Article 89, UCMJ: Disrespect Toward a Superior Commissioned Officer

The military’s structured hierarchy grants those with higher ranks certain privileges, including respect from subordinates. Article 89 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) ensures that commissioned officers, noncommissioned officers, and warrant officers can issue commands and perform their duties without facing disrespect. This article addresses both verbal and physical acts of disrespect, which can escalate to assault in certain cases.

At Kral Military Defense, our all-veteran law firm has extensive experience defending service members across all branches. We are committed to providing robust and personalized representation to those facing charges under Article 89.

Elements of an Article 89 Violation

A violation of Article 89 occurs when:

A service member exhibits disrespect toward their superior commissioned officer.
A service member strikes, draws a weapon, or offers any violence toward their superior commissioned officer.

To prove a violation, the prosecution must demonstrate the relationship between the accused and the superior officer, as well as the specific nature of the disrespectful act.

Superior Commissioned Officer

Understanding the relationship between the accused and the superior officer is critical in Article 89 cases. The UCMJ defines this relationship in two contexts:

Same Branch of the Armed Forces

The accused is subordinate to the commissioned officer in rank.
The commissioned officer is superior, regardless of the accused’s rank or command status.

Different Branches of the Armed Forces

The commissioned officer is superior if the chain of command dictates as such.
In situations of captivity by a hostile enemy, a commissioned officer is superior unless they are a medical officer or chaplain.

It is important to note that an officer’s higher rank does not automatically make them a superior commissioned officer in the context of Article 89. Context and chain of command matter significantly.

Defining Disrespect in the Military

Disrespect undermines the morale, order, and discipline essential to military operations. The UCMJ defines disrespect as any behavior that “undermines the respect of authority of a commissioned officer superior to the accused.” Examples include:

Abusive Language: Insults, derogatory remarks, racial slurs, or sexist comments.
Marked Disdain: Rude or insolent behavior, including indifference and impertinence.
Neglecting Customary Salutes: Failing to render a salute as required by military protocol.

Assault Under Article 89

Assault against a superior commissioned officer involves:

Striking: Intentional and offensive contact, regardless of severity.
Threatening with a Weapon: Raising or drawing a weapon toward a superior, whether loaded or unloaded.

Unlike civilian definitions of assault, military law requires more than the mere threat of violence; there must be an attempt to inflict harm.

Punishments for Article 89 Violations

Punishments for Article 89 violations vary based on the nature of the offense:

Disrespect Toward a Superior in Command:
- Bad-conduct discharge
- Forfeiture of pay and allowances
- Up to 1 year of confinement
Disrespect Toward a Superior in Rank:
- Bad-conduct discharge
- Forfeiture of pay and allowances
- Up to 6 months of confinement
Assault Offense:
- Dishonorable discharge
- Forfeiture of pay and allowances
- Up to 10 years of confinement
Assault During Wartime:
- Death or any other punishment determined by court-martial

Common Defenses for Article 89 Violations

Defending against Article 89 charges requires a detailed understanding of military law. Common defenses include:

Divestiture

This defense argues that the superior officer’s own misconduct led to the incident. The defense must demonstrate that the officer’s behavior was significantly outside military standards, forcing the accused to respond as they did.

Relationship and Rank

Establishing the relationship between the accused and the superior officer can be crucial. For example, if the accused was unaware of the officer’s rank at the time of the incident, this could mitigate the charges.

Lack of Intent

If the accused was under the influence of alcohol or suffering from other impairments, it may be possible to argue a lack of intent or clarity at the time of the alleged violation.

Why Choose Kral Military Defense?

At Kral Military Defense, we understand the complexities of Article 89 cases. Our all-veteran team leverages firsthand military experience to provide:

Comprehensive Case Analysis: Reviewing the evidence and circumstances surrounding your case.
Tailored Defense Strategies: Crafting a defense that addresses the specifics of your situation.
Aggressive Representation: Protecting your rights and your career with unwavering dedication.

Contact Kral Military Defense Today

An Article 89 violation can have severe consequences, from imprisonment to the loss of your military career. At Kral Military Defense, we are committed to providing the experienced and personalized representation you need to fight these charges effectively. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help defend your rights and future.

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