how do you become a lawyer in the airforce

by Dr. Burley Willms 10 min read

  • Job Description. Lawyers who work in the Judge Advocate General (JAG) corps serve the Air Force and its service members in a variety of ways, working as prosecutors, defense counsel ...
  • Education Requirements. To get a direct appointment as an attorney with the Air Force, you must have graduated with a Juris Doctor (or be close to graduation) from a law ...
  • Industry. JAG attorneys work in offices and courtrooms at duty stations around the world. ...
  • Years of Experience and Salary. Air Force JAG salary starts at $3,850.50 per month in base pay, which translates to $46,206 annually.
  • Job Growth Trend. The Air Force has openings for 90 to 100 attorneys every year. ...

QUALIFICATIONS
  1. Must be a citizen of the United States.
  2. Must be a graduate of an ABA-approved law school and be admitted to practice law in the highest court of any U.S. state, commonwealth, territory or the District of Columbia.
  3. Must be commissioned before the age of 40.

Full Answer

How do you become an Air Force JAG lawyer?

Licensed attorneys may apply for a direct appointment as a Judge Advocate. Applicant requirements. Must be a citizen of the United States. Must be a graduate of an ABA-approved law school and be admitted to practice law in the highest court of any U.S. state, commonwealth, territory or the District of Columbia.

How do I become a military attorney?

Step 1: You must apply through your local AFROTC detachment to the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) at the beginning of the spring semester of your senior year of undergraduate school. Step 2: A selection board is held in February of each year. Applications are accepted through our online application processing system.

What can you do with an air force law degree?

 · Become a Lawyer in the Military Air Force: Becoming a Lawyer in the Air Force. The first option requires that students be on track to graduate or have... Army: Becoming a Lawyer in the Army. The Army offers an Active Duty and Army Reserve component for interested applicants. Navy: Becoming a Lawyer ...

How long does it take to become a lawyer in the Navy?

 · Completing Your Legal Education 1. Research military legal education programs. If you are seeking a career as a military attorney, there are special... 2. Attend an ABA approved law school. ... Attending an ABA-approved law school offers many benefits over a non-approved... 3. Complete a course in ...

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Can I go to law school while in the Air Force?

Under FLEP, commissioned officers and enlisted members on active duty may apply and be competitively selected to attend law school through the Air Force's funding.

What is a lawyer called in the Air Force?

The Judge Advocate General's CorpsThe Judge Advocate General's Corps also known as the "JAG Corps" or "JAG" is the legal arm of the United States Air Force....United States Air Force Judge Advocate General's Corps.Judge Advocate General's CorpsCountryUnited States of AmericaTypeMilitary justiceRoleLegal and policy advice to the Secretary of the Air ForcePart ofUnited States Air Force2 more rows

What branch of the military is best for lawyers?

The JAG Corps is the legal branch of the military, concerned with military justice and military law.

How much do Air Force JAG lawyers make?

The salaries of Air Force Jags in the US range from $10,085 to $237,745 , with a median salary of $42,868 . The middle 57% of Air Force Jags makes between $42,868 and $107,389, with the top 86% making $237,745.

What do lawyers in the Air Force do?

These highly trained attorneys handle a wide variety of legal issues including international law, operations law, environmental law and military and civilian personnel issues. From trial preparation to post-trial actions, they provide important legal counsel every step of the way.

Will the military pay for law school?

Will the JAG Corps pay for my law school? Yes, through the Funded Legal Education Program (FLEP), the Army covers the cost of law school for up to 25 active-duty Officers and non-commissioned Officers every year.

How hard is it to get into Jag?

Depending on the service branch, the acceptance rate for JAG Corps applicants is typically between 4-7%. The Army, for instance, receives about 4000 applications every year and only accepts around 200.

Does Air Force JAG get deployed?

JAG Corps Airmen perform most of their work at legal offices located at Air Force installations and deployed locations around the world.

Is Air Force JAG competitive?

The JAG application process is competitive, rigorous, and highly selective. We evaluate each candidate using the "whole person" concept, which means we look at academic performance, extracurricular activities, community service, prior military record, and work and leadership experience.

What rank is a JAG lawyer?

RANK AND PAY RATES New Army Judge Advocates enter service as First Lieutenants (O-2) and are promoted to Captain (O-3) six to nine months later. Officers receive a raise in basic pay upon promotion to Captain and receive automatic pay increases after serving 2, 3, and 4 years.

Is Jag a good career?

Conclusion. JAG is an absolute correct way to fulfil one's dream. The officers always have a fixed timeline and working hours which helps them in achieving the attributes from the profession.

What benefits do you get after 4 years in the Air Force?

