Administrative Separation Boards in the Military | Survival & Defense Guide
When a service member is facing an Administrative Separation Board (for enlisted personnel) or a
Board of Inquiry (BOI) (for officers), their entire military career is on the line.
These boards decide whether you will be separated, retained, or discharged with a characterization
that can follow you for life. Gonzalez & Waddington, elite military defense lawyers and
court-martial attorneys, have defended service members worldwide in hundreds of separation boards
and BOIs. This guide explains what to expect, common mistakes, and proven strategies to fight back.
Watch: Gonzalez & Waddington – Elite Military Defense Lawyers
What Is an Administrative Separation Board?
An Administrative Separation Board is a panel of three officers or senior NCOs that hears
evidence and decides whether an enlisted service member should be discharged. Officers facing involuntary
separation face a similar process called a Board of Inquiry (BOI). These boards have the
power to end your career even without a conviction at court-martial.
Grounds for Separation Boards & BOIs
- Misconduct (including Article 92 violations, fraternization, or false statements under Article 107)
- Drug abuse (Article 112a UCMJ)
- Pattern of misconduct or substandard performance
- Sexual assault or harassment allegations (Article 120 / Article 93)
- Civilian convictions or arrests
Why These Boards Are High-Stakes
A separation board may recommend discharge with a characterization of Honorable,
General (Under Honorable Conditions), or Other Than Honorable (OTH).
An OTH can destroy your civilian career, strip you of VA benefits, and permanently label you as untrustworthy.
Pro Tips for Defending a Separation Board
- Do not waive your board rights – Commands often push service members to waive. That is a career-ending mistake.
- Hire an experienced civilian defense counsel – JAGs often lack the time and resources to mount a full defense.
- Challenge the evidence – Use cross-examination to expose bias, inconsistencies, and weak investigations.
- Call witnesses – Bring in commanders, peers, and subordinates who can testify to your value and character.
- Expose unlawful command influence (UCI) – Many boards are tainted by command pressure; this can be turned in your favor.
Common Mistakes That Destroy Careers
- Going into the board without a civilian lawyer
- Failing to prepare witnesses or statements
- Not fighting the characterization of service
- Believing the board is “just administrative” and not serious
- Waiving the right to a board for a “quicker process”
Call Gonzalez & Waddington | Elite Military Defense Lawyers
Gonzalez & Waddington have defended military clients in court-martials, administrative separation boards, and
boards of inquiry in the U.S. and overseas. If your career, benefits, and reputation are on the line,
contact our team immediately at 1-800-921-8607 or visit
ucmjdefense.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fight an administrative separation board?
Yes. With skilled legal representation, you can challenge the evidence, present witnesses, and argue for retention or a favorable discharge characterization.
What’s the difference between a separation board and a board of inquiry?
Separation boards apply to enlisted personnel, while Boards of Inquiry (BOIs) apply to officers. Both serve the same purpose: deciding whether to separate or retain you.
Do I need a civilian lawyer for a separation board?
Yes. Military-appointed counsel often juggle multiple cases and lack the time or resources for a full defense. A civilian defense counsel can give you the edge.
Can I appeal a board’s decision?
You may be able to appeal, but the most effective defense happens before the board issues its recommendation. Appeals are uphill battles.
What discharge characterizations can a board recommend?
Honorable, General (Under Honorable Conditions), or Other Than Honorable (OTH). An OTH can have devastating consequences for your future.
