Cases under Article 67(a)(3), UCMJ, 10 USC §867(a)(3) (1989), including decisions by a Court of Criminal Appeals on appeal by the United States under Article 62, UCMJ, 10 USC §862 (1983), may be appealed by the filing of a petition for grant of review by an appellant or by counsel on behalf of an appellant substantially in the form provided in Rule 20(a) or (b).
(2) Cases under Article 67(a)(2). Cases under Article 67(a)(2), UCMJ, 10 USC §867(a)(2) (1989), including decisions by a Court of Criminal Appeals on appeal by the United States under Article 62, UCMJ, 10 USC §862 (1983), which are forwarded by a Judge Advocate General by a certificate for review must be substantially in the form provided in Rule 22(a).
(3) Cases under Article 67(a)(1). Cases under Article 67(a)(1), UCMJ, 10 USC §867(a)(1) (1989), will be forwarded by a Judge Advocate General by the filing of the record with the Court, together with the form prescribed by Rule 23(a).
(4) Cases under Rule 4(b)(2). Decisions by a Court of Criminal Appeals on petitions for extraordinary relief may be appealed by filing a writ appeal petition in accordance with Rules 27(b) and 28.
(b) In addition, the Court may, in its discretion, entertain petitions for extraordinary relief including, but not limited to, writs of mandamus, writs of prohibition, writs of habeas corpus, and writs of error coram nobis. See Rules 4(b)(1), 27(a) and 28.
Rule 19. Time Limits
(a) Petition for grant of review/supplement/answer/reply. (1) A petition for grant of review shall be filed no later than 60 days from the earlier of:
(A) the date on which the appellant is notified of the decision of the Court of Criminal Appeals; or
(B) the date on which a copy of the decision of the Court of Criminal Appeals, after being served on appellate counsel of record for the appellant (if any), is deposited in the United States mails for delivery by first-class certified mail to the appellant at an address provided by the appellant or, if no such address has been provided by the appellant, at the latest address listed for the appellant in his official service record. Under circumstances where certified mail is not available, registered mail may be used. See Article 67(b), UCMJ, 10 USC §867(b) (1989).
(2) A certificate of notification shall be placed in the appellant's record of trial setting forth the manner and date that the appellant was notified of the decision of the Court of Criminal Appeals or the date that a copy of such decision was mailed to the appellant after service of a copy of such decision on appellate defense counsel of record.
(3) For purposes of this rule, a petition for grant of review will be deemed to have been filed on the date when the petition has been mailed or delivered by an appellant or by counsel on behalf of an appellant directly to the Court.
(4) Any petition for grant of review received from an appellant or counsel on behalf of an appellant shall, upon receipt, be accepted and docketed by the Clerk. If it appears that such petition is not in accord with Article 67, UCMJ, 10 USC §867 (1989), or with the Court's rules, the United States may move to dismiss such petition.
(5)(A) Article 62, UCMJ, appeals. In cases involving a decision by a Court of Criminal Appeals on appeal by the United States under Article 62, UCMJ, 10 USC §862 (1983), a supplement to the petition establishing good cause in accordance with Rule 21 shall be filed no later than 20 days after the issuance by the Clerk of a notice of docketing of such a petition for grant of review. See Rule 10(c). An appellee's answer to the supplement to the petition for grant of review shall be filed no later than 10 days after the filing of such supplement. A reply may be filed by the appellant no later than 5 days after the filing of the appellee's answer.
(B) Other appeals. In all other appeal cases, a supplement to the petition establishing good cause in accordance with Rule 21 shall be filed no later than 30 days after the issuance by the Clerk of a notice of docketing of a petition for grant of review. See Rule 10(c). An appellee's answer to the supplement to the petition for grant of review may be filed no later than 30 days after the filing of such supplement. See Rule 21(e). A reply may be filed by the appellant no later than 10 days after the filing of the appellee's answer.
(6) The Court shall act promptly on a petition for grant of review. See Article 67(b), UCMJ, 10 USC §867(b) (1989).
(7) Granted petitions. (A) Article 62, UCMJ, appeals. Where a petition has been granted in a case involving a decision by a Court of Criminal Appeals on appeal by the United States under Article 62, UCMJ, 10 USC §862 (1983), no further pleadings will be filed and the Court will, whenever practicable, give priority to such cases.
(B) Other appeals. Where a petition has been granted in all other appeal cases and briefs have been ordered, an appellant's brief shall be filed in accordance with Rule 24 no later than 30 days after the date of the order granting the petition. An appellee's answer shall be filed no later than 30 days after the filing of an appellant's brief. A reply may be filed by the appellant no later than 10 days after the filing of the appellee's answer.
(b) Certificate for review/brief/answer/reply. (1) Article 62, UCMJ, cases. In cases involving a decision by a Court of Criminal Appeals on appeal by the United States under Article 62, UCMJ, 10 USC §862 (1983), a certificate for review, together with a supporting brief in accordance with Rule 24 on behalf of the appellant, shall be filed with the Court by the Judge Advocate General no later than 30 days after the date of the decision of the Court of Criminal Appeals. See Rules 22 and 34(a). An appellee's answer shall be filed no later than 10 days after the filing of such certificate for review and supporting brief. A reply may be filed by the appellant no later than 5 days after the filing of the appellee's answer.
(2) Extraordinary relief cases. In cases involving a decision by a Court of Criminal Appeals on application for extraordinary relief filed therein, a certificate for review, together with a supporting brief in accordance with Rule 24 on behalf of the appellant, shall be filed with the Court by the Judge Advocate General no later than 30 days after the date of the decision of the Court of Criminal Appeals. See Rules 22 and 34(a). An appellee's answer shall be filed no later than 10 days after the filing of such certificate for review and supporting brief. A reply may be filed by the appellant no later than 5 days after the filing of the appellee's answer.
(3) Other cases. In all other cases involving a decision by a Court of Criminal Appeals, a certificate for review filed by the Judge Advocate General shall be filed no later than 30 days after the date of the decision of the Court of Criminal Appeals. See Rules 22 and 34(a). An appellant's brief shall be filed in accordance with Rule 24 no later than 30 days after the issuance by the Clerk of a notice of docketing of the certificate for review. An appellee's answer shall be filed no later than 30 days after the filing of an appellant's brief. A reply may be filed by the appellant no later than 10 days after the filing of the appellee's answer.
(c) Mandatory review case. The record in a mandatory review case shall be filed with the Court by the Judge Advocate General, together with the form prescribed by Rule 23(a), upon the expiration of the time for filing a petition for reconsideration of the decision of the Court of Criminal Appeals or, in the event of the filing of such petition, upon the final disposition thereof. A brief setting forth assigned errors shall be filed by the appellant in accordance with Rule 24 no later than 60 days after the issuance by the Clerk of a notice of docketing of the case. An appellee's answer shall be filed no later than 60 days after the filing of the appellant's brief. A reply may be filed by the appellant no later than 20 days after the filing of the appellee's answer.
(d) Petition for extraordinary relief. A petition for extraordinary relief under Rule 4(b)(1) shall be filed as soon as possible but, in any event, no later than 20 days after the petitioner learns of the action complained of. However, a petition for a writ of habeas corpus or writ of error coram nobis may be filed at any time. See Rules 27(a) and 28. The Court will, whenever practicable, give priority to such cases.
(e) Writ appeal petition. A writ appeal petition under Rule 4(b)(2) for review of a decision by a Court of Criminal Appeals acting on a petition for extraordinary relief shall be filed no later than 20 days after the date the decision of the Court of Criminal Appeals is served on the appellant or appellant's counsel. An appellee's answer shall be filed no later than 10 days after the filing of the writ appeal petition. A reply may be filed by the appellant no later than 5 days after the filing of the appellee's answer. See Rules 27(b) and 28. The Court will, whenever practicable, give priority to such cases.
(f) Petition for new trial. When a petition for new trial has been filed with the Court in a case pending before the Court, a brief in support thereof, unless expressly incorporated in the petition, shall be filed no later than 30 days after the issuance by the Clerk of a notice of the filing of the petition. An appellee's answer shall be filed no later than 30 days after the filing of an appellant's brief. A reply may be filed no later than 10 days after the filing of the appellee's answer. See Rule 29.
(As amended Oct. 1, 1987; Oct. 12, 1994; Nov. 1, 1995, eff. Nov. 15, 1995; Mar. 26, 1998, eff. May 1, 1998.)
Rule 20. Form of Petition for Grant of Review
(a) Form to be used by an appellant. A petition for grant of review under Rule 18(a)(1) filed personally by an appellant will be substantially in the following form:
to the judges of the united states court of appeals for the armed forces:
1. I hereby petition the Court for review of the decision of the Court of Criminal Appeals [on appeal by the United States under Article 62, Uniform Code of Military Justice, 10 USC §862 (1983)] [on appeal under Article 66, Uniform Code of Military Justice, 10 USC §866].
2. I understand that, unless I specifically request the contrary, a military lawyer will be designated by the Judge Advocate General to represent me free of charge before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces.