After you complete your initial four-year service obligation, you can qualify for a retention program that allows the service to pay you up to $60,000 if you stay with the Air Force. Sign up for another two years after your initial four-year commitment and you receive $20,000.

BECOMING A JAG

As a member of this elite group of law professionals, you’ll provide a full range of legal services to the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Space Force, Airmen, and Guardians.

JAG BENEFITS

The student loan repayment program will repay up to $65,000 of your student loans over a three-year period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Unless you grew up in a JAG or Air Force family, it’s likely you have many questions about the program and life in the Air Force. A lot of those questions are answered here, but please feel free to contact us at 1-800-JAG-USAF or airforcejagrecruiting@gmail.com with any specific inquiries.

How to become a JAG in the Air Force?

The first is the student option, where candidates apply as either a 1L or 2L, and commit to completing Active Duty as a member of the JAG Corps after graduating law school and passing the bar. The second program entails licensed attorneys directly entering the JAG Corps. The third option is for Active Duty military members to go on to law school and return to Active Duty as a JAG Corps officers. The fourth option is for experienced attorneys to work part-time with the Air Force JAG Corps, while maintaining their civilian jobs. All candidates must attend the five-week Commissioned Officer Training program , to learn Air Force leadership, before their four-year Active Duty commitment begins.

How to become a JAG in the Navy?

To become an officer in the JAG Corps in the Navy, this branch of the military must offer hopefuls a commission, after which time they enter Officer Development School (ODS), where they receive the rank of Ensign, and their active duty pay and benefits begin. Located in Newport, Rhode Island, ODS is specifically tailored to those entering the Navy as officers. Once completed, candidates enter Naval Justice School, to learn the UCMJ and the specific types of law they'll likely have to practice. T

How to join the JAG Corps?

There are two ways to enter the JAG Corps as a Marine. The first is the PCL-Law program --the Marine Corps equivalent to the student entry program. Students complete the ten-week Officer Candidate School in Quantico, Virginia, either during the summer before law school, or the 1L or 2L summer. Candidates then receive the rank of Second Lieutenant and are placed on Inactive Duty pending completion of law school. Upon graduation, students must take the first scheduled bar exam in any state, and must report LSAT scores of 150+. After passing the bar, students enter the Basic School--a six-month intensive basic training for the Marine Corps, then join JAG Corps members from the Navy at the Naval Justice School in Newport, Rhode Island. Students are then assigned their first duty station. The second option for entering the Marine JAG Corps is through the OCC-Law program, which is open to licensed attorneys, who must have completed law school, passed a state bar, and earned a 150+ on the LSAT.

How long does it take to become a JAG?

The first is the Direct Commissioned Course (DCC) Phase--a six-week basic training for JAGs in Fort Benning, Georgia. The second is the Charlottesville Phase, which is a 10.5-week officer’s course at the Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School, at the University of Virginia. Those who complete the Judge Advocate Officer Basic Training Course then enter Active Duty for a required four years.

How long does it take to become a Coast Guard JAG?

Final year law students and licensed attorneys may enter the Coast Guard this way. After commissioning, they must attend the 4-5 week long Direct Commission Officer course in New London, Connecticut, before attending a ten-week Basic Lawyer Class at the Naval Justice School in Newport, Rhode Island. The first assignment of a four year of active duty commitment then begins.

Can you go to law school as a JAG?

The third option is for Active Duty military members to go on to law school and return to Active Duty as a JAG Corps officers. The fourth option is for experienced attorneys to work part-time with the Air Force JAG Corps, while maintaining their civilian jobs.

How do I apply for the Air Force?

A selection board is held in February of each year. Applications are accepted through our online application processing system. You must submit all application materials online on or before the 10th of the month (i.e., January 10) prior to the board meeting. In addition to your online application, you must schedule a hiring interview with a Staff Judge Advocate (SJA) at any Air Force Base (AFB) through the online application processing system. A SJA will contact you to schedule an interview AFTER you submit your materials online. The interview must be completed on or before the first of the month (i.e., February 1) that the board meets.

When do you have to interview for a cadet law school?

As part of this program, you must interview with your local AFROTC detachment (where the applicant plans to receive training) during the first semester of the second year of law school. You must ensure your preferred detachment is willing to enroll you as a cadet if the Judge Advocate General selects you for the Graduate Law Program. In your application, you must upload a letter from AFROTC detachment indicating that you’ve met with the detachment personnel in preparation for applying to the JAG board. Download a template of the required letter.

How long does it take to become a JAG?

Become a JAG right after graduation, guaranteed. The One-Year College Program (OYCP) assures you a position as a JAG upon successful completion of a one-year AFROTC program, law school and legal licensing requirements. You’ll secure your future in a rewarding career that many graduating law students and new attorneys will be competing to enter.

