Military Law Bridge

Program of instruction

A foundational orientation to military systems, culture and professional interaction, for civilian professionals who work with service members, veterans and military families.

16 lessons in 6 phases, numbered in the order they were published

Lessons by phase

  1. Phase 1

    The military system

    3 lessons, 17 min

    1. Lesson 05 Military Units Explained: Sizes, Commanders, and Where the Legal Offices Sit 3 min read
    2. Lesson 06 Essential Military Terminology: The Legal and Administrative Terms on Military Paperwork 8 min read
    3. Lesson 07 How Military Organizations Work: Who Has Authority Over Your Matter 6 min read

  2. Phase 2

    Working with service members

    3 lessons, 15 min

    1. Lesson 11 Navigating Military Protocol: ID, Base Access, and Conduct on an Installation 4 min read
    2. Lesson 13 Confidentiality in Military Legal Matters: Which Conversations Are Protected? 6 min read
    3. Lesson 14 Communicating With Military Personnel: Ranks, Titles, and Written Requests 5 min read

  3. Phase 3

    The consultation

    3 lessons, 15 min

    1. Lesson 10 Types of Legal Consultations for Military Problems: Which Help Fits Yours? 6 min read
    2. Lesson 12 Following Up on a Military Legal Matter: Which Deadlines Are Running? 4 min read
    3. Lesson 15 Preparing for a Military Legal Consultation: What to Bring and What Not to Do 5 min read

  4. Phase 4

    Challenges and resources

    2 lessons, 8 min

    1. Lesson 03 Common Challenges When Civilians Deal With Service Members: SCRA, Deployment, and Employment 5 min read
    2. Lesson 08 Resources for Further Learning About Military Systems: Where to Find the Official Rule 3 min read

  5. Phase 5

    Life situations

    3 lessons, 18 min

    1. Lesson 02 Military Families and Civilian Legal Guidance: What Spouses Should Know About Documents, Divorce, and Custody 7 min read
    2. Lesson 04 Serving Overseas: SOFA, Host-Nation Law, and Getting Legal Help Abroad 5 min read
    3. Lesson 16 Transitioning From Active Duty: Discharge Characterization, DD-214 Corrections, and Benefits 6 min read

  6. Phase 6

    The civilian military attorney

    2 lessons, 13 min

    1. Lesson 01 What Is a Civilian Military Attorney? Role, Limits, and How to Check One 5 min read
    2. Lesson 09 Civilian Attorney vs. JAG: Who Represents You, and When Do You Need Both? 8 min read