(Put your signature here)
(Put mailing date here)
450 E Street N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20442–0001
(b) Form to be used by an appellant's counsel. A petition for grant of review under Rule 18(a)(1) filed by counsel on behalf of an appellant will be substantially in the following form:
The undersigned counsel, on behalf of (insert appellant's full name here), hereby petitions the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces for a grant of review of the decision of the Court of Criminal Appeals [on appeal by the United States under Article 62, Uniform Code of Military Justice, 10 USC §862 (1983)] [on appeal under Article 66, Uniform Code of Military Justice, 10 USC §866], pursuant to the provisions of Article 67(a)(3), Uniform Code of Military Justice, 10 USC §867(a)(3) (1989).
(Signature of counsel)
(Typed name of counsel)
(Address of counsel)
(Telephone no. of counsel)
(E-mail address, if any)
(Date and manner of filing—see Rules 36 and 39))
(c) An appellant or counsel on behalf of an appellant shall file a petition for grant of review in the manner and within the time limits set forth in Rule 19(a). Upon receipt, the Clerk shall stamp the petition indicating the date it was received and, if filed by mail under Rule 36(c), shall retain the envelope showing the postmark thereon.
(d) When a petition for grant of review is filed with the Court, the Clerk will cause a copy thereof to be delivered to the Judge Advocate General of the appellant's service, to the appellant's counsel, if named in the petition, and to government counsel. Upon receipt of a copy of the petition from the Clerk, the Judge Advocate General shall designate counsel to represent the parties unless such parties are already represented by counsel. See Rule 17.
(e) Upon issuance by the Clerk under Rule 10(c) of a notice of docketing of a petition for grant of review, counsel for the appellant shall file a supplement to the petition in accordance with the applicable time limit set forth in Rule 19(a)(5)(A) or (B), and the provisions of Rule 21.
(As amended Oct. 1, 1987; Oct. 12, 1994; Feb. 27, 1996; Oct. 22, 2001, eff. Nov. 1, 2001.)
Rule 21. Supplement to Petition for Grant of Review
(a) Review on petition for grant of review requires a showing of good cause. Good cause must be shown by the appellant in the supplement to the petition, which shall state with particularity the error(s) claimed to be materially prejudicial to the substantial rights of the appellant. See Article 59(a), UCMJ, 10 USC §859(a).
(b) The supplement to the petition shall be filed in accordance with the applicable time limit set forth in Rule 19(a)(5)(A) or (B), shall include an Appendix required by Rule 24(a), shall conform to the provisions of Rules 24(b), 35A, and 37, and shall contain:
(1) A statement of the errors assigned for review by the Court, expressed concisely in relation to the circumstances of the case, without unnecessary detail. The assigned errors should be short and should not be argumentative or repetitive;
(2) A statement of statutory jurisdiction, including:
(A) the statutory basis of the Court of Criminal Appeals jurisdiction;
(B) the statutory basis upon which this Court's jurisdiction is invoked;
(3) A statement of the case setting forth a concise chronology, including all relevant dates. The chronology shall specify: (A) the results of the trial; (B) the actions of the intermediate reviewing authorities and the Court of Criminal Appeals; (C) the disposition of a petition for reconsideration or rehearing, if filed; and (D) any other pertinent information regarding the proceedings, including, if set forth in the record, the date when service upon the accused of the decision of the Court of Criminal Appeals was effected;
(4) A statement of facts of the case material to the errors assigned, including specific page references to each relevant portion of the record of trial;
(5) A direct and concise argument showing why there is good cause to grant the petition, demonstrating with particularity why the errors assigned are materially prejudicial to the substantial rights of the appellant. Where applicable, the supplement to the petition shall also indicate whether the court below has:
(A) decided a question of law which has not been, but should be, settled by this Court;
(B) decided a question of law in a way in conflict with applicable decisions of (i) this Court, (ii) the Supreme Court of the United States, (iii) another Court of Criminal Appeals, or (iv) another panel of the same Court of Criminal Appeals;
(C) adopted a rule of law materially different from that generally recognized in the trial of criminal cases in the United States district courts;
(D) decided the validity of a provision of the UCMJ or other act of Congress, the Manual for Courts-Martial, a service regulation, a rule of court or a custom of the service the validity of which was directly drawn into question in that court;
(E) decided the case (i) en banc or (ii) by divided vote;
(F) so far departed from the accepted and usual course of judicial proceedings, or so far sanctioned such a departure by a court-martial or other person acting under the authority of the UCMJ, as to call for an exercise of this Court's power of supervision; or
(G) taken inadequate corrective action after remand by the Court subsequent to grant of an earlier petition in the same case and that appellant wishes to seek review from the Supreme Court of the United States; and
(6) A certificate of filing and service in accordance with Rule 39(e).
(c)(1) Answer/reply in Article 62, UCMJ, appeals. An appellee's answer to the supplement to the petition for grant of review in an Article 62, UCMJ, 10 USC §862, case shall be filed no later than 10 days after the filing of such supplement. A reply may be filed by the appellant no later than 5 days after the filing of the appellee's answer.
(2) Answer/reply in other appeals. An appellee's answer to the supplement to the petition for grant of review in all other appeal cases may be filed no later than 30 days after the filing of such supplement, see Rule 21(e); as a discretionary alternative in the event a formal answer is deemed unwarranted, an appellee may file with the Clerk of the Court a short letter, within 10 days after the filing of the appellant's supplement to the petition under Rule 21, setting forth one of the following alternative positions: (i) that the United States submits a general opposition to the assigned error(s) of law and relies on its brief filed with the Court of Criminal Appeals; or (ii) that the United States does not oppose the granting of the petition (for some specific reason, such as an error involving an unsettled area of the law). A reply may be filed by the appellant no later than 10 days after the filing of the appellee's answer.
(d) The Court may, in its discretion, examine the record in any case for the purpose of determining whether there appears to be plain error not assigned by the appellant. The Court may then specify and grant review of any such errors as well as any assigned errors which merit review.
(e) Where no specific errors are assigned in the supplement to the petition, the Court will proceed to review the petition without awaiting an answer thereto. See Rule 19(a)(5).
(f) An appellant or counsel for an appellant may move to withdraw his petition at any time. See Rule 30.
(As amended Oct. 1, 1987; July 16, 1990, eff. Aug. 15, 1990; Oct. 12, 1994; Jan. 20, 1999, eff. Feb. 1, 1999; Oct. 22, 2001, eff. Nov. 1, 2001; July 27, 2004, eff. Oct. 1, 2004.)
Rule 22. Certificate for Review
(a) A certificate for review under Rule 18(a)(2) will be substantially in the following form:
1. Pursuant to Article 67(a)(2) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, 10 USC §867(a)(2) (1989), the record of trial and decision of the United States ________ Court of Criminal Appeals in the above-entitled case are forwarded for review.
2. The accused has been found guilty by a (type of court-martial) of a violation of Article(s) ______ of the Uniform Code of Military Justice and has been sentenced to (include entire adjudged sentence) on the (insert trial date). The trial took place at (location). The convening authority approved the following findings and sentence: ________. The officer exercising general court-martial jurisdiction (where applicable) took the following action: ________. The Court of Criminal Appeals (state action taken). [Substitute different case history facts as appropriate when the Court of Criminal Appeals decision involves an application for extraordinary relief or an appeal by the United States under Article 62, UCMJ, 10 USC §862 (1983).]
3. It is requested that action be taken with respect to the following issues:
[set out issues here]
Received a copy of the foregoing Certificate for Review this ________ day of ________, 19____.
Appellate Government Counsel
Address and telephone no.
(b)(1) Article 62, UCMJ, cases. A certificate for review of a decision by a Court of Criminal Appeals on appeal by the United States under Article 62, UCMJ, 10 USC §862 (1983), shall be filed, together with a supporting brief in accordance with Rule 24 on behalf of the appellant, no later than 30 days after the date of the decision of the Court of Criminal Appeals. See Rule 34(a). An appellee's answer shall be filed no later than 10 days after the filing of such certificate for review and supporting brief. A reply may be filed by the appellant no later than 5 days after the filing of the appellee's answer.
(2) Extraordinary relief cases. A certificate for review of a decision by a Court of Criminal Appeals on application for extraordinary relief filed therein shall be filed, together with a supporting brief in accordance with Rule 24 on behalf of the appellant, no later than 30 days after the date of the decision of the Court of Criminal Appeals. See Rule 34(a). An appellee's answer shall be filed no later than 10 days after the filing of such certificate for review and supporting brief. A reply may be filed by the appellant no later than 5 days after the filing of the appellee's answer.
(3) Other cases. In all other cases involving a decision by a Court of Criminal Appeals, a certificate for review shall be filed no later than 30 days after the date of the decision of the Court of Criminal Appeals. See Rule 34(a). A brief in support of the certified issues shall be filed by the appellant in accordance with Rule 24 no later than 30 days after the issuance by the Clerk of a notice of docketing of the certificate for review. An appellee's answer shall be filed no later than 30 days after the filing of an appellant's brief. A reply may be filed by the appellant no later than 10 days after the filing of the appellee's answer.
(As amended Oct. 1, 1987; Oct. 12, 1994; Feb. 27, 1996.)
Rule 23. Mandatory Review Case
(a) The record in a mandatory review case under Rule 18(a)(3) will be filed, together with the following form:
1. The appellant, having an approved sentence to death, is entitled to mandatory review under Article 67(a)(1) of Uniform Code of Military Justice, 10 USC §867(a)(1) (1989).
2. The appellant was notified of the decision of the Court of Criminal Appeals on (insert notification date).
Received a copy of the foregoing this ________ day of ________, 19____.