How long does it take to become a second lieutenant?

After completing legal licensing requirements, you will enter active duty as a first lieutenant shortly thereafter. The initial active duty commitment is four years from the date of entry on active duty.

When do GLP cadets go to law school?

GLP cadets typically attend the field training course in the summer between their first and second year of law school or between their second and third year of law school. Upon completion of AFROTC program and graduation from law school, you will be commissioned as a second lieutenant in inactive status.

What are the qualifications to become a jg?

QUALIFICATIONS. If you have completed your second year of law school or have completed two-thirds of your degree requirements, you may apply for a direct appointment as a JAG. Applicant requirements. Must be a citizen of the United States.

Where do Air Force externs work?

Some externs are assigned to Air Force headquarters in the Washington, D .C., area. If chosen for the National Capital Region, you will gain real-world experience in support of Air Force missions while learning from senior civilian and military Air Force and Department of Defense officials and attorneys. Unlike externs assigned to base legal offices who will work in multiple areas of law throughout the summer, externs assigned to headquarters offices will generally work in one subject matter area.

What is the job of a military lawyer?

Monitor, coordinate and direct legal activities. Prepare legal advice and opinions. Represent the United States in civil proceedings. Act as trial counsel, defense counsel or military judge as-needed. Instruct personnel in military justice procedures and legal issues.

What is 51JX in the Air Force?

51JX. The pursuit of justice is at the center of every Air Force objective. So the rights of Airmen are naturally held in the highest regard and are defended and supported by top legal minds like Air Force Judge Advocates (JAG).

What is a military lawyer?

The lawyers in this system are military officers who are known as Judge Advocates. They are responsible for maintaining cases and advising service members on legal issues. Although all potential candidates must be in law school or have graduated, each branch of service has its own process to becoming a Judge Advocate.

What are the options for the Air Force?

The Air Force has four entry options that are for: Students. Licensed attorneys. Active duty military. Air Force Reserves. The first option requires that students be on track to graduate or have recently graduated from an ABA-approved law school.

What is direct appointment in the Navy?

The Direct Appointment Program permits experienced licensed attorneys to be selected directly into the Navy JAG Corps.

What is the first class in law school?

The first is the Platoon Leaders Class which is an option for those who are in their first or second year of law school or are a senior who have been accepted into and ABA-accredited law school.

Where is Officer Candidates School?

Students must complete Officer Candidates School which is a rigorous ten-week institute in Quantico, Virginia that evaluates candidates on leadership, academics, and training.

Where is the Naval Justice School?

From there, officers will receive a ten-week training course at the Naval Justice School in Newport, Rhode Island that teaches the military justice system.

Does the Army have active duty?

The Army offers an Active Duty and Army Reserve component for interested applicants. Both have to go through the same process, however, the Army Reserves allows Judge Advocates to maintain their civilian jobs while working part time with the Army.

What is the best way to become a military lawyer?

Research military legal education programs. If you are seeking a career as a military attorney, there are special programs that may help you with admission, completion, and even funding of your legal education. The Army offers a highly-competitive summer internship to second-year law students.

What is the Air Force law program?

The Air Force offers the Graduate Law Program which combines military training with your legal studies. First year law students are eligible to apply.

What degree do you need to join the JAG Corps?

Dept. of Education. College ROTC programs, such as the Air Force Graduate Law Program, may assist you, both with finances and motivation, to complete the education you need to join the JAG Corps.

How to become a JAG lawyer?

To become a JAG lawyer, you'll need to go to law school and attend the Officer Candidate School, which is the training academy for prospective military officers. You must also be a US citizen, pass a security clearance, and meet the physical requirements for the branch of the military you choose.

How long does the bar exam take?

A typical bar exam lasts two to three days. [24]

How long does it take to take the LSAT?

The Law School Aptitude Test, often referred to as the LSAT, is a critical part of your law school admissions package. The five-section LSAT is multiple choice and you have 35 minutes to complete each section.

How old do you have to be to become a jagi?

If you are interested in becoming a JAG attorney, you must start your studies so that you will be licensed to practice law and ready for entry into active duty before you are the age of 42 years . The age limit is 40 for the Air Force.

How many courses are required for a legal studies major?

Legal studies cadets must complete 14 courses in addition to the required academic core; five of these must be upper-level courses offered by the Department of Law. In addition to the law courses, a legal studies major has discretion in taking courses offered by the Departments of Behavioral Sciences and Leadership, Economics and Geosciences, ...

Is legal studies a pre-law major?

The Legal Studies major is not a “pre-law” major; rather, it is designed to provide cadets an enhanced knowledge of the law and a respect for ...

