Join the US Navy Reserve as a JAG Officer

 

Defend the Constitution, Serve Sailors and Families, and Lead with Purpose

Are you ready to use your legal expertise to serve your country and protect the rule of law? Watch the video below to see how Navy Reserve JAG Officers provide critical legal services and advice to the Navy, supporting Sailors, commanders, and military operations worldwide.

As a Navy Reserve Judge Advocate General (JAG) Officer, you will have the unique opportunity to serve in the legal profession while contributing to national security. JAG Officers in the Navy Reserve provide legal counsel in areas including national security law, military justice, administrative law, and legal services for Sailors and their families. This is your opportunity to leverage your legal expertise, serve your country, and balance military service with your civilian legal career.

Why Become a Navy Reserve JAG Officer?

JAG Officers are indispensable to the Navy’s mission, ensuring that operations are conducted lawfully while safeguarding the rights and dignity of its personnel. You’ll provide crucial legal advice to commanders, ensure fairness in military justice, and advocate for the well-being of Sailors and their families. By joining this elite legal community, you’ll play a pivotal role in upholding the rule of law within the military and making a lasting impact on those who serve.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide legal counsel and advice on national security law, enabling commanders and operators to achieve mission success while adhering to international law and protecting national interests.
  • Ensure the administration of military justice by advising commanders, representing individuals, and overseeing fair and just processes in accordance with the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).
  • Deliver legal services and advocacy on matters related to administrative law, preserving the Navy’s essential resources such as personnel, platforms, and property.
  • Advise, advocate for, and represent Sailors and their families, enhancing Navy readiness and supporting the well-being of those who serve.

Core Practice Areas:

  • National Security Law: Advise commanders on legal options to meet mission requirements while preserving the rules-based international order and protecting the nation and its allies.
  • Military Justice: Ensure justice for individuals and maintain good order and discipline through fair processes under the UCMJ.
  • Administrative Law: Provide legal services and advocacy to protect the Navy’s people, platforms, ranges, and property.
  • Sailor and Family Legal Services: Advocate for and represent Sailors and their families, ensuring they receive the legal support they need to thrive.

Program Specific Requirements:

  1. Licensure: Applicants must be a member in good standing of the bar of a federal court or the highest court of a state, territory, commonwealth, or the District of Columbia.
  2. Time-in-Service: Applicants must have served on active duty for a cumulative period of at least 1 year, which may include any combination of active duty orders.
  3. Military Experience: Applicants must submit copies of performance evaluations or fitness reports from the last 3 years of their most recent Active Component or Reserve Component service.

Training and Development:

The US Navy Reserve prioritizes your professional growth. As a newly commissioned JAG Officer, you’ll participate in specialized training, including:

  • Officer Development School (5 weeks)
  • Naval Justice School to develop your military law expertise.
  • Ongoing education and professional development to ensure your skills remain sharp and relevant throughout your career.

Career Advancement:

As a Navy Reserve JAG Officer, you will have the opportunity for challenging assignments in various legal roles. From advising commanders on national security law to representing Sailors in military justice cases, your role will evolve as you advance through the ranks, offering new challenges and opportunities for leadership and professional growth.

Who We’re Looking For:

We are seeking highly motivated legal professionals with expertise in national security law, military justice, and legal advocacy. Ideal candidates meet the following criteria:

  • Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens. 
  • Age: Applicants must be at least 21 years old and less than 42 years old at the time of commissioning. Prior qualifying service will be considered for year-for-year credit up to age 52.
  • Education: Candidates must possess a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an American Bar Association (ABA)-accredited law school and be a member in good standing of the bar of a federal court or of the highest court of a state, territory, commonwealth, or the District of Columbia.
  • Work Experience: Applicants must have served on active duty for a cumulative period of at least 1 year, which may include any combination of active duty orders. Prior experience in national security law, military justice, administrative law, or legal advocacy is highly valued. Candidates must also submit copies of performance evaluations or fitness reports from the last 3 years of their most recent Active Component or Reserve Component service.
  • Security Clearance: A security clearance may be required depending on the specific role and responsibilities. Applicants must be eligible to obtain a clearance if needed.
  • Commitment to Excellence: A strong dedication to developing your legal expertise and leadership abilities is essential.

What You’ll Gain:

  • Leadership Experience: Strengthen your leadership skills in both military and civilian legal contexts.
  • Global Impact: Play a vital role in defending the Constitution and protecting the legal rights of Sailors, their families, and the Navy as a whole.
  • Professional Growth: Benefit from continuous training and development to advance your career in national security law, military justice, and legal advocacy.
  • Work-Life Balance: Serve part-time, allowing you to balance your military service with your civilian legal career and personal life.

Apply Today

If you have any questions about this opportunity or would like to submit your resume for consideration, please contact me directly.

I look forward to hearing from you!

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