(b) In a mandatory review case, a brief setting forth assigned errors shall be filed by the appellant in accordance with Rule 24 no later than 60 days after the issuance by the Clerk of a notice of docketing of the case. Such brief shall not incorporate by reference that filed before a Court of Criminal Appeals, the convening authority, or the military judge. An appellee's answer shall be filed no later than 60 days after the filing of the assignment of errors and supporting brief. A reply may be filed by the appellant no later than 20 days after the filing of the appellee's answer.
(As amended July 19, 1984, eff. Aug. 1, 1984; Oct. 12, 1994; Feb. 27, 1996.)
Rule 24. Form, Content, and Page Limitations
(a) Form and content. All briefs shall conform to the printing, copying, and style requirements of Rule 37, shall be legible, and shall be substantially as follows:
Index of Brief
[See Rule 37(c)(1)]
Table of Cases, Statutes, and Other Authorities
[Set forth, in a concise statement, each issue granted review by the Court, raised in the certificate for review or mandatory review case, or presented in the petition for extraordinary relief, writ-appeal petition, or petition for new trial. Issues presented will be set forth in upper case letters.]
Statement of Statutory Jurisdiction
[Set forth the statutory basis of the Court of Criminal Appeals jurisdiction and the statutory basis for this Court's jurisdiction.]
[Set forth a concise chronology, including all relevant dates, to include: (A) the results of the trial; (B) actions of the intermediate reviewing authorities and the Court of Criminal Appeals; (C) the disposition of a petition for reconsideration or rehearing, if filed; and (D) any other pertinent information regarding the proceedings, including, where applicable, the date the petition for review was granted.]
[Set forth a concise statement of the facts of the case material to the issue or issues presented, including specific page references to each relevant portion of the record of trial. Answers may adopt the appellant's or petitioner's statement of facts if there is no dispute, may state additional facts, or, if there is a dispute, may restate the facts as they appear from the appellee's or respondent's viewpoint. The repetition of uncontroverted matters is not desired.]
[Each brief and answer shall contain a summary of argument, suitably paragraphed to correspond to each issue presented. The summary should be a succinct but accurate and clear condensation of the arguments made in the body of the brief.]
[Discuss briefly the point of law presented, citing and quoting such authorities as are deemed pertinent. The argument must also include for each issue presented a statement of the applicable standard of review. The standard of review may appear in the discussion of each issue or under a separate heading.]
[State the relief sought as to each issue presented, for example, reversal of the Court of Criminal Appeals decision and dismissal of the charges, grant of a new trial, the extraordinary relief sought, etc. No particular form of language is required, so long as the brief concludes with a clear prayer for specific Court action.]
[The brief of the appellant or petitioner shall include an appendix containing a copy of the Court of Criminal Appeals decision, unpublished opinions cited in the brief, and relevant extracts of rules and regulations. The appellee or respondent shall similarly file an appendix containing a copy of any additional unpublished opinions and relevant extracts of rules and regulations cited in the answer.]
I certify that a copy of the foregoing was [mailed] [delivered] to the Court and [mailed] [delivered] to (enter name of each counsel of record) on ______. (date)
(Typed name and signature)
(Address and telephone no.)
(b) Page limitations. Unless otherwise authorized by order of the Court or by motion of a party granted by the Court (see Rule 30), or by Rule 24(c), the page limitations for briefs filed with the Court, not including appendices, shall be as follows:
(1) Briefs of the appellants/petitioners shall not exceed 30 pages;
(2) Answers of the appellees/respondents shall not exceed 30 pages;
(3) Replies of the appellants/petitioners shall not exceed 15 pages.
(c) Type-volume limitations.
(1) A brief of the appellants/petitioners and an answer of the appellees/respondents is acceptable if:
• it contains no more than 14,000 words; or
• contains no more than 1,300 lines of text.
(2) A reply is acceptable if it contains no more than half of the type-volume specified in Rule 24(c)(1).
(3) Headings, footnotes, and quotations count toward the word and line limitations. The index, table of cases, statutes, and other authorities, the appendix and any certificates of counsel do not count toward the limitation.
(d) Certificate of Compliance. A brief submitted under Rule 24(c) must include a certificate stating that the brief complies with the type-volume limitation and Rule 37. The person preparing the certificate may rely on the word or line count of the word-processing system used to prepare the brief. The certificate must state either:
(i) the number of words in the brief; or
(ii) the number of lines of monospaced type in the brief.
(e) Form of Certificate of Compliance.
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE WITH RULE 24(d)
1. This brief complies with the type-volume limitation of Rule 24(d) because:
[principal brief may not exceed 14,000 words or 1,300 lines; reply or amicus brief may not exceed 7,000 words or 650 lines; line count can be used only with monospaced type]
____ This brief contains ________ [state the number of] words,
____ This brief contains ________ [state the number of] lines of text.
2. This brief complies with the typeface and type style requirements of Rule 37 because:
[12-point font must be used with monospaced typeface, such as Courier or Courier New]
____ This brief has been prepared in a monospaced typeface using ____________
[state name and version of word processing program, e.g., Microsoft Word Version 2000 with
[state number of characters per inch and name of type style].
/s/ ________________
Attorney for ________________
(As amended Oct. 1, 1987; Oct. 30, 1991, eff. Nov. 4, 1991; Mar. 3, 1992, eff. Apr. 1, 1992; Oct. 12, 1994; Feb. 27, 1996; Jan. 12, 1998, eff. Feb. 2, 1998; Jan. 20, 1999, eff. Feb. 1, 1999; Oct. 22, 2001, eff. Nov. 1, 2001; July 27, 2004, eff. Oct. 1, 2004.)
Rule 25. When Briefs are Required
Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, briefs shall be filed in all mandatory review cases and in support of all granted petitions, certificates for review, and petitions for new trial. The appellee's answer and appellant's reply in any of the foregoing instances shall also be in the format specified in Rule 24. The answer and reply to the supplement to a petition for grant of review shall be in accordance with Rule 21(c).
(As amended Mar. 26, 1998, eff. May 1, 1998.)
Rule 26. Amicus Curiae Briefs
(a) A brief of an amicus curiae may be filed (1) by an appellate government or defense division of an armed service other than that in which the case has arisen, (2) by invitation of the Court, or (3) by motion for leave to file granted by the Court.
(b) Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, a brief of an amicus curiae under subsection (a)(1) of this rule shall be filed no later than 10 days after the filing of the answer by the appellee or respondent.
(c) Neither the hearing nor the disposition of a case will be delayed pending action on a motion for leave to file an amicus curiae brief or a motion of an amicus curiae to participate in a hearing, or to await the filing of a brief of an amicus curiae under this rule.
(d) Except by the Court's permission, a brief of an amicus curiae may be no more than one-half the maximum length authorized by Rule 24 for a brief for an appellant/petitioner. If the Court grants a party permission to file a longer brief, that extension does not affect the length of an amicus brief.
(e) A member of the Bar of the Court who represents an amicus curiae and is authorized to file a brief under paragraph (a) of this rule may file a motion for leave to have a law student enter an appearance on behalf of the amicus curiae. To be eligible to participate under this rule, a law student must be acting under the attorney's supervision and the attorney and the law student must substantially comply with the requirements of Rule 13A(b)(1)–(5) and (c)(1)–(11). Argument by a law student granted permission to appear on behalf of an amicus curiae may be requested by motion filed under Rule 30.
(As amended Mar. 26, 1998, eff. May 1, 1998; July 27, 2004, eff. Oct. 1, 2004.)
Rule 27. Petition for Extraordinary Relief, Writ Appeal Petition, Answer, and Reply
(a) Petition for extraordinary relief.
(1) A petition for extraordinary relief shall be filed within the time prescribed by Rule 19(d), shall conform in length to Rule 24(b), and, in accordance with Rule 39, be accompanied by proof of service on all respondents. The petitioner shall also provide a copy of the petition to any trial or appellate military judge whose decision, judgment, or order is the subject of the petition.
(2)(A) The petition for extraordinary relief shall be captioned “In Re [name of petitioner].”
(B) The petition shall contain:
(i) A history of the case including whether prior actions or requests for the same relief have been filed or are pending in this or any other forum and the disposition or status thereof;
(ii) the reasons relief has not been sought from the appropriate Court of Criminal Appeals, if that is the case (see Rule 4(b)(1));
(iii) the relief sought;
(iv) the issues presented;
(v) the facts necessary to understand the issues presented by the petition;
(vi) the reasons why the writ should issue; and
(vii) the mailing address, telephone and facsimile telephone numbers of each respondent.
(C) The petition shall include copies of any order or opinion or parts of the record that may be essential to understand the matters set forth in the petition.
(D) Service on Judge Advocate General. The Clerk shall forward a copy of the petition to the Judge Advocate General of the service in which the case arose.
(3) Denial; Order Directing Answer; Briefs; Precedence. (A) The Court may deny the petition without answer. Otherwise, it may order the respondent or respondents to answer within a fixed time. See Rule 28(b)(1). The Court may also take any other action deemed appropriate, including referring the matter to a special master, who may be a military judge or other person, to make further investigation, to take evidence, and to make such recommendations to the Court as are deemed appropriate. See United States v. DuBay, 17 USCMA 147 (1967).
(B) When the Court directs that an answer be filed, two or more respondents may answer jointly.
