What Should I Do If I Am Apprehended by the Military Police?

Interacting with the United States military police (MPs) can be daunting, regardless of the reason why you’re being arrested. No matter the situation, it’s imperative that you understand your rights and legal options when dealing with military criminal defense laws. For example, you may want to ask yourself, “What should I do if I am apprehended by the military police?”

About Military Criminal Defense Cases

Military law covers criminal activities that occur within military installations. The U.S. military comprises around 2.07 million military personnel and 788,470 civilians. The military police’s training is dedicated 60 percent to combat support functions and 40 percent to law enforcement.

It can be daunting facing military charges, and for good reason. The military criminal system exists to keep service members and communities at large safe, but they are not immune to corruption, such as improper influence and external process manipulation.

Military criminal defense laws cover crime on domestic military installations and abroad in some situations. These laws are different from normal civilian laws, and the military police have the authority to enforce them.

Four Simple Steps to Take If You Are Arrested by the Military Police

Being apprehended by the military police is deeply concerning. You need to have a plan in place to get through the situation as seamlessly as possible. Regardless of the details of your arrest, these tips can be crucial for interacting with MPs:

1. Stay calm. It’s easy to become overwhelmed when facing potential allegations from the military police, but it’s important to remain calm and collected. Then, you can think clearly about your next steps. Additionally, you can avoid escalating matters by keeping a level head.
2. Think about your defense. Staying calm is also advantageous because it allows you to think clearly and remember as much about what is happening as possible. You can then use these instructions as evidence in your potential criminal defense case. The more information you have about your situation, the more you have to build a strong defense later.
3. Know your rights. Military members have the same rights as civilians during an arrest, such as the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. While it’s wise to be polite when interacting with the arresting officers, you can invoke your right to silence. Before you do that, it’s also wise to use your right to an attorney.
4. Hire a military criminal defense lawyer. Working with a legal professional can be vital for success in your case. A military criminal defense attorney can navigate any type of case, including administrative separations, discharge upgrades, General Courts-Martial, military disputes, official military record corrections, and Special Courts-Martial.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Difference Between the Military Police and Standard United States Law Enforcement?

A: The military police (MPs) and United States law enforcement may perform some of the same activities, but there are key differences in how they function. MPs are members of the United States Military. They primarily enforce laws and conduct security on military installations. They may also be called in to help with certain combat situations.

Standard law enforcement members, however, are civilians who uphold the law at the local, state, and federal levels.

Q: Can I Be Arrested by the Military Police If I Am Not a Service Member?

A: Generally, the military police do not have the authority to arrest civilians, even if they are on military installations. That said, civilians who enter these military installations are often subject to checks, and specific rules are posted for the area. Violations of these rules or confrontations with MPs can lead to enforcement actions. Overall, civilians aren’t usually prosecuted under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) unless Congress declares a “time of war.”

Q: What Do I Do If I Am Under Investigation by the Military?

A: A military investigation can work differently, depending on the military branch and the details of the case, but there are still steps anyone can take if they are being investigated. First, know your rights and legal options. Then, you can be ready for whatever comes next.

Start documenting important events and gathering your own evidence. Also, be aware of common investigation techniques, and know how to protect yourself. Then, hire a military criminal defense lawyer to build your defense.

Q: Do I Have to Hire a Military Criminal Defense Lawyer If I’m Being Investigated by the U.S. Military?

A: You’re not required to hire a military criminal defense lawyer to deal with a military investigation, but it is highly recommended that you do. A military criminal defense attorney can protect you throughout the investigation process and make sure you’re treated fairly under the law. Even if you only suspect an investigation against you, it’s wise to be prepared. You can expect the U.S. military to have access to legal resources to more effectively build their case against you.

Hire a Military Criminal Defense Lawyer in California

Facing criminal charges in the military is daunting, but having the right legal representation can alleviate some of your concerns. No matter the details of your case, it’s critical that you act quickly to build your defense. A local military criminal defense attorney can represent you through this process.

Aaron Meyer Law has been navigating complex military criminal law cases for years. To defend you, our team works hard to learn every detail of your case. We can then build a strong defense against your charges. As our client, you are our priority. When you choose Aaron Meyer Law to manage your military criminal defense case, you’re choosing an attorney who is a(n):

• American Association for Justice member
• Avvo Clients’ Choice Award winner
• Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles member
• National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers member

Our office is conveniently located on Lake Forest Drive, right off I-5. We welcome you to come and discuss your situation in more detail. Simply reach out to the office to set up a consultation with a trusted California military criminal defense attorney today.