What is the role of paralegal in the Air Force?

Working under the supervision of Judge Advocate Generals (attorneys), Paralegal specialists help provide legal counsel and services to their clients. These legal experts work in a wide range of legal practices doing everything from research and interviews to processing cases and discovery management in order to ensure the law, order and discipline of the Air Force.

How many words per minute for paralegal?

Ability to keyboard at a minimum rate of 25 words per minute. No significant record of emotional instability, personality disorder, or other unresolved mental health concerns that may impair of the paralegal duty function, or risk to the mission. No record of substance abuse, domestic violence, or child abuse.

How long does it take to become a flight lieutenant in the RAF?

You will join the RAF as a Flight Lieutenant on an Initial Commission of 6 years. After a period of productive service, and by competitive selection or on promotion to Squadron Leader, you may be selected for your commission to be converted to a pension-earning commission of 20 years’ service or to age 40, whichever is the latter. A further extension of your commission of up to 30 years’ Service (or to age 60) is also possible, either by competitive selection or on promotion to Group Captain. Some posts within the branch become available only when appropriate experience and rank has been gained.

Where to start RAF training?

Like all our Specialist Branch officers, you will begin your RAF career on the Specialist Officers Initial Training Course (SOITC) at the RAF College Cranwell in Lincolnshire. You will follow an 13-week course specially designed for professionally qualified entrants. The course includes fitness development, military training and academic study as well as practical outdoor leadership challenges.

What rank do you get in the RAF?

After a period of productive service and by competitive selection, you may be promoted to the rank of Squadron Leader.

How many people are in the RAF?

As an organisation employing over thirty-thousand personnel, operating aircraft and airfields, in the UK and overseas, in peacetime and armed conflict, the RAF generates innumerable and varied legal challenges. Law in the RAF addresses the rules and regulations of the organisation, society at large and the international community. Legal Officers play a central role in ensuring the RAF functions smoothly within these frameworks.

What is the role of a legal officer in the RAF?

As an RAF Legal Officer, you will have a wide variety of legal challenges linked to the force and will play a central role in ensuring that we function smoothly.

What is the requirement to be a solicitor in England?

You must be either a member of the Bar of England and Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland and have completed pupillage, or be a solicitor admitted to the Roll of England and Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.

How many days a year do you have to commit to a job?

You will have to commit to 27 days per year for 12 years minimum.

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What Is The Jag Corps?

The UCMJ

How Does One Join The Jag Corps?

  • There are two main paths lawyers may take to join the JAG Corps. The first is for law students to apply to the JAG Corps upon completion of law school. Applicants must have passed the bar exam, and must be prepared to enter Officer Training. The second path is for licensed and experienced attorneys to join the armed forces. Such candidates must likewise enter Officer Trai…
See more on thebalancecareers.com

Army

  • Entry into the Army JAG Corps (founded by George Washington in 1775) occurs through Direct Commission. Commissioned individuals enter the Judge Advocate Officer Basic Training Course, which is split into two phases. The first is the Direct Commissioned Course (DCC) Phase--a six-week basic training for JAGs in Fort Benning, Georgia. The second is the Charlottesville Phase, …
See more on thebalancecareers.com

Navy

  • To become an officer in the JAG Corpsin the Navy, this branch of the military must offer hopefuls a commission, after which time they enter Officer Development School (ODS), where they receive the rank of Ensign, and their active duty pay and benefits begin. Located in Newport, Rhode Island, ODS is specifically tailored to those entering the Navy as officers. Once completed, candidates e…
See more on thebalancecareers.com

Air Force

  • The Air Force has four different entry programs into the JAG Corp. The first is the student option, where candidates apply as either a 1L or 2L, and commit to completing Active Duty as a member of the JAG Corps after graduating law school and passing the bar. The second program entails licensed attorneys directly entering the JAG Corps. The third o...
See more on thebalancecareers.com

Marine Corps

  • There are two ways to enter the JAG Corps as a Marine. The first is the PCL-Law program--the Marine Corps equivalent to the student entry program. Students complete the ten-week Officer Candidate School in Quantico, Virginia, either during the summer before law school, or the 1L or 2L summer. Candidates then receive the rank of Second Lieutenant and are placed on Inactive D…
See more on thebalancecareers.com

Coast Guard

  • Unlike the other military branches, there is only one way to enter the Coast Guard JAG Corps—as a Direct Commission Lawyer (DCL). Final year law students and licensed attorneys may enter the Coast Guard this way. After commissioning, they must attend the 4-5 week long Direct Commission Officer course in New London, Connecticut, before attending a ten-week Basic Law…
See more on thebalancecareers.com