(C) The Court may invite or order any trial or appellate military judge whose decision, judgment or order is the subject of the petition to respond or may invite an amicus curiae to do so. A trial or appellate military judge may request permission to respond but may not respond unless invited or ordered to do so by the Court.
(D) The Court may set the matter for hearing. However, the Court may grant or deny the relief sought or issue such other order in the case as the circumstances may require on the basis of the pleadings alone.
(E) If further briefing or oral argument is required, the Clerk shall advise the parties and, when appropriate, any judge or judges or amicus curiae.
(4) Electronic message petitions. The Court will not docket petitions for extraordinary relief submitted by means of an electronic message or by facsimile without prior approval of the Clerk.
(b) Writ appeal petition, answer and reply. A writ appeal petition for review of a decision by a Court of Criminal Appeals acting on a petition for extraordinary relief shall be filed by an appellant, together with any available record, including the items specified by subsection (a)(2)(C), within the time prescribed by Rule 19(e), shall be accompanied by proof of service on the appellee in accordance with Rule 39, and shall contain the information required by subsection (a)(2)(B). The appellee shall file an answer no later than 10 days after the filing of the writ appeal petition. A reply may be filed by the appellant no later than 5 days after the filing of the appellee's answer. See Rules 28(b)(2) and (c)(2). Upon the filing of pleadings by the parties, the Court may grant or deny the writ appeal petition or take such other action as the circumstances may require.
(As amended Oct. 12, 1994; Nov. 1, 1995, eff. Nov. 15, 1995; Mar. 26, 1998, eff. May 1, 1998.)
Rule 28. Form of Petition for Extraordinary Relief, Writ Appeal Petition, Answer, and Reply
(a) Petition/writ appeal petition. A petition for extraordinary relief or a writ appeal petition for review of a Court of Criminal Appeals decision on application for extraordinary relief will be accompanied by any order or opinion or parts of the record that may be essential to understanding the matters set forth in the petition, and will be substantially in the following form:
The (petitioner) (appellant) hereby prays for an order directing the (respondent) (appellee) to:
[Briefly state the relief sought.]
[See Rule 27(a)(2)(B)(i)]
Reasons Relief Not Sought Below
[See Rule 27(a)(2)(B)(ii)]
[State with particularity the relief which the petitioner or appellant seeks to have the Court order.]
[Do not include citations of authority or discussion of principles. Set forth no more than the full question of law involved.]
[See Rule 27(a)(2)(B)(v)]
Reasons Why Writ Should Issue
[Where applicable, indicate why the Court of Criminal Appeals erred in its decision]
Respondents’ Addresses, Telephone, and Facsimile Numbers
[See Rule 27(a)(2)(B)(vii)]
Signature of [petitioner] [appellant]
Address, telephone no., and facsimile no. of
[petitioner] [appellant] [counsel]
I certify that a copy of the foregoing was [mailed] [delivered] to the Court, [mailed] [delivered] to the [trial or appellate military judge whose decision, judgment, or order is the subject of the petition], and [mailed] [delivered] to the [respondent] [appellee] on ________. (Date)
(b) Answer. (1) The respondent's answer to an order to show cause, if ordered by the Court after consideration of a petition for extraordinary relief, shall be in substantially the same form as that of the petition, except that the answer may incorporate the petitioner's statement of facts, add supplementary facts, or contest the statement. To the extent that the petitioner's statement of facts is not contested by the respondent, it shall be taken by the Court as representing an accurate declaration of the basis on which relief is sought. The answer to the order to show cause will be filed no later than 10 days after service on the respondent of the order requiring such answer, unless a different time for filing the answer is specified in the Court's order.
(2) The appellee's answer to a writ appeal petition shall be filed no later than 10 days after the filing of the appellant's writ appeal petition.
(c) Reply. (1) A reply may be filed by the petitioner no later than 5 days after the filing of a respondent's answer to an order to show cause.
(2) A reply may be filed by an appellant, in the case of a writ appeal petition, no later than 5 days after the filing of an appellee's answer.
(As amended Oct. 12, 1994; Feb. 27, 1996; Mar. 26, 1998, eff. May 1, 1998; Apr. 30, 1998, eff. May 1, 1998.)
Rule 29. Filing, Notice, and Briefs
(a) Filing. A petition for new trial will be filed with the Judge Advocate General of the service concerned, who, if the case is pending before this Court, will transmit it, together with seven copies, to the Clerk's office for filing with the Court.
(b) Notice. Upon receipt of a petition for new trial transmitted by the Judge Advocate General, the Clerk will notify all counsel of record of such fact.
(c) Briefs. A brief in support of a petition for new trial, unless expressly incorporated in the petition, will be filed substantially in the form specified in Rule 24 no later than 30 days after the issuance by the Clerk of a notice of the filing of the petition. An appellee's answer shall be filed no later than 30 days after the filing of an appellant's brief. A reply may be filed no later than 10 days after the filing of the appellee's answer.
(d) Special Master. The Court may refer a petition for new trial to a special master, who may be a military judge or other person, to make further investigation, to take evidence, and to make such recommendations to the Court as are deemed appropriate. See United States v. DuBay, 17 USCMA 147 (1967).
(As amended Mar. 31, 1994.)
Rule 30. Motions
(a) All motions will be filed in writing and will state with particularity the relief sought, the factual or legal grounds for requesting such relief, and will include a certificate of filing and service in accordance with Rule 39(c). A copy will be served on opposing counsel and others who have entered an appearance in the proceedings.
(b) An answer to a motion may be filed no later than 5 days after the filing of the motion.
(c) A reply to an answer to a motion may be filed no later than 5 days after the filing of the answer.
(d) Motions will be separately filed before the Court and shall not be incorporated in any other pleading.
(e) Once a notice of hearing has been given to counsel for the parties, motions may not be filed within 5 working days prior to the date on which such hearing is scheduled except by leave of the Court and for good cause shown.
(f) Oral motions presented by counsel by leave of the Court during a hearing shall be forthwith reduced to writing by the moving counsel and filed with the Court within 3 days after such hearing.
(g) Notwithstanding any other provision of these rules, the Court may immediately act on any motion without awaiting an answer or a reply, if it appears that the relief sought ought to be granted. Any party adversely affected by such action may request reconsideration, vacation, or modification of such action.
(As amended Nov. 1, 1995, eff. Nov. 15, 1995; Sept. 20, 1999, eff. Oct. 1, 1999.)
Rule 30A. Fact Finding
(a) General. The Court will normally not consider any facts outside of the record established at the trial and the Court of Criminal Appeals.
(b) Judicial notice. In an appropriate case, the Court may take judicial notice of an indisputable adjudicative fact.
(c) Remand for fact finding. If an issue concerning an unresolved material fact may affect the Court's resolution of the case, a party may request, or the Court may sua sponte order, a remand of the case or the record to the Court of Criminal Appeals. If the record is remanded, the Court retains jurisdiction over the case. If the case is remanded, the Court does not retain jurisdiction, and a new petition for grant of review or certificate for review will be necessary if a party seeks review of the proceedings conducted on remand.
(d) Stipulation by the parties. If an issue concerning an unresolved material fact may affect the Court's resolution of the case, the parties may stipulate to a factual matter, subject to the Court's approval.
(e) Other means. Where it is impracticable to remand a case to the Court of Criminal Appeals, the Court may order other means to develop relevant facts, including the appointment of a special master to hold hearings, if necessary, and to make such recommendations to the Court as are deemed appropriate.
(Added May 25, 1999, eff. July 1, 1999.)
Rule 31. Petition for Reconsideration
(a) A petition for reconsideration may be filed no later than 10 days after the date of any order, decision, or opinion by the Court.
(b) An answer may be filed by opposing counsel no later than 5 days after the filing of the petition.
(c) A reply to an answer to a petition may be filed no later than 5 days after the filing of the answer.
(d) A petition for reconsideration shall be granted with the concurrence of a majority of the judges who participated in the original decision.
(e) Consecutive petitions for reconsideration, and any such petition that is out of time, will not be filed unless accompanied by a motion for leave to file the same, in accordance with Rule 30, and unless such motion is granted by the Court.
(As amended Nov. 1, 1995, eff. Nov. 15, 1995; Jan. 20, 1999, eff. Feb. 1, 1999.)
Rule 32. Form of Petition for Reconsideration
A petition for reconsideration will be filed in substantially the following form:
The Court is requested to reconsider its (opinion) (order) (decision) in this case for the following reason(s):
[The petition shall state with particularity the points of law or fact which, in the opinion of the party seeking reconsideration, the Court has overlooked or misapprehended and shall contain such argument in support of the petition as the party desires to present. Petitions are not to contain merely a restatement of arguments already presented.]
(Counsel's typed name and signature)
(Counsel's address and telephone no.)
I certify that a copy of the foregoing was [mailed] [delivered] to the Court and [mailed] [delivered] to the [appellant] [appellee] [petitioner] [respondent] on ________. (Date)
(As amended Oct. 12, 1994; Feb. 27, 1996.)
Rule 33. Suspension of Rules
For good cause shown, the Court may suspend any of these rules in a particular case, on application of a party or on its own motion, and may order proceedings in accordance with its direction.
