3–1. General
This chapter implements and amplifies UCMJ, Art. 15, Uniform Code of Military Justice, and Part V, MCM, 2008. No
action should be taken under the authority of UCMJ, Art. 15 without referring to the appropriate provisions of the
MCM and this chapter. This chapter prescribes requirements, policies, limitations, and procedures for—
a. Commanders at all levels imposing nonjudicial punishment.
b. Members on whom this punishment is to be imposed.
c. Other persons who may take some action with respect to the proceedings.
3–2. Use of nonjudicial punishment
A commander should use nonpunitive measures to the fullest extent to further the efficiency of the command before
resorting to nonjudicial punishment (see para 1d(1), part V, MCM, 2008). Use of nonjudicial punishment is proper in
all cases involving minor offenses in which nonpunitive measures are considered inadequate or inappropriate. If it is
clear that nonjudicial punishment will not be sufficient to meet the ends of justice, more stringent measures must be
taken. Prompt action is essential for nonjudicial punishment to have the proper corrective effect. Nonjudicial punishment
may be imposed to—
a. Correct, educate, and reform offenders whom the imposing commander determines cannot benefit from less
stringent measures.
b. Preserve a SoldierÂ’s record of service from unnecessary stigma by record of court-martial conviction.
c. Further military efficiency by disposing of minor offenses in a manner requiring less time and personnel than trial
by court-martial.