Article 120 UCMJ Court Martials are convened to address serious sexual offenses within the military. Article 120 UCMJ covers a broad range of these offenses, including rape, sexual assault, aggravated sexual contact, and abusive sexual contact.

These court martials are significant due to the severe nature of the crimes involved and the potential for harsh penalties upon conviction. Depending on the specific offense and the circumstances, punishments can range from dishonorable discharge and forfeiture of pay to lengthy confinement.

Article 120 UCMJ Court Martials involve a rigorous legal process. The accused is provided with a military defense counsel, and a panel of military members or a military judge determines guilt or innocence. The burden of proof rests on the prosecution to prove the accused’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

The military justice system takes sexual offenses very seriously, and Article 120 UCMJ Court Martials play a crucial role in maintaining good order and discipline within the armed forces by holding offenders accountable for their actions.