What are the three types of court-martials from most severe to least severe?

The hierarchy of court-martials in the military justice system is structured to reflect the severity of offenses and the potential consequences faced by service members. The correct order, from most severe to least severe, is General, Special, and then Summary.

A General Court-Martial is the most serious type, capable of trying cases that involve severe offenses such as felonies, which can lead to significant penalties including dishonorable discharge, imprisonment, or even the death penalty in extreme cases. This court-martial includes a panel of military members that functions similarly to a civilian jury.

Next is the Special Court-Martial, which deals with intermediate offenses. The punishments available are less severe than those within a General Court-Martial but still significant. This setting generally allows for a more limited range of penalties, often including confinement for up to one year and other punitive measures.

Lastly, the Summary Court-Martial is the least severe, intended for minor violations of military law. This type of court-martial provides a simplified process and is generally presided over by a single officer. The aim here is to swiftly adjudicate less serious offenses, with limitations on the sentences that can be imposed.

Understanding this hierarchy is crucial for service members as it impacts their rights and