Rule 34. Computation of Time
(a) General. In computing any period of time prescribed or allowed by these Rules, order of the Court, or any applicable statute, the day of the act, event, or default after which the designated period of time begins to run is not to be included. The last day of the period so computed is to be included unless it is a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, in which event the period runs until the end of the next day which is neither a Saturday, Sunday, nor a holiday. When the period of time prescribed or allowed is less than 7 days, intervening Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, will be excluded in the computation. When a period of time is computed under these rules from the date of the decision of a Court of Criminal Appeals, such time is to be computed from the date of such decision unless a petition for reconsideration is timely filed, in which event the period of time is to be computed from the date of final action on the petition for reconsideration.
(b) Additional time when service by mail. Whenever a party has the right or is required to do some act within a prescribed period after the issuance of an order or the filing of a notice, pleading, or other paper relative to a case when service thereof is made upon him by mail, 5 days will be added to the prescribed period if the party upon whom the service is made is within the limits of the contiguous 48 States and the District of Columbia, and 15 days will be added if the party is located outside these limits, including the States of Alaska and Hawaii. This provision for additional time shall not apply, however, to the time limitations prescribed in Rule 19(a)(1) for the filing of a petition for grant of review.
Rule 35. Filing of Record
The record shall be filed by the Judge Advocate General as soon as practicable after the docketing of any action pursuant to Rule 4. See Rule 27(a)(1) and (b).
Rule 35A. Use of Classified Information
Classified information shall be included in documents filed with the Court only when necessary to a proper consideration of the issues involved. The original or one complete copy of a document containing the classified information shall be filed with the Court. The party filing such document shall give written notice to the Clerk and to all other parties prior to the time of such filing that such document contains classified information. In addition, there shall be filed in accordance with Rule 37(b)(2) an original and seven copies of each such document from which the classified information has been deleted or omitted in such manner that the pages which contain the deleted or omitted classified information are clearly identified.
(Added Jan. 20, 1999, eff. Feb. 1, 1999.)
Rule 36. Filing of Pleadings
(a) In general. Pleadings or other papers relative to a case shall be filed in the Clerk's office, 450 E Street, Northwest, Washington, D.C. 20442–0001, either in person or by mail. See Rule 37(b)(2).
(b) Filing in person. If a pleading or other paper is filed in person, such filing shall consist of delivery to a member of the Clerk's office during normal business hours. See Rule 9(e).
(c) Filing by mail. If a pleading or other paper is filed by mail, such filing shall consist of depositing the pleading or other paper with the United States Postal Service, with no less than first-class postage prepaid, properly addressed to the Clerk's office.
(d) Time of filing. Pleadings or other papers shall be deemed to have been filed on the date they are delivered to the Clerk's office under subsection (b) or on the date they are mailed under subsection (c). See Rules 37(b)(1) and 39(e).
(e) Non-compliant pleadings. If any pleading or other paper is not filed or offered for filing in compliance with these Rules or an order of the Court, the Court may issue an order to show cause, dismiss the proceeding, or return the proffered pleading or paper on its own motion or the motion of a party. See Rules 27(a)(4) and 37(b)(1).
(As amended Sept. 20, 1999, eff. Oct. 1, 1999.)
Rule 36A. Citations to Supplemental Authorities
If pertinent and significant authorities come to a party's attention after such party has filed a pleading allowed under these Rules, or after oral argument but before a final decision, the party may promptly advise the Clerk by letter, with a copy to all parties, setting forth the citations. The letter must state, without argument, the reasons for each supplemental citation, referring either to the page of the earlier filed pleading or to a point argued orally to which the citation is pertinent. Any response by other parties must be made promptly and must be similarly limited. See Rule 37(b)(2).
(Added Sept. 20, 1999, eff. Oct. 1, 1999.)
Rule 37. Printing, Copying and Style Requirements
(a) Printing. Except for records of trial and as otherwise provided by Rule 27(a)(4), all pleadings or other papers relative to a case shall be typewritten and double-spaced, printed on one side only on white unglazed paper, 8.5 by 11 inches in size, securely fastened in the top left corner. All printed matter must appear in monospaced typeface, e.g., Courier or Courier New, using 12-point type with no more than ten and 1/2 characters per inch. Margins must be at least 1 inch on all four sides. Page numbers may be placed in the margin but no text may appear in the margin.
(b) Copying.
(1) Copies of typewritten pleadings and papers may include those produced by any process capable of producing a clearly legible black image on white paper, but shall not include ordinary carbon copies. If papers are filed in any other form, the Clerk shall require the substitution of new copies, but such substitution will not affect the filing date of the papers or pleadings involved. See Rule 36.
(2) An original and 7 legible copies of all pleadings or other papers relative to a case shall be filed. See Rule 35A concerning documents which contain classified information.
(c) Style.
(1) All pleadings presented to the Court shall, unless they are less than 5 pages in length, be preceded by a subject index of the matter contained therein, with page references, and a table of cases (alphabetically arranged with citations), textbooks, and statutes cited, with references to the pages where cited.
(2) Citations shall conform with the Uniform System of Citation.
(3) All references to the record of trial shall include page numbers or exhibit designations, as appropriate.
(4) No pleading or other paper filed with the Court shall incorporate by reference any material from any other source.
(As amended Oct. 30, 1991, eff. Nov. 4, 1991; Jan. 20, 1999, eff. Feb. 1, 1999; July 27, 2004, eff. Oct. 1, 2004.)
Rule 38. Signatures
(a) General. Except for documents filed in propria persona and those provided for in subsection (b), all original pleadings or other papers filed in a case will bear the signature of at least one counsel who is a member of this Court's Bar and who is participating in the case. The name, address, telephone number, Court Bar number, and rank, if any, of the person signing, together with the capacity in which such counsel signs the paper, will be included. This signature will constitute a certificate that the statements made in the pleading or paper are true and correct to the best of the counsel's knowledge, information, or belief, and that the pleading or paper is filed in good faith and not for the purpose of unnecessary delay. A counsel who signs a pleading “for” some other counsel whose name is typed under such signature must, in addition, affix their own signature in a separate signature block with their own name, address, telephone number, Court Bar number, and rank, if any, typed thereunder.
(b) Exception. If the counsel signing a pleading or paper presented to the Clerk's office for filing is not a member of the Bar of this Court, the pleading or paper shall nonetheless be received as if such counsel were a member. However, within 30 days of the filing of a pleading, such counsel shall, as a prerequisite to continuing in the case as counsel of record, apply for admission to the Bar of this Court or move to appear pro hac vice under Rule 13.
(As amended Oct. 1, 1987; July 27, 2004, eff. Oct. 1, 2004.)
Rule 39. Service of Pleadings
(a) In general. At or before the filing of any pleading or other paper relative to a case in the Clerk's office, a copy thereof shall be served in person or by mail on all counsel of record, including amicus curiae counsel. See Rule 16(b). When a party is not represented by counsel, service shall be made on such party in person or by mail. When reasonable, considering such factors as the immediacy of the relief sought, distance, and cost, service must be at least as expeditious as the manner used to file the pleading or other paper with the Court. See Rule 36.
(b) Personal service. If service is made in person, it shall consist of delivery at the office of the counsel of record, either to counsel or to an employee therein. If the party is not represented, service shall consist of delivery to such party.
(c) Service by mail. If service is made by mail, it shall consist of depositing the pleading or other paper with the United States Postal Service, with no less than first-class postage prepaid, addressed to the counsel of record or, if the party is not represented, to such party, at the proper post office address.
(d) Certificate for review. In the case of a certificate for review, service of a copy thereof shall be made on appellate defense counsel and appellate government counsel as prescribed in Rule 22(a).
(e) Form of certificate of filing and service. A certificate indicating the specific manner of filing under Rule 36 and the specific manner of service under this rule shall be included in any pleading or other paper substantially in the following form:
I certify that the original and seven copies of the foregoing were [delivered] (or) [mailed-specify class of mail] to the Court on ____(date)____ and that a copy of the foregoing was [delivered] (or) [mailed-specify class of mail] to (enter specific name of each counsel of record or party, if not represented) on ____(date)____.
(Typed name and signature of
certifying person)
(Address and telephone no.
of certifying person)
Rule 40. Hearings
(a) Motions, petitions for grant of review, petitions for extraordinary relief, writ appeal petitions, petitions for new trial, and petitions for reconsideration. Except when ordered by the Court, hearings will not be permitted on motions, petitions for grant of review, petitions for extraordinary relief, writ appeal petitions, petitions for new trial, or petitions for reconsideration.
(b) When and how heard. After the case is calendared as provided in Rule 11 and all required briefs have been filed, a hearing may be ordered by the Court.
(1) Notice of hearing. The Clerk will give at least 20 days notice in writing to counsel for the parties of the time and place for the hearing, unless ordered otherwise by the Court. Upon receipt of such notice, counsel will notify the Clerk's office of the identity of the counsel who will present oral argument.
(2) Presentation. Unless directed otherwise by the Clerk, counsel for the appellant or petitioner will open and close the argument. When the subject of a hearing is a motion, counsel for the moving party will be entitled to open and close. When both parties seek review in this Court, the accused shall be deemed the appellant for the purpose of this rule. Argument by counsel for an amicus curiae will be allowed on motion filed under Rule 30.
(3) Time allowed. Each side will normally be allotted 30 minutes to present oral argument.
Rule 41. Photographing, Televising, Recording, or Broadcasting of Hearings
(a) The photographing, televising, recording, or broadcasting of any session of the Court or other activity relating thereto is prohibited within the confines of the courthouse unless authorized by the Court.
