Gonzalez & Waddington, Attorneys at Law defend service members accused of sexual harassment in the U.S. military. Many service members mistakenly believe that harassment allegations are “just administrative.” In reality, even an unfounded allegation can derail a career. This guide explains the short- and long-term career consequences of sexual harassment allegations, how commands typically respond, and what steps you should take to protect your future.

Immediate Consequences After an Allegation

• No-contact orders: You may be barred from contact with the complainant, even before findings are made.
• Reassignment: Temporary or permanent reassignment away from the unit or duties.
• Loss of trust: Suspension from leadership positions, sensitive billets, or clearance-related duties.
• Investigations: Triggering of EO, CDI, or even UCMJ investigations.

Administrative Career Impacts

• Letters of Reprimand (LOR/GOMOR): A substantiated harassment finding often results in a formal reprimand that may go into your permanent file.
• Adverse evaluations: OERs, NCOERs, FITREPs, or EPRs reflecting misconduct allegations can end promotion potential.
• Denial of reenlistment: Harassment findings often trigger denial of continuation or reenlistment.
• Board actions: Administrative separation boards or boards of inquiry for officers.

UCMJ and Legal Consequences

• Article 15/NJP: Reduction in rank, forfeitures, restrictions, or extra duty.
• Court-martial: In serious cases, harassment can escalate into Article 92, 93, 117, 134, or 120c charges.
• Punitive discharge: Dishonorable discharge (enlisted) or dismissal (officers).
• Confinement: Possible depending on the offense charged.

Long-Term Career Consequences

• Promotion boards: LORs, adverse evaluations, and EO findings are career killers.
• Command selection: Harassment allegations often disqualify you from command or senior leadership roles.
• Security clearance: Harassment allegations can trigger clearance suspensions or revocations.
• Retirement jeopardy: A substantiated finding before 20 years may lead to separation and loss of benefits.
• Reputation: Allegations, even unproven, can follow you in both military and civilian careers.

Defending Your Career Against Harassment Allegations

• Hire counsel early: Don’t wait until separation boards—start fighting from the first allegation.
• Preserve evidence: Save texts, emails, DMs, and witnesses who can confirm context and intent.
• Challenge bias: Show retaliation, jealousy, or command climate pressure driving false allegations.
• Rebut adverse actions: Submit strong rebuttals to LORs, EO findings, or CDI reports.
• Mitigation: Present awards, evaluations, and service history to offset negative findings.

Common Mistakes Service Members Make

• Assuming harassment allegations will “blow over.”
• Failing to rebut a Letter of Reprimand or adverse evaluation.
• Talking to EO or CDI investigators without counsel.
• Deleting texts, messages, or posts—appears as obstruction.
• Not preparing for the long-term impact on career progression and benefits.

Video: Career Consequences of Harassment Allegations

Protect Your Rank, Benefits, and Reputation

Sexual harassment allegations can end a career—even without a conviction. We build strategic rebuttals, defend at boards, and dismantle weak government cases to protect your rank, retirement, and future.

Gonzalez & Waddington — ucmjdefense.com — 1-800-921-8607

FAQs: Career Consequences of Sexual Harassment Allegations