While there is a maximum punishment that can be given for each UCMJ Article, the sentences given out vary widely depending on the charge, quality of the legal defense, and evidence presented. A minor offense conviction in a summary court martial could result in hard labor for 45 days, restriction to a particular area for 60 days, reduction in pay for one month, reduction in rank, or confinement for up to 30 days. A misdemeanor conviction in a special court martial could result in hard labor for up to three months, forfeiture of up to two-thirds pay for up to one-year, bad conduct discharge, or confinement for up to one year. Lastly, there is a new special court martial that limits sentences to 6 months and no punitive discharge.  In effect, there are two different special court martial options.  The six month special, as it is colloquially called is reserved for misconduct that does not merit a punitive discharge, but may merit confinement time to reflect on error of the Service Member’s ways. A felony conviction in a general court martial may deliver any punishment not prohibited by the UCMJ, including dishonorable discharge, life in prison, and the death penalty for serious crimes such as murder, espionage, and aiding the enemy. The accused has the right to appeal the outcome of a court martial if it’s believed that the military judge made an error of the law.