How to Appeal an Article 15 (NJP) in the Marine Corps | Marine’s Defense Guide
Gonzalez & Waddington, Attorneys at Law represent Marines worldwide in Nonjudicial Punishment (NJP) appeals, separation boards, Boards of Inquiry (BOI), and courts-martial. If you received Article 15 (NJP) punishment, you may be able to appeal. A strong appeal can protect your rank, pay, reputation, and future service.
This guide explains how to appeal NJP in the Marine Corps, what mistakes to avoid, and how your appeal can strengthen your case at a future administrative separation board.
Why Appealing NJP Matters in the Marine Corps
- Career-ending impact: NJPs often appear in fitness reports (FITREPs) and can kill promotion chances.
- Separation boards: NJPs are routinely used to justify administrative separation.
- Security clearances: An NJP can trigger clearance reviews or revocations.
- Retirement risk: Multiple NJPs can lead to separation, even for Marines near 20 years of service.
How the Marine Corps NJP Appeal Process Works
1. Timeline
You generally have 5 calendar days to appeal NJP punishment. Act immediately — deadlines are enforced strictly.
2. Appeal Authority
Your appeal is reviewed by the next higher commander, who decides if the punishment was unjust or disproportionate.
3. Grounds for Appeal
Appeals must show that the NJP was unjust (you did not commit the offense) or that the punishment was too severe based on the evidence and your record.
How to Build a Strong Marine Corps NJP Appeal
1. Gather Evidence
- FITREPs: Strong fitness reports counter claims of misconduct.
- Witness statements: From fellow Marines, NCOs, or officers who know your conduct and integrity.
- Official records: Duty rosters, logs, or emails supporting your defense.
- Rehabilitation proof: Documentation of counseling, treatment, or leadership programs.
2. Expose Weaknesses
Show inconsistencies in the allegations, unreliable witnesses, or lack of evidence. Emphasize fairness and proportionality.
3. Keep It Professional
Your appeal must be respectful and fact-driven. Marine commanders respect discipline — emotional or disrespectful appeals undermine credibility.
4. Plan Ahead
Your appeal record may be reviewed later at a separation board. Frame your appeal as part of a larger defense strategy.
Common Mistakes in Marine Corps NJP Appeals
- 🔥 Submitting a one-paragraph denial with no documentation.
- 🔥 Missing the 5-day deadline.
- 🔥 Admitting guilt to “look honest,” which backfires at separation boards.
- 🔥 Using emotional or disrespectful language in the appeal.
- 🔥 Treating the appeal as a formality instead of a career-saving opportunity.
Video: How to Appeal NJP in the Marine Corps
Why Hire Gonzalez & Waddington for Marine Corps NJP Appeals?
Our lawyers have defended Marines in NJP hearings, appeals, separation boards, and courts-martial worldwide. We understand how the Marine Corps uses NJPs and how to fight them effectively.
- ✅ Experience with drug, misconduct, and performance-related NJPs
- ✅ Represented Marines from junior enlisted to senior officers
- ✅ Published authorities on military law and trial defense
Contact Gonzalez & Waddington at ucmjdefense.com or call 1-800-921-8607 for immediate help with your Marine Corps NJP appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions: Marine Corps NJP Appeals
How long do I have to appeal NJP in the Marine Corps?
You generally have 5 calendar days after punishment is imposed.
Who reviews my NJP appeal?
The appeal is reviewed by the next higher commander.
What happens if I don’t appeal?
The NJP becomes final and will remain part of your record, often used at separation boards.
Can a lawyer help me write my appeal?
Yes. An experienced civilian military defense lawyer can write a persuasive appeal that avoids admissions and protects your long-term defense.
Can NJP affect my career even if I stay in?
Yes. NJPs can block promotions, billets, and re-enlistment opportunities, even if you are not immediately separated.