(b) Any violation of this rule will be deemed a contempt of this Court and, after due notice and hearing, may be punished accordingly. See 18 USC §401.
(As amended Oct. 22, 2001, eff. Nov. 1, 2001.)
Rule 42. Filing, Reproduction, and Distribution
All opinions of the Court will be filed with the Clerk for preservation. The reproduction, printing, and distribution of all opinions will be under the supervision of the Clerk.
Rule 43. Entry of Judgment
(a) Immediately upon the filing of an opinion of the Court, the Clerk shall prepare, sign, date and enter the judgment. The notation of a judgment in the docket constitutes entry of the judgment. On the date judgment is entered, the Clerk shall distribute to all parties and the Judge Advocate General of the service in which the case arose a copy of the opinion and judgment. See Rule 10(d).
(b) If a judgment is rendered without an opinion, the Clerk shall prepare, sign, date and enter such judgment in an order following instruction from the Court. Notation of such order in the docket constitutes entry of the judgment and the effective date of the judgment is the date of that order. On the date such order is entered, the Clerk shall distribute to all parties and the Judge Advocate General of the service in which the case arose a copy of the order. See Rule 10(d).
(Added Mar. 26, 1998, eff. May 1, 1998.)
Rule 43A. Issuance of Mandate
(a) The mandate of the Court shall issue 7 days after the expiration of the time for filing a petition for reconsideration under Rule 31(a) unless such a petition is filed or the time is shortened or enlarged by order. A certified dated copy of the judgment and a copy of the opinion of the Court, if any, shall constitute the mandate, unless the Court directs that a formal mandate issue. The timely filing of a petition for reconsideration shall stay the mandate until disposition of the petition unless otherwise ordered by the Court. If the petition is denied, the mandate shall issue 7 days after entry of the order denying the petition unless the time is shortened or enlarged by order. In any case, the Court may order the mandate to issue forthwith.
(b) The effective date of any order shall be the date of that order, and no mandate shall issue. The Clerk shall distribute copies of all such orders to all parties and the Judge Advocate General of the service in which the case arose.
Rule 44. Judicial Conference
There shall be held annually, at such time and place as shall be designated by the Court, a conference for the purpose of considering the state of business of the Court and advising on ways and means of improving the administration of military justice.
(As amended Oct. 12, 1994; Feb. 27, 1996; Mar. 26, 1998, eff. May 1, 1998.)
Rule 45. Rules Advisory Committee
(a) Establishment of committee; membership. A Rules Advisory Committee is hereby created for this Court. The Committee shall consist of not less than 9 members of the Bar of this Court and shall be selected by the Court, in such a way as to represent a broad cross-section of the legal profession. Representatives from government, the law schools, and public interest groups shall, when practicable, be included on the Committee, as shall private practitioners. The Clerk of the Court shall be a member of the Committee and shall serve as its Reporter.
(b) Duties of committee. The Rules Advisory Committee appointed by this Court shall have an advisory role concerning practice and procedure before the Court. The Committee shall, among other things, (1) provide a forum for continuous study of the operating procedures and published rules of the Court; (2) serve as a conduit between the Bar, the public, and the Court regarding the Rules of the Court, procedural matters, and suggestions for changes; (3) draft, consider and recommend rules and amendments to the Court for adoption; and (4) render reports from time to time, on its own initiative and on request, to the Court on the activities and recommendations of the Committee. The Committee shall prepare appropriate explanatory materials with respect to any rule change or other recommendation it submits to the Court.
(c) Terms of members; chairman. With the exception of the Clerk of the Court, the members of the Committee shall serve three-year terms, which will be staggered in such a way as to enable the Court to appoint or reappoint one-third of the Committee each year. The Court shall appoint one of the members of the Committee to serve as chairman.
(Effective May 1, 1996, as amended to January 3, 2005)
Place for filing papers.
Signing of papers.
Qualification of counsel.
Conduct of counsel.
Request for appellate defense counsel.
Retention of civilian counsel.
Notice of appearance of counsel.
Waiver or withdrawal of appellate review.
Assignments of error and briefs.
En banc proceedings.
Orders and decisions of the Court.
Petitions for extraordinary relief, answer, and reply.
Appeals by the United States.
Petitions for new trial.
Continuances and interlocutory matters.
Internal rules.
Recording, photographing, broadcasting, or telecasting of hearings.
Formats for Direction for Review in a Court of Criminal Appeals.
Format for Assignment of Errors and Brief on Behalf of Accused (Rule 15).
Pub. L. 103–337, div. A, title IX, §924(b)(1), Oct. 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 2831, provided that: “Each Court of Military Review shall hereafter be known and designated as a Court of Criminal Appeals.”
Rule 1. Name and seal
(a) The titles of the Courts of Criminal Appeals of the respective services are:
(1) “United States Army Court of Criminal Appeals.”
(2) “United States Navy-Marine Corps Court of Criminal Appeals.”
(3) “United States Air Force Court of Criminal Appeals.”
(4) “United States Coast Guard Court of Criminal Appeals.”
(b) Each Court is authorized a seal in the discretion of the Judge Advocate General concerned. The design of such seal shall include the title of the Court.
Rule 2. Jurisdiction
(1) Review under Article 66. All cases of trial by court-martial in which the sentence as approved extends to:
(ii) Dismissal of a commissioned officer, cadet or midshipman, dishonorable or bad-conduct discharge, or confinement for 1 year or longer; and in which the accused has not waived or withdrawn appellate review.
(2) Review upon direction of the Judge Advocate General Under Article 69. All cases of trial by court-martial in which there has been a finding of guilty and a sentence:
(i) For which Article 66 does not otherwise provide appellate review, and
(ii) Which the Judge Advocate General forwards to the Court for review pursuant to Article 69(d), and
(iii) In which the accused has not waived or withdrawn appellate review.
(3) Review under Article 62. All cases of trial by court-martial in which a punitive discharge may be adjudged and a military judge presides, and in which the government appeals an order or ruling of the military judge that terminates the proceedings with respect to a charge or specification or excludes evidence that is substantial proof of a fact material to the proceedings, or directs the disclosure of classified information, imposes sanctions for nondisclosure of classified information, or refuses to issue or enforce a protective order sought by the United States to prevent the disclosure of classified information.
(4) Review under Article 73. All petitions for a new trial in cases of trial by court-martial which are referred to the Court by the Judge Advocate General.
(b) Extraordinary writs. The Court may, in its discretion, entertain petitions for extraordinary relief including, but not limited to, writs of mandamus, writs of prohibition, writs of habeas corpus, and writs of error coram nobis.
(c) Effect of rules on jurisdiction. Nothing in these rules shall be construed to extend or limit the jurisdiction of the Courts of Criminal Appeals as established by law.
Rule 3. Scope of review
In cases referred to it for review pursuant to Article 66, the Court may act only with respect to the findings and sentence as approved by the convening authority. In reviewing a case or action under Article 69(d) or in determining an appeal under Article 62, the Court may act only with respect to matters of law. The Court may, in addition, review such other matters and take such other action as it determines to be proper under substantive law.
Rule 4. Quorum
(a) In panel. When sitting in panel, a majority of the judges assigned to that panel constitutes a quorum for the purpose of hearing or determining any matter referred to the panel. The determination of any matter referred to the panel shall be according to the opinion of a majority of the judges participating in the decision. However, any judge present for duty may issue all necessary orders concerning any proceedings pending on [in] panel and any judge present for duty, or a clerk of court or commissioner to whom the Court has delegated authority, may act on uncontested motions, provided such action does not finally dispose of a petition, appeal, or case before the Court.
(b) En banc. When sitting as a whole, a majority of the judges of the Court constitutes a quorum for the purpose of hearing and determining any matter before the Court. The determination of any matter before the Court shall be according to the opinion of a majority of the judges participating in the decision. In the absence of a quorum, any judge present for duty may issue all necessary orders concerning any proceedings pending in the Court preparatory to hearing or decision thereof.
Rule 5. Place for filing papers
When the filing of a notice of appearance, brief, or other paper in the office of a Judge Advocate General is required by these rules, such papers shall be filed in the office of the Judge Advocate General of the appropriate armed force or in such other place as the Judge Advocate General or rule promulgated pursuant to Rule 26 hereof may designate. If transmitted by mail or other means, they are not filed until received in such office.
Rule 6. Signing of papers
All formal papers shall be signed and shall show, typewritten or printed, the signer's name, address, military grade (if any), and the capacity in which the paper is signed. Such signature constitutes a certification that the statements made therein are true and correct to the best of the knowledge, information, and belief of the persons signing the paper and that the paper is filed in good faith and not for purposes of unnecessary delay.
Rule 7. Computation of time
In computing any period of time prescribed or allowed by these rules, by order of the Court, or by any applicable statute, the day of the act, event or default after which the designated period of time begins to run is not to be included. The last day of the period so computed is to be included, unless it is a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, or, when the act to be done is the filing of a paper in court, a day on which the office of the Clerk of the Court is closed due to weather or other conditions or by order of the Chief Judge, in which event the period runs until the end of the next day which is neither a Saturday, Sunday, nor a holiday.
Rule 8. Qualification of counsel
(a) All counsel. Counsel in any case before the Court shall be a member in good standing of the bar of a Federal Court, the highest court of a State or another recognized bar.
(b) Military counsel. Assigned appellate defense and appellate government counsel shall, in addition, be qualified in accordance with Articles 27(b)(1) and 70(a), Uniform Code of Military Justice.
(c) Admission. Each Court may license counsel to appear before it. Otherwise, upon entering an appearance, counsel shall be deemed admitted pro hac vice, subject to filing a certificate setting forth required qualifications if directed by the Court.
(d) Suspension. No counsel may appear in any proceeding before the Court while suspended from practice by the Judge Advocate General of the service concerned.
Rule 9. Conduct of counsel
The conduct of counsel appearing before the Court shall be in accordance with rules of conduct prescribed pursuant to Rule for Courts-Martial 109 by the Judge Advocate General of the service concerned. However, the Court may exercise its inherent power to regulate counsel appearing before it, including the power to remove counsel from a particular case for misconduct in relation to that case. Conduct deemed by the Court to warrant consideration of suspension from practice or other professional discipline shall be reported by the Court to the Judge Advocate General concerned.
Rule 10. Request for appellate defense counsel
An accused may be represented before the Court by appellate counsel detailed pursuant to Article 70(a) or by civilian counsel provided by the accused, or both. An accused who does not waive appellate review pursuant to Rule for Courts-Martial 1110 shall, within 10 days after service of a copy of the convening authority's action under Rule for Courts-Martial 1107(h), forward to the convening authority or the Judge Advocate General:
(a) A request for representation by military appellate defense counsel, or
(b) Notice that civilian counsel has been retained or that action has been taken to retain civilian counsel (must include name and address of civilian counsel), or
(c) Both a request for representation by military appellate defense counsel under paragraph (a) of this Rule and notice regarding civilian counsel under paragraph (b) of this Rule, or
(d) A waiver of representation by counsel.
Rule 11. Assignment of counsel
(a) When a record of trial is referred to the Court—
(1) If the accused has requested representation by appellate defense counsel, pursuant to Article 70(c)(1), counsel detailed pursuant to Article 70(a) will be assigned to represent the accused; or
(2) If the accused gives notice that he or she has retained or has taken action to retain civilian counsel, appellate defense counsel shall be assigned to represent the interests of the accused pending appearance of civilian counsel. Assigned defense counsel will continue to assist after appearance by civilian counsel unless excused by the accused; or
(3) If the accused has neither requested appellate counsel nor given notice of action to retain civilian counsel, but has not waived representation by counsel, appellate defense counsel will be assigned to represent the accused, subject to excusal by the accused or by direction of the Court.
(b) In any case—
(1) The Court may request counsel when counsel have not been assigned.
(2) Pursuant to Article 70(c)(2), and subject to paragraph (a)(2) of this Rule, appellate defense counsel will represent the accused when the United States is represented by counsel before the Court.
Rule 12. Retention of civilian counsel
When civilian counsel represents an accused before the Court, the Court will notify counsel when the record of trial is received. If both civilian and assigned appellate defense counsel represent the accused, the Court will regard civilian counsel as primary counsel unless notified otherwise. Ordinarily, civilian counsel will use the accused's copy of the record. Civilian counsel may reproduce, at no expense to the government, appellate defense counsel's copy of the record.
Rule 13. Notice of appearance of counsel
Military and civilian appellate counsel shall file a written notice of appearance with the Court. The filing of any pleading relative to a case which contains the signature of counsel constitutes notice of appearance of such counsel.
Rule 14. Waiver or withdrawal of appellate review
Withdrawals from appellate review, and waivers of appellate review filed after expiration of the period prescribed by the Rule for Courts-Martial 1110(f)(1), will be referred to the Court for consideration. At its discretion, the Court may require the filing of a motion for withdrawal, issue a show cause order, or grant the withdrawal without further action, as may be appropriate. The Court will return the record of trial, in a case withdrawn from appellate review, to the Judge Advocate General for action pursuant to Rule for Courts-Martial 1112.
Rule 15. Assignments of error and briefs
(a) General provisions. Appellate counsel for the accused may file an assignment of error if any are to be alleged, setting forth separately each error asserted. The assignment of errors should be included in a brief for the accused in the format set forth in Appendix B to these rules. An original of all assignments of error and briefs, and as many additional copies as shall be prescribed by the Court, shall be submitted. Briefs and assignments of errors shall be typed or printed, double-spaced on white paper, and securely fastened at the top. All references to matters contained in the record shall show record page numbers and any exhibit designations. A brief on behalf of the government shall be of like character as that prescribed for the accused.
(b) Time for filing and number of briefs. Any brief for an accused shall be filed within 60 days after appellate counsel has been notified of the receipt of the record in the Office of the Judge Advocate General. If the Judge Advocate General has directed appellate government counsel to represent the United States, such counsel shall file an answer on behalf of the government within 30 days after any brief and assignment of errors has been filed on behalf of an accused. Appellate counsel for an accused may file a reply brief no later than 7 days after the filing of a response brief on behalf of the government. If no brief is filed on behalf of an accused, a brief on behalf of the government may be filed within 30 days after expiration of the time allowed for the filing of a brief on behalf of the accused.
(c) Appendix. The brief of either party may include an appendix. If an unpublished opinion is cited in the brief, a copy shall be attached in an appendix. The appendix may also include extracts of statutes, rules, or regulations. A motion must be filed under Rule 23, infra, to attach any other matter.
Rule 16. Oral arguments
Oral arguments may be heard in the discretion of the Court upon motion by either party or when otherwise ordered by the Court. The motion of a party for oral argument shall be made no later than 7 days after the filing of an answer to an appellant's brief. Such motion shall identify the issue(s) upon which counsel seek argument. The Court may, on its own motion, identify the issue(s) upon which it wishes argument.
Rule 17. En banc proceedings
(a)(1) A party may suggest the appropriateness of consideration or reconsideration by the Court as a whole. Such consideration or reconsideration ordinarily will not be ordered except:
(i) When consideration by the full Court is necessary to secure or maintain uniformity of decision, or
(ii) When the proceedings involve a question of exceptional importance, or
(iii) When a sentence being reviewed pursuant to Article 66 extends to death.
(2) In cases being reviewed pursuant to Article 66, a party's suggestion that a matter be considered initially by the Court as a whole must be filed with the Court within 7 days after the government files its answer to the assignment of errors, or the appellant files a reply under Rule 15(b). In other proceedings, the suggestion must be filed with the party's initial petition or other initial pleading, or within 7 days after the response thereto is filed. A suggestion for reconsideration by the Court as a whole must be made within the time prescribed by Rule 19 for filing a motion for reconsideration. No response to a suggestion for consideration or reconsideration by the Court as a whole may be filed unless the Court shall so order.
(b) The suggestion of a party for consideration or reconsideration by the Court as a whole shall be transmitted to each judge of the Court who is present for duty, but a vote need not be taken to determine whether the cause shall be considered or reconsidered by the Court as a whole on such a suggestion made by a party unless a judge requests a vote.
(c) A majority of the judges present for duty may order that any appeal or other proceeding be considered or reconsidered by the Court sitting as a whole. However, en banc reconsideration of an en banc decision will not be held unless at least one member of the original majority concurs in a vote for reconsideration.
(d) This rule does not affect the power of the Court sua sponte to consider or reconsider any case sitting as a whole.
Rule 18. Orders and decisions of the Court
The Court shall give notice of its orders and decisions by immediately serving them, when rendered, on appellate defense counsel, including civilian counsel, if any, government counsel and the Judge Advocate General, or designee, as appropriate.
Rule 19. Reconsideration
(a) The Court may, in its discretion and on its own motion, enter an order announcing its intent to reconsider its decision or order in any case not later than 30 days after service of such decision or order on appellate defense counsel or on the appellant, if the appellant is not represented by counsel, provided a petition for grant of review or certificate for review has not been filed with the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, or a record of trial for review under Article 67(b) has not been received by that Court. No briefs or arguments shall be received unless the order so directs.
(b) Provided a petition for grant of review or certificate for review has not been filed with the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, or a record of trial for review under Article 67(b) or writ appeal has not been received by the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, the Court may, in its discretion, reconsider its decision or order in any case upon motion filed either:
(1) By appellate defense counsel within 30 days after receipt by counsel, or by the appellant if the appellant is not represented by counsel, of a decision or order, or
(2) By appellate government counsel within 30 days after the decision or order is received by counsel.
(c) A motion for reconsideration shall briefly and directly state the grounds for reconsideration, including a statement of facts showing jurisdiction in the Court. A reply to the motion for reconsideration will be received by the Court only if filed within 7 days of receipt of a copy of the motion. Oral arguments shall not be heard on a motion for reconsideration unless ordered by the Court. The original of the motion filed with the Court shall indicate the date of receipt of a copy of the same by opposing counsel.
(d) The time limitations prescribed by these rules shall not be extended under the authority of Rule 24 or 25 beyond the expiration of the time for filing a petition for review or writ appeal with the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, except that the time for filing briefs by either party may be extended for good cause.
