Which type of court-martial requires a panel of officers?

The General Court-Martial is the only type that requires a panel of officers, reflecting its capability to address the most serious offenses, which may include potential punishment of death or confinement for more than one year. This panel is typically composed of military officers, ensuring that the seriousness of the cases being addressed is met with the appropriate level of experienced oversight and judgment.

In addition to the composition requirements, General Court-Martials follow a more complex set of procedures, similar to civilian criminal trials, which require a jury of officers to deliberate on the findings and sentencing. This structure emphasizes the gravity of the offenses handled in General Court-Martial, distinguishing it from those with less severe consequences, where either enlisted members can be included in the panel or a single officer can act as the judge.