What is the purpose of Article 15 of the UCMJ?

The function of Article 15 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) is to facilitate non-judicial punishment, commonly known as NJP. This provision allows commanders to address minor disciplinary infractions within their units without resorting to formal court-martial procedures. The intent is to maintain good order and discipline while providing a means for service members to be held accountable for less severe offenses.

This non-judicial punishment process emphasizes corrective action rather than punitive measures and allows for efficiency in dealing with misconduct. It offers commanders the flexibility to impose disciplinary measures that can include limitations on pay, extra duties, or restriction to certain areas, all aimed at rehabilitating rather than severely punishing the service member involved.

The other options do not accurately reflect the core function of Article 15. Criminal charges pertain to serious offenses that could result in court-martial; civil punishment would not fall under the UCMJ, as it operates within military law; and judicial review typically refers to the examination of court-martial decisions, which is separate from non-judicial disciplinary measures.