Rule 20. Petitions for extraordinary relief, answer, and reply
(a) Petition for extraordinary relief. A petition for extraordinary relief in the number of copies required by the Court shall be accompanied by proof of service on each party respondent and will contain:
(1) A previous history of the case including whether prior actions have been filed or are pending for the same relief in this or any other court and the disposition or status of such actions;
(2) A concise and objective statement of all facts relevant to the issue presented and of any pertinent opinion, order or ruling;
(3) A copy of any pertinent parts of the record and all exhibits related to the petition if reasonably available and transmittable at or near the time the petition is filed;
(4) A statement of the issue;
(5) The specific relief sought;
(6) Reasons for granting the writ;
(7) The jurisdictional basis for relief sought and the reasons why the relief sought cannot be obtained during the ordinary course of appellate review;
(8) If desired, a request for appointment of appellate counsel.
(b) Format. The title of the petition shall include the name, military grade and service number of each named party and, where appropriate, the official military or civilian title of any named party acting in an official capacity as an officer or agent of the United States. When an accused has not been named as a party, the accused shall be identified by name, military grade and service number by the petitioner and shall be designated as the real party in interest.
(c) Electronic petitions. The Court will docket petitions for extraordinary relief submitted by electronic means. A petition submitted by electronic means will conclude with the full name and address of petitioner's counsel, if any, and will state when the written petition and brief, when required, were forwarded to the Court and to all named respondents, and by what means they were forwarded.
(d) Notice to the Judge Advocate General. Immediately upon receipt of any petition, the clerk shall forward a copy of the petition to the appropriate Judge Advocate General or designee.
(e) Briefs. Each petition for extraordinary relief must be accompanied by a brief in support of the petition unless it is filed in propria persona. The Court may issue a show cause order in which event the respondent shall file an answer within 10 days of the receipt of the show cause order. The petitioner may file a reply to the answer within 7 days of receipt of the answer.
(f) Initial action by the Court. The Court may dismiss or deny the petition, order the respondent to show cause and file an answer within the time specified, or take whatever other action it deems appropriate.
(g) Oral argument and final action. The Court may set the matter for oral argument. However, on the basis of the pleading alone, the Court may grant or deny the relief sought or make such other order in the case as the circumstances may require. This includes referring the matter to a special master, who need not be a military judge, to further investigate; to take evidence; and to make such recommendations as the Court deems appropriate.
Rule 21. Appeals by the United States
(a) Restricted filing. Only a representative of the government designated by the Judge Advocate General of the respective service may file an appeal by the United States under Article 62.
(b) Counsel. Counsel must be qualified and appointed, and give notice of appearance in accordance with these rules and those of the Judge Advocate General concerned.
(c) Form of appeal. The appeal must include those documents specified by Rule for Courts-Martial 908 and by applicable regulations of the Secretary concerned. A certificate of the Notice of Appeal described in Rule for Courts-Martial 908(b)(3) must be included. The certificate of service must reflect the date and time of the military judge's ruling or order from which the appeal is taken, and the time and date of service upon the military judge.
(d) Time for filing. All procedural Rules of the Court shall apply except as noted in this paragraph:
(1) The representative of the government designated by the Judge Advocate General shall decide whether to file the appeal with the Court. The trial counsel shall have 20 days from the date written notice to appeal is filed with the trial court to forward the appeal, including an original and two copies of the record of trial, to the representative of the government designated by the Judge Advocate General. The person designated by the Judge Advocate General shall promptly file the original record with the Clerk of the Court and forward one copy to opposing counsel. Appellate government counsel shall have 20 days (or more upon a showing of good cause made by motion for enlargement within the 20 days) from the date the record is filed with the Court to file the appeal with supporting brief with the Court. Should the government decide to withdraw the appeal after the record is received by the Court, appellate government counsel shall notify the Court in writing. Appellate brief(s) shall be prepared in the manner prescribed by Rule 15.
(2) Appellee shall prepare an answer in the manner prescribed by Rule 15 and shall file such answer within 20 days after any filing of the government brief.
(e) The government shall diligently prosecute all appeals by the United States and the Court will give such appeals priority over all other proceedings where practicable.
Rule 22. Petitions for new trial
(a) Whether submitted to the Judge Advocate General by the accused in propria persona or by counsel for the accused, a petition for new trial submitted while the accused's case is undergoing review by a Court of Criminal Appeals shall be filed with an original and two copies and shall comply with the requirements of Rule for Courts-Martial 1210(c).
(b) Upon receipt of a petition for new trial submitted by other than appellate defense counsel, the Court will notify all counsel of record of such fact.
(c) A brief in support of a petition for new trial, unless expressly incorporated in or filed with the petition, will be filed substantially in the format specified by Rule 15 no later than 30 days after the filing of the petition or receipt of the notice required by paragraph (b) of this rule, whichever is later. An appellee's answer shall be filed no later than 30 days after the filing of an appellant's brief. A reply may be filed no later than 10 days after the filing of the appellee's answer.
Rule 23. Motions
(a) Content. All motions, unless made during the course of a hearing, shall state with particularity the relief sought and the grounds therefor. Motions, pleading, and other papers desired to be filed with the Court may be combined in the same document, with the heading indicating, for example “MOTION TO FILE (SUPPLEMENTAL ASSIGNMENT OF ERRORS) (CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION) (SUPPLEMENTAL PLEADING)”; or “ASSIGNMENT OF ERRORS AND MOTION TO FILE ATTACHED REPORT OF MEDICAL BOARD”.
(b) Motions to attach documents. If a party desires to attach a statement of a person to the record for consideration by the Court on any matter, such statement shall be made either as an affidavit or as an unsworn declaration under penalty of perjury pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 1746. All documents containing language other than English shall have, attached, a certified English translation.
(c) Opposition. Any opposition to a motion shall be filed within 7 days after receipt by the opposing party of service of the motion.
(d) Leave to file. Any pleading not authorized or required by these rules shall be accompanied by a motion for leave to file such pleading.
(e) Oral argument. Oral argument shall not normally be permitted on motions.
Rule 24. Continuances and interlocutory matters
Except as otherwise provided in Rule 19(d), the Court, in its discretion, may extend any time limits prescribed and may dispose of any interlocutory or other appropriate matter not specifically covered by these rules, in such manner as may appear to be required for a full, fair, and expeditious consideration of the case. See Rule 4.
Rule 25. Suspension of rules
For good cause shown, the Court acting as a whole or in panel may suspend the requirements or provisions of any of these rules in a particular case on petition of a party or on its own motion and may order proceedings in accordance with its direction.
Rule 26. Internal rules
The Chief Judge of the Court has the authority to prescribe internal rules for the Court.
Rule 27. Recording, photographing, broadcasting, or telecasting of hearings
The recording, photographing, broadcasting, or televising of any session of the Court or other activity relating thereto is prohibited unless specifically authorized by the Court.
Rule 28. Amendments
Proposed amendments to these rules may be submitted to the Chief Judge of any Court named in Rule 1 or to a Judge Advocate General. Before acting on any proposed amendments not received from the Chief Judges, the Judge Advocates General shall refer them to the Chief Judges of the Courts for comment. The Chief Judges shall confer on any proposed changes, and shall report to the Judge Advocates General as to the suitability of proposed changes and their impact on the operation of the Courts and on appellate justice.
FORMAT FOR DIRECTION FOR REVIEW IN A COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS
in the united states ____________1 court of criminal appeals
to the honorable, the judges of the united states ____________ court of criminal appeals
1. Pursuant to Article 69 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, 10 U.S.C. §869 (1994) and the Rules of Practice and Procedure for Courts of Criminal Appeals, Rule 2(b), the record of trial in the above-entitled case is forwarded for review.
2. The accused was found guilty by a (type of court-martial) of a violation of Article(s) ________ of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, and was sentenced to (include entire adjudged sentence) on (insert trial date). The convening authority (approved the sentence as adjudged) (approved the following findings and sentence: ____________). The officer exercising general court-martial jurisdiction (where applicable) took the following action: ____________. The case was received for review pursuant to Article 69 on (date).
3. In review, pursuant to Uniform Code of Military Justice, Article 66, it is requested that action be taken with respect to the following issues:
Received a copy of the foregoing Direction for Review this ____________ (date).
1 Use “Army,” “Navy-Marine Corps,” “Air Force,” or “Coast Guard,” as applicable.
FORMAT FOR ASSIGNMENT OF ERRORS AND BRIEF ON BEHALF OF ACCUSED (RULE 15)
in the united states ____________2 court of criminal appeals
[Set forth a concise summary of the chronology of the case, including the general nature of the charges, the pleas of the accused, the findings and sentence at trial, the action by the convening authority, and any other pertinent information regarding the proceedings.]
[Set forth those facts necessary to a disposition of the assigned errors, including specific page references and exhibit numbers. Answers may adopt appellant's or petitioner's statement of facts if there is no dispute, may state additional facts, or, if there is a dispute, may restate the facts as they appear from appellee's or respondent's viewpoint. The repetition of uncontroverted matters is not desired.]
Errors and Argument
[Set forth each error alleged in upper case letters, followed by separate arguments for each error. Arguments shall discuss briefly the question presented, citing and quoting such authorities as are deemed pertinent. Each argument shall include a statement of the applicable standard of review, and shall be followed by a specific prayer for the relief requested.]
[The brief of either party may include an appendix containing copies of unpublished opinions cited in the brief, and extracts of statutes, rules or regulations pertinent to the assigned errors.]
Name (and rank) of counsel,
I certify that a copy of the foregoing was mailed or delivered to the Court and opposing counsel on (date).
Name (rank) (and signature)
2 Use “Army,” “Navy-Marine Corps,” “Air Force,” or “Coast Guard,